An African safari is towards the top of many travelers’ lists. Today there are thousands of options available from many major tour operators.
While Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa are classic safari destinations, other countries have emerged over the years such as Botswana, Namibia, and Rwanda.
If you’re envisioning a specific kind of trip, or have a lot of ideas on what you want to see and do, a custom tour is for you.
Interested in exploring the savannah by day and camping under the stars by night? Or perhaps you’d rather spend your evenings enjoying local wine and fine food. Maybe you’re really hoping to get in some extra activities like a hot air balloon ride to witness the Great Migration from the air.
Whatever you’re looking for, a custom safari tour operator will sit down with you and help craft an itinerary suited to your wants and needs.
For this list, we've considered companies which clearly focus on custom intineraries above more packaged experiences. They also satisfy a wide range of budgets and offer multiple types of experiences and activites you can choose from to craft your ideal trip.
Here are 3 of our favorite custom safari tour companies:
1. Rothschild Safaris - 5/5 Review Rating
Rothschild have been carving a special niche in luxury custom safari tours since their beginning. Their unique approach to trip building will ensure you have a full, exciting trip complete with luxurious activities and accommodation.
Though if luxury isn't what you're after or able to afford, they do work on a per individual basis, and will do their best to craft a trip suitable to your budget.
Why Consider a Safari with Rothschild:
1. One on one expert assistance creating an itinerary
2. Multiple accommodation types
3. Wide variety of locations to choose from
See what makes Rothschild special
2. GeoEx - 5/5 Review Rating
San Francisco based GeoEx has been around since 1986, and their trips are heavily customized giving you great control over your experience. They offer many kinds of trips, and their safaris are highly recommended. They focus on up close wildlife encounters (including Gorilla treks!) and offer a range of accommodations and trip style.
Trips tend to be in the higher price range, but they promise to be extraordinary.
Why Consider a Safari with GeoEx:
1. Extensive country knowledge and experience
2. Exclusive camping locations
3. Immersive cultural and wildlife experiences
3. Lights on Africa - 5/5 Review Rating
Relatively new company Lights on Africa was founded in 2012 and offers custom safaris in a budget range. They offer many unique experiences and all safaris are run by local guides. Though their focus is in Tanzania, they also have safaris in Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.
Their local knowledge is a stand out, as they are owned and operated by Tanzanians. You will get a unique insight into what daily life is like in this beautiful country.
Why Consider a Safari with Lights on Africa:
1. Local Tanzanian guides
2. Trip options for all budgets
3. Giving back to and meeting local communities
See what makes Lights on Africa special
Ready to find your next incredible travel experience?
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