Flights can make distant parks easier to reach, while road journeys let you see the changing landscape and can reduce transport costs. Your best option depends on the route, available days and how you like to travel.
Fly-in safaris
A small aircraft can connect major hubs with park airstrips and reduce long road transfers. Flying may suit a short itinerary or a remote destination, and the aerial views are a memorable part of the trip.
- Less time spent on long road transfers
- Useful when connecting distant parks
- Flight schedules, airstrips and baggage limits shape the plan
Drive-in safaris
Travelling by road gives you a slower view of the country and can make it easier to connect parks on a northern-circuit route. It is often a more economical way to cover nearby destinations, though drives can be long.
- More time to see towns and landscapes along the way
- A flexible option for nearby parks and private routes
- Travel time and road conditions should be included in the itinerary
Consider a combination
Some travellers drive between closer parks and fly one longer leg, for example from the Serengeti back to Arusha. This can balance the road experience with more time in the parks.
Questions to ask your operator
- How many hours are spent driving on each travel day?
- Which airstrip and airline serve the route?
- What are the current baggage limits?
- Are transfers and park activities included in the price?