Flying or Driving Safari?
When planning your safari you may ask whether you should have a flying or driving safari. The choice is important based on several factors including budget, time on safari, age of your travel party and more. Let’s examine the pros and cons of flying or driving on safaris.
What to expect on a Driving Safari
Undoubtedly driving safaris is what most people on safari will experience. A driving safari is one of the best ways to experience the country holistically. You are usually accompanied by at least one driver-guide who will show you not only the wildlife but also the people, places and experiences of your safari destination.
Pros to a Driving Safari vs Flying Safari
- See more of the country – by driving through the cities, villages and landscapes that are not part of the reserves and conservancies you will see more of the country and gain a deeper understanding of the culture and experiences of the locals.
- Save Money – The typical Landcruiser safari jeep can hold around 6 guests meaning the cost is much cheaper than individual seats on a flight which can cots hundreds of dollars per person.
- Travel at your pace – By having exclusive use to your own private jeep and guide you can schedule game drives for when and how long you like. You can also travel with your kids without the worry of disrupting other guests.
- Reduce your environmental impact – although most jeeps are powered by fuel the emissions involved are still lower than emissions produced by flying on chartered or scheduled flights.
Cons to a Driving Safari vs Flying Safari
- Long travel time – you will spend more time on the road due to long distances and poor roads. The driving time from Nairobi to the Masai Mara is 5 hours+ while a flight takes around an hour.
- Uncomfortable rides – expect some bumpy roads that might not be the best for older travellers are those with joint problems.
- Less time on safari – you will spend a lot of time travelling on the road. Meaning less time on game drives. Keep this in mind especially if you are on safari for a short time or only visiting one destination.
What to expect on a Flying Safari
Flying Safaris are a great choice for those with limited time and problems with travelling long distances. Flying is usually always included in most Luxury Safaris. It’s a way to ensure maximum comfort and offers an overall more premium experience. By flying you get to beat the traffic as well as enjoy scenic views of the beautiful African landscapes.
Pros to a Flying Safari vs Driving Safari
- More time on Safari – By flying you shorten your travel time between destinations therefore maximising on time in the wild. The drive from Nairobi to Samburu is up to 6 Hours while a flight is around 1 Hour.
- Scenic experience – flights over the country will give you a birds-eye view. You will get to see the dramatic landscapes that a reminiscent of scenes from cult favourites like Out of Africa
- Quick connections – by choosing a flying safari you can get started on the day you arrive in the country with the latest flights leaving major cities before the sunset.
Cons to a Flying Safari vs Driving Safari
- Lots of turbulence – Most Safari flights use small Cessna type planes. This can be a traumatic experience for people with a fear of flying or flying sickness.
- Tight luggage restrictions – Due to the small planes used baggage requirements are strict. Most only allow 15Kgs (33 Lbs) of luggage in soft-sided bags.
- More expensive – flying safaris can be more expensive. Especially if travelling to multiple destinations, however it can be more cost-effective for couples or solo travellers.
What’s the best option?
The best choice is ultimately based on what is important to you. Do you want to maximise time on safari and reduce travel time? then flying is your best choice. Do you prefer a more affordable and local experience? then a driving safari is best for you. However we find a mix of both can be the perfect way to get a holistic experience and get the best of both. You can start planning your safari your way today!