When you think of an African safari, you might imagine a cosy lodge and thrilling game drives. But guess what? That’s just the beginning!
With over 25 years of experience travelling throughout southern and East Africa, I’m here to show you five incredible safari styles that will blow your mind and give you stories to tell for a lifetime.
1. The Classic Lodge Safari
Imagine yourself standing next to your open safari vehicle in the midst of the African bush, sipping a gin and tonic as the sun dips below the African horizon. Sounds dreamy, right? This is the classic lodge-based safari, perfect for those who love comfort with a side of adventure.
Why You'll Love It:
- Comfort & Luxury: Lodges range from rustic charm to five-star opulence.
- Expert Guides: Local guides share their deep knowledge of the area and wildlife on thrilling game drives in open safari vehicles (or pop-top closed safari vehicles if you are doing a safari in East Africa).
- Sundowners & Snacks: Your game drives often include morning coffee stops with yummy rusks or evening sundowners as you watch a stunning sunset.
Sundowners
2. The Epic Mobile Safari
Ready to immerse yourself in the very heart of nature? Hop on a mobile safari! Travel in a small group with a guide and camp staff, exploring the remote wilderness like never before.
Why You'll Love It:
- Great Value: Experience the magic of the African bush without breaking the bank.
- Unique Locations: Discover hidden gems in places like Botswana.
- Glamping: Choose from adventure-filled semi-participation to luxurious comfort.
Mobile Safari
3. The Independent Self-Drive Safari
Fancy hitting the open road and driving yourself through Southern Africa and its amazing national parks? A self-drive safari gives you the ultimate freedom and flexibility to explore this amazing continent at your own pace. From cruising through Kruger National Park in an SUV to tackling Namibia and Botswana’s remote roads in a 4WD, a self-drive safari is all about adventure on your terms.
Why You'll Love It:
- Affordable Adventure: Perfect for budget-conscious travellers.
- Family-Friendly: Great for kids and adults alike.
- Excitement & Discovery: Read the signs and track down your own wildlife.
- Peace of mind: I only work with reputable car hire companies with 24/7 backup - and all countries in Southern Africa drive on the same side of the road as Australia.
Self-drive safari
4. The Thrilling Walking Safari
For those who crave a closer connection to nature, a walking safari offers an exhilarating way to explore the bush on foot. Always with a qualified guide or two, sometimes armed, you’ll enjoy the small details and big thrills.
Why You'll Love It:
- Intimate Experience: Focus on spoor, including tracks and scat, take in the smells and sounds, and learn all about the amazing bush foods and medicines.
- Adrenaline Rush: Be prepared for close encounters with incredible wildlife including the big five.
Walking safari
5. The Exhilarating Water-Based Safari
Picture paddling down the Zambezi River at Mana Pools or Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, going on a boat cruise on the Chobe River in Botswana or being poled through the crystal clear waterways of the Okavango Delta on a mokoro (dug-out canoe). A water-based safari is as magical as it is adrenaline-filled as you glide past the lily-pads, reed frogs and malachite kingfishers, and of course look out for pods of hippos and elephants swimming past.
Why You'll Love It:
- Stunning Scenery: Glide through breathtaking landscapes.
- Guided Adventure: Enjoy the thrill of a guided water-based tour with a serious edge of excitement.
- A Range of Options: Spend an hour or two on the water or do a multi-day trip camping on sandy river islands in the middle of the Zambezi or glamping on its riverbanks.
Water-based safari
So, are you ready to break out of the lodge and try something new? Africa’s wild side is waiting for you with these five unforgettable safari styles. Contact Chris at Travel Africa and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
