Research, research, research!!! That’s the first and foremost piece of advice I have for you when looking for the perfect safari guide.
When I’m hired to plan a safari for my clients, specifically in Africa, there’s a lot to determine before selecting a company for them, such as:
1. What’s their main reason for traveling to Africa?
- If it’s for viewing wildlife, I would then ask which animals they’d most like to see. Then, I’d determine the perfect location.
- If it’s to hike a particular mountain, then specific places would be suggested.
2. When a location has been decided upon and I have a better understanding of my client’s expectations and budget for a stellar safari experience, I start my search for the best guides in that region.
- I ask colleagues, clients, friends and family members for recommendations and suggestions.
- Then, I send out a Request For Proposal (RFP) to various safari companies. After a full extensive interview process via email and phone, I then choose the four best companies based on my client’s needs and request that they meet for an in-person interview.
* If the company is unwilling to participate in this style of interview, they’re out of the running. Yes, this means that if they reside in Africa, it’s imperative for them to make a trip to the U.S. However, most companies visit the U.S. for marketing purposes and even have U.S. offices since it’s likely for an American to travel to Africa, so it shouldn’t be a problem for a well-qualified company.
3. In a personal interview, I ask safari candidates questions like:
- What’s the largest group you’ve ever taken?
- Who will the guides be? What are their backgrounds both educationally and professionally?
- What fun and special activities set you apart from the rest?
- Who are some references from the local Bay Area (or wherever client resides)?
- Do you have a photographer/guide who can capture memorable photos for the group?
- What safety precautions do you take while out on safari?
Of course, these are just a few of the ways I research and potentially hire a safari guide/company for my clients. Should you be interested in going on a safari, I would highly recommend that you plan at least a year in advance to reserve the best company possible based on your budget and travel expectations.
Ready to get started planning your own safari? Just ask!
Next week I'll fill you in about game drive bags...
- Research Robin
