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The Ultimate Guide to an African Wildlife Safari

     


Witness the untamed wilderness, where nature's wonders unfold before your eyes. Find a lion surveying its domain with regal poise. Observe a cheetah in a blur of speed as it chases down its prey. Encounter stories of wise elephants or listen to the symphony of sounds made by chirping birds.


Feel the warmth of the African sun on your skin, the refreshing breeze as it whispers through the trees, and the thrill of spotting a rare and elusive creature, like the black rhino. Find more information about why a wildlife safari is a truly unforgettable journey.


Top Tips for Your Wildlife Safari Experience


A safari is more than an exhilarating journey into the heart of Africa's wilderness. A wildlife safari is a vital tool for preserving Africa's rich biodiversity. Early safaris in Africa were primarily hunting expeditions, with European explorers and big-game hunters venturing into the continent's vast wilderness to track and hunt big game animals.


In the early 20th century, a growing awareness of conservation led to a shift in the focus of safaris from hunting to wildlife observation. The establishment of national parks, private reserves, and wildlife parks further facilitated the development. These protected areas provided safe havens for wildlife and allowed tourists to observe animals in their natural habitats without disturbing them. 


Nowadays, wildlife safaris generate revenue for conservation initiatives, fund anti-poaching patrols, habitat protection, and research projects, while also ensuring the survival of Africa's iconic species. In essence, a traveler’s presence supports local communities, provides employment opportunities, and fosters sustainable livelihoods, that create a sense of stewardship among those who share the land with the wildlife park.


Top 5 African Wildlife Safari Destinations to Visit


With its vast and diverse landscapes, Africa is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and home to iconic wildlife safari destinations. 


From sprawling savannas to lush rainforests, mighty rivers, and stoic lakes, you have rare opportunities to witness the wonders of nature firsthand. 


It can be overwhelming to decide where to go on your first safari or perhaps even your second safari. Here are our top five wildlife safari destinations in Africa to help you decide where to go on your trip. 


1. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya


Embark on a wildlife safari in Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve, where endless plains stretch towards the horizon and the Big Five roam free. When staying at one of the Mara conservancies, you can witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of millions of wildebeests thundering across the East Africa savanna during the Great Migration while traveling away off-road and enjoying the absence of fences. 


Watch lions stalk their prey with unmatched stealth as you observe in open safari vehicles. Elephants interact in their close-knit families and graceful giraffes browse on acacia trees. Maasai Mara is an exciting look at the vibrant local culture of the Maasai people, whose traditions are intertwined with the land and its abundance of wildlife, as well as the wonders of the wilderness itself. 


2. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania


Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is a vast ecosystem teeming with life. During your safari, you can witness the endless grasslands teeming with wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes, all migrating in a constant dance of survival. It’s what you expect to see during game drives after watching PBS or National Geographic specials.


You can feel the thrill of spotting a cheetah sprinting across the plains in a blur of speed, or marvel at a pride of lions relaxing in the shade after a successful hunt. You could also see wildlife in different ways, like on a hot air balloon ride above the savanna for breathtaking panoramic views of this quintessential African landscape. 


When considering the Serengeti, DO NOT BOOK a random online trip because seasonality is a must!


3. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia


In Zambia, you do not just see the African wilderness, you experience it. Unlike safaris confined to metal boxes, South Luangwa invites you to walk amongst the wildlife, not drive past them. Picture your heart pounding as you navigate lush riverine forests teeming with camouflaged leopards, then find yourself awestruck by herds of buffaloes traversing open savannas. 


Listen to the rushing waters of the Luangwa River, guiding you to bathing elephants and the nocturnal sounds of night safaris. When the starlight paints the sky, you can relax in the comfort of surprising fly camps or treehouse retreats. This isn't just Africa observed; it’s an unparalleled adventure crafted by experts who know these lands inside and out.


4. Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa


In South Africa's Greater Kruger National Park, you can travel through acacia woodlands, sun-drenched savannas, and alongside the rushing waters of the Sabi River. Listen to whispers of ancient life and witness the thrilling dance of adventures among the unique wildlife. Renowned for its near-guaranteed Big Five encounters, you don’t have to imagine the heart-pounding thrill of spotting a lion lounging in golden light or elephants trumpeting beside a waterhole; you get to live it. 


Kruger's magic extends beyond the Big Five. The exceptional private game reserves in Greater Kruger National Park offer higher concentrations of predators and diverse wildlife. Cruise the river where hippos wallow and crocodiles sun themselves, then lose yourself in the kaleidoscope of over 500 bird species. 


A seasoned safari guide is an expert who knows these and understands how to unlock Kruger's secrets, one unforgettable encounter at a time transforming your safari into an odyssey.


5. Okavango Delta, Botswana


Botswana's Okavango Delta is a UNESCO haven, where emerald islands rise out of the reflective waters of the spreading channels. You can glide silently and intimately in a mokoro, a traditional dugout canoe, finding slumbering hippos in the distance or thirsty elephants drinking at the riverbanks. Look through the treetops for one of the best places to spot leopards or watch storks, eagles, and pelicans soar across the sky.


Okavango Delta is home to one of the highest densities of high-end safari lodges in Southern Africa within such a remote setting, giving you unique access to comfort and the uncrowded waterways, for a unique embrace of untouched wilderness. Led by expert tour guides unlock the Delta's secrets on an immersion into nature’s masterpiece etching memories into every moment. 


4 Africa Safari Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss


Vibrant cultures, diverse landscapes, and breathtaking wildlife will make your experience in Africa the trip of a lifetime, waiting to be discovered. 


From the different ways you can witness the wildlife on a safari tour to the cultural interactions with locals, each day will promise adventure and wonder. 


The following list of four Africa Safari experiences are just a few of the incredible ways you can enjoy the diverse landscapes, captivating wildlife, rich cultures, and endless possibilities. Whether searching for the Big Five or visiting with a Masai community, these experiences demonstrate why Africa is a destination that will stay with you forever.


1. Day and Night Safari Game Drives


Led by expert guides, a day or night safari game drive unfolds like living documentaries, each twist and turn to unveil a new chapter in the drama of the wilderness. With the help of a spotter, a driver, and a guide, the keen eyes of experienced and novice safari-goers search the landscape for signs of the Big Five, birds, and other forms of wildlife, with each sighting sending a thrill through the air.


2. Walking Safari


A walking safari is an immersive wildlife experience where travelers explore nature on foot, guided by experts. Unlike traditional vehicle-based safaris, this approach gives you a more intimate connection with the surrounding wilderness. Traverse the diverse landscapes, whether a savanna or forest, for close encounters with wildlife ranging from elephants to gorillas to find intricate details of the ecosystem, from plant life to insects and birds. Safety is paramount, with guides trained to manage risks, search safely, and ensure a secure experience. 


3. Boating and Canoe Experiences


A boating safari typically involves using a motorized boat to navigate rivers, lakes, or waterways in search of wildlife. A canoe safari involves using non-motorized canoes or kayaks to explore the waterways. Travelers observe animals along the water's edge or from a close, but safe, distance. A boating safari and canoe excursion are popular in areas where bodies of water are a prominent feature of the landscape, offering a different perspective on wildlife and the surrounding ecosystem.


4. Cultural Interactions and Community Visits


Cultural interactions and community visits during an African safari refer to experiences that allow you to engage with local cultures, traditions, and communities, for a better understanding of the region's people, history, and heritage. Whether visiting a village, community center, school, orphanage, or market, you may contribute to sustainable tourism practices by supporting local economies and fostering cross-cultural understanding that promotes respectful exchanges between locals and tourists.


Conservation and Education


Africa's wildlife is a treasure, a diverse collection of creatures that have evolved and thrived across diverse ecosystems for millennia. From marching elephants and sleeping lions on the savanna to elusive gorillas hiding in the rainforest, these animals play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.


Africa's wildlife faces numerous threats, including habitat loss, poaching, and climate change. These threats have led to significant population declines for many species, highlighting the urgent need for conservation.


Efforts in conservation and education are essential for ensuring the survival of Africa's wildlife for future generations. By supporting the following initiatives, you can all play a role in safeguarding this priceless natural heritage. 


Sustainable Practices


One of our most exciting sustainable practices includes the use of electric vehicles in Tanzania. Electric vehicles produce lower or zero emissions compared to traditional safari vehicles powered by fossil fuels but operate quietly, minimizing noise pollution during safari resulting in better wildlife visibility. The quieter vehicle means you won’t scare wildlife away and you can better hear the bird calls, animal noises, or movements in the tall grass. 

Partnerships with Conservation Organizations

 

Born Free Safaris prefers to work with properties that lease land from the local people such as Samburu and the Maasai. At these accommodations, a portion of each night’s stay goes directly back to support schools, hospitals, water wells, etc. to help the community. 


Supporting Research and Conservation Efforts


Safaris play a pivotal role in supporting conservation efforts and research in Africa. Revenue generated from safari tourism contributes directly to the preservation of natural habitats and the protection of endangered species. If travelers engage further with eco-friendly practices that emphasize the protection and conservation of wildlife, it adds to the awareness of needed environmental sustainability. 


Plenty of national parks, reserves, and conservancies often collaborate with scientists and researchers, providing them access to remote areas crucial for long-term field studies. Through these partnerships, valuable data on biodiversity and ecosystem health is collected, further aiding conservation initiatives.


Community Outreach and Involvement


Community visits are a staple with many of the experiences we plan at Born Free Safaris. We partner directly with local schools, orphanages, and communities to learn what an organization may need, and can help our travelers give the items most asked for. 


Many travelers want to bring goods from home but we can go directly to an organization and even send items ahead of time, to help make transport, transfers, and travel easier. When giving directly to a community on the ground, it benefits a local organization and the children.


Top Animals to See on African Wildlife Safari


An African wildlife safari is a commitment to adventure, a demonstration of free spirit with the promise of unforgettable encounters.


If you are eager for a glimpse into the heart of nature's grand spectacle, an African safari offers you an unparalleled opportunity to witness majestic creatures that roam the continent in their natural environment. 


From the iconic Big Five to the diverse array of herbivores and predators that share their domain, wild dogs to migrating zebra, Africa is the stage upon which nature's drama unfolds during your wildlife safari.

  1. Lion
  2. Elephant
  3. Leopard
  4. Rhinoceros
  5. Buffalo
  6. Cheetah
  7. Zebra
  8. Giraffe
  9. Hippopotamus
  10. Gorilla
  11. Hyena
  12. Meerkat

    

What You Can Expect During Your Visit


As you start your Africa safari adventure, be prepared for a multisensory experience.

 

Picture yourself waking up to a sunrise painted across the horizon with gold, the air crisp and filled with the sounds of waking birds or distant animal calls. Imagine yourself cruising through the vast plains, spotting herds of zebras and wildebeests migrating across the landscape, their hooves drumming against the earth.


Find more information on what you can expect during your safari experience where each encounter will offer you more than just a glimpse into the intricate web of life that thrives in Africa.


1 Tip for a Great Safari Experience 


Effective communication is the cornerstone of an exceptional African safari. It bridges the gap between your expectations and the reality of the wilderness, ensuring you get the most out of your experience.


Three African safari tips to help you communicate with your safari expert and travel guide to get the trip you want

  1. Express your wants and needs clearly: Share your preferred pace, desired wildlife encounters, and any special interests, like photography or specific bird species. This allows your guide to tailor safari experiences to your individual preferences.
  2. Mention any potential limitations: Inform your guide of any physical limitations or sensitivities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
  3. Ask questions: Don't hesitate to inquire about anything that sparks your interest, from animal behavior to local customs. Your guide is a treasure trove of knowledge waiting to be tapped.

Is Your Friend’s Trip Right for You? 


Many eager travelers contact Born Free Safaris and immediately mention, “My friend did X on their trip,” or “My friend loved visiting Y.” 


This is a great start for communicating a starting point for the safari experience you want.


Your friends may have had an exceptional safari experience but many variables make the trip they took different from the trip you will take. Rather than trying to plan and take the same African safari as your friends, your safari expert may ask questions to make sure your safari trip is right for you. 

These questions may be related to:

  • Do these places match your budget?
  • Do these places match your wildlife interest?
  • Will these places match or exceed your expectations? 
  • Do these places match the time of year you are traveling?
  • Do these places match the type of comfort level you prefer?

Your priorities, interests, and desired trips are yours alone. While your friends may have similar tastes, they may wish to see different animals during a game drive or prefer staying in a tented camp rather than a lodge. With the help of your safari expert, you can bring the trip you envision to life based on the Africa safari you always wanted. 


7 Unique Safari Accommodations

Wake up to the sound of birdsong or lay awake in bed to the orchestra of bathing elephants when enjoying the top five unique safari accommodations.  


It’s easy to picture yourself drifting off to sleep under a canopy of stars or finding an eco-friendly treehouse to witness the sleeping wildcats below. Gone are the days of roughing it in basic camps. Today, travelers can choose from a range of unique and luxurious safari accommodations that cater to every taste and budget. 


This is the magic of a safari and an essential part of your unforgettable experience. Our list of the top 7 unique safari accommodations will give you a distinctive way to experience the African wilderness.


1. Sable Alley, Botswana 


Discover the magic of Botswana’s famed Okavango Delta from Sable Alley’s refined luxury. Situated on a private concession bordering Moremi Game Reserve, enjoy exclusive access to an untouched paradise. From Sable’s treehouse-style tented rooms, you may awaken to elephants grazing on the grasslands or zebra and wildebeest gathering at the nearby watering hole. 


Travel by foot with an expert guide through bamboo groves and floodplains to see signs of big cats or African wild dogs. After exhilarating days viewing wildlife in their natural habitat, return to camp for sundowners, stargazing from a stilted deck perched high above a lagoon, or watch thirsty kudu relax in the cool evening air. Here the wild animals of Botswana are part of the untamed beauty adding to the exclusive adventure.


2. Earth Lodge, South Africa


Descend into a secluded sanctuary carved out of lush rainforest at Earth Lodge, found in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, part of the iconic Greater Kruger area. Revel in the biodiversity of a riverine forest and savannah ecosystem, alive with birdsong. From this eco-based, natural hideaway, you may witness elephants delicately foraging or glimpse leopards stalking prey.


The airy suites crafted from sand and thatch blend seamlessly into the landscape, with plunge pools adding to the promise of relaxation in the bush. By day, an expert ranger and skilled tracker can unlock a maze of passages threading through the private concession. Encounter new wonders with every turn before enjoying the luxurious accommodations surrounded by forest. Immersed in nature’s splendor, Earth Lodge curates an intimate safari experience, where you can find rejuvenation and wildlife in equal measure.


3. Lewa Wilderness Cottages, Kenya


In northern Kenya, Lewa Wilderness welcomes you to open-air thatched cottages on a private conservancy. Find yourself surrounded by sweeping plains in one of the best regions for spectacular wildlife viewing. Led by local guides, head out on walking safaris to encounter endangered Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, and more. 


Lewa works closely with the Kenya Wildlife Service to protect species, and the property helped fund Kenya’s first antipoaching unit, resulting in a more stabilized ecosystem. After a day exploring the expansive landscape, return to your lodge and relax on the private veranda for a view of the stars. 


Embrace boundless panoramas stretching to Mount Kenya. Whether exploring Lewa Downs, absorbing Samburu culture, or watching wildlife, the wilds of northern Kenya offer unforgettable experiences centered on conservation.


4. The Nest, Namibia


The Nest is an escape to an innovative spherical treehouse overlooking the Namibian bush at Sossusvlei Desert Lodge's one-of-a-kind accommodation. The focal point of this open-air design is the living Kokerboom tree, around which The Nest was constructed. Embrace the immersion into the wilderness. 


Get eye-level with oryx and springbok at the waterhole or watch sunrise paint vibrant colors over some of the world’s tallest dunes during unique experiences from the lodge. By day, travel to iconic sites like Dead Vlei’s towering clay pan dotted with ancient trees. By night, watch the shimmer of endless stars through the transparent roof or look for nocturnal visitors like jackals and bat-eared foxes. At The Nest, open skies and create a richer connection to nature.


5. Lolebezi Safari Lodge, Zambia 


Venture to a storied private concession in Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park at Lolebezi Safari Lodge. Whether interested in walking safaris with ethical guiding standards or exploring the ethos of the surrounding UNESCO World Heritage site, the open-air chalets perched above groves of emerald mopane trees let you wake to the drone of cicadas and the chorus of birdsong. 


Accompanied by experienced guides, explore kaleidoscopic ecosystems carved by the meandering Zambezi River, and look for giraffes, watch for herds of elephants, or scan the horizon for leopards hiding in dappled light. Take part in a night drive before returning for campfire stories under endless African skies in the middle of remote wilderness.


6. Watamu Coast Treehouse, Kenya


Discover a luxurious escape perched high in the coastal forest at Watamu Treehouse. Nestled into a marine park renowned for vibrant coral and turtles, this exclusive eco-chic retreat spans open-sided treehouses that suspend you in a forest canopy. From the treehouse’s sundeck 35 feet above, bird watching is spectacular with 20% of Kenya’s bird species and 30% of the nation’s butterfly species fluttering and feeding nearby. 


Drift to sleep as soft sea breeze whispers through the or wake to the gentle sound of the crashing waves. Rise and shine with morning yoga and indulge in the luxuries of ultimate privacy. Watamu Coastal Treehouse curates a nourishing retreat intertwined with nature.


7. Kuoom Serengeti, Tanzania


Discover a new perspective on the boundless Serengeti from Kuoom, an intimate tented camp. 


Suspended on a stilted wooden platform, Kuoom's elevated luxury tents blend into the landscape, bringing you eye-to-eye with nature. Witness near daily crossings of tremendous herds during calving season, feedings at the hippo-filled pond below, or the theatrics of resident lion prides. 


Head out with expert local guides to encounter iconic species roaming freely across the lush grasslands. Recharge in the cozy outdoor lounge and relax near the firepit as the sun melts below the horizon. Comfort and world-class wildlife viewing entwine across suspended walkways and open-air decks for an exclusive taste of the Serengeti.


Book Your Africa Wildlife Safari


You have the power to enjoy the ultimate African wildlife safari. Whether interested in birding or a trek to see gorillas, watching for lions or searching for leopards, you can Design Your Journey before speaking with a Born Free Safaris travel specialist.