THE SAFARI INDUSTRY
The safari industry is big business in East Africa. If you are unfamiliar with how it operates and the myriad of options available on the internet, it can be confusing and overwhelming! The following will bring a bit of clarity to an otherwise difficult process to navigate.
GUIDES
Tour guides can either be employees of a Tour Company or independent contractors. Most tour guides are independent contractors and hoping for work each season. Tour guides are required to go to school for this occupation and are the expertise of a Tour Company and the difference to a great safari and an ok safari! Masai tribesmen are also able to be guides having grown up near the park!
Tour companies are much like travel agents. They have access to all the sites, guides and locations, but do not typically own exclusive contracts with any of the above. Many have branded fleets of vehicles and translation services if you are unable to speak English. These full service companies offer pre-made packages and are ideal for those looking for a full itinerary from landing to departure in country.
Ranging from tent structures to five star accommodations, the lodges and hotels surrounding the parks and sites have something for everyone. These lodges and hotels are often only able to be booked in country and through a guide or a company. Some have websites and cost information, but many are only verbal agreements only.
Some parks are very well known such as the Masai Mara, but others are gems hidden away. There are 23 National Parks, 28 National Reserves, 4 Marine National Parks, 6 Marine National Reserves and 4 National Sanctuaries. Each park requires a vistor fee. These fees are different for citizens and tourists. These lands are a key part of the tourism industry and open for use by all.
COMPANIES
PARKS/SITES
