<img src="https://scontent.fnbo1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.18169-9/66340_399226410145904_1522800327_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=cdbe9c&amp;_nc_ohc=rB74o72QbM8AX9zcu0R&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.fnbo1-1.fna&amp;oh=00_AfD2uA99JKv8X15S8-q9pc02QeDj_OhZ0frk-pgbMyxGKw&amp;oe=6412F9D5" alt="MAASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE " width="800" height="542" />
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Africa, the land of Safari, has stunning wildlife and natural beauty, making the African safari a bucket-list-worthy escapade. However, Accommodation is a crucial consideration that can make or break your Safari experience.&nbsp;
Fortunately, African safari destinations have multiple lodges that cater to diverse traveler needs. Below is a comprehensive guide featuring tips to help you choose the right safari lodge on your trip to Africa.
<h2>Budget Considerations</h2>
<img src="https://scontent.fnbo1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/318887677_1061621837980811_2880627806720755373_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=730e14&amp;_nc_ohc=_zXvN-wAtwsAX8OP15Q&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.fnbo1-1.fna&amp;oh=00_AfDbMtUZIcrSUa6klMZmId7Yg7j0MJtoG2vD6QXeRkBCyw&amp;oe=63F11A61" alt="ENTARA" width="1080" height="1080" />
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Although most African safari costs are all-inclusive, accommodation is a crucial consideration, taking up the biggest chunk of the travel budget. Safari lodge accommodations range from boutique-style luxury lodges to mid-range and budget lodges. Budget safari lodges can cost as little as USD125 per person per night, while luxury lodge costs up to USD1500 per person per night.
Luxury safari lodges typically offer exclusivity/privacy, stunning views, and one or two more amenities. However, they do not guarantee better animal sightings. Moreover, many mid-range and budget lodges have positive online reviews, although they may host more residents; hence offer less privacy. Nonetheless, consider the accommodation cost to avoid going broke after the trip.&nbsp;
<h2>The Ecosystem and Wildlife Around the Lodge</h2>
<img src="https://scontent.fnbo1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/298571978_199667449065325_2964872241490458683_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=9267fe&amp;_nc_ohc=UEYo1dOB3jgAX9nrb7l&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.fnbo1-1.fna&amp;oh=00_AfCnN6FNFtPL1MSXdVRxA7KviYp15CfsPAxUjbpANtjR_A&amp;oe=63F0ABBB" alt="ENTARA" width="2048" height="1152" />
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Different safari ecosystems offer distinct delights, including the big five sightings and gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. Therefore consider choosing a safari lodge on an ecosystem that plays habitat to the wild game you hope to view. Moreover, game lodges near river banks, animal migration routes and water holes increase the chances of animal sightings from the comfort of your room.
<h2>Consider Lodges That Uphold Responsible Tourism</h2>
<img src="https://scontent.fnbo1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/287184639_186797937018943_1876034660170617361_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=9267fe&amp;_nc_ohc=AaMeWHUbWQIAX-h4vOg&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.fnbo1-1.fna&amp;oh=00_AfCIUGu2t_C8KvI5xn_4ozBAPnK-_oTYJcT6Q6b9iGRA6A&amp;oe=63F14194" alt="Entara" width="2048" height="1152" />
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Responsible tourism encompasses tourism practices that respect the environmental ecosystem, local communities, and culture, nurturing all three elements. Therefore, consider staying in lodges that implement responsible tourism practices.
Such lodges include eco-lodges constructed using natural materials and utilising other eco-friendly features like solar water heating, lighting, and water recycling plants. Second, consider lodges with conservation projects like tree planting and animal rescue centers. Also, staying in community-owned and run lodges is also a crucial sustainable tourism element.
<h2>Amenities and Aesthetics</h2>
<img src="https://scontent.fnbo1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/279737865_179416677757069_776929789888982375_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=730e14&amp;_nc_ohc=ChKnCpH9i2QAX818FmB&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.fnbo1-1.fna&amp;oh=00_AfCHR16woQFUhCs3rP_mDa9RTYMQHth7fipXLf-Hz6FDrA&amp;oe=63F12978" alt="Entara" width="2048" height="1152" />
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You spend most of your downtime during an African safari in the lodge. Therefore, ensure that the accommodation you choose has the aesthetics and amenities that spark joy.&nbsp;
The aesthetic elements range from classic minimalist safari decor to exclusive African-inspired designs and a blend of African and European decor. Regarding amenities, the lodge may offer an outdoor shower, yet you prefer the privacy of an indoor shower.&nbsp;
Also, a holiday without a pool and a bathtub may be a deal breaker for you. Therefore, consider all the above factors before choosing a safari lodge.
<h2>Consider The Age Restrictions&nbsp;</h2>
<img src="https://scontent.fnbo1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/306668310_5489271091141385_8156476704484932277_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=8bfeb9&amp;_nc_ohc=ZXP42C7a_KQAX_fg0t_&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.fnbo1-1.fna&amp;oh=00_AfBeZJ-ZTHOv9DVWC9QeW09YmxfL0ugTVlYNIt-iPPVxEg&amp;oe=63F06602" alt="Maasai Mara National Reserve " width="720" height="540" />
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Most African safari lodges only admit children older than eight years for various reasons. First, younger children are likely incapable of sitting still and quiet for hours, as expected during a game drive. Second, animals tend to respond differently to creatures smaller and younger than them. Also, most guests without kids would rather not deal with wailing babies while on holiday.
Nonetheless, some lodges have no age limit, accept families with babies and toddlers, and even offer child-minding services. On the other hand, consider choosing a lodge with an age limit if you prefer a child-free setting.
<h2>Unique Activities</h2>
<img src="https://scontent.fnbo1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/286287554_1981009138762935_3390565199941385301_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=730e14&amp;_nc_ohc=yUf8QgUPMLwAX-pQUAh&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.fnbo1-1.fna&amp;oh=00_AfA1OeXBfA_3jCKf7xCILOv6aOoj8MP7_JAypC7_75MDIQ&amp;oe=63F041A8" alt="Sopa Lodges" width="2048" height="1365" />
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Although game drives are the primary activity on an African safari, the safari lodges typically offer bonus activities. Such activities include nature walks, horseback/camel safaris, hikes, camping, hot air balloon safaris, boat safaris, sundowners, bush dinners, and cultural excursions.&nbsp;
Additionally, conservation activities like tree planting and conservancy tours also count as bonus activities. Therefore, confirm the activities included offered at the lodge beforehand and decide whether you are willing to pay more for bonus activities offered on the property.
<h2>National Park/Reserve VS Conservancy</h2>
<img src="https://scontent.fnbo1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t31.18172-8/272147_399226936812518_1920651012_o.jpg?_nc_cat=111&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=cdbe9c&amp;_nc_ohc=fNtIt4JDszcAX9zw6U4&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.fnbo1-1.fna&amp;oh=00_AfAlCmQZVax5onmSCsATO0vBCyI9bcwDzpMDMULRG9gVSQ&amp;oe=6412F510" alt="Maasai Mara National Reserve" width="1100" height="630" />
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Safari national parks and conservancies exist in the same ecosystem. However, they offer significantly different accommodation experiences.&nbsp;
First, national parks are larger taking better advantage of the landscape, attracting more animals, and increasing potential sightings. However, they are restrictive, prohibiting activities like off-road game driving, and evening game driving. Moreover, they tend to have more visitors per sitting.
On the other hand, conservancies are smaller but allow off-road game drives and evening/night drives. Second, they have had a smaller guest population, offering more privacy and fewer cars per sitting.
Regardless of your African Safari preferences, we&rsquo;ve got you covered. So, contact us for <a href="https://www.winda.guide/">curated trips</a> featuring African safari lodges that meet your needs.
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7 Tips For Choosing The Best Safari Lodge For You