An African safari costs a lot of money. From a few hundred dollars (USD) per person, per night, to a few thousand dollars, the price varies greatly based on the lodge, location, and experience. Regardless, an African safari is one of the most expensive holidays you can take. Though we definitely believe it is worth it.
So, the question is, “With how much an African safari can cost, what do you get for your money?” It is probably more than you expect.
*Please note that this blog primarily focuses on Botswana, as Brave Africa is based there. But Africa is a vast continent, and numerous countries offer safari experiences at varying costs, including South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Uganda, and Rwanda.
African Safari Cost Considerations
There are several factors to consider when determining the total cost of an African safari. It can be extremely complicated and confusing if you’ve never been on safari before, so we’ll do our best to break it down as simply as possible.
Cost Per Person, Per Night
First, it is essential to understand that a Botswana safari cost is typically broken down into a per-person, per-night rate. You do not pay for a room (like a hotel); you pay per person. This is because most safaris are either all-inclusive or semi-inclusive, and therefore, your rate is not limited solely to accommodations. Instead, your nightly rate includes all meals and activities.
Safari Activity Costs
Speaking of activities, daily game drives to find and view animals are almost always included in the nightly rate. This means that, in addition to your room and board, you will also have access to a safari guide and vehicle to get around the bush. At a minimum, you can expect morning and evening game drives (unless otherwise stated). Additional activities (such as mokoro or walking safaris) may also be available and included in the fee. However, please check with your lodge, camp, or operator for details.
A key point to note about activities is that most operators have a set schedule that must be adhered to. So, while game drives are included in the cost, they are limited in scope (2-3 hours in the morning and 2-3 hours in the evening), unless otherwise indicated or paid for. Game drives are also a shared activity with other guests in the vehicle, unless an additional fee for privacy is paid.
Travel Costs
Travel costs are NOT included in the per-person, per-night rate. For Botswana, this may mean budgeting an additional $1,000 – $2,000 per person beyond your African safari costs.
International flights are, of course, not included. You will need to pay for your flights into Botswana. In addition, Botswana is a fly-in, fly-out safari destination. This means that once you arrive on your international flight in Botswana (either in Maun or Kasane), you will need to book a bush flight to reach your lodge or camp.
Additionally, if you are staying at multiple lodges and locations within Botswana’s bush, you will need to pay for transfers between those locations. Often, this means paying for additional bush flights.
Bush flights often cost $300 – $500 per person one way.
The only time transfers are included in your safari rate is when you choose a mobile safari. On a mobile safari, such as Brave Africa, you will still need to pay for your bush flights into and out of the bush, but transfers between camps are included in the price of your safari. This can save you $600 to $1,000 per person for a six or nine-night safari in two or three locations.
Every Lodge/Camp is Unique
All safari operators are unique in what their rates include. Some camps and lodges offer more than others. The key is to reach out directly to each operator you are interested in and ask exactly what is included in your African safari cost. Do not make assumptions.
African Safari Cost Per Safari Type
Now that you know how the cost of an African safari is broken down, let’s look at the cost of an African safari based on the type of safari you choose. There are three main types of safaris: self-drive, budget, and all-inclusive.
Self-Drive African Safaris
A self-drive African safari is the most affordable option, but it is also the option with the fewest perks. You rent a 4×4 vehicle and camping equipment, and then you drive yourself around Botswana’s wilderness. You must book your own campsites, find the animals yourself, follow all the safety rules and regulations, and take care of everything on your own.
You can rent a 4×4 vehicle for as little as $100 per day.
What do you get for the cost?
A 4×4 vehicle
Camping equipment, which includes tents, a small kitchen (fridge/freezer, stovetop), water tank, and fuel tank.
Basic items NOT included:
Food, water, and other drinks and snacks will need to be purchased, stored, and prepared by you.
Fuel will need to be purchased for your vehicle and cooking for the duration of your trip.
Campsites must be booked and purchased, along with all accompanying park fees.
Important considerations to make before planning and executing a self-drive safari.
You do not have a safari guide, which means you will need to travel the bush completely on your own using a map and limited GPS. Self-drivers often get lost, experience car trouble, or become stuck in the Botswana bush and require rescue, which can cost thousands of dollars.
You will not have an expert to follow animal tracks or explain what you are seeing. This means you will be floundering on your own with whatever guidebook you have to figure out what you are seeing, and why. That’s even if you find the animals in the first place.
To minimize your African safari costs, you must be well-versed in wilderness camping. There will be no one to assist you in putting up and taking down camp, preparing meals, or generally making your way in the bush. You will need to be prepared for every and any eventuality on your own.
We donot and cannot recommend a self-drive safari.
Not only can it be very dangerous to take yourself into the bush when there are very few roads, but also difficult driving conditions. But a self-drive safari in Botswana is not the best experience. You will miss out on so many animal sightings, and more than that, pertinent information that only a safari guide can share.
Budget African Safaris
The second most affordable option is a budget African safari. This is typically a combination of an all-inclusive safari and a self-drive safari. You will enjoy some of the key benefits of an all-inclusive safari, including a safari guide, camp equipment, safari vehicle, basic meals, and navigation. But it will be bare bones.
You can plan a budget African safari for $250 – $400 USD per person, per night.
What do you get for the cost?
This can vary between operators, so please do your research, but in general, you can expect:
A safari guide to drive you around the bush, track animals, and act as your information resource for any and all questions and safety considerations.
All camping equipment, including small tents, sleeping bags/cots, drop toilets, folding chairs, and other basic necessities.
Basic meal preparation and cooking (generally over a fire), along with basic drinks (sometimes including local alcohols).
A 4×4 vehicle (driven by your safari guide).
Campsite reservations, park fees, and all fuel are included in this African safari cost.
Basic items NOT included:
Premium meals and alcoholic beverages.
Full-service is often not included. In many cases, you will need to set up your own tent and treat the experience as self-camping with a guide nearby.
Important considerations to make before planning a budget safari.
You need to be comfortable camping on your own in basic environments and with few creature comforts if you choose a budget African safari.
The equipment might be old, run-down, or of subpar quality. This may impact your game drive experience, as your vehicle may not be very comfortable or may lack helpful features such as telescoping armrests for photography, charging ports, or a portable refrigerator for cool drinks on long days.
Since a budget African safari is very basic in terms of service, you will need to prepare to give up some conveniences in order to accommodate a lower budget. It does not mean your safari days won’t be incredible; it just means that you might have to make some sacrifices in one area to enjoy others.
We do recommend budget safaris.
If you are on a tight budget but you still want to experience an African safari, a budget safari is a great option. The key is to make sure that you choose a budget with features that provide the necessary comfort level you need. For example, if you need a bed with a mattress, you might have to pay more. Or some budget options do not have en-suite bathrooms and instead stay at campsites with public toilets and showers. There is a budget level for almost everyone, so ask questions and choose what works for you.
The only thing you do NOT want to be cheap on is your safari guide. Your safari guide will make or break your experience. Ask about their guides and the level of experience they have.
All-Inclusive Safaris
The final option for an African safari is an all-inclusive safari. This is your standard safari option and is what you can expect at almost every lodge and some mobile camps. An all-inclusive safari is exactly what it sounds like: you pay one price and everything is included. Basically, your cost covers all accommodations, daily room cleaning, chef-made meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), safari guiding, and other safari activities.
All-inclusive safaris start at $500 per person per night and can cost upwards of $3,000 per person, per night.
What do you get for the cost?
The cost of an all-inclusive safari is highly varied because it depends on the level of luxury you desire. So, please research the lodges and camps you choose, but in general, you can expect:
Daily safari activities, including game drives and walking safaris (mokoro, boating safaris, and even helicopter flights might also be included).
A safari guide to drive you around the bush, track animals, and act as your information resource for any and all questions and safety considerations.
All accommodations, including en-suite bathrooms (the luxury is dependent on your cost), and a pavilion, a lobby, and meal areas.
Full-service provided by staff, including daily cleaning, meal service, and camp care (often including daily laundry service).
Premium meal service for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with drinks including local alcohols and premium liquors.
Campsite reservations, vehicles, park fees, and all other incidentals.
Basic items NOT included:
The only items not included on an all-inclusive safari are those items of a personal nature. Anything else is supplemental and depends on the cost of your luxurious accommodation.
Travel insurance, health insurance, visa and passport fees.
Cash gratuities (tips).
Flights (international and bush) to arrive at your lodge or camp.
Important considerations to keep in mind before planning an all-inclusive safari.
The nightly rate you are willing to pay will significantly impact your lodge or camp experience. More money might get you a plunge pool, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, television, premium (imported) alcohols, etc. Think of it the same way you would a hotel: the more expensive the hotel, the more luxurious the experience.
What does not tend to change even as you pay more is the actual safari experience. Often, paying more does not equate to better guides or more frequent daily game drives. That experience is dependent on your operator and not your budget.
Decide what is most important to you about your safari, and then determine what fits within your budget and what you are willing to compromise on for something else. More does not always mean better. Some all-inclusive safaris are expensive simply because they can be, and the experience may not be worth the astronomical cost of an African safari.
We do recommend an all-inclusive safari.
If you have the budget, we highly recommend an all-inclusive safari. This will provide you with the best and most memorable safari experience, leaving you with the fewest concerns and worries. The key is to decide what you need and what you do not. If you don’t plan to swim in a pool during your safari, don’t pay for it. If you want to unplug, don’t pay for Wi-Fi or TV. If your goal is to spend time with the animals, consider an all-inclusive safari option that focuses on game drives rather than imported alcohol.
Brave Africa Safari Cost: All-Inclusive
What about Brave Africa Safaris? We are a boutique, luxury mobile safari company ideal for guests seeking an authentic under-the-canvas safari experience while still craving the comfort and convenience of a fully serviced safari lodge. We harken back to the romantic adventure of the safaris of yesteryear. Guests who stay with us spend their days seeking out animals, basking in the sun, and enjoying the tranquility of unspoiled wilderness. It’s how a safari was always meant to be experienced!
Our price starts at $645 per person, per night during the Green Season and increases to $930 per person, per night during the High Season.
What do you get for the cost?
Crafted by safari enthusiasts, Brave Africa is an intimate, tented camp that invites you to fully immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the Botswana bush. Our large, spacious tents feature comfortable beds and en-suite bathrooms with flushing toilets, washbasins, and a refreshing bucket shower (with hot water on demand). It is a comfortable and luxurious camp experience.
Our goal is to provide you with everything you want from a safari, without all the frills.
Large three-roomed guest tents (Meru-style) with plush mattresses, flushing toilets, wardrobes, and bucket showers (hot water on demand).
An oversized, tented pavilion serves as the social hub of camp.
Solar energy and battery charging are available in the pavilion and in vehicles.
Daily housekeeping, daily laundry, and full-service camp tear down, movement, and setup on transfer days.
Full-meal preparation (for any diet) including gourmet breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.
Soft drinks, local beers, and local wines, plus one premium liquor drink daily.
We focus on high-quality guiding, including fully customizable game drives (no set schedules or itineraries). Our priority is spending time with the wildlife, not at camp. Guests can also enjoy walking safaris, night drives, mokoro, boating safaris, village visits, and more.
Basic items NOT included:
The only items not included in our all-inclusive safari are those of a personal nature and transfers outside of your scheduled safari.
Travel insurance, health insurance, visa and passport fees.
Cash gratuities (tips).
Flights (international and bush) to arrive at and depart from your Brave Africa safari.
Important considerations for a Brave Africa safari.
A luxury mobile safari, such as Brave Africa, can save you money on your total African safari cost by reducing the cost of transfers. In Botswana, you have to fly into the bush to start your safari and fly out to end your safari, and you have to fly to each location in the bush (if you are visiting multiple locations). This cost is not included in your nightly rate. On a mobile safari, while the bush flight in and out is still required, transfers between locations are included in the price. This means that you can save almost $1,000 on a 9-night safari in three locations.
Our camp doesn’t exist until you book your safari, making us truly mobile and following the creed, “take only memories, and leave only footprints.” We are truly eco-friendly with no permanent structures. It is a true adventure where, every few days, the Brave Africa team takes you to a new safari destination while providing you with the same amazing connection with the wilderness.
Brave Africa is a boutique operator with a maximum of six tents and a capacity of twelve guests. This means you can expect personalized and passionate care that is tailored to your needs. Our commitment is to flexibility and customization, so you can enjoy the safari experience you want.
Brave Africa Safari Rates
Fall in Love with Botswana’s Wilderness
Join Brave Africa on a safari of a lifetime. Each trip will offer new sights, sounds, wildlife, and scenery—no matter if it is your first or hundredth safari. The Botswana wilderness is always waiting to reveal something incredible and new.
Our custom-designed safari itineraries are tailored to your schedule and can be created to make your dreams a reality. And with camps located in four exceptional regions of Botswana’s Okavango Delta—Moremi Game Reserve, Khwai Community Concession, and Savuti—there is always a new destination to explore.
As the year draws to a close, we wanted to take a moment to share some of the best Botswana safari holiday experiences in 2023! It was a truly incredible year, and the entire Brave Africa team would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to each one of you. This year has been wonderful, and it’s largely because of your support and enthusiasm for the adventures we offer in beautiful Botswana.
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2023’s Best of Botswana Safari Holiday
Here are a few highlights from 2023 that we wanted to share with you! Let us know your favorites in the comments. Then, email us at info@braveafrica.com or contact us on our website to plan your 2024 safari adventure!
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Walking with Buffalo in Khwai
One of our favorite Botswana safari holiday memories happened in July, when a family of five FINALLY joined us on safari after postponing since 2020. They came for their daughter’s birthday, and on one very special day, they walked for three hours in the middle of a huge herd of buffalo. It was incredibly magical and an experience to remember forever!
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Traditional Night Dinner
We have to highlight every time we celebrated traditional Botswana night for dinner and shared Botswana BBQ, dancing, singing, and fellowship with our guests. These are always some of our favorite evenings after a great safari day.
Dinner always begins after sunset.
We set the table under the stars.
We get the fire going.
Then, our team roasts traditional Botswana BBQ
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Elephants Visit Camp
A shout-out to every single time elephants joined us at camp, so our guests could enjoy the herd just outside of their tent. It’s always a memorable Botswana safari holiday experience. And we always try to choose our campsites specifically to have the BEST chance of animals at camp.
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Traditional Bread-Making in the Bush
We loved making fresh-baked bread in the bush with some of our younger guests. It’s a great activity if you want a break from going out on game drives or if you just want to experience something different and unique.
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Up Close Time with Lions
We always love getting to spend alone time with the wildlife. This year, in particular, we had a lot of close-up experiences with lions. In this instance, we enjoyed a lioness and her sister with a still-suckling cub! These types of encounters happen all the time while on safari, but they are always memorable.
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Safari Activities for Children: Archery
Kids have the best time at Brave Africa! Not only do they get to enjoy our regular safari experiences, but we also have special kids-only programming for extra fun. On one of our favorite family trips this year, our two young guests participated in an archery competition with each other, and had an absolute blast! It’s just one of our fabulous safari activities for children.
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Rare Cheetah Sighting!
Cheetahs are a rare sight! They usually travel alone and are very skittish. But on this day, a cheetah gave our Brave Africa guests an awesome sighting by hanging around and marking a tree right in front of them. It was a dream come true for our guests and our team. These sightings and so many more are what make a truly unforgettable Botswana safari holiday!
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Hyena Cackle Experience
Watching scavangers do what scavangers do! This hyena clan ( or cackle) enjoyed their meal right in front of our vehicle. And one adventurous hyena even decided to check us out to see if we had anything more to offer. We did not. But we always appreciate a close-up!
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Lion Pride Enjoying a Kill
It is a rare but special opportunity to watch a large pride of lions eating a fresh kill. But on this special Botswana safari holiday during the summer, our guests got to experience it. Our amazing guide, Wina, discovered a recently hunted buffalo with an entire pride of lions still feasting on their prey (cubs included). And our guests got to sit there for hours and just enjoy the spectacle.
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Every Sundowner!
Sundowners are, without a doubt, one of our favorite times on safari. We take a break from looking for wildlife to just sit and soak in the beauty of Botswana. Our guide finds an incredibly beautiful spot in the bush. Then, we get out the drinks and snacks, and everyone enjoys the breathtaking Botswana sunset. There are few views better.
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Lion Roar
There are hundreds more Botswana safari holiday experiences we could share with you, but we’ll end with one of our favorite sounds in the bush: the lion’s roar.
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Enjoy Our 2023 Best of Botswana Safari Holiday Reel
Each Botswana safari holiday in 2023 has been a unique journey, filled with unforgettable experiences. We hope your time with us has left you with cherished memories and stories to tell for years to come. Your trust in us is not something we take for granted, and we look forward to welcoming many of you back in the future.
Has someone told you, “You just have to go on an African wildlife safari!”? But you were not sure what they meant. Don’t worry! You are not alone.
While an African wildlife safari is a bucket list vacation for many people, it can also be intimidating and confusing. We get so many questions about going on a safari—what it is, how it works, where to go, etc.—that we wanted to create a blog series to help you out.
Over the next few blogs, we’re going to deep dive into everything you need to know about African wildlife safaris. For this first blog, we are starting with “What is an African Wildlife Safari?”
So, let’s go!
What is an African Wildlife Safari?
In the simplest terms, an African Wildlife Safari is a sightseeing trip to observe animals in the wild (bush). These are NOT hunting safaris. No animals are harmed during a wildlife safari. Instead, you go out in a 4×4 vehicle and search for animals in the vastness of the African wilderness—off-road and/or on designated paths.
The word “safari” is actually a Swahili word that means “journey or trip.” This is why, when we discuss going on safari, we don’t talk about an end goal. It’s about spending time exploring the bush and everything it has to offer. It is about the journey, and experiencing everything you can—and not the destination.
and is ultimately responsible for your incredible (and safe) experience.
An unguided safari is more like driving through a national park in other areas of the world and hoping you see something, anything. You rent a 4×4 and drive on the paths and roads, crossing your fingers that wildlife will be nearby and easy to spot. There is no guide to help you track, and you will NOT be in an open-air vehicle for your own safety.
But a wildlife safari guide offers even more than the ability to find more animals. They are also living encyclopedias. We dare you to try and stump your guide with a question. If they have been guiding for a few years, there are few questions they have not answered and few facts about the animals, landscape, plants, and stars that they have not learned.
What Are the Different Types of Wildlife Safaris?
Now that you know what an African wildlife safari is, let’s talk about the different types of safari experiences you can expect. It may seem a lot more complicated than a trip to the city or theme park, but it doesn’t have to be.
There are three main types of safaris, each at a different price point and with a unique experience: Self-Drive Safaris, Mobile Camping Safaris, and Lodge Safaris.
Self-Drive Safaris
This is the most basic type of safari and the most affordable (kind of). You rent a car, buy tickets to a national park, and drive yourself and your family around the park searching for animals.
The simplest version of a self-drive safari is a day trip to a park such as Kruger National Park in South Africa. In this case, you would purchase a park ticket for one day and drive along the roads within the public portion of the park and see what animals you can see. You CANNOT drive off-road in this case, and you will be in the portion of Kruger that is open to all tourists (this means it is BUSY).
A more complicated type of self-drive safari is a multi-day camping safari. For this type of self-drive safari, you would rent a 4×4 vehicle and pay for a campsite within a national park such as the Khwai Community Concession. You would set up your campsite, and then every day of your trip, drive out in your vehicle along the paths to see what wildlife you can discover. You would need to be proficient at both camping and driving off-road.
The key thing to remember about self-drive safaris is that you are 100% on your own. You do not have a professional guide who knows the area or the animals. You have to be completely self-sufficient. Oftentimes, this results in vehicles getting stuck and needing to be rescued or poor animal sightings because you can’t track them.
Mobile Camping Safaris
The next type of safari is a mobile camping safari. This is what we are at Brave Africa. Basically, you work with a safari company to go on a guided safari. The company provides the tents, vehicles, food, and professional guides to make your experience as incredible as possible.
The difference between a mobile camping safari and a lodge is that a mobile safari takes place in mobile tents that can move between locations. This means you can sign up for one safari package, and the company will move you between locations on your safari without you having to book different lodges in different locations and pay for travel between each site. Think of it like paying for a tour versus paying for separate hotels.
However, it is important to note that there are different levels of mobile camping safaris.
Basic: The basic level includes very small camping tents without attached baths or toilets, and that you may need to set up and tear down yourself. You should also expect simple meals (sandwiches or basic fare cooked over a fire), and very few other accommodations. You mostly pay for the professional guide and the safari vehicle to take you around. This is a no-frills type of camping safari.
Premier: A comfortable but modest mobile camping safari experience, which includes larger tents that are put up and taken down by the safari company. But the tents still tend to be basic along with the meals. You should expect drop toilets, potentially communal shower areas, cots instead of mattresses, and basic meals. This is a good option for people who are okay with roughing it.
Luxury: At the highest level, you’ll find mobile camping safaris like Brave Africa. We are a full-service African wildlife safari offering outstanding amenities, ambiance, service, and experiences. We offer large 3-room tents, luxurious mattresses, flushing toilets, private showers, superb chef-cooked meals, a fully-stocked bar, and all the amenities. We take care of everything just like if you were staying at a lodge. You’ll have a professional guide, daily housekeeping, laundry services, chef-prepared meals, and so much more.
For a mobile camping safari, you typically book a longer multi-day trip with a company that will allow you to go on safari in a few different locations. For example, we offer both 6-night and 9-night mobile camping safaris where you spend 3 nights at each campsite before moving to another location. Think of it like booking a safari tour, and all you have to do is show up and we do the rest.
The final type of safari is the lodge safari. This experience is most similar to booking an all-inclusive hotel. You find a lodge in a location where you would like to stay, and you book your room in the lodge for however long you want to stay.
If you want to visit multiple locations in the African bush, you need to book a room at different lodges and figure out transportation between each location (bush flight, helicopter, road transfer). For most locations in southern and eastern Africa, moving between lodges means paying for a bush flight. This is because camp locations are normally an all-day drive away through the bush. So, you’ll normally hop on a bush flight and get picked up at your next lodge. This is the main difference between a luxury mobile camping safari and a lodge safari—as a camping safari includes transfers between camps.
But lodges provide the ULTIMATE luxury. Depending on how much money you are willing to spend, you can stay in the most elegant and opulent lodge imaginable, with private pools in each room, the highest-end liquors, and the full range of world-class comforts and delights. There are also lower-end lodges that use very similar tents to Brave Africa and have a very similar experience, but you will still pay more for the lodge because their expenses are slightly higher, and you’ll require more bush flights.
Plan Your African Wildlife Safari Today
An African wildlife safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you do not want to miss. It is transformative and life-enriching. You will talk about it for years to come!
And, if you are like most guests, your first safari will not be your last. You’ll discover how incredible it is to sleep under the stars, hear a lion’s powerful roar, witness colorful birds in flight, and make memories that fill you with wonder and excitement. You will not only want to come back, but you will want to share the experience with everyone you meet.
We are thrilled to offer last-minute bookings on your safari with Brave Africa for 2023 at a significant discount! Receive $100-off per night per person for any safaris booked in August, September, October, and November 2023! That’s $900 in savings on our 9-night safari (per person) and $600 in savings on our 6-night safari (per person). There’s even a savings of $40/night for low-season safaris booked in December!
This is a one-time-only special, so don’t hesitate to book now! These fill-the-calendar rates are only available for the end of the 2023 season.
Pay Less for Last-Minute Safari Bookings in 2023!
As part of this year-end special, we are also removing our fees for custom safaris. As long as your safari meets our minimum requirements ( 2 guests and 3 nights) there is no additional fee for a non-standard safari. Whether you need a 5-night safari for 3 guests or a 3-night safari for 2 guests, we would be happy to make your safari possible.
Why Should You Book a Safari with Brave Africa?
There are so many reasons to book a safari with Brave Africa now, and it’s not just our great pricing! We have one of the best guides in Botswana, our mobile safari offers lodge-like comfort combined with an authentic experience, and our team is dedicated to hospitality and ensuring you have a wonderful time on safari that you’ll remember forever.
Meet Tabona Wina: Brave Africa’s Founder, President, and World-Class Guide
“Mr. Tabona Wina is a skillful guide, with a deep knowledge of the flora and fauna of Botswana. He was able to locate and track many wonderful animals. We felt safe while on safari drive with him.” —PaultVo TripAdvisor
“If you don’t have a “Wina” (our guide), you don’t have ½ the experience. Wina has 10+ years experience in Botswana. He knows every animal, behavior, tracking paw prints, birds, even knows about animal poop!” —Rick TripAdvisor
“I went on the most wonderful safari with Wina and his dedicated team. I’ve been on a few safaris in my time and this has been far and away the best. Wina is incredibly knowledgable and passionate about nature!” —Leo TripAdvisor
Brave Africa is a Mobile Safari Offering Lodge-Like Comfort
“Oh, and of course there was the 5-star all inclusive accommodation. My wife has never camped in her life and had only compliments. From king size beds, to toilets, to warm showers… this is a luxurious way to enjoy nature. All done sustainably and in harmony with the surrounding environment.” —Fernando TripAdvisor
“For a luxury mobile tented safari but at a reasonable price you can’t beat this company. The tents are luxurious (very comfortable beds), the staff extremely attentive and the food cooked by Rachel exceptional.” —Michael TripAdvisor
“Now to the Brave Africa mobile camp. Can I just say, I’m NOT a camper and have never once considered a camping vacation. Well, this is not camping and it’s even a step or two above glamping. The tents are huge with 3 separate sections and a covered porch-all divided by zippers. The front section holds 2 twin beds that can be converted into a king (with comforter, decorative pillows and throw), 2 nightstands, and a canvas floor and rugs. The next section holds the toilet! It’s a regular full-size toilet, a stand with for the wash basin, pitcher, hand soap, lotion, etc. and a closet. The back section is the outdoor shower (fully enclosed for privacy), with shampoo, conditioner and soap included. We even had DAILY laundry service. The Brave Africa staff was just lovely, so welcoming and accommodating.” —Sheree TripAdvisor
Discover Exceptional Hospitality and Have an Experience to Remember Forever
“I cannot write a review without mentioning the large staff. Every single one of them were one of the loveliest people I have ever met. They simply cared…about everything, singing beautiful songs as a group, which I will never forget. The team was genuinely interested in who I was and wanted to know more. They smiled with such a genuineness that will bring me back to share more experiences with them, again.” —Laurie, Trip Advisor
“What a top notch Mobil Safari Camp by Brave Africa. I loved the warm bucket shower which prepared ahead by the staff, on the cool nights and before bedtime, I stepped out on our tent patio to do my brushing under the starry night. Love it!!! The Brave Africa staff was very courteous and friendly, and this was a once in a lifetime trip to remember. We will be back.” —Mylinh TripAdvisor
“And then there were the accommodations and food. The tent had twin beds pushed together to make a king and very comfortable. The flushable indoor toilet was fabulous, along with the bucket shower that was filled up with warm water for us. I am not into camping so this was right up my alley! The food was 5 star as well, and no shortage of it. We had 3 meals along with snacks on safari. We enjoyed a few drinks with Wina every evening – he is a gracious host! The entire team was incredibly friendly and it was just a fun time. Fun and educational. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND using this company for a safari in Botswana. I’m even telling random travel agents I run into!” —Susan TripAdvisor
Any experienced safari enthusiast will tell you, “The most important element of an outstanding safari is the guide.” Safari guides play a crucial role in providing travelers with a memorable and safe experience in the African bush.
At Brave Africa, we understand this deep in our soul. In fact, it is the basis of our foundation: one of our owners and founders is a safari guide. And that’s why we are so proud to have some of the best safari guides in Botswana.
Guest Safety: Your safari guide is ultimately responsible for your safety. They have spent years learning everything there is to know about spending time in the Bush. Whether it’s understanding when and how to approach animals, navigating nature, or setting guest rules, safety is always a top priority.
Passion for Wildlife: With a talent for reading and understanding animal behavior and the language of the Bush, safari guides share their passion for wildlife with every guest. Not only will they educate you about every animal you see, but they’ll make sure the safari experience is as sustainable and eco-conscious as possible.
Animal Tracking: A safari is not a zoo. The animals are wild and free to roam, but your guide has the skills to track them. This is especially important for predators, which can be difficult to find if you don’t know the sounds and tracks to look for.
Share Knowledge: There are hundreds of birds, thousands of unique flora and fauna, and dozens and dozens of difficult animals. Somehow, your guide will know them all. They are walking and talking encyclopedias on everything in the bush.
Camp Hospitality: On safari, your guide is not just your connection to the wilderness they are also your Bush host. They’ll become your close companion on long game drives, at meal times, and so many moments in between.
Meet Tabona Wina: Brave Africa’s Premier Safari Guide
Tabona Wina is a Motswana born and raised in Francistown, Botswana. He is a Co-owner, President, and Founder at Brave Africa Safaris, as well as a level 3 experienced guide (the highest level).
Early Life
From a young child, Wina has always been interested in animals and nature. Whether he was spending time on a farm, in the plowing fields, or at the cattle posts, his favorite part was working with the sheep, cattle, and goats. And while doing so, he also gained exposure to the wilds, sparking his love and passion for the Bush.
But living in the city, Wina didn’t have very many opportunities to explore nature—at least as much as he wanted, especially as his schooling got more intense. So, for a while, he left the Bush behind and began his career working in Public Health after college. But while his job was fulfilling, it couldn’t replace the joy and beauty Wina found in the wild.
Career as a Safari Guide in Botswana
Then, in 2007, the opportunity finally came for Wina to go back to his first love. With the help of his family, he followed his heart and pursued his dream of becoming a safari guide by joining the Tourism Industry. And the rest is history.
Wina reignited his love and passion for the Bush immediately. And by 2008, he earned his professional guiding license and a job guiding at African Bush Camps (ABC)—a premier safari company with lodges in Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
For over a decade, Wina helped grow ABC while exploring his passion for wildlife, the environment, and amazing guest experiences. Under the guidance of Beks Ndlovu at ABC, he learned the guiding principles of intuition, respect, and sharing, and developed an incredible depth of knowledge and breadth of experience that is unparalleled. He quickly became the go-to guide for special guests and was regularly requested by anyone and everyone in the know.
Founding of Brave Africa
Then, in 2018, Wina was given a new opportunity. While guiding a young American couple on an incredible Safari in Linyanti and Savuti, he shared his private dream of owning his own safari company. They believed in him and his vision, and a year later in 2019, Brave Africa Safaris was born.
Wina is not just the President and Co-Owner of Brave Africa, he is our beating heart. It is his deep love and respect for the Botswana Bush that is woven into every aspect of our company from our “leave no trace behind” campsites to our all-day immersive safaris. Everything that is Bush-based is his forté. For Wina, there is nothing better than sharing his passion for wildlife with others.
Being a safari guide in Botswana is not just Tabona Wina’s dream; it is his calling!
5 Questions and Answers with Tabona Wina
How long have you been a guide? 15 years
After so long as a guide, do you still enjoy it? Yes! Animal behavior is just amazing. Over the years, I’ve never lost my love. I really really enjoy my time in the bush. This is my destiny. I am going to die in the Bush.
What is one of your favorite parts of being a guide? You never stop learning! You learn something new every single day you are in the Bush. Whether you are looking at vegetation, insects, or animal behavior, there is always something to learn. Whenever I am in the Bush, I feel like I’m growing my education.
Do you have a favorite animal? I love all the animals, but I have developed a particular love for elephants. I think in my previous life I was an elephant. I get so attached to them; I can feel their presence. They have a beautiful social structure with a Matriarchal society where the entire herd follows the oldest female. And the thought of that is incredible.
Do you have a particular guiding memory about elephants you can share? I had always heard and understood that elephants can mourn family members when they die, but I had never witnessed it. But when I was working for ABC in Linyanti one time, there was a local elephant we knew very well. He was an ancient guy with one tusk who died of old age. A few months later when he was just bones, I passed by his skeleton and found six Bull elephants with massive tusks surrounding the bones. Looking at their facial expressions, I could see they were mourning. I watched them for a while as one elephant picked a bone off of the ground and played with it in his tusk, tasted it, and then passed it to the next elephant. The bone went around the entire circle until it went back to the first elephant and then they walked off with the bone before tossing it in a new location. It was an amazing experience watching them scatter bones just as humans scatter ashes.
What do Guests Say About Tabona Wina as a Safari Guide in Botswana?
“How do I know there are 23 types of antelope – because of our fabulous guide Wina. He MADE the entire adventure. He was a walking Wikipedia with 3 years of schooling and 10 years of experience. I just can’t say enough about Wina. Besides his vast knowledge and charming personality, he always made our safety his top priority.” —Sheree F. TripAdvisor
“Mr. Tabona Wina is a skillful guide, with a deep knowledge of the flora and fauna of Botswana. He was able to locate and track many wonderful animals – elephants, lions, cheetah, hyenas and wild dogs, to name a few. We felt safe while on safari drive with him.” —PaultVo TripAdvisor
“If you don’t have a “Wina” (our guide), you don’t have ½ the experience. Wina has 10+ years experience in Botswana, he taught most of the guides. He knows every animal, behavior, tracking paw prints, birds, even knows about animal poop! Very important if you want to catch your animal. It’s like we’re hunting in a Landcruiser, everyone on watch, hoping to spy the next amazing sighting!” —Rick F. TripAdvisor
“Mostly however the superb skills of the resourceful Tabona Wina as Guide make this really special as he has an extraordinary ability to find game.” —Michaelk TripAdvisor
“I went on the most wonderful safari with Wina and his dedicated team. I’ve been on a few safaris in my time and this has been far and away the best. Wina is incredibly knowledgable and passionate about nature, and through his skill we were able to see a whole range of animals from lions to painted dogs to buffalo to elephants and, most excitingly of all, a leopard!” —LJHK TripAdvisor
“Wina is in a class ALL by himself, an expert tracker and naturalist who knew what seemed to me, everything about the bush. Everyday was a new and exciting adventure. It didn’t matter at all that we were in ‘Green’ season and that all the bush was full and tall. He tracked dogs, cats, hyena, cheetah, leopard and spotted all the little birds and animals that I would never have seen, had I not been with such an accomplished guide. Wina cares about them all, so deeply. He educated me about everything that my endlessly curious mind wanted to know!” —Herbeingness TripAdvisor
“Tabona Wina is a great guide, host and manager. We saw so many animals: elephants, lions, zebra, impala, a cheetah, a leopard, hippos, giraffe, buffalo and more. On day 2, Wina stopped the vehicle and said, “I see a hyena…he has blood on his mouth”. We could barely see it but he could, and off road we went to find about a dozen of them feasting on a recent kill. We just sat in the vehicle and watched. I felt like we were inside our own little nature documentary. Wina knows so much about the animals, birds and vegetation. He was constantly teaching us about our surroundings. He is so passionate and loves nature. Didn’t hurt that I was also nudging him for more info!” —E7158S TripAdvisor
When it comes to the best way to experience Botswana’s wildlife, you cannot beat a safari. No other activity allows you such close and intimate access to nature. Plus, it’s an adventure of a lifetime! And when you combine that one-of-a-kind adventure with a safari company that is committed to excellence, has a passion for conservation, and offers a personalized approach, it doesn’t get better than Brave Africa Safaris.
Here are five reasons why Brave Africa Safaris is the best way to embark on your adventure into the heart of Botswana’s wildlife with your family, surrounded by friends, or even on your own.
1. An Unparalleled Safari Team with the Expertise and Knowledge You Need
At Brave Africa Safaris, we are known for our team of highly experienced and knowledgeable staff. They are key to our success and the reason we can offer the incredible experiences we do.
“I cannot write a review without mentioning the large staff. Every single one of them were one of the loveliest people I have ever met. They simply cared…about everything. They sang beautiful songs as a group, which I will never forget. They were genuinely interested in who I was and wanted to know more. They smiled with such a genuineness that will bring me back to share more experiences with them, again.” —Laurie, Trip Advisor
All of our team members have spent years learning how to provide the best guest experiences possible. We are dedicated to ensuring that your safari experience is not only educational and enriching, but also exceptionally comfortable, fun, and memorable.
Brave Africa is waiting to welcome you on safari!
At camp, you can expect our amazing team to provide:
Personalized attention to every detail of your trip.
Daily cleaning, including laundry.
Chef-inspired and cooked meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
A hassle-free safari experience.
2. Exclusive Access to the Best Wildlife Guides
One of the things that make Brave Africa Safaris truly special is our exclusive access to some of the best safari guides in the business. Not only is our owner, Tabona Wina, a Level 3 guide (the highest qualification possible), but he is well known for being top-notch in the industry. After a safari with Brave Africa, every guest knows that it is Wina who made their experience special. We cannot deny that Wina IS the best way to experience Botswana’s wildlife, period.
“Tabona Wina is a great guide, host and manager. We saw so many animals: elephants, lions, zebra, impala, a cheetah, a leopard, hippos, giraffe, buffalo and more… I felt like we were inside our own little nature documentary. Wina knows so much about the animals, birds and vegetation. He was constantly teaching us about our surroundings. He is so passionate and loves nature.” — Susan A, Trip Advisor
“Mostly however the superb skills of the resourceful Tabona Wina as Guide make this really special as he has an extraordinary ability to find game.” — Michael H, TripAdvisor
“Wina is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about nature, and through his skill we were able to see a whole range of animals from lions to painted dogs to buffalo to elephants and, most excitingly of all, a leopard! Thank you Wina and team for making my stay in Botswana so special. I would highly recommend!” — Leo JHK, TripAdvisor
Wina, and all of our guides, are passionate about sharing their in-depth understanding of Botswana’s wildlife. They have spent years studying and observing the animals and their behaviors, ensuring that every safari is one-of-a-kind. Our guides’ expertise allows them to anticipate wildlife movements, giving you the best chances of witnessing unforgettable wildlife encounters.
And don’t worry, if you are on safari with Brave Africa, you are perfectly safe! You will not need to worry about a lion or other animal getting in your car or tent. The animals may get near you, but your guide is always watching closely. He will make sure that you are protected from the animals while still having a fantastic time.
3. Customized and Personalized Itineraries and Safari Locations
We understand that every traveler is unique, and that’s why we offer customized and personalized safari itineraries. In general, we offer three different safari packages to get you started.
Brave Adventurer: This 10-Day and 9-Night adventure takes you to our favorite campsites in the Okavango Delta. You’ll get to experience the different landscapes and wildlife of Moremi, Khwai, and Savuti (Chobe). This is our most in-depth experience that ensures you miss nothing.
Brave Explorer: If you have less time, this 7-Day and 6-Night adventure takes you to the Savuti (Chobe) and Khwai—two very different locations in the Okavango Delta. This is a great option for guests who want to experience lush forests and river fronts as well as desert plains and savannahs.
Brave Discoverer: Our final package is also 7-Days and 6-Nights and takes you into the heart of the Delta to spend time in Khwai and Moremi. These two locations are a favorite for guests interested in lush wetlands, vast waterways, and dense forests.
We have carefully selected our safari packages to provide you with the best way to experience Botswana’s wildlife. You’ll discover unparalleled opportunities to witness the natural wonders of this remarkable country from the Okavango Delta’s waterways to the vast expanses of the Savuti plains, we offer a diverse range of ecosystems and landscapes to explore.
But if any of these trips don’t exactly fit your dream safari, our team will work closely with you to tailor your safari experience to your preferences, ensuring that your adventure aligns with your interests and desires. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photography enthusiast, or seeking a romantic getaway, we will curate a safari that exceeds your expectations.
“They gave us the most amazing experience, camping in luxury in the Chobe and Moremi national parks in Botswana. We saw some sensational game over our five nights, with the considerable aid of our expert guide, and otherwise were treated like royalty back in the camp by dedicated and very friendly staff. When it was time to go, we were as sad to leave the stunning wildlife as we were to say goodbye to the wonderful men and women who looked after us- a really unforgettable experience that we would all gladly repeat. Strongly recommended.” —Rupert K, TripAdivsor
4. Sustainable and Responsible Tourism
For most guests, we know that sustainable and responsible tourism practices are critical to your choice of safari operators. It’s important that you know your money is going toward a camp that is dedicated to the well-being of the environment, wildlife, and local communities. And at Brave Africa Safaris, that is our main mission.
Our camps are designed with eco-friendly principles in mind, minimizing our ecological footprint. Our motto is: we take only photos and leave behind only footprints. In fact, once our team packs up a camp and moves sites, it is like we were never there.
Our goal is to be in harmony with nature as much as we can. After all, the best way to experience Botswana’s wildlife is with an eco-conscious approach:
Brave Africa Safaris has no permanent structures: we leave each campground exactly as we found it.
As much as possible, we are solar-powered: our front and back-of-house batteries are hooked up to powerful solar panels. We also use solar-powered lights to illuminate the camp, tents, back-of-house, and more.
Plastic consumption is kept to a minimum with reusable, personalized water bottles: these water bottles are a gift for guests to keep and take home!
We purify our own water, using powerful Berkey Filters—the world leader in water filtration. It removes 200+ unsafe contaminants, 99.9999999% of pathogenic bacteria, and 99.999% of viruses. It exceeds all industry standards globally.
Our stove, used for all cooking, helps us cut back on firewood, and thus our impact on the environment.
“All guest tents were large. It accommodated a king-size bed, nightstands, and storage for our clothes. The toilets were fully flushable. Each tent even had a shower area. The entire setup, with the addition of the great service from the staff, felt like a mobile lodging. After a few nights in one location, the camp was moved by the staff of Brave Africa to a different location. This move was entirely done while we were out on safari drive, visiting the animals. All we had to do was to put our belongings back into our suitcases before we began our safari drive. When we arrived at this new camp location in the evening, our tent was set up and ready for use. This mobility of the camp made possible for us to experience a few different locals and environments.” —PaultVo, TripAdvisor
A safari with Brave Africa is not just a vacation; it’s a transformative and life-enriching experience. From witnessing a lion’s powerful roar to the delicate beauty of a bird in flight, each moment on safari is filled with wonder and excitement. The memories you create with us will last a lifetime, and the connections you make with the wildlife and the natural world will leave an indelible mark on your soul.
“Wina told us a phrase, ‘This is Africa!’ It meant, at any moment, at any turn, something could happen, something could change and you are awestruck watching in amazement an animal, an event, a dazzle of Zebra and quite frankly you are rendered speechless. Humbled by God’s creation and harmony of animals living and existing together in the bush.
You feel like you shouldn’t be here. You’re out of your element. Yet, you’re thrilled to be a part of it, to see and share in this experience in the ‘animals’ backyard’. You feel like you are in their zoo, and what a privilege to participate and to try and capture with your camera the moments presented to you. When an elephant (one of three encounters) walks up to you within 3 feet, you can’t help but feel a little scared, giddy, excited, overwhelmed, can’t breathe, want to touch, can’t move kind of moment! It’s that exciting!” —Rick F, TripAdvisor
Walking safaris are a back-to-basics approach to safari. You leave the car and follow your guide on foot, which gives you a far deeper and more intimate connection with the wildlife and landscape.
The most serene and sublime safari activity is the mokoro—dug-out canoe safari. It is like no other experience and offers a fascinating way to explore the beauty of Botswana’s waterways.
A boating safari, which takes place on a motorized boat, is a great way to explore even more of the vast waterways of the Okavango Delta—going where vehicles can’t.
Night drives are another unique African safari activity that keeps you out after the sun has set to explore the bush in total darkness. Not only will you have the chance to spot night-dwelling creatures, but you can also witness a dizzying array of stars.
Visiting Khwai Villageis one of the highlights of going on safari in Khwai, Botswana. It’s one of the things that makes this area so unique and allows you to see learn how communities live, speak to villagers, and participate in their traditional way of life.
The Best Way to Experience Botswana’s Wildlife is with Brave Africa Safaris!
Embarking on a safari with Brave Africa Safaris offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in Botswana’s wildlife and natural beauty. With our expertise, exclusive access, customized itineraries, commitment to sustainability, and the creation of unforgettable moments, we ensure that your safari experience with us is truly exceptional.
Choose Brave Africa Safaris for the adventure of a lifetime and discover why we are the best way to experience Botswana’s wildlife.
You can rent a 4×4 vehicle for as little as $100 per day.
You can plan a budget African safari for $250 – $400 USD per person, per night.
All-inclusive safaris start at $500 per person per night and can cost upwards of $3,000 per person, per night.
Our price starts at $645 per person, per night during the Green Season and increases to $930 per person, per night during the High Season.
