Yes. African adventure travel for mature travellers is very popular, with the demand for African safaris for seniors growing steadily. From the bundu-bashers and backpackers (roughing it in out-of-the-way locations) to slack-packing and weekend getaway trips - the world today is an oyster for ALL ages! Simply put, safari travel in Africa has undergone significant changes.
Today, an increasing number of 55- to 65-year-olds (and older) are traveling to sought-after destinations in Southern and East Africa without so much as a sleeping bag to their name. Even the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti in Tanzania are doable for older travellers wanting to embark on an East African safari.
Senior travellers are boarding planes in ever-increasing numbers, destined for Africa to fulfil their travel dreams. “Retirement is for exploration!” exclaimed one seventy-something traveller who recently returned from a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience in Botswana.
So what’s different for the senior traveler in Africa? What can change and what can’t? What is it that you should expect and shouldn’t forget to talk about before you go? African Budget Safaris, in consultation with experts from our senior tour suppliers, has put together some inside travel advice for you.
Although some places in Africa receive negative press, there are many tried-and-true safari destinations that are perfectly safe. To see the safest African countries, check out The 10 Safest Countries in Africa to Visit.
Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa all have fantastic infrastructures, good roads, accessible and well-established routes, as well as accommodation and food of the highest caliber. Furthermore, these three countries are renowned worldwide for their leadership in conservation, boasting well-managed national parks and wilderness areas where wildlife and big game thrive. Etosha in Namibia, Moremi, Chobe, and the Delta in Botswana, as well as Kruger National Park in South Africa, attract tourists and professional photographers from all over the world.
Southern Africa often appeals to mature travellers with various suitable safari options in Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Of these, a Botswana safari usually costs a little more than a Namibian or South African trip.
For example, one of our Budget Senior Tours, the 21-Day Southern Africa Safari, begins in the majestic cultural hub of Cape Town and takes you overland up the west coast of South Africa into Namibia. In Namibia, you take in the beauty of the desert as you make your way to Botswana and the Delta, and then on to Victoria Falls.
This senior safari adventure is an excellent way to experience the best of Southern Africa.
Contrary to popular belief, TIME is on your side! Most younger travellers have time constraints. Modern life is dictated by work schedules and commitments. Holidays are short, and it is not always easy to take extended breaks. Add to this family life, children, pets, school holidays, and kids' activities, and well… time flies by.
Being retired (or semi-retired), however, frees you up to take advantage of longer travel getaways. Plan your trip when and where you like for as long as you want. Longer 14- to 21-day African safari tours for seniors are ideal for senior citizens seeking to explore the world. Not everyone has the luxury of doing the 22-day Victoria Falls to Cape Town Overland Lodge Safari, which travels north to south through truly wild places. Starting in Victoria Falls and ending in Cape Town, South Africa, this senior African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
If 3 weeks sounds a bit long, consider the 15-day Victoria Falls, Botswana & Namibia Safari Adventure, which visits the top destinations. Visit Vic Falls and Chobe National Park, take a makoro ride in the Delta, and take in the breathtaking beauty of Etosha and Sossusvlei in Namibia. This budget senior tour is an ideal way to spend two weeks traversing some of the best that Africa has to offer.
For those adventurous travellers who don't need to get back to work, your time away is truly yours to enjoy.
“That sounds expensive, I can’t travel on my pension,” I hear you say. Today, African safaris are competitively priced. There are numerous budget-friendly tours that cater to all travel styles and tastes, including those for pensioners or older travelers.
Travelling on a pensioner’s shoestring is not only possible, but it also happens every day. An African Bucket List safari, for example, will get you to all the most sought-after destinations, without breaking the bank. The trick is to know your budget and to balance this with your own personal travel wish list. You can cut your costs by taking advantage of a group tour for seniors and, in the process, bring along some friends, or meet some new, like-minded travel companions.
Watch African Safaris for Seniors on YouTube for a sense of what to expect on our fully-serviced camping and lodge safaris for mature travellers.
One way to reduce your costs is to tailor your trip to your own personal bucket list items. The Deserts, Rivers & African Wildlife Safari will give you the highlights, Victoria Falls, time in the Okavango Delta, the exceptional game viewing in the Caprivi Strip, and then on to the desert landscapes of Namibia. It's not the longest of the budget senior tours in Africa, but it packs a big punch.
The great thing about these senior safari packages is that all costs are clearly outlined and set before your departure. Of course, you’ll want to bring some additional pocket money for gifts, tips, and treats, but the majority of expenses will be taken care of, leaving you free from the financial worries of park fees, petrol, and exchange rates. Why not speak to an African Budget Safari travel consultant and find out just how far your budget could get you?
“Safaris are dusty, dirty affairs, only for people willing to sacrifice their creature comforts and rough it in the bush”. Well, no, not at all. This is a common misconception. Comfort and ease are the names of the game.
Across the board, travellers are increasingly looking for no-fuss options. Consider the rise of slack-packing and glamping – the ultimate convenience experiences. Increasingly, comfort and convenience are being prioritized. Senior safaris in Africa are no different. You can book a comfortable lodge safari, a camping safari for seniors, or tailor a mixture of the two.
The Overland Lodge Safari from Cape Town to Vic Falls is fully accommodated and designed especially for over-40s and older travellers. This senior tour itinerary is unique because it visits some of South Africa's lesser-known and out-of-the-way destinations, including Augrabies Falls, Calvinia, and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. In addition, the budget trip also visits Damaraland, Swakopmund, Sossusvlei, Caprivi, and more. On a senior lodge safari, you will stay in comfortable lodges with clean sheets, swimming pools, bars, and restaurants.
For those seeking a closer connection to nature, the Botswana Wilderness Camping Adventure is a 14-day, fully serviced camping safari designed for seniors. Taking in Moremi, the Okavango Delta, Tuli block, and more, on this fully catered camping safari, all you need to do is step off your safari vehicle. The tents are pitched, the camping cot is prepared and comfortable, and an open fire is there for you to enjoy, not only your sundowner but also the magic of the African evening. And, while you relax, a hearty meal simmers away in the background. This budget senior tour also includes two nights at a comfortable hotel in Victoria Falls.
If you fancy a bit of both (camping and lodge travel), speak with your experienced African Budget Safaris travel consultant, who will advise you on how to get the best of both worlds.
One thing to remember when planning an African safari is the distance. Africa is huge, and the distances travelled, often on dirt roads, are long and dusty. Knowing that your safari camp will be ready on the other side, or that your reputable lodge has a hot shower and a fully stocked bar, makes all the long distances traveled worthwhile.
The over 50 adventure travel itineraries are designed with senior travellers in mind. They have a slightly slower pace, comfortable game drives, more days to rest, and a few extra creature comforts. The beauty is, however, that these Africa safaris for seniors can be crafted to suit YOUR specific tastes and needs. No need to go with the crowds when you can choose your own path.
Contact us to learn more about our tailor-made senior tours.
Travel today does not mean extended time out of touch with your loved ones. Most safari lodges offer Wi-Fi, and it is possible to connect your mobile phones and other devices via satellite or through cell phone networks, even in the African bush. This means you can still connect with your children and grandchildren and, even better, share your experiences with them as you go along.
Another great thing about the over-50 safari packages is that, due to the slower pace of the adventure, they are perfect for a combined family adventure. Three generations embarking on an African adventure of a lifetime!
The growing number of over-50s traveling in Africa makes for an authentic safari experience that is truly unique. Being older means knowing yourself better and choosing options that suit you. The over-50 safaris are designed for smaller groups, with a maximum of 16 adventurers. Whether you are a couple, a single senior, or a family, the chances are therefore higher that you will meet like-minded people and make some lifelong friends.
For individuals in the 55 to 65-plus age bracket, health and well-being are a major priority. The long distances are, in fact, the biggest hurdle for seniors in Africa. Providing that you can navigate in and out of the safari vehicle, there really shouldn’t be a problem.
Short walks around attractions and the 'trek' from your room to the poolside are about the extent of the exertion that you will have to endure. Mature travellers often join African safari tours not specifically designed for older safari-goers, but are open to all ages. It is a personal choice, and if senior travellers are fit and healthy, up for a faster-paced trip, and happy to travel with young folk, even more options open up.
When you book your trip, get some inside advice on the areas that you will visit. The African Budget Safaris consultants are a goldmine of information to ease your concerns. Additionally, it is a good idea to consult your GP and discuss your African travel plans. Ensure you have a sufficient supply of your medication and access to any necessary prescriptions.
Most importantly, don’t be shy about communicating any major conditions so that everyone involved is prepared. Being open about your health from the start can go a long way in easing any anxiety you may feel.
On all of our budget Africa tours, clients are required to take out comprehensive travel insurance. Your insurance will include personal and medical cover for the duration of your safari. Speak to our travel experts for inside advice on choosing travel insurance for over 50s, or visit our Travel Insurance for Africa page for more information.
So, what are you waiting for? Hassle-free, budget-friendly, and richly rewarding, the safari season is open to all ages. Contact African Budget Safaris via email, and let's plan the best safari for you!
For older travellers just back from an African safari trip, we’d love to hear about your trip in the comments below…
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