Planning and Bookings

Every Dream Trip Lives in the Details

A journey worth taking deserves a plan worth having.

We put real thought into every trip we design, and that starts with understanding yours specifically. What you want from travel, what has worked before and what has disappointed you.

All of it matters to us, and all of it informs the itinerary we eventually put in front of you for approval.

How We Work

From First Conversation to Final Destination

We plan your journey the way you would want a trusted friend to plan it for you: with real knowledge, honest advice and enough care to make sure everything has been properly thought through before you leave. We start with an open conversation to get a sense of who you are as a traveller. That conversation becomes the lens through which we build your entire journey, from the broad arc of your itinerary down to who accompanies you, where you dine and stay and how your days are likely to unfold.

Our partners are a handpicked group of private guides, conservation experts, storied properties and exceptional hosts chosen for their integrity as much as their expertise.

Once your journey is underway, we remain present and reachable to ensure the experience you were promised is the one you are having.

Design Retainer

We offer a brief introductory consultation, complimentary and without obligation, to understand your vision, timing and general direction.

Should you wish to proceed, we move into the design phase. In order for us to dedicate the time and creative expertise required for true bespoke planning, we operate with a professional design retainer.

A fee of USD 200 is required to begin the detailed curation of your itinerary.

This includes:
  • An in-depth planning consultation
  • One carefully crafted draft itineraries
  • Research and coordination with our trusted partners
  • Revisions based on your feedback

The retainer reflects the intellectual and creative investment required to design journeys of depth and precision.

Our Booking Terms

Should you confirm your journey with us, the USD 200 retainer is credited in full toward your travel balance. Should you choose not to proceed, it remains non-refundable, as considerable work and expertise have already been invested in your experience.

Once your journey is confirmed, a 30% non-refundable deposit is required to secure accommodations, private guides, and all logistical arrangements.

The remaining balance is due no later than 130 days before departure.

Practical Information

What to Know Before You Go

  • Saffron Marula reserves the right to amend tour pricing due to any fluctuations in exchange rates, change in park fees structure and any unforeseen circumstances not in our control.
  • Trip extensions to other National Parks in India or any cultural extensions of interest can be organised on request.
  • A valid Passport copy needs to be provided on booking. This is needed to secure park permits.
  • Safari permits for all parks in Central India open 120 days in advance. All permits are subject to availability at the time of booking.
  • Parks remain closed on Wednesday / Wednesday Evening.

To avoid potential issues at immigration, ensure your passport is valid for at least 180 days upon entry into India. Travelers from the UK, US, CA, and EU usually require a visa. Visa requirements may change, so it’s your responsibility to obtain necessary visas. Check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your destination and transit countries for updated requirements.  Eligible travellers can apply for an e-visa at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

If you have any medical conditions, we recommend consulting your doctor to ensure you are physically prepared for the unique environment of your upcoming destination. A routine health screening provides the necessary assurance that your wellness aligns with the demands of international travel. Taking this time now ensures your comfort and resilience throughout the entire trip. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if coming from a high-risk area. Proof of polio vaccination may also be necessary for some travellers.

We do require that you travel with comprehensive insurance — this is not something we are willing to be flexible on, and we say that with your best interests in mind.

It should cover emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation and medical expenses at a minimum. If your itinerary takes you into game areas or remote wilderness — which it very likely will — please make sure your policy covers those activities specifically, as some standard policies exclude them. 

In India, you will be spending Indian Rupees. Cards work well at hotels and most restaurants in cities, but having some cash on you makes a real difference at markets, for tips and in smaller towns. In India, USD and EUR are widely accepted for gratuities. There are ATMs in all the main towns, and we will let you know in advance if any part of your itinerary takes you somewhere more remote where cash is worth planning for. Currency exchange is best at Delhi International Airport

India can surprise you with how much the temperature shifts between morning and evening, and between seasons. Light, breathable clothing works well for days, but a warm layer is almost always useful — particularly on early morning game drives or if you are travelling during the cooler months. Neutral colours are practical in the bush; comfortable walking shoes matter everywhere. Beyond that, pack lightly. You will thank yourself for it.

Once you are travelling, we remain available. You will have direct contact details for your guides and ground operators, as well as for us.

Foreign travellers to India typically stay connected through international roaming, local prepaid SIM cards from operators such as Airtel, Reliance Jio, or Vodafone Idea, or through international eSIM plans purchased before arrival. Buying a local SIM requires passport and visa verification under India’s telecom KYC rules, and activation may take from under an hour to up to a day. India has extensive 4G coverage, while 5G networks are expanding rapidly in major cities. Wi-Fi is widely available in airports, hotels, and cafés for everyday communication and navigation.

India operates on India Standard Time (IST), UTC+5:30. For travellers from the United States, India is typically 9.5 to 13.5 hours ahead, depending on the US time zone. For UK travellers, India is 4.5 to 5.5 hours ahead. For Southern African travellers, including South Africa, India is 3.5 hours ahead. Please always check the time difference from your home location. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Most trips should be planned at least 6 months in advance, though booking earlier is strongly recommended to secure availability at lodges and park entrances before they fill up.

We absolutely design journeys for groups! We work with individuals, couples, and groups alike. We simply ask that group travel planning begins at least 8 months before your intended departure date.

October to March is the best time to visit India, offering pleasant weather across most regions. April and May are also possible, though temperatures can be very hot, particularly in National Parks and Rajasthan.

The itinerary design process typically takes between 10 and 15 working days, depending on the specific requirements and complexity of your trip.

We will always do our utmost to accommodate any changes you’d like to make, though this depends on the nature of the change and how much time remains before your departure.

We will do our best to accommodate any changes, though this will depend on whether our service providers are able to do the same.