The Top 10 Safari Outfitters in 2018

Discover the top 10 safari outfitters of 2018. Embark on unforgettable African adventures with these curated travel companies, renowned for expert guides and pristine wildlife encounters. From the Serengeti to Botswana, experience premier safari tours and witness the wonders of the natural world. Select the perfect trip operator for your dream luxury safari, focusing on exceptional service and ethical tourism.

The Top 10 Safari Outfitters of 2018

This table presents a snapshot of ten leading safari outfitters in 2018, highlighting their key specializations and distinguishing features. Remember that rankings can change, but these companies represent some of the best in the business at the time.

Outfitter	Location(s)	Specialty	Why They Were Top-Rated (in 2018)
&Beyond	Africa & South America	Luxury Safaris & Conservation	Known for their lavish accommodations, exceptional guiding, and dedication to conservation projects across Africa. Their seamless travel planning and attention to detail made them a popular choice for discerning travelers.
Singita	Africa	High-End Luxury & Exclusive Experiences	Singita offered unmatched luxury, private game reserves, and unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. Their focus on sustainability and community involvement further enhanced their reputation.
Wilderness Safaris	Africa	Eco-Tourism & Responsible Travel	A pioneer in eco-tourism, Wilderness Safaris was celebrated for its commitment to minimizing its environmental impact while providing exceptional safari experiences. They were known for their remote camps and experienced guides.
Micato Safaris	Africa, India	Custom-Designed & All-Inclusive Safaris	Micato Safaris specialized in creating tailor-made safari tours catering to individual preferences. Their all-inclusive packages and personalized service ensured a stress-free and memorable adventure.
Thomson Safaris	Tanzania	Tanzania Specialists & Responsible Tourism	Focusing primarily on Tanzania, Thomson Safaris offered deep expertise in the region and a strong commitment to responsible tourism practices. They provided authentic cultural interactions and support for local communities.
Abercrombie & Kent	Worldwide	Luxury Travel & Expertly Crafted Itineraries	A globally recognized name in luxury travel, Abercrombie & Kent offered expertly crafted safari itineraries with exceptional accommodations and experienced guides. They catered to discerning travelers seeking seamless and enriching experiences.
Great Plains Conservation	Africa	Conservation Focused & Exclusive Camps	Great Plains Conservation prioritized wildlife conservation and offered luxurious, intimate camps in exclusive areas. Their focus on low-impact tourism and supporting local communities made them a leader in sustainable travel.
Ker & Downey	Africa, Asia, Latin America	Bespoke Safaris & Adventure Travel	Ker & Downey specialized in creating bespoke safari adventures, tailored to individual interests and preferences. They offered a wide range of activities, from traditional game drives to walking safaris and cultural experiences.
Gamewatchers Safaris	Kenya	Value-Oriented Safaris & Eco-Friendly Camps	Gamewatchers Safaris provided excellent value for money without compromising on quality. Their eco-friendly camps and commitment to sustainable tourism made them a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
African Travel, Inc.	Africa	Luxury & Tailor-Made African Safaris	African Travel, Inc. focused on creating luxurious and tailor-made African safaris, catering to individual preferences and interests. Their knowledgeable travel specialists ensured a seamless and unforgettable travel experience.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Safari Outfitter

While this list highlights some of the top players in 2018, selecting the right safari outfitter involves considering several crucial factors:

Destination: Which African country or region interests you most? Different outfitters specialize in different areas.

Budget: Safari prices can vary significantly. Determine your budget and find outfitters that offer options within your range.

Travel Style: Do you prefer luxury accommodations or more rustic camps? Are you interested in traditional game drives, walking safaris, or cultural experiences?

Conservation Ethos: Support outfitters committed to wildlife conservation and responsible tourism practices.

Reviews and Reputation: Read reviews from past travelers and check the outfitter's reputation online.

Special Interests: Are you interested in bird watching, photography, or specific wildlife species? Choose an outfitter with expertise in your areas of interest.

The Lasting Impact of These Outfitters

Many of the outfitters mentioned above continue to be leaders in the safari industry. Their commitment to conservation, community development, and providing exceptional experiences has left a lasting impact. While the specifics of their offerings and rankings may have evolved since 2018, their core values and dedication to delivering unforgettable wildlife adventures remain relevant. When planning your safari, use this list as a starting point and research current offerings to find the perfect fit for your dream trip.