What To Expect On African Safari Holidays

When people think of African safari holidays, images of the plains of Tanzania, the deserts of Namibia and the bush lands of South Africa come to mind. This continent has abundant wildlife sighting opportunities and it is here that you can go in search of the Big Five - the Lion, Elephant, Buffalo, Leopard and Rhinoceros. Whether you choose to visit the Kruger National Park, the Masai Mara, the Serengeti, or indeed decide to visit more than one national park, you are in for a real treat.

African safari holidays are perfect for families, groups of friends, individuals, and even honeymooners. The somewhat romantic ideals of the old world safari have never been lost from this beautiful continent. African safari holidays conjure up visions of the stereotypical British explorer, the little colonial houses complete with wooden veranda built in the bush, and the love that so many influential people have felt for this place throughout the past century.

Imagine spending the night in the bush, under canvas or in one of the tastefully built lodges, listening to the sounds of the night and the activity of the wildlife. Imagine waking as the sun rises and heading out into the bush in an open topped jeep in search of some of the planet’s most incredible species. Imagine coming face to face with a Lioness and her cubs, a Hyena scavenging from a kill or a crocodile lazily passing the time in the Mara River. All this is par for the course when you choose one of the African safari holidays on offer.

Your Daily Routine

Every day brings with it an early start. Often up before sunrise, you'll enjoy a quick cup of tea before heading out into the bush. This is often the best time to sight wildlife as it is cooler and dawn still casts shadows, and it is safer for the less predatory animals. After the morning game drive you can head back to camp or your lodge and enjoy a more laid back couple of hours close to camp. The second game drive usually heads out late in the afternoon, which is again when the animals become active. Night drives are also possible, and spotlights are used to seek out the wildlife.

Back at the camp or lodge is the time to sit around the campfire, tell stories about the day and share the excitement about what the next may bring.

What to Take

It is always a good idea to bring your own binoculars if you have them, although the naturalist guide that accompanies you will have a pair he can share around. Don’t forget your camera, of course, and remember that bright clothing is not a good idea when searching for wildlife. Otherwise, just make sure that you are fit and well and ready for an exciting once-in-a-lifetime holiday.

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you’re looking for African safari holidays, Naturetrek specialises in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek brings over 25 years of experience to polar expeditions and tours to other spectacular regions on Earth.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.