Is it safe to fly in small bush planes?

Yes, bush planes are the standard for luxury safari travel. They are maintained to high standards and operated by professional pilots who specialize in short-strip landings.

Do I need to tip the safari staff?

Tipping is expected in the luxury safari industry. Plan for roughly 20–30 USD per day for your guide and 10–15 USD per day for the camp staff, typically placed in the communal tip box at checkout.

How to Plan a Luxury Safari in the Serengeti

Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport and take a bush plane directly into your lodge’s private airstrip to maximize your time. Book your lodges 10–12 months in advance to secure the best locations for the Great Migration, and always prioritize an all-inclusive package that covers park fees, bush flights, and internal transfers.

Choose your timing based on migration. If you want to see the river crossings, aim for the Northern Serengeti between July and September. For calving season, head to the Southern Serengeti (Ndutu area) from January to March.
Select a fly-in safari model. Avoid the grueling 8-hour drive from Arusha. Use domestic carriers like Coastal Aviation or Regional Air to hop between private airstrips in the Serengeti. This saves you two full days of travel time.
Book private conservancy lodges. Focus on lodges located within private concessions rather than the main public park. This allows you to go on night drives and off-road game drives, which are prohibited inside the national park boundaries.
Hire a private guide and vehicle. Do not join group tours. Ensure your safari package includes a private vehicle and a dedicated guide for your entire stay. This gives you complete control over your daily schedule.

Is it safe to fly in small bush planes?: Yes, bush planes are the standard for luxury safari travel. They are maintained to high standards and operated by professional pilots who specialize in short-strip landings.
Do I need to tip the safari staff?: Tipping is expected in the luxury safari industry. Plan for roughly 20–30 USD per day for your guide and 10–15 USD per day for the camp staff, typically placed in the communal tip box at checkout.