My Advice Before You Choose

The biggest mistake I see is travelers comparing flying safaris only by price. In reality, the value comes from the time you gain. Spending two hours in a light aircraft instead of eight hours on the road often means an extra game drive, more time enjoying your lodge, or simply a more relaxing holiday.

I also encourage travelers to check what is included in the package. Some flying safaris include all domestic flights, transfers, park fees, meals, and game drives, while others price these separately. Understanding exactly what’s included helps you compare itineraries fairly.

Another point many people overlook is luggage restrictions. Light aircraft have strict baggage limits, so soft-sided bags are usually required instead of large hard-shell suitcases. Planning for this in advance avoids unnecessary stress before departure.

Before choosing a flying safari, ask yourself:

• Do I want to maximize my wildlife viewing time?

• Would I rather avoid long road transfers?

• Is comfort more important than keeping costs as low as possible?

• Am I visiting Africa for a short holiday?

• Would I enjoy staying in remote luxury camps?

• Am I comfortable flying in small aircraft?

• Do I want to combine multiple destinations efficiently?

I’ve found that travelers who answer these questions honestly usually know whether a flying safari is the right investment.

What You Can Expect

• Scheduled or private light aircraft flights between safari destinations.

• Scenic aerial views of national parks, rivers, mountains, lakes, and wildlife.

• Transfers directly from bush airstrips to your safari lodge or camp.

• More time for wildlife viewing and fewer hours spent travelling.

• Comfortable to luxury safari lodges and tented camps.

• Professional guides waiting for you upon arrival.

• Morning, afternoon, and sometimes night game drives depending on your destination.

• Flexible itineraries combining several parks in one trip.

• Higher overall comfort with less travel fatigue.

• Typical safari duration of 3–10 days, with longer itineraries available.

Who I Recommend This For

I often recommend flying safaris to travelers visiting Africa for the first time because they allow you to experience multiple iconic destinations without spending several days driving between parks. If your holiday is only a week long, every extra game drive becomes valuable.

Couples and honeymooners frequently enjoy flying safaris because they offer a smoother, more relaxed experience. Flying directly into remote camps also creates a stronger sense of exclusivity and adventure.

Senior travelers often appreciate the reduced driving time. Rather than spending long hours on sometimes uneven roads, they can arrive comfortably and start enjoying the safari much sooner.

Flying safaris are also an excellent option for photographers. More time in the parks means more opportunities to capture wildlife during the best lighting conditions at sunrise and sunset.

Families travelling with older children can also benefit, particularly when vacation time is limited and minimizing road travel helps keep everyone engaged.

Who May Prefer Something Else

I don’t usually recommend a flying safari if keeping costs as low as possible is your main priority. Road safaris often provide excellent wildlife experiences at a significantly lower price.

If you genuinely enjoy long scenic drives and watching the countryside change between destinations, an overland safari offers experiences that flights simply can’t provide.

Travelers who are uncomfortable flying in small aircraft may also feel more relaxed choosing a private road safari instead. Although bush flights are a normal part of East African tourism, they aren’t the right fit for everyone.

If you’re planning a very short safari to a single nearby national park, flying may not provide enough added value to justify the additional cost.