Take a walk on the wild side

In the current credit crunch, an African safari might seem like an expensive holiday option but figures show that safari bookings are up 10 to 15% compared to last year and festive getaways are selling fast.

Since safaris are now fashionably affordable for Britain’s intrepid adventurers, the latest travel tips page from Cheapflights.co.uk, revealing the world’s best safari hotspots, is a must have accessory. For the full list of destinations, visit Cheapflights.co.uk/travel-tips/safari-holidays/

What do Barack Obama and Botswana have in common? The Clintons give them both a vote, and Bill’s safari at Chobe National Park in Botswana put it firmly on the map. Even Paris Hilton has jungle fever, having spent a ‘wild’ spring break in South Africa earlier this year.

Nadine Hallak, Travel Expert for Cheapflights.co.uk says, “Despite the idea that safaris are a costly holiday option, they are growing in popularity with more people clambering off to see the animal kingdom in its natural habitat. Safaris can easily be done on a budget, you just have to know when to go and where to book.”

Safaris are back in vogue and offer exceptional value for money, with 14 nights in Kenya, the cheapest and most popular safari destination, starting from just £1000 per person. Snap up a last minute package or cancellation and save up to 10% on the cost of your trip or be seasonally savvy and plan your safari during the rainy season, saving up to 40%.

And if you’re prepared to forego the luxury lodges for a cosy campsite (where a pitch can cost as little as £8 per night) or join a scheduled or self-drive safari and avoid the costlier all-inclusive trips with private guides, you can cut your costs even further. The daily entrance fee for Kruger National Park in South Africa is less than £10. Here you will find an abundance of wildlife in the biggest and most developed park in Africa, so you really can afford to safari on a shoestring.

Kenya is the world’s best location for spotting the Big Five; elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo and leopard. Glimpses of zebra, giraffe and wildebeest also make for exciting expeditions and since the wildlife tends to be more sociable at dawn and dusk brace yourself for early starts and patient waiting. If Kenya is your safari destination of choice, the best time to go is during the dry season which runs from June to September and December to February. However, if those months don’t suit then the second best time to visit is during October and November in what is termed the “short rains” season. The rainy or “wet” season runs from March to May.

Essentials for your backpack should include a camera with a powerful zoom and some high-quality binoculars. Keep your equipment in dust resistant, padded cases and out of the midday sun. Dress in practical layers of lightweight cotton clothing, avoiding bright colours including white, and pack a wide-brimmed hat.

“If you’re a beginner like me, then the most important piece of advice is to keep safe,” says Hallak. “Always listen to your guide and observe the rules. Avoid using heavily perfumed products or speaking in loud voices, both of which can irritate the animals, and pack a first aid kit with antiseptic cream, anti-malaria tablets, medicine for an upset stomach, sun block, insect repellent, and most importantly check if you need any vaccinations before you go.”