Golden Age - Senior Travel

An Africa safari resonates deeply with travelers of all ages. It is a rejuvenating immersive experience. Connect with nature in its most pristine form, witness ancient rhythms of life, and gain perspectives that only such immersive experiences can provide. A safari is actually much easier than a tour to Europe or Asia as most activities are done from vehicles and not walking and on and off of vehicles. 

For many travelers, an Africa safari represents a lifetime dream but there are valid questions as it is not a totally passive journey. Most frequent questions: Can you still travel to Africa? Is it going to be too adventurous for me? What if I need to carry refrigerated medicine or a CPAP? I have dietary restrictions. Will accommodations be able to meet these needs? 

These concerns about comfort, accessibility and physical requirements often leads some to believe this dream might remain just that - a dream. This perception couldn’t be further from the truth. Africa’s magnificent wildlife and landscapes can be experienced and enjoyed at any age, with proper preparations and guidance.   

Things to Consider:

Getting to Africa:

• This is most likely the biggest hurdle as we cannot do much about the great distance it is from North American to Africa. Flights are long, there is nothing that can be done about that except plan properly and break your journey. Even if you are traveling from Hawaii or the West Coast – think about stopping in a gateway East Coast city before flying overseas. Stop in Europe, Turkey or Dubai. There are many choices. Also consider on flying on the direct flights to Kenya from the U.S. They tend to be more expensive but direct flights, especially business class, can take the edge off. There are direct flights from the East Coast to South Africa as well.

Is a Safari Strenuous?

• Yes and no. It takes very little walking or climbing, except on gorilla treks. For the gorilla treks, we can get ‘sedan’ carriers to assist you on the trek. On non-travel safari days or full day game drives, you do get up early in the morning – rest midday or participate in optional activities, then go out again in the late afternoon. Relax, socialize and then everyone is off to bed. Roads are unpaved in the safari bush and can be quite bumpy. Most destinations, including our vehicles in East Africa have been refitted with comfortable seating and ample legroom. Bad back? We suggest taking a support pillow with you. With private tours you can set your own pace. Touring in South Africa is personalized and private. 

What if I have mobility limitations?

• Mobility concerns need to be addressed with your safari planner as each situation is quite different. We can look at avoiding steps, accommodations closer to the public central areas as well as providing for personal assistance, walkers and wheelchairs. 

Do not be shy about expressing your medical needs or otherwise. We are not here to judge but to make you as comfortable as possible and make this “Bucket List” trip a reality. 

Consider:

• Consult your doctor regarding your ability to take medications, especially malaria pills. 
• Do not be pennywise and dollar foolish by spending too much time on the road and not flying to a remote safari area such as into the Maasai Mara, out of the Serengeti or flying safaris in Botswana
• Flying Business Class with Stopovers
• Private Vehicle and Guides where feasible
• Request rooms closer to the main area if walking is difficult
• Pack a small cushion for additional comfort while in vehicles.
• Really look at your itineraries and avoid safaris with long drives. After you get to your destination, you are out again on game drives. Make sure you know approximate drive times and have confidence in the Born Free safari planner to recommend the trip that will work best for you.
• Acknowledge you do not have to go everywhere, possibly spend more time in one area than going to areas that are not going to provide a different experience.