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Africa & Middle East

Africa Safari Vacation

  • Zebras in Africa

Africa is an amazing continent in which to view animals as it lends itself to being the natural home for many exceptional creatures. The word Safari is a Swahili word meaning journey. Today’s safari is an occasion to see but not harm the local wildlife. This can be experienced on an African safari by staying in upscale lodges as well as less expensive communal accommodations sharing very basic dormitory accommodation. It all depends on one’s travel style and budget.

In Africa, there are 1100 different species of animals and 2600 different bird species. These numbers obviously are not going to be viewed in any one specific game park but there definitely will be a large enough number to thrill anyone on African vacations. By the way, Africa has the fastest, largest and strangest animals anywhere in the world. This also includes sadly, a number of endangered species.

Wherever you stay, most of your game viewing is pretty certain to be in a small vehicle with open sides and possibly an open top. You will usually share it with several other safari-going participants. The average size of a safari vehicle can vary but the average is anywhere from 6 to 10 passenger vehicles. Animals being dangerous might make you wonder if it is safe on an African safari surrounded by wild, sometimes ferocious and unpredictable creatures. In a safari vehicle, you are in the hands of a professional experienced driver/guide and will not experience any problems. Just don’t stand up or lean out of the vehicle. The professionalism and experience of the guide will be yours to benefit from as they will be not only knowledgeable but are trained to have almost a sixth sense as to where the animals are located or hiding. Animals do not run away or hide from safari vehicles as they are so accustomed to the constant game-drive vehicles in their territory following them around and not harming them in any way. They have no interest or concern for your safari vehicle. 

As a rule, there are three types of game drives on an African safari. There are morning, afternoon and night drives. The morning game drive is usually taken early before the sun gets too hot as many of the animals tend to want to hibernate as the day gets hotter. You will head off before breakfast which will be waiting on your return from the drive. You will not only have an enjoyable time but will really be ready for your first meal. The afternoon game drive is usually taken later in the day when the sun is not so hot. This is the time to enjoy a pleasant experience called the Sundowner. This is set up by your driver/guide right in the middle of the bush or plain. Your vehicle stops and he puts up a table laden with drinks and snacks. Jump down from your vehicle to enjoy a beverage while watching the sun go down over the spectacular and glorious African scenery. And what a perfect end to a day of a safari drive with game viewing. A night drive is an “animal of a different colour” as the dark brings out the nocturnal animals. It is also a time when the predators are on the prowl looking for their next meal. Because it is completely dark, you are equipped with a powerful torch and if necessary, your driver/guide will shine his headlights into the bush when he spots an animal. There is nothing like the excitement of seeing a pair of eyes gleaming at you out of pitch black. And once again, the animals will completely ignore you.

Something totally different is a walking safari which can be taken at most lodges with an experienced guide. A walking safari is exactly what it says. You walk instead of driving into the bush. Nothing can bring you closer to an African adventure quite like a walking safari. You will walk with an experienced guide with the aim to learn and appreciate the intricate details of the nature that surrounds you. The guide carries a rifle, but nothing bad has ever happened during one of these. You will learn how to tell which animals are or have been in the vicinity by studying their tracks and footprints. You will come close to some animals such as the giraffe as they snack on the leaves of a very tall tree. 

The ultimate Africa safari is through staying at a private lodge. You, more often than not, will be staying in your own building with exquisite furnishings and in close proximity to the main lodge building. You could well experience the opportunity to look out from your room, possibly with a verandah, and observe all kinds of animals (at a safe distance) while taking in the idyllic scene of the African countryside unfolding in front of you. Enjoy dinner in the evenings with fellow guests comparing notes of what has been seen and experienced during the day, possibly also in the company of the guides. 

Something different on an African safari again is sleeping in a tent for accommodation – a totally special experience. You are at one with the bush as you listen to the thrilling sounds of animals echoing in the African night. But don’t think you will be roughing it. Far from it - you will have all the luxuries with a tent with a comfortable bed and a complete bathroom more often than not.  Again, is it safe? Absolutely! The tented camp is cordoned off from the animal kingdom and there are guards watching to make sure no animal gets too close.

To avoid long road transfers or roads, especially in Kenya and Tanzania, which are not always in the best condition, a fly-in safari could be a convenient way to enjoy an African safari. You land on a private airstrip close to your accommodation from the nearest major airport and immediately, you are involved in your safari.  

In Southern Africa, the best times to visit on an African safari are from May to September as this is the dry season. However, the period from October to April, although the wet season, is still a time to enjoy animal viewing. It is when the landscapes turn green and also there are fewer visitors. It is also a time when the animals congregate at waterholes and rivers. If bird watching is of interest, this is when migratory birds are present. The rain consists of short, usually afternoon showers which will not interfere with your safari. 

In East Africa, safaris are fine all year round. The dry season is from late June to October and is also the time of the great wildebeest migration starting in the Masai Mara in Kenya in June and which lasts until they return from Serengeti in Tanzania in October. It is also when it is easier to spot the animals with plenty of sunshine prevailing. The low season consists of two rainy seasons - March to June inclusive when the rains are longer and October to December inclusive when the rains are shorter. Once again, these are the periods when the scenery is lusher and greener and the animals gather at waterholes. Migratory birds are around between September and April.  

An African safari is like no other experience and will never be dull. There are many countries to choose from that offer exceptional game viewing. These include South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda. And it should be noted that animals know no borders and are free to roam wherever they want (within reason).  

 

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Safaris Worldwide

  • Kenya In Style: Nairobi, Samburu & Masai Mara

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Experience luxury accommodations, and unrivalled game viewing on this luxury safari. Make your way from Nairobi to Samburu and Masai Mara where you'll head out on your daily game drives in the magnificent African landscape in search of wildlife.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 9,743
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Malawi and Zambia Getaway: South Luangwa and Lake Malawi

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Escape to central Africa to search for wildlife in South Luangwa National Park and enjoy the pristine waters of Lake Malawi. Staying at game lodges in Zambia and a chic island lodge in Malawi, you’ll spend your days tracking leopards and lions and engaging with the incredible environments of this African region.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 8,699
    Trip Type:
    Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Zambia See Trip Details

  • Chiawa Camp, Lower Zambezi National Park: Stays of Distinction

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Located on the banks of the Zambezi, Chiawa is a luxury safari camp offering the utmost comfort amid the wild 'real Africa' that is Zambia. Experience the thrill of game walks as well as game drives, canoeing, boating and fishing.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,121
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Zambia See Trip Details

  • City Lights & Safari Sights: Cape Town & Pilanesberg National Park

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Combine South Africa’s most attractive city with the wonders of the African bush on this city lights and safari sights vacation. Start in Cape Town where you’ll have three days at leisure to experience its charms. Then head on to Pilanesberg National Park to head on daily game drives in search of the Big Five.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,949
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Delta and Wildlife Adventure: Victoria Falls, Makgadikgadi, Moremi & More

    MODERATE | SMALL GROUP: Experience the untouched natural beauty and wildlife of Botswana on this safari tour. Staying in first-class safari lodges, you’ll journey across the nation and into Namibia and Zimbabwe to cruise along the Chobe River, explore the islands and pans of the Okavango Delta, and gaze upon the majesty of Victoria Falls.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Botswana See Trip Details

  • Majestic Views of Kenya: Tsavo and Amboseli

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Behold the beauty of Southern Kenya with this trip to two popular national parks. Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime safari as you spend 5 days between Amboseli National Park and Tsavo West National Park, which both sit in the shadow of iconic Mount Kilimanjaro.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,299
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Classic East Africa: Masai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & More

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Experience the iconic National Parks of East Africa with this classic African safari. Visit famous Masai Mara, Serengeti and the Ngorongoro national parks, uncovering unique wildlife, and cultural opportunities.
    Duration:
    14 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 11,135
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Small Group Touring
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Essence of Dubai and South Africa: Dubai, Cape Town & Kruger

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Your trip begins in the futuristic city of Dubai. There is plenty of time to explore and marvel at the modern wonders and enjoy a desert safari. Next up, South Africa - where you'll experience two stunning regions and must sees or any traveller. After exploring the Western Cape, experience the thrill of an African Safari at a private game reserve in the Greater Kruger.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,099
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    United Arab Emirates See Trip Details

  • Wonders of Kenya: Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Amboseli

    MODERATE | SMALL GROUP: Journey to Kenya's most picturesque regions. Get acquainted with bustling Nairobi before heading to the open plains of Masai Mara, the shimmery pink waters of Lake Nakuru, and the swamps of Amboseli, set in the shadow of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Enjoy daily game drives to see the Big Five and other animals.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,222
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Campfire Adventures in Kenya: Nairobi and Masai Mara

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Experience an African safari under the stars on this comfortable and highly flexible luxury camping adventure in Kenya. Stay at Alex Walker’s Serian Original Camp and enjoy the best of the Masai Mara with a multitude of activity options on hand, including your private safari guide.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,555
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Kenya Family Safari: Lake Naivasha, Samburu, Masai Mara & More

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: This African safari journey through the National Parks of Kenya offers children and adults the ultimate wildlife experience. Stay at some of Kenya's best known game parks and take part in activities the whole family can enjoy.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,993
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Ultimate Africa: Masai Mara, Livingstone, Cape Town & More

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: South Africa or Kenya for your African adventure? With this unique itinerary, there’s no need to choose. Enjoy the culture and wildlife of the Masai Mara before flying on to Victoria Falls to see the breathtaking Falls before heading to Cape Town.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,333
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Luxury Cape and Kruger Safari: Grootbos, Cape Town & Sabi Sands

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Experience the beauty and charm of South Africa on this luxury package. Begin with a stay in an eco-reserve tucked between mountains, forest and sea - followed by elegant atmosphere in Cape Town. Finally, head to a sanctuary symbolizing a new era in lodging in the greater Kruger for your African safari.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Tuskers of Kenya: Tsavo West & Masai Mara

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Get a taste of nature’s bounty on this journey across Southern Kenya. Staying in luxury safari camps, you’ll head on game drives in two of Kenya’s famous game reserves, Tsavo West and the Masai Mara. Spot big tuskers crossing in the shadow of Mt. Kilimanjaro, meet with local Masai villagers, and track the Big Five.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 8,770
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Kenya Explorer Safari: Ol Pejeta, Soysambu & Masai Mara

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Explore the wilds of Kenya on this journey to several conservancies in the country. Heading from Nairobi to Ol Pejeta Conservancy to Masai Mara National Reserve, you’ll stay in luxury safari camps as you enjoy game drives into the bush to see flamingos, lions, and the wonders of the Great Migration.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,668
    Trip Type:
    Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Qatar & South Africa Safari

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore 2 great countries in one trip. Beginning in Cape Town, you'll have 3 full days to discover what makes the 'Mother City' and surrounds one of the most beautiful regions of the world. Next its off to Pilanesberg National Park for your African Safari. Finally, fly to Qatar for a 3 night stay as you explore the capital, Doha - a wonderful blend of culture, tradition and modern innovation.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,041
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • South Africa and Victoria Falls Escapade: Victoria Falls, Cape Town & Pilanesberg National Park

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Combine South Africa’s most attractive city with a game safari and a visit to Victoria Falls on one great African vacation. Start in Zimbabwe, where you’ll witness the majesty of Victoria Falls. Onward to Cape Town to tour the city and enjoy some wine tastings. Cap the trip off with a safari in Pilanesberg National Park.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,499
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Zimbabwe See Trip Details

  • Ultimate Kalahari & Lower Zambezi Safari

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Start with Cape Town’s most iconic luxury hotel - celebrating art and design. Next, stay in South Africa's largest private game reserve where your game lodge blends comfort seamlessly with the stunning landscape. Lastly, head to the banks of the Zambezi River, where a luxury safari camp offers the utmost comfort amidst the wild 'real Africa' that is Zambia.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 14,006
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Botswana Wildlife Breakaway: Victoria Falls, Chobe, Okavango Delta & More

    MODERATE | SMALL-GROUP: There’s Africa, and then there’s Botswana. This very special trip explores two of the country's best loved wildlife areas, and takes you on to see much more.
    Duration:
    15 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,969
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Small Group Touring
    Botswana See Trip Details

  • South African Family Adventure: Cape Town, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve & More

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Start your trip in Cape Town, a highlight of Southern Africa with its unrivalled natural beauty, before continuing on to a unique malaria-free private game reserve located at the foot of the towering Warmwaterberg Mountains. End with a stay at the only private lodge situated inside the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,796
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Classic Kenya: Samburu, Lake Elmenteita, Masai Mara & More

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Kenya is often described as the African continent in microcosm. You will see some of the best parks in Africa from Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara, home of the “Big Five” and the Masai people.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,719
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Best of Namibia Flying Safari: Sossusvlei, Swakopmund & Etosha National Park

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: This flying African safari explores several distinct regions: the sands and red dunes of Sossusvlei, the palm-lined streets of Swakopmund and the amazing wildlife abundance on the savannah of Etosha.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 6,259
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Namibia See Trip Details

  • Essential Uganda: Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale & More

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL-GROUP: Explore Uganda with a unique safari experience that includes chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, game viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park and of course, gorilla tracking in Bwindi.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 7,029
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Uganda See Trip Details

  • Madagascar Rainforests & Rivers: Antananarivo, Andasibe, Mandrare & More

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Your first night on the island of Madagascar will be spent in the capital city of Antananarivo, ‘Tana’, as the locals call it. Next will be the opportunities to see the largest lemur, the Indri, and a visit to Lemur Island with its habituated lemur species. Lastly, you will walk the Sacred Forest in search of ring tailed lemurs, and then experience the traditions of the local Antandroy tribe.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 6,198
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Madagascar See Trip Details

  • Gorillas and Ishasha Breakaway: Entebbe, Bwindi & Queen Elizabeth National Park

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Perfect for those with limited time, this trip offers the opportunity to explore two of Uganda’s most visited areas. Start off with a Gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest before heading to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park for a safari drive.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,729
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Uganda See Trip Details
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