African safari holidays

[OneNiftyHare]

Hello! I've been lurking and was previously here under a different name and MN always has the best advice.

We'd love to do a once in a life time Safari and beach trip, but have max 12k for myself and DH. Is it even doable on our budget? If not where would you recommend for wildlife (aside from Asia we did most of it cheaply in our youth and on honeymoon).

We're looking to go away for 2 weeks, Safari and then beach. Priorities are proper Safari vehicles that arent overcrowded (have read horror stories about people getting put in overcrowded vehicles with windows) , accommodation not too basic, and the beach location should be a bit more upmarket and have safe water for swimming in and hopefully good diving/snorkeling.

I am drawn to the Serengeti but I don't know if that's best? I am open to suggestions but we want to see as many animals as possible. We are not really drawn to South Africa.

Can anyone also recommend tour operators? Would rather book it all as one package for the financial protection.

Thanks :)

Those of you who did SA, how was it safety wise?

Been twice, solo. Never had a problem. Travelled independently. Never went out at night though of course. Just hung out at the hostel bar, meeting people from all over the world.

Google Marco Safaris on FB for the best safari experience. He also does climbing Mount Kilimonjaro trips.

Talking about the Migration, Marco said you can never plan it as it depends on the weather, rains etc. when it will happen. not like going to church on a Sunday morning lol

www.virginlimitededition.com/ulusaba/

Ulusaba in Kruger was INCREDIBLE...

And colonacastle.co.za/ in Camps Bay (the room with the gigantic balcony)