A perfect example About Us: Christopher Bartlett with some of the local children all holding each other huddled in for the picture. Big smiles on everyone's faces.

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Indigo Safaris FAQs | Expert Safari Planning, Conservation & Travel Support

Planning a safari is an exciting adventure in itself, but it often comes with lots of questions. At Indigo Safaris, we want you to feel confident and inspired from the moment you start dreaming about your journey. That’s why we’ve created this FAQ — to give you clear, honest answers about who we are, how we work, and what you can expect before, during, and after your trip. Whether you’re curious about our conservation efforts, wondering what to pack, or deciding when to book, you’ll find everything you need right here.

Why Indigo Safaris?

When you travel with Indigo Safaris, you’re not just booking a trip — you’re gaining access to years of specialist knowledge, first-hand destination experience, and a carefully curated network of trusted partners. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Every journey is tailored around your interests, preferences, and budget. From the moment you enquire, you’ll have a dedicated Safari Specialist guiding you through the planning process, ensuring your adventure is seamless, enriching, and exceptional in every way.

We work with qualified, highly trained local guides who are true specialists in their environments. Their deep knowledge of wildlife behaviour, ecosystems, and cultural heritage adds invaluable insight to your safari. Many have spent their entire lives in these landscapes and bring a passion for conservation and storytelling that elevates your experience far beyond the ordinary.

Travel with Indigo Safaris has a purpose. Around 50% of our net profits are channelled directly into conservation, education, and community development projects in the countries we operate in. By booking with us, you’re actively helping to protect wildlife, support local livelihoods, and empower communities to thrive alongside nature. [Learn more about our Giving Back projects here.]

Your peace of mind is our priority. Every client receives full contact details for all lodges, camps, and transfer providers, along with the WhatsApp and phone number of the Safari Specialist who created their itinerary. Whether it’s a minor delay or an unexpected issue, we’re just a call or message away to ensure everything runs smoothly.

The Planning Process

The timeframe varies depending on the complexity of your itinerary, seasonal availability, and decision-making speed. A multi-country safari can be designed and finalised in just a few days, while a shorter stay might take longer if travellers need more time to decide. We pride ourselves on responding promptly within business hours and keeping you updated when awaiting availability from our partners. In some cases, trips can be confirmed on the very same day as your enquiry; in others, it may take a little longer

Your itinerary can be as unique as you are. With more than 600 sample itineraries and hundreds of hand-picked properties in our portfolio, the possibilities are endless. Often, we begin with a sample that matches your travel style, budget, and preferred destinations, then fine-tune it into a bespoke journey. We also offer set-date group trips, which can’t be altered but can be easily combined with tailored add-ons before or after.

Almost everything is covered — with the exception of international flights and visas. We arrange bush flights, regional connections, helicopter transfers, and all local logistics to ensure your journey is seamless. While we don’t book long-haul flights directly, we’re happy to advise on the best routes and, if you prefer, connect you with a trusted partner travel agency.

Visas Made Simple

Visa requirements differ from country to country and change frequently, making it impossible to provide a universal list. Instead, we guide you on what type of visa you’ll need for your specific itinerary, while the responsibility for obtaining the correct visa rests with you.

We recommend booking as early as possible, particularly for peak season (June to October), when the most popular lodges and camps fill up quickly. In some destinations, space can be limited even 10 months out. Early planning ensures you have the best choice of accommodation and experiences.

The On-Safari Experience

From luxurious lodges to intimate tented camps, mobile safaris, star beds, and open-air sleepouts under the African sky — we offer it all. Journeys can also include unique experiences such as sleeper trains, river cruises, boutique beach hideaways, or international city hotels. Whatever your preference, we’ll match you with the right accommodation.

Absolutely. We help families choose properties that fit their needs, taking into account age restrictions and safety policies. Some lodges require private vehicles for younger children, while others may not accept children under six. We’ll recommend family-friendly camps with reduced rates for kids and activities that keep everyone engaged, from toddlers to teens.

Yes. Every safari we offer is available to solo travellers. While many lodges charge a single supplement, we know which properties waive this fee during certain seasons. Solo travellers can also join one of our set-date small group departures, which are a fantastic way to share the experience with like-minded adventurers.

It depends on the safari you choose. Vehicle-based game drives require no physical effort, making them suitable for all ages and abilities — including young children and wheelchair users. Walking safaris require a moderate level of fitness, though they are usually done in cooler hours of the day. Gorilla trekking offers options ranging from gentle to more challenging routes, so you can select a pace that suits you.

Yes. Safety is always paramount. All activities are led by experienced, licensed guides with extensive training. In 16 years of operation — covering hundreds of thousands of game drives, walks, and boat trips — we have never had a client injured on safari. Your well-being is always our first priority.

Most lodges and camps now provide reliable Wi-Fi. For mobile camping safaris, local SIM cards with data packages work well in many areas, though some remote regions remain without coverage. Part of the magic of safari is the chance to disconnect — but you’ll have options to stay connected where needed.

Practical Details

We’ll provide you with a detailed, destination-specific packing list tailored to the season and activities in your itinerary. This ensures you bring exactly what you need — and nothing you don’t.

We recommend consulting your doctor or a travel clinic for personalised medical advice before your trip. Visa requirements depend on your nationality and destination. We’ll advise you on the type of visa you’ll need, but it is your responsibility to obtain the correct documentation before travelling.

We take your needs seriously. Any dietary restrictions, allergies, or medical requirements are communicated to lodges and camps in advance to ensure you are well looked after throughout your journey.

Our policies vary slightly depending on the trip, but most bookings require a 30% deposit, with the balance due 60 days before travel begins. Specific terms and conditions are outlined in your trip invoice, so you always have full clarity before committing.

Here are what previous guests have to say

They've had the experiences you're looking for. Book today and be the next to be featured in our reviews section.

Adam Beach & Safari, Tanzania

3 weeks in Tanzania including safari and time on the coast on Pemba and Zanzibar. Ines really worked well with us suggesting a great trip outline.

Adam
Switzerland

Emily First Kenya Safari

Kerry was incredible, truly! This was our first trip to Kenya and our first Safari and Kerry listened to what we wanted, made great suggestions and planned a fantastic holiday - thank you Kerry! Fantastic trip, great itinerary, 3 mini safaris within one seeing Amboseli, Laikipia and Mara. The organisation was seamless.

Emily Burns
Incredible, truly!

Cristiana Namibia

A fantastic organized tour in Namibia

We visited Namibia for 10 days on a tour that included a shuttle, lodges, and some excursions. Everything worked out perfectly. Comfortable shuttles with friendly and helpful drivers, always on time. Lodges with all the comforts, friendly staff, and beautiful excursions.
Excellent value for money. We really recommend it.

Cristiana
Italy

Botswana – 11-day Okavango Delta and Chobe Safari

Ines was very professional and patient with all the setbacks my family faced not only with COVID issues but also with finding dates and availability of our travelers. Dealing with airline cancellations and Covid testing was challenging even until departure. We could not have traveled so "easily" under the circumstances without her!

Kateri Walsh
Recommend highly!

Alina Dominica Sperm Whales

As all Indigo Safari trips I have done it was well organized and relaxing. The highlight was obviously swimming with the whales. I appreciate and respect Christopher's insistence of following protocol and not chasing or harassing animals…added bonus-it always leads to better interactions! Christopher has in depth knowledge of the village and surrounding areas and the land tour was a must for adventure and learning more about the island. Back to the whales which as I said are the star of the trip-the boat crew were excellent and very dedicated to getting us as many encounters as possible. It was an amazing week with memories that will stay with me!

Alina Riensema
In-depth knowledge

Botswana – 8-Day Buffalo Safari – Group camping

chose Indigo Safaris as I wanted to book with a local company who knew their stuff. Michele helped with the booking process and was very helpful, responding quickly to all my questions and quickly pinning down safari dates. The actual safari in Botswana was provided by Bush Ways, who were fantastic - the planning and execution of the camping and safaris was top rate and Evans and Kepapa were our exceptional guide and cook. The wildlife was unbelievable, far exceeding my expectations.

Spending our last night in the Pioneers Lodge, after 6 nights of wild camping among the lions, hippos and elephants, was the perfect finish to a very memorable trip.

Sheena Gordon
Completely fabulous from start to finish

Your Questions Answered, Your Journey Simplified.

Planning an adventure with Indigo Safaris? Our FAQ page is here to guide you through the essentials — from travel logistics and safety to booking details and insurance. We’ve compiled the answers to our most frequently asked questions to help you travel with confidence and ease. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, speak to a safari expert or start planning your trip today.

Playful elephants at Entabeni with a mischievious warthog accompanying them
2 White Rhinos grazing in the Kruger National Park
2 leopards in a tree, one is lying down taking a nap while the other is standing up on front paws looking at the camera.
Wildlife Education in Kwazulu Natal showing a young boy observing sleeping lions in an open space, fromt he safety of the Safaris vehicle with camera in hand

Stories from the Wild, Inspiration from the Journey.

Welcome to the Indigo Safaris Blog — a collection of travel stories, expert insights, and conservation highlights from across Africa and beyond. Dive into tales of untamed wilderness, cultural encounters, and meaningful travel that goes far beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re dreaming of your next safari or looking to learn more about responsible travel, our blog is your gateway to inspiration. Dream. Explore. Discover. with Indigo Safaris, your safari experts.