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The best credit card for safari vacations.

Updated

Why this card

American Express Platinum for safari vacations.

Safari operators in Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe are almost entirely independent. Wilderness Safaris, andBeyond, Singita, Great Plains, Asilia, and Belmond run the trophy lodges. Hotel loyalty programs do not cover bush lodges. Four Seasons Serengeti is the rare exception bookable through Fine Hotels and Resorts.

Annual fee

$895

Best earn rate

5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels via Amex Travel, Centurion Travel for top operators, FHR upgrade

Signup bonus

Currently around 175,000 points after spend, see issuer for the current offer

A two-week multi-country safari runs $25,000 to $80,000 per couple all-in, almost all of which is direct cash spend at lodges. The Platinum's 5x earn through Amex Travel or Centurion bookings turns the trip itself into 125,000 to 400,000 Membership Rewards points. Property credits and upgrades at Singita, Belmond, and andBeyond properties stack. International emergency medical evacuation is built in.

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If the top pick is not right

Alternative: Chase Sapphire Reserve.

If you book directly with the operator (which most repeat safari travelers do) the Reserve earns 4x on direct hotel bookings and includes equivalent emergency evacuation coverage. Cheaper card with comparable protection.

ChaseAnnual fee $795

At a glance

Side by side.

SpecAmerican Express PlatinumChase Sapphire Reserve
Annual fee$895$795
Best earn rate5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels via Amex Travel, Centurion Travel for top operators, FHR upgradeSee alternative section above
Signup bonusCurrently around 175,000 points after spend, see issuer for the current offerVaries by month

Local tip

What to know before you book.

Most safari itineraries connect through Johannesburg or Nairobi. Internal bush flights have a 15 to 20 kilogram baggage limit in a soft duffel only. Tipping at lodges runs $20 to $30 per guest per day for guides and $10 to $15 for camp staff. Bring crisp US dollars in small denominations.

Questions

Frequently asked.

What is the best credit card for safari vacations?

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American Express Platinum from American Express. A two-week multi-country safari runs $25,000 to $80,000 per couple all-in, almost all of which is direct cash spend at lodges. Annual fee is $895.

Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve a better choice for safari vacations?

expand_more

If you book directly with the operator (which most repeat safari travelers do) the Reserve earns 4x on direct hotel bookings and includes equivalent emergency evacuation coverage. Cheaper card with comparable protection. Annual fee is $795.