Have every Safari experience you want

Have the total safari experience

Everyone takes something different away from a safari to Africa, even those on exactly the same safari. So being open to new experiences and being able to enjoy whatever the day brings with no pre-determined expectations will certainly enhance your adventure and make each day more exciting than the last. You never know what is around the next corner, expect the unexpected when you are out on safari. Remember that even the smallest of creatures can influence a whole habitat that allows the big creatures to survive in that area, so take it all in and you will get much more bang for your buck.

Taylor-made safaris

Understanding what you are hoping to get from your safari is a good starting point in designing the right itinerary to suit you. This may be a specific species or type of safari activity that you are wanting to do – if walking in the bush with your guide is important to you then we will get you to the right areas where this is possible – the cookie cutter safari plan is not our style. We want to design the right safari for you and create lifelong memories.

Who are you travelling with?

In designing a safari understanding the answer to this question is crucial. Is it a solo adventure to climb one of Africa’s peaks, a honeymoon safari or a full family getaway with multiple generations? Knowing this will make sure everyone gets what they hope for from the adventure.

Generations on Safari

Taking your family on safari will be a memory that you will all never forget, but be prepared to be doing this more times than you thought. I often get asked is it safe for kids to come on safari or will they appreciate it. I can assure you that virtually without exception the kids I have taken on safari have absorbed and taken more from the experience than the parents and as long as your kids are okay with following some basic rules they will be perfectly safe, I would suggest that any time from 5 years old and up is good for you to consider a family safari and a great adventure for you all to remember.

Going your own way

Travelling on an African safari if you have never been does sound intimidating to some but I assure you we will plan it all to the last detail and give you a very special adventure that can be unique to you or you may enjoy being part of a larger set date safari with other likeminded travellers. There are many options so let’s discuss what you want to do or we can make some suggestions to you if you are looking for inspiration.

Hiker looking at the view at the top of a mountain

Herd Together

Creating a safari that will suit a group of like-minded travelers is a fun and great way to see Africa. We have done many of these with all the logistics to make it all work, with all the fine details set up throughout plus an experienced tour leader to make sure that everyone gets to the right place, flight or activity and any unforeseen changes are handled professionally and quickly. We also have contact with translators to accompany these safaris to ensure everyone has a great time and gets the most from the experience.

When you go, go safely!

People have some pre-conceived ideas of what travel in Africa is like, not helped by virtually the only coverage seen in Western media of Africa is all about war and chaos. When you get here you will see a different side to Africa that is welcoming and people that are genuinely concerned with making sure you have a safe and enjoyable time in their country. The companies that we work with are professional at what they do so making sure you get to the right place safely is a top priority for us and them.

Let us take care of it

Making sure that all the moving parts of your safari are done properly and at the right time is a key element for us in making sure you have a carefree safari experience, so while you focus on the wildlife and scenery, we will be looking out for the details behind the scenes.

Accomodation

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Luxury Lodges

Luxury Lodges are generally constructed using bricks and have either thatch or metal roofs and would have a main central dining room and bar with a pool area, probably a spa/gym facility. The rooms in most cases would be separate buildings away from the main complex and typically have private views with their own balconies. They would be air conditioned and have bath, shower and toilet en-suite and sometimes this is duplicated outside the room for that private bath under the stars. The catering is of a very high standard and most diets will be catered for if notice is given of this.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the ideal length safari? With our tailor-made safaris, your timeline is up to you. However, we recommend at least six nights, ideally a week or longer to get the full experience of the country you are visiting.

How do I book a trip with Doug Macdonald Safari? Browse our journeys by country, or fill in your details and a Travel Designer will contact you to start planning your Wilderness journey.

How many countries do you operate in? Doug Macdonald operates across fifteen countries: Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia, Malawi, Gabon, Congo, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Kenya, Chad, Madagascar, Rwanda.

What countries are best for wildlife experiences? All the countries we operate in boast iconic African wildlife. However, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia are home to the largest elephant populations, Namibia hosts incredible desert-adapted wildlife and Rwanda is home to precious mountain gorillas.

Can we customise our own safari with you? Yes, we offer fully adjustable itineraries based off your preferences, you can change everything to better suit your needs and likes. Our team will suggest options based off your input and their experience ensuring that you get the experience that works for you and that gives you the best safari.

Is going on a safari safe? With Doug Macdonald, it couldn’t be safer. All travel arrangements are made ahead of time, and with our industry-leading guides, pilots and teams on the ground, we'll make sure you are taken care of throughout your safari experience.

Is a safari safe for children? Safaris can be wonderful experiences for children. In our family-friendly accommodation at selected camps, children age six and up are welcomed on safari. While some activities may not be suitable for children, there is plenty for them to do and lots to be learned on safari. We can arrange childminders to accompany families on game drives, fill downtime in camp with age-appropriate activities and much more!