Small Africa Group Guided Safaris – Staff’s Top Picks

A small guided safari is a wildlife tour led by experienced guides with smaller group sizes (typically around 8–12 travellers), which means more personalised attention and a more intimate experience. Compared with large-group tours, small guided safaris use smaller vehicles and often have more flexibility on game drives, so you can linger at great sightings and get expert interpretation from your guides.

On an African guided safari you’ll have the chance to see some of the continent’s most iconic wildlife. In Southern Africa, this typically includes the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino), as well as giraffe, zebra, hippo, cheetah and abundant birdlife, depending on the parks you visit. In Eastern Africa, wildlife is similarly rich and includes the Big Five plus huge plains game herds, predators, and, in places like the Serengeti and Maasai Mara, the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration at certain times of year.

Southern Africa:

The dry season (May–October) is generally considered the best for game viewing because water becomes scarcer and animals congregate at waterholes, and the bush is less dense for spotting wildlife.

The wet/green season (November–April) brings lush landscapes, birdlife and newborn animals, plus often lower prices and fewer crowds, which many travellers also enjoy.

Eastern Africa:

East Africa also has a dry season that’s excellent for wildlife viewing (typically June–October and a short dry window in January–February), with animals easier to spot and dramatic highlights like the Great Migration in Kenya’s Maasai Mara peaking from around July to September.

The wet season can make the scenery lush, attract migratory birds, and offer superb photography, though some heavy rains can make certain roads challenging.

Most small guided safaris are designed for travellers with normal fitness levels. Game drives are usually done from vehicles, so long walks aren’t required unless you choose optional walking safaris, nature walks or other activities that may need moderate mobility. Even first-time safari travellers can enjoy these safaris comfortably. Just let us know if you have specific fitness needs so we can help tailor your plans.

Absolutely. Small group safaris are very solo-traveller friendly. Travelling in an expert-led small group is a great way for solo adventurers to keep costs down, meet like-minded travellers, and enjoy a safe, social experience without feeling lost in a large crowd.