TORONTO — It takes a lot to go on safari. For one thing, you need money as safaris typically come with a hefty price tag. And you’ll also need the time to travel to Africa and other remote destinations around the world where wildlife are prime for viewing.
This is why senior or mature travellers, who often have money and time to spare, have been the traditional safari customer. Says Moira Smith, VP Africa and Asia at Goway: “The first class and Deluxe curated safari experience – our most popular travel style – has traditionally been booked by a somewhat older and more affluent traveller. The Goway safari client is typically 50-75 and above, spends a minimum of three weeks in destination and blends the safari experience with culture and a few days of R&R in a beach destination.”
But with travel trends evolving in a post-Covid world, and with pent-up travel demand now resulting in an increase in travel bookings across the board, has the typical safari customer changed?
“Absolutely,” says Smith. “We’re not only seeing younger travellers book safaris but also entire families.”
Smith says there’s been a big increase in millennials, or those between the ages of 28 and 43, booking safaris, all of whom are searching for active adventure, unique experiences and opportunities to immerse themselves in local cultures.
“They also want to support conservation and social responsibility efforts during their travels – they’re travelling with intention,” adds Smith.
When asked what prompted this shift in demographics, Smith says she first noticed the change about 10 years ago.
“Thanks to widespread use of social media and the ‘you only live once’ mentality, lower international airfares pre-Covid, and a shift in focus to experiences as a top priority, safaris are now appealing to a wider market,” says Smith.
Goway offers a selection of safari destinations that are malaria-free like the Eastern Cape, Madikwe and KwaZulu Natal, she adds, making them ideal for families with younger children. While renowned for its customized itineraries, Goway also offers established safari options like the Lemala Migration Safari, Elewana Sky Safari, and its exclusive small-group Odyssey Programs.
“Goway provides a wide range of safari experiences to accommodate various budgets,” says Smith. “Whether you prefer walking safaris, canoe safaris or luxurious lodge stays, we have abundant choices to suit our clients’ preferences.”
But even the most affordable safari can put a dent in one’s wallet, particularly amid soaring airfare prices and today’s high cost of living. So how does a millennial afford to book one without breaking the bank?
“We have contracted rates with our partner airlines through Goway Air. We also have experienced destination specialists who sell only Africa and who always negotiate the best rates for our clients,” says Smith.
But also, don’t discount travelling during the low or shoulder seasons, which often offer better value options.
“For example, during Botswana’s green season (November through March), the rates drop significantly. It may be the rainy season, however, everything is green and lush, and it’s the best season to birdwatch as all the migrant species are in the southern hemisphere. It’s also the time when all the baby animals are born,” says Smith.
“So in my opinion, there’s no bad time to go to Africa – just different experiences on offer.”
