Frequently AskedQuestions

Design My Safari is a safari planning and booking platform that helps travellers build their own wildlife safari online. Instead of choosing from fixed packages, you can compare routes, accommodations and activities, see clear pricing, and book with confidence through trusted local operators. You can read more about the company on our About Us page, and about the operators who deliver every safari on Safari Operators.

Start by choosing your travel dates and safari route, then add accommodations and activities to shape the trip around your preferences. Once your design is ready, we check availability with trusted local operators, confirm the details, and guide you through secure payment. How Design My Safari Works walks through every stage in full.

Most travellers spend between 4 and 7 days on safari. A shorter safari can work well if you want a focused experience, while extra days give you more time in the parks and a more relaxed pace. You can also add nights before or after your safari to suit your flights and travel plans.

Staying the day before your safari is often a good idea after a long flight, if your arrival time is too late for a same day start, or if you want a more relaxed beginning. It also gives extra protection against flight delays. A final rest night can be useful if your safari ends late in the afternoon or you prefer not to rush into onward travel. If you are arriving from somewhere nearby, such as Zanzibar, and are ready to start straight away, an extra night may not be needed.

Yes. Design My Safari is designed for first time safari travellers. It helps make the main choices clear, including where to go, how long to stay, which route to choose and which accommodations fit your style and budget. You stay in control of your safari, while the platform guides you towards options that make sense.

Yes. Children aged 5–15 are welcome on safari and at the majority of accommodations, unless a specific restriction is stated on the accommodation page. Some activities may have age restrictions, and these will be clearly shown before you add them to your safari.

Yes. Your travel dates help determine which migration areas are most suitable, such as the calving season in the southern plains, the Western Serengeti for the Grumeti River area, or the Northern Serengeti for the Mara River area. The platform helps guide you towards routes and accommodations that make sense for that time of year, while making clear that wildlife movements can never be guaranteed.

Each safari route is split into overnight areas, and the accommodations you see are matched to the places you stay along the route. This helps keep the journey practical, reduces unnecessary backtracking and makes sure each accommodation fits the route, season and safari experience.

Yes. Every route is designed to make the best use of your safari time. Travel days are planned to keep the journey moving logically between parks and accommodations, avoiding unnecessary backtracking wherever possible.

We only show route combinations that work well in practice. Some safaris may look possible on a map but involve too much driving, poor timing or unnecessary backtracking. By excluding those options, we keep the planning process simpler and help you choose routes that make sense.

The Design My Safari team is always on hand to help, whether you are still planning, partway through designing your safari or simply weighing up your options. If anything is unclear, just get in touch with our helpdesk and we will be happy to point you in the right direction.

Your contract is with Design My Safari. We are the organiser of your safari under European package travel law, which means we are the company you are booking with and the company legally responsible for your trip.

Your safari on the ground is delivered by a vetted local operator, who runs the vehicle, the guiding and the arrangements in Tanzania. We manage the booking process and handle payment. If something goes wrong, you come to us; you do not have to pursue the operator yourself.

For peak safari months, especially June to October, it is best to book as early as possible, as popular accommodations can sell out well in advance. Quieter months usually offer more flexibility. Bookings must be made at least 13 days before departure, giving enough time to check availability and confirm the details. A design you haven't submitted for confirmation by 13 days before departure will expire.

Every local operator on Design My Safari is checked before joining the platform. We review their local licensing, experience, reliability, vehicle standards and service quality, and our local operations manager helps monitor standards on the ground. We also continue to review customer feedback after each safari. The full checklist is published as our Operator Standards, and Safari Operators summarises what each review covers.

After you request availability, your selected accommodations and safari details are checked by our trusted local operators. If everything is available, you can review the confirmed details and continue to payment. If something is unavailable, suitable alternatives will be suggested. This stage is set out in full on How Design My Safari Works.

Many safari accommodations are in remote areas and do not use live booking systems, so availability and prices need to be checked before you book. This makes sure your selected accommodations are available for your dates and that the pricing is correct before any payment is taken.

Your safari is confirmed once your accommodations have been checked for availability and the required Upfront Payment has been made.

If one of your selected accommodations is unavailable, suitable alternatives will be suggested before you book. You can also choose another accommodation, and review the updated price before deciding whether to continue.

You only pay once your safari has been checked and confirmed.

Your payment is usually made in two parts:

Upfront Payment
This is paid when you confirm your safari. It secures your booking and allows the arrangements connected to your safari to begin being secured, including accommodation deposits and confirmed supplier commitments.

The Upfront Payment is non-refundable once paid, except where the law gives you a full refund (see Can I cancel my safari after I've paid?).

Final Balance
This is the remaining amount for your safari, including the rest of your accommodation, park entrance fees, guide, vehicle, transfers, meals and activities.

The Final Balance is due no later than 70 days before departure.

You can also choose to pay in full when you book. If you book within 70 days of departure, the Upfront Payment and Final Balance are charged together as a single payment.

There is no booking fee, platform fee or service charge added on top at checkout. You pay one safari price, and the full amount is shown clearly before you book.

All payments are charged in US dollars (USD).

Safari accommodation, park fees and many safari services across East Africa are commonly priced and settled in USD, so that is the currency your safari is priced in.

You can switch the site to show prices in euros or pounds for convenience. These are indicative conversions to help you compare prices. They are not the amount you are charged.

The USD amount is always shown before you pay.

If your card is not a USD card, your bank or card provider converts the payment and sets the exchange rate. Any difference between the USD amount and the amount shown on your statement comes from your bank or card provider, not from Design My Safari.

The same applies to refunds. Refunds are returned in USD to the card used for payment, and your bank or card provider applies its own exchange rate when converting the refund back into your card currency.

We accept major credit and debit cards.

The available card payment options are shown at checkout before you confirm your booking.

Yes. You may cancel your safari at any time.

Once payment has been made, your booking is confirmed and cancellation charges apply under the Safari Booking Terms. There is no automatic cooling-off period once you confirm and pay.

The Upfront Payment is non-refundable because arrangements connected to your safari begin being secured once your booking is confirmed, subject to the two exceptions below.

If you have paid in full and cancel more than 70 days before your safari starts, any amount paid above the Upfront Payment will be refunded.

If you cancel within 70 days of departure, all amounts paid are non-refundable, as the remaining balance is used to secure and pay for accommodation and other safari services.

Two exceptions, and they override the above. If unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances at or near your destination significantly affect your safari, you may cancel before departure at no charge and receive a full refund of everything you have paid. The same applies if we have to make a significant change to your safari and you choose not to accept it. These are rights given to you by European package travel law and nothing in our terms can take them away.

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance with cancellation cover as soon as you book.

Yes. As a package organiser established in the Netherlands, we are required by law to hold insolvency protection covering every payment you make to us, and covering your repatriation if your safari has already started.

This protection is arranged through a recognised guarantee scheme [REQUIRED — scheme name and participant number to be inserted before bookings open]. Your confirmation names the scheme and tells you how to claim, and who to contact if we are unable to continue trading.

The protection covers your money, not the operator's. It applies whether you book from inside or outside Europe.

Small adjustments happen: a lodge may move you between room types, or a drive may be reordered. We will tell you, and nothing changes about your booking.

If we need to make a significant change — altering a main feature of your safari, or being unable to meet a specific requirement we accepted — we will contact you with the change and, where possible, an alternative safari. You then have a reasonable period, normally 24 hours, to either accept it or cancel and receive a full refund of everything you have paid.

If the alternative offered is of lower value, you also receive a price reduction. Full detail is in the Safari Booking Terms.

Yes. You may transfer your safari to another person who meets the conditions of the booking, provided you give us reasonable notice — at least seven days before departure.

You and the person taking over the booking are jointly responsible for the balance still owed and for any costs the transfer actually creates, such as a supplier name-change fee or a re-issued park permit. We will tell you what those costs are before the transfer goes ahead, and we will not charge more than they cost us.

Some park permits, internal flights and accommodation bookings are issued in a named traveller's name, so a transfer close to departure is not always possible in practice. We will tell you straight away if that applies.

Tell us while you are still there. Contact your guide or operator first, because most problems can be fixed on the spot, and contact us at the same time on the emergency number in your pre-departure pack. Raising it during the safari lets us put it right; raising it only afterwards limits what can be done.

As organiser we are responsible for the proper performance of every service in your safari, whether we deliver it ourselves or a local operator does. If something is not delivered as agreed, we will resolve it at no extra cost to you where we can, and where we cannot you may be entitled to a price reduction or compensation.

If you are still unhappy after you get home, write to us and we will reply. If we cannot settle it between us, you can refer the complaint to an independent dispute resolution body [REQUIRED — ADR body to be named], and you may use the European Commission's online dispute resolution platform. Your legal rights are unaffected either way.

Some activities can be cancelled at short notice for reasons of weather or safety - a hot-air balloon safari is the most common example. If a pre-booked activity is cancelled by the operator or the activity provider, you receive a full refund of the amount you paid for that activity. Where a later slot is available and you would like to take it, we will rebook it for you as a new arrangement. The rest of your safari continues as planned.

Changes may be possible after booking, depending on availability, supplier terms and how close you are to travel. Any price difference or change fees will be explained before the change is confirmed.

Each safari clearly shows what is included before you book. This usually includes your accommodation, meals, private safari vehicle, guide, park fees and transfers during the safari. Any exclusions or optional extras are shown separately.

Safari prices vary depending on the route, season, accommodation level, group size and number of days. As you design your safari, the platform updates the price so you can see how each choice affects the total cost.

Safari prices can change because accommodation rates, seasons, room types, group size and route choices all affect the total cost. As you adjust your safari, the platform updates the price so you can see the impact of each choice.

Prices are kept live. The price shown on a saved safari is periodically updated against current park fees and accommodation costs, so if you come back to a design you created some time ago, the total may have changed. The price that applies to your booking is the one confirmed when you submit your safari for confirmation.

Yes. Required park fees for your selected safari route are included in the price. These are arranged and paid in advance of your safari, and ID is required for each passenger so the correct permits and park entries can be arranged.

Yes. You can choose from accommodations that fit your selected route, travel dates and budget. The platform only shows options that work with the overnight areas in your safari design, helping keep the journey practical and well planned. Once you have selected your preferred accommodations, availability and prices are checked before your safari can be booked.

Flights, visas, travel insurance, tips, personal spending and optional extras are usually not included unless clearly stated. Anything not included is shown clearly before you book.

Tipping is not included in the safari price and is always at your discretion. As a general guide, many travellers tip their guide and camp staff separately at the end of the safari or stay. We provide tipping guidance before travel so you know what is customary.

Yes. Solo travellers can book through Design My Safari, but prices are usually higher because vehicle, guide and accommodation costs are not shared with another traveller. Any single traveller pricing is shown clearly as you design your safari.

Changes or upgrades may be possible after booking, depending on availability, supplier terms and how close you are to travel. Any price difference will be shown before the change is confirmed.

Most travellers need a visa to enter Tanzania, although requirements depend on your nationality. You should check the latest entry rules before travel and apply through the official Tanzania visa system where required. Visa costs and rules can change, so always confirm the latest information before departure.

Vaccination requirements and recommendations depend on your nationality, travel history and the countries you pass through before arriving in Tanzania. You should speak to a travel clinic or medical professional before you travel, especially if you are arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever risk country.

Malaria is present in Tanzania, including many safari areas, so you should speak to a travel clinic or medical professional before you travel. They can advise whether malaria tablets are recommended for your itinerary and personal health needs. Insect repellent, long sleeves and sensible precautions around dawn and dusk are also important.

Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all safaris. Your policy should cover medical treatment, emergency evacuation, cancellation, delays, lost luggage and the full value of your trip.

Before travel, you may need to provide passport or ID details for each passenger so park fees, permits and accommodation records can be arranged correctly. Any required information will be requested before your safari.

Yes. Dietary requirements can usually be catered for if they are shared in advance. You should add any allergies, dietary restrictions or special meal requests before travel so the operator and accommodations can prepare accordingly.

If your flight is delayed, contact your operator as soon as possible so they can adjust the arrival transfer or safari arrangements where possible. This is one reason arriving the day before your safari can be helpful, especially after a long international flight.

If your flight is cancelled before you travel, please contact your airline first to arrange an alternative flight. Once your new travel plans are confirmed, let your safari operator know as soon as possible.

Your operator will make every reasonable effort to adjust your airport transfers and safari itinerary where practical.

Pack light, comfortable clothing in neutral colours, with layers for cool mornings and evenings. Useful items include sturdy shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, camera, chargers and a lightweight waterproof layer. Shops are limited or unavailable once you are on safari, so pack the personal items and essentials you are likely to need.

Luggage space in safari vehicles is limited, so pack only what you need for the safari itself. If your itinerary includes domestic flights, luggage limits may be stricter and soft sided bags may be required. Additional luggage can be stored with your operator while you are on safari.

Yes. English is widely spoken across the Tanzania safari industry, especially by guides, operators and accommodation staff. Learning a few Swahili phrases is always appreciated, but not required.

It is useful to bring some cash for tips, small purchases and any personal expenses. US dollars are widely accepted in safari areas, but notes should usually be clean, undamaged and recent. Card payments may be possible at some accommodations, but should not be relied on everywhere.

Yes. Safari vehicles have charging sockets, and most safari accommodations offer charging points, although power may be limited at smaller or more remote camps. It is a good idea to bring a universal adapter, power bank and extra camera batteries, especially if you use your phone or camera heavily during the day.

A game drive is the heart of the safari experience. You head out in a safari vehicle with your guide, exploring the park in search of wildlife as the landscape changes around you. Every drive is different: one moment you may be watching elephants move through the bush, the next you could be following fresh tracks or waiting quietly as lions rest in the shade.

A typical safari day starts early, when wildlife is often most active. You may head out for a morning game drive, with lunch usually enjoyed out on safari in the bush as a picnic or warm lunch. Later in the day, you continue exploring before heading to your next accommodation in the late afternoon. On travel days, the drive between areas often forms part of the safari, with wildlife and scenery along the way.

Sometimes. Lunch at the accommodation may be possible if you are staying in the same place for more than one night, but it depends on the day's route, game drive plans and location. This should be discussed with your guide, who can advise what works best for the day.

Safari days usually start in the morning and finish in the late afternoon, making the best use of daylight and wildlife viewing times. Exact timings depend on the route, accommodation location, park rules and the plan agreed with your guide.

Yes, daily timings can usually be discussed with your guide. Earlier starts often give better wildlife viewing, but the pace can be adjusted where practical depending on the route, park rules, travel distances and the plan for the day.

You will spend a good amount of time in the safari vehicle, as game drives and transfers are central to the safari experience. Driving time depends on the route, but travel between areas is planned to form part of the journey, with scenery and wildlife often seen along the way.

Yes, the pace can often be adjusted with your guide during the safari. Later starts, shorter game drives or more time at the accommodation may be possible, depending on the route, park rules and the day's plan.

Yes. Safaris booked through Design My Safari are based on a private safari vehicle. This means the vehicle is for your own group, giving you more flexibility with the daily pace, stops and game drive experience.

Yes. Safari vehicles can hold up to 6 people. If your group is larger than this, or if you prefer more space, you can select more than one vehicle when designing your safari. The price will update based on the number of vehicles selected.

In most cases, yes. Your guide and safari vehicle will usually stay with you throughout the safari, giving continuity and helping your guide understand your interests as the journey progresses. If a different arrangement applies, this will be made clear before you travel.

Yes. It is possible to rent a vehicle and explore parts of Tanzania independently, and some travellers choose this option.

However, all Design My Safari bookings include a private safari vehicle and a professional local guide. Your guide does much more than drive—they know where wildlife is most likely to be found, understand animal behaviour, communicate with other guides, navigate the parks efficiently and handle all the logistics throughout your journey.

Booking through Design My Safari also means your accommodation, park entry, transfers and itinerary are professionally arranged and supported by a trusted local operator. This allows you to spend more time enjoying your safari and less time managing the practical details.

For most visitors, travelling with an experienced guide provides a more rewarding, stress-free and successful safari experience than driving independently.

You can only get out of the vehicle in designated safe areas, such as picnic sites, viewpoints or ranger approved stops. In wildlife areas, you must follow your guide's instructions at all times.

Safaris usually continue in the rain. Weather can affect road conditions and visibility, but your guide will adjust the day where needed. A lightweight waterproof layer is useful to pack, especially during wetter months.

Many safari accommodations offer wifi, but connection quality can vary, especially in remote areas. Mobile network coverage can also be intermittent on safari. Be careful with data roaming charges and check with your mobile provider before you travel. Local SIM cards may be available in larger towns, but it is best not to rely on constant internet access while travelling between parks.

Accommodations may offer laundry services, especially when you stay more than one night. Availability, cost and turnaround time vary by property, so this should not be relied on during short stays. Some items may need to be washed yourself depending on local customs or accommodation policy.

Yes. Safaris are generally very safe when led by professional guides and operated responsibly. Your guide will explain the rules around wildlife, vehicles and camp safety, and it is important to follow their instructions at all times.

Tanzania is one of Africa's most established safari destinations, and safari travel is generally safe when arranged through reputable local operators. As with any country, you should take normal travel precautions, especially in towns, cities and busy public areas.

Wildlife encounters are part of the safari experience, but they must be treated with respect. Always follow your guide's instructions, stay in the vehicle where required, never feed or approach animals, and use a camp escort at night where this is required.

If you feel unwell or are injured on safari, tell your guide or accommodation staff as soon as possible. They can help arrange local medical support if needed. Because safari areas can be remote, comprehensive travel insurance with medical and emergency evacuation cover is strongly recommended.

Safari accommodations are used to hosting international travellers and take food preparation seriously. As with any travel, it is sensible to follow basic precautions, such as drinking filtered or bottled water and being careful with food bought outside established accommodations or restaurants.

No. You should drink filtered or bottled water while on safari, including when brushing your teeth. Safari accommodations and guides provide safe drinking water during your trip.

Snakes and insects are part of the natural environment, but serious problems are uncommon on a well run safari. Mosquitoes and tsetse flies can be present in some areas, so insect repellent, long sleeves and sensible precautions are useful. Always follow your guide's and accommodation's advice.

Yes. Safari accommodations have night time safety procedures, and many provide staff or escorts when moving around after dark. You should never walk around camp at night without following the accommodation's guidance. This is normal safari practice and helps keep guests safe in wildlife areas.