On an Imaginative Traveller safari we help you discover authentic Africa, not just scratch the surface. As well as enjoying incredible wildlife experiences on day, night, walking, boat and even balloon safaris you get out into the heart of a country and immerse yourself in the culture so that you'll want to return time and time again.
Our affordable adventure safari holidays offer more added value than many of our competitors. For example, it can often be an optional extra to go to the quintessential game park, the Masai Mara (included with Imaginative Traveller); our safaris offer the best value for the number of game drives included; driving days are less; many competitors' trips start and finish in the same town so you waste time doubling back; and there are no hidden costs on Day 1 as you can arrive any time (many competitors' trips start at 7am meaning paying for an extra night).
With over 20 years of experience and expert knowledge we make our wildlife safari holidays very special. Our itineraries reflect decades of client and tour leader feedback and are carefully designed to give adventure travellers the best safari experience possible.
With many companies, park fees and permits are extra. On an Imaginative Traveller safari holiday all these are included and clearly listed as part of the final price whether this is as a local payment or in a breakdown of price so you can see exactly how much a trip is going to cost. On gorilla safaris your permit is guaranteed as, unlike many other companies, Imaginative Traveller pre-purchase gorilla permits. Most meals are included plus of course in the game parks there is little you can actually spend your money on anyway! Thus once you are there, Africa can actually be a very cheap destination.
We use special 4WD custom-built safari vehicles which are serviced regularly. The capacity is 28 but we only take a maximum of 24 passengers allowing for a roomier experience (each seat has a seatbelt). There are large opening windows providing unrestricted game viewing and photographic opportunities from up high. The vehicles are equipped with a water tank that carries drinkable water (drawn from reliable water sources), a cool box and useful reference books. There are also lockers (please bring your own padlock). We provide spacious dome tents which are quick to erect with the sides covered in mosquito netting. We also provide good quality foam mattresses (2-3 inches thick) and a folding chair per passenger enabling you to travel in comfort. In the Ngorongoro Crater we use specialised Land Rovers.
The Truck
Larger forward-facing windows - Spacious seating with seatbelts - Large windows for fantastic game viewing - Good supply of fresh drinking water - Plenty of storage for your gear - Fully camp kitchen and full-time camp cook - Good suspension for when we travel rough roads - Hygienic facilities
Our Tents
Thick sleeping mats so you get a good night's sleep - Easy to assemble tents that are super spacious - Comfy camp chairs so you can relax in the evenings
An experienced English-speaking guide and professional driver accompany every Imaginative Traveller safari - chosen not only for their local knowledge, but perhaps more importantly, for their "people skills". Local guides join us in certain places such as the Ngorongoro Crater and at Mto Wa Mbu in Tanzania. A special feature of our safaris is that in addition we have a cook who plans, budgets and prepares all included meals. Our crews have enjoyed many years working with us.
Responsible Travel is at the heart of all our adventure holidays. Please see Responsible Travel – ethical safari holidays with Imaginative Traveller