There is a growing demand for luxury travel in Africa, despite the economic meltdown. Many game lodges and resorts are fabulous but the rates are sometimes outrageous, especially for local inhabitants who are not earning currency US dollars or Euros.
Look for Deals Online and Eliminate Travel Agents
Cut out the middleman. Organize a travel itinerary and make bookings without going through a travel agency. Certain tour operators, such as Island Safari, will pay a commission on any bookings made through them. Many online travel companies offer discounts ranging between 10 – 30% as well as bonuses and money back rewards if you book through them.
For internal flights within an African country, for example South Africa, the cost of flights can be reduced by as much as half price if booked two or three months in advance.
Luxury Travel to African Destinations
Slash the cost of a holiday by taking advantage of last minute deals or stand-by offers. For those who can travel at the last minute, this is an excellent way of reducing the costs of package holidays or hotel deals. For example, by booking through MTbeds savings of up to 60% can be had on bookings in five star hotels in Cape Town or other African luxury hotels by traveling at the last minute or out of season.
Bid Online for Hotel Accommodation
Discounts of up to 50% can be obtained by bidding online for hotel accommodation in many countries on the African continent. Check availability on a participating company’s website, then place a bid. The normal rate is generally cited next to the hotel of choice and in many cases there is not even a reserve price.
Travel out of Season and Bargain for Good Rates
Don’t be afraid to bargain with a particular establishment. Many hotels or lodges will be happy to get occupancy for their establishment during out of season periods, even if this means they are greatly reducing the regular price. Many upmarket luxury game lodges in Mozambique, Malawi, Namibia, Botswana Zambia, Zimbabwe, Egypt, Morocco etc., will negotiate a reduced price if they have empty beds available. Re-negotiate if a quote is given that is not satisfying, bargaining is considered as acceptable virtually all over the continent of Africa.
Consider trying a different type of accommodation, such as a farm house instead of a luxury five star hotel in Africa. Many bed and breakfast establishments, chalets, country cabins or eco lodges offer outstanding accommodation, food and service, generally at much cheaper rates than a large hotel.
