Safari Tents – Tips and Tricks for First-Time Campers

When going on a bush safari, you need to have that bit of knowledge about the whole experience. This article will be looking into the basics of safari tents. If you are planning on going on any safari, there are a few things you should know about your tent. These things will vary from one tent to another as each company has its design and techniques they use, but these tips apply to most places.

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Things To Know About The Safari Camping Tent

• The size is a very important factor with the tents that you choose when going out. Some people may want bigger space, while on others, it does not matter that much. The weight also plays a role here because if your tent is too heavy, carrying it around can be tedious, especially when you have to walk a lot between two spaces to place the tent. Well, before we get into the actual safari tents, let us first understand some basic things or tips about them.
• There is an option of staying indoors as well while at the campsite. It depends on what you prefer; whether you like being indoors can be cold outside or would rather sleep under the stars during colder nights.
• It is good to know that it is best to opt for indoor tents if you are going during the colder seasons. These have proper insulation and heating units in them instead of being outdoors where there might be areas with no electricity.
• The campsite usually offers its equipment; therefore, it does not matter what kind of tent you bring along with you. It will provide all the other things related to camping, including a cooker or a stove, cutlery for eating, sleeping mats, etc. All these things can be shared among different people as well if they so wish.

Choosing tents when going make your trip worthwhile and enjoyable

• You should try and look for a safari, which is an important task; knowing how to pick them out without making mistakes is of due importance. The guide should be approached for any assistance, such that they can brief you on the rules and regulations of the campsite; after all, it shall impact your safety.
• The Garden Tents For Sale will have a lock system where all the people at the camp are given a key; therefore, this makes it easier for everyone instead of having one go around locking up different things. It can be very confusing or frustrating at times.

• The camp can also provide shared bathroom facilities, so if you are traveling in a group of two or more, this is a good option for everyone. Just remember to maintain cleanliness and order while using them as it creates a bad impression when others who join later see the place not maintained properly.
• Waking up early in the morning can be tough; therefore, many campsites have tents with an alarm inside, which goes off at specific timings during the day. It makes sure that you get up on time without having to oversleep.

Safari Tents: Which One Does One Choose For A Camping Trip?

Different types of safari Garden Tents For Sale are available in the market, and one can choose according to their budget and preferences. Tents manufacturers in India provide tents of different sizes and weights, so you must research them before coming up with a decision. That way, there will be no regrets later on as you settle for something which does not suit your needs. But how will you know which tent is better? Well, this question has a simple answer; the choice depends on the number of people going along on your trip. If there are more than four people in your group, it would be wise to choose tents that accommodate at least six people; otherwise, using smaller tents would make sense if it’s just two or three members. Also, these should be chosen depending on the season, whether or not it is cold and rains often.

What Are The Different Types Of Tents Available For Camping Trips?

These camping tents are made up of different materials such as nylon, making them lightweights for easy carrying during the trip. However, some people do not prefer these kinds of materials; therefore, they may go with canvas tents instead of heavier and harder to carry. In terms of accommodation, these can accommodate more than ten people at a time, while smaller ones might only accommodate 5 or 6 depending on their sizes.

These come in different sizes and designs, but they can accommodate 2-4 people at a time at most, depending on their size. These also differ regarding their plans; some have an offset design while others have a yurt style with great insulation properties due to the thick canvas used in making them. Also, these are made up of lightweight material, which makes it easy to carry them in backpacks during the trip.

These are perfect for hot summer days where cooling winds blow through the tent opening and letting light streams while still protecting from bugs, insects, animals, etc. These also come with electrically operated fans that make sure air moves through them, thereby keeping everyone cool. There are no windows or doors in these tents, but the openings on each side keep a breeze floating through the tent, making it ideal for hot times. However, make sure to buy it from a reputed Tents India brand.

Conclusion

Safari tents for sale are usually cheaper than other options; therefore, this is advantageous if you are camping with a group of people who wish to save money. These also come with all little amenities such as electrical sockets and a storage room inside to place their luggage without having to worry about safety issues. However, they may not be suitable for couples or families since some do not have separate rooms within the tent itself. At times, there might be unanticipated changes with regards to weather conditions that make using.

Before we dive into the details of how to choose safari accommodation, let’s talk about the difference between a safari camp and a safari lodge. Think of it in terms of apples and pears, both hard fruits, but different flavours. Typically, a safari lodge will offer spacious suites, an on-suite pool and a restaurant-style dining area, Wi-Fi throughout the property, and various other amenities. On the other side of the spectrum, a safari camp is typically tented accommodation, often running on solar power, with fewer on-site amenities, but provides a more traditional, immersive safari experience. This is not to say that a safari camp is any less opulent – there are some exceptional luxury safari camps! The real question then; how do you choose? Which safari accommodation is for you? There are several aspects to think about in terms of your African adventure, from the experiences you wish to have, the people coming with you – if any – and the type of place you want to stay. Don’t be afraid to include your wildlife bucket list too – perhaps seeing the Big 5 are top of the list, or witnessing the Great Migration with a mobile camp is the dream, there are options for every safari wish list. Have a look at our top considerations before making your choice.

1. Game Viewing & Experiences

Any of our Africa Safari Experts will tell you that the best place to start when planning your safari is to ask yourself one question; what do I want to get out of this experience? Whether it's your dream to walk among safari giants, to witness the Big 5 in person, or perhaps to follow the Great Migration across the sprawling Serengeti plains.

Once you know what you want, it's much easier to decide on where. Perhaps a combination safari spent traversing Tanzania before a seaside sojourn on the pearlescent beaches of Zanzibar, or an immersive experience crossing the Mara in a mobile tented camp while slackpacking during the day – the adventure all comes down to the adventurer. Each potential destination has its own draw cards from areas of dense wildlife and guaranteed sightings to more off-the-beaten track reserves where it's easier to hear Africa's wild heartbeat. Take into consideration other activities and experiences such as walking safaris, hot air balloon trips, river cruises, and even overnight camping – this is key as not every area and accommodation will offer the same.

2. Reserves & Sizes

A key pairing to game viewing and experiences is the topic of reserves and their sizes. Much like the stripes on our beloved zebras, no two reserves are the same – this comes down to size, landscapes, accessibility, and most importantly, biodiversity. As a rule of thumb, the bigger the reserve, the greater the biodiversity, but also the crowds. Similarly, the more accessible the reserve, the more camps and lodges, the more guests.

A further consideration here is game drives and vehicle size – what is the ratio of game vehicles to guests and how many do they accommodate? Furthermore, how big is the party you are travelling with? If it's a family or group affair, the option of a private game vehicle may feature in decision making processes. While there are always exceptions to the rule, typically, camps tend to be smaller than lodges and therefore have a less guests, and more room on vehicles. Less guests, or more vehicles, may also factor in when it comes to the amount, or frequency, of game drives you can go on. Something to consider with 9-seater vehicles is that you will likely end up sitting in the middle at some point during your stay, especially during peak season, so decide if this is something that will bother you.

3. Comfort Levels & Amenities

Not all camps and lodges offer the same level of luxury or the same facilities and amenities. For example, one property may feature basic amenities and perhaps a pool, where another may have everything from private pools and a boma to an on-site spa. What may be a necessity to one traveller may be unimportant to another, so ensure that the type of lodge or camp you choose will make the experience comfortable and memorable. As always, there are ample options which range from more affordable African safaris to the crème de la crème of safari opulence.

Some things to consider when looking at safari accommodation amenities:

• Do you require a family orientated suite? As some camps and lodges have age restrictions, not all will offer this configuration.
• Does having an outdoor shower or bath interest you? These often offer beautiful views and provide a unique experience, but it's a matter of personal preference.
• How important is Wi-Fi? Is going ‘off grid' for a few days a bonus, or a nightmare? Many lodges have excellent Wi-Fi throughout, some offer it ‘in room' only, and others are simply connected to nature. Camps typically err on the no network way of life due to their remote locations, but that's not a hard and fast rule.
• How essential is a pool? Would you prefer a small private plunge pool, a main lodge pool, or even both? While a pool is commonplace at a lodge, camps will vary, and mobile camps are an impossibility due to their nature.
• Overnight treehouses and sky beds provide a unique way to connect with nature and experience the rumble of the African bush. This type of inclusion is usually an add-on and not a standard offering, so if this is a bucket list experience, be sure to mention it.
• Is keeping fit and being mobile important during your stay? Gym facilities have become a more common addition to lodges, and many will rival the gym you frequent. It's also important to note that some properties are fenced or in small, predator-free conservancies, making it possible to do self-guided walks, while others require a guide to accompany you on any off-property adventure.

4. An African Safari with Kids or Without?

Family safaris are a fantastic way to create lasting memories for everyone, no matter how big or small, how old, or how young. While exceptionally exciting, it's important to find the right setup, especially with small children. Age limits are standard to ensure the safety of all guests and capabilities of the team at hand. Many lodges and camps employ a no under 12's rule, while others offer accommodation and activities for children as young as six.

For the best chance of catering to the entire family, consider an exclusive-use lodge or camp, which often allow children of any age. Over the last few years, more and more accommodations are offering child-friendly activities such as ‘Junior Rangers' clubs, guided walks geared to young minds, and even predator-free, shorter game drives. Whatever your preference, there are several fantastic places to enjoy an African safari with kids.

Conversely, there are also ample options for child-free accommodation geared towards honeymooners, couples, and those looking to enjoy adult-only company. Mobile camps and lodges in wilder reserves are often the perfect example of this as it's considered a risk for children. However, there are also plenty of luxury lodges around, perfect for a grown-up getaway.

5. Cost

While an incredible safari is a priceless experience and provides a bank of unforgettable memories, an idea of available budget is always an imperative part of planning. Even the very best Africa Safari Expert cannot plan the perfect expedition without knowing their parameters – there's no point in booking the top remote camp in the Mara if it exceeds the budget. Unless, of course, the limit does not exist!

Start by thinking about the ideal trip – think location, time of year, duration, number of guests, and desired experiences to start. Thankfully, there are a range of options available when it comes to accommodation and activities so there is always a plan to be made. Certain times of year will automatically be more expensive than others due to peak safari season, so if budget is limited, it may be worth considering a less popular time of year or a Green Season experience. Although there are some lodges that truly epitomise opulence, there are others that provide a luxury experience without the crème de la crème price tag – where to stay comes down to preference and cost. The same can be said for camps to some extent, but a greater number err on the more affordable side given their more basic, yet comfortable, setup.

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A cautionary tale: for first time visitors, it's often better to enlist an expert who can recommend places to stay based on experience, organise the logistics, and ensure safe travel from the moment you land to the moment you leave.

6. Food & Culture

Calling all foodies! While you may be on safari and in some of Africa's wildest reserves, the quality of the food, and expertise of the chefs, rivals or even exceeds that of popular city restaurants. Enjoy the opportunity to try local fare, either in the more traditional sense or perhaps an elevated version at the more luxury accommodation options.

The real question is, does more classic, simple fare tickle your tastebuds, or do you delight in the finesse of fine dining? In some lodges, cooking is an art form and part of the overall experience where the kitchen is open-plan and interaction with the culinary team is encouraged, where others offer a quiet dining space in which the food appears seemingly out of nowhere. Typically, if a lodge or camp are happy to welcome children, there will be a special menu or suitable options for them to enjoy.

Other factors to consider include:

• Is dining al fresco an option or are all meals taken inside?
• Is there an opportunity to take a picnic out on a game drive?
• Is the food a la carte or buffet style?
• Is it possible to dine privately or are all meals in a dining room setting?

Then consider which, if any, of the above are a deal-breaker or bucket-list experience for you.

7. Safari Guides

Guests often return from their safari sojourn with more tales about their safari guides and trackers than the wildlife. During your stay, the guides are your primary connection to the world around you, they tap into the rhythm of nature and explain its song in a way only a local expert could. Spend time asking questions and engaging with them, their wealth of knowledge is extensive and can truly make your experience.

Any reputable camp or lodge will have well-trained, personable guides who can provide guests with unforgettable game drives and safari walks when offered. While they cannot guarantee wildlife sightings, guides are the most familiar with their patterns and favoured hiding spots. Unfortunately, guides can truly make or break an experience so it's important to do your research and go somewhere with a highly trained team who go the extra mile. Women have begun breaking into the safari guiding space and some lodges and camps now feature female guides while others have a full team of them, such as the Chobe Angels in Botswana's Chobe Lodge. The same is now also true of rangers tasked with the protection and conservation of Africa's wildlife.

8. Sustainable Safari Lodges & Camps

In line with the global shift to sustainability, there has been an increase in the number of travellers who believe there is a level of responsibility to ensure their money goes towards local causes and conservation. If supporting these projects and furthering the eco-tourism movement is important to you, ensure you select a property that has set up funding accounts and partnerships. There are some incredible sustainable safari lodges and camps as well as eco lodges that make a concerted effort and marked contribution to their community and the preservation of the space they call home.

3 Fantastic Examples of This:

Porini Mara Camp

This camp was founded in and was a trailblazer in the then-new conservancy model to increase the buffer zone for wildlife protection alongside the Mara to reduce the level of conflict between humans and wildlife. Porini Mara Camp also covets the highest rating in Kenya with an Ecotourism Gold Standard.

Thorntree River Lodge

Found just upstream of the legendary Victoria Falls on the edge of the mighty Zambezi River, Thorntree River Lodge blends seamlessly into its surroundings. Its eco-conscious design features local timber, stone, and reclaimed railway sleeper wood that blurs the line between nature and modernity. The Lodge also makes contributions to the local Maunga Village, specifically with the Mauna Primary School and improved access to health care.

Shawa Luangwa Camp

Located in wildlife rich Nsefu sector of Zambia's South Luangwa National Park, Shawa Luangwa Camp is 100% solar powered. The camp is built off the ground ensuring a low environmental impact. Their solar power extends from the camp to their vehicles and boats – the lack of noise pollution enables some truly incredible wildlife sightings. Shawa Luangwa also have a Pro Guide at the helm, Jacob Shawa, who is also the namesake of the camp. A firm grounding in sustainability, conservation and community development has led Shawa Luangwa to support local projects such as the Zambian Carnivore Programme, Conservation South Luangwa, and Project Luangwa.

It’s never too late to start travelling sustainably and making a concerted contribution while travelling through Positive Impact Safaris.

9. Why use an Africa Safari Expert?

Planning any trip can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, especially when it's to a new country, and is primarily made up of a specific itinerary, namely safaris. As with any holiday, there is always insider information and local knowledge visitors are not privy to until arrival. Be it the best way to travel from country to country, and reserve to reserve, or simply knowing which areas have what you're looking for. For example, when and where to see the Big 5 and what areas to combine for the ultimate experience.

This is the exact purpose of an Africa Safari Expert (ASE) who can take all your preferences into account and create the perfect custom itinerary. Whether it's a solo trip, family excursion, or a romantic escape for honeymooners and couples, allow an ASE to take the reins and plan everything on your behalf. From the moment you land, to the moment you take off to return home, each transfer, activity, accommodation booking, and park fee will be taken care of with the greatest attention to detail. They are also the best positioned to advise on where to go, what to do, and where to stay as each are experts in their specific areas and don't dabble in broad, unresearched advice. This is especially important for first-time safari goers who may find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available and how to figure out where to go for what they're looking for.

10. Preferred Suppliers

As mentioned with guides and accommodation options, it's imperative to know what you're getting into. While a place may not be bad, it may not be quite what you're looking for. Fortunately, Go2Africa has a process in place to ensure that doesn't happen to our travellers. Every one of our partners and suppliers has been thoroughly vetted and their reputation typically precedes them. We also like to embody our motto “we know because we go” and would never send a guest to a property we are unsure of. You, our clients, are the top priority and ensuring a safe, comfortable journey is paramount to our team.

Are you interested in learning more about Safari Lodge Tent? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!