Choosing between a private safari and a group safari can feel like a tough call, especially when planning your dream trip to Africa. Both offer incredible wildlife experiences, expert-guided game drives, and a chance to explore some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. But depending on your travel style, budget, and what you want to get out of your safari, one might suit you better than the other. At Rafiki Tembo Tours and Safari, we help travelers find the perfect fit every day. Here’s a breakdown to help guide your decision.

Let’s start with private safaris. These are tailored just for you—whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or bringing along friends and family. Every detail of the itinerary is designed around your pace and preferences. You get your own private guide and vehicle, which means game drives happen on your schedule. Want to spend an extra hour watching a pride of lions or skip breakfast for a sunrise photo session? That’s entirely up to you.

Private safaris also tend to be more flexible when it comes to accommodation. You can handpick everything from intimate tented camps to luxury lodges. And if you’re celebrating something special like a honeymoon or milestone birthday, it’s a great way to make the trip feel truly personal.

On the other hand, group safaris can be a fantastic option for those who enjoy social travel and want to share the experience with like-minded adventurers. You join a small group of fellow travelers, usually no more than six to eight people, and follow a set itinerary together. These trips are more cost-effective, as costs for the guide, vehicle, and sometimes park fees are split among the group.

Group safaris often have a fun, communal vibe. You might start off as strangers, but by the end of the trip, you’ve bonded over sundowners, leopard sightings, and shared laughs under the stars. It’s also a great choice for solo travelers looking to connect with others while still enjoying the safety and structure of a guided tour.

There are a few trade-offs, of course. Group safaris tend to be less flexible—you’ll follow a fixed schedule and may not always get the front seat or ideal camera angle. But for many travelers, the social atmosphere and affordability make up for the lack of spontaneity.

So which one is right for you?

If you value privacy, personalized service, and a safari that moves at your own rhythm, a private safari might be your best choice. But if you’re more budget-conscious, enjoy meeting new people, and don’t mind a structured schedule, a group safari could be exactly what you’re looking for.

At Rafiki Tembo Tours and Safari, we offer both private and group safaris throughout Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. No matter which path you choose, you’ll experience the magic of Africa with guides who love what they do and safaris that stay with you long after you return home.