Should I do a self-drive safari?
The Decision in One Line
Self-drive works in specific destinations; guided is better for most
What This Depends On
Key Assumptions
Self-drive is viable in Kruger (South Africa), Etosha (Namibia), and some Kenya parks.
High confidenceTanzania and Botswana require guided vehicles in most parks and reserves.
High confidenceSelf-drive means no expert interpretation of animal behavior, tracks, or ecology.
High confidenceSelf-drive is significantly cheaper than guided lodge safaris, often 50-70% less.
High confidenceThis might change if...
Trade-offs to Understand
What you gain
What you accept
Evidence to Know
Self-drive is viable in Kruger (South Africa), Etosha (Namibia), and some Kenya parks.
Well-established pattern
Safari planningTanzania and Botswana require guided vehicles in most parks and reserves.
Well-established pattern
Safari planningSelf-drive means no expert interpretation of animal behavior, tracks, or ecology.
Well-established pattern
Safari planningComplete freedom and flexibility in schedule
Trade-off considerationNo expert guide knowledge or tracking skills
Trade-off considerationRelated Decisions
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