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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

  • Karibu Kenya: Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: From the flamingos of Lake Nakaru to the majestic Masai Mara where ‘the real Africa’ lives on, Kenya is an unforgettable short safari break.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,462
    Trip Type:
    Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Murchison Falls National Park

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Embark on a safari vacation to Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda. Staying at Baker’s Lodge, you’ll head on wildlife excursions to see hippos and elephants and sail up the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls, which pours over a 45-meter-high valley wall into the river below.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,209
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Uganda See Trip Details

  • The Best of Uganda: Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth National Park & Kyambura Gorge

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: This safari vacation is perfect for travellers wanting a complete experience of Uganda’s wildlife. After arriving in Entebbe, connect into Bwindi to search for mountain gorillas. Then head south for a traditional safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park as well as a chimpanzee trek.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 6,659
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Uganda See Trip Details

  • Singita Faru Faru, Serengeti National Park: Stays of Distinction

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Part of Goway’s unique Stays of Distinction range, Singita Faru Faru Lodge invites you to enjoy private game viewing on the edge of Serengeti National Park. Enjoy game drives showcasing the animals and the beauty of Tanzania, relaxing each day at the lodge, with transfers included.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 8,919
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Tanzania See Trip Details

  • Kruger Spectacular

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Experience two spectacular locations in South Africa on this luxury safari vacation. Start at Kings Camp in the Timbavati Game Reserve before connecting to Dulini Lodge in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, spending several days on game drives in both pristine reserves.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 7,305
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Luxury Camps of Botswana: Kwando Safaris

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Experience a luxury safari like no other with Kwando Safaris in Botswana. Staying in deluxe camps in Nxai Pans National Park and the Okavango Delta, you’ll enjoy pristine accommodations and head on morning and afternoon game drives to see lions, cheetahs, and elephants in the African bush.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 6,389
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Botswana See Trip Details

  • Majestic Falls and Chobe Elephants

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Experience the beauty of Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park on this vacation to Zimbabwe and Botswana. Begin at Victoria Falls, where you’ll take in the Smoke That Thunders before cruising the Zambezi River. It’s then into Botswana to head on game safari in Chobe National Park.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,933
    Trip Type:
    Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Zimbabwe See Trip Details

  • Northern Madagascar Exploration: Diego Suarez, Ankarana, Nosy Komba & More

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Head southeast to Madagascar to explore rainforests and experience one of Africa’s great frontiers. Travelling across the island, you’ll experience the crowded culture of the capital Tana, explore fascinating cave formations in Ankarana, and search for black lemurs in the jungles of Nosy Komba.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,027
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Madagascar See Trip Details

  • Singita Sabora, Serengeti National Park: Stays of Distinction

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Experience exquisite luxury on the plains of the Serengeti. Part of Goway's unique Stays of Distinction range, Singita Sabora offers you amazing game viewing on the edge of the Serengeti with luxury accommodations.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 8,919
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Tanzania See Trip Details

  • Botswana & Zimbabwe Family Adventure: Khwai, Linyanti, Livingstone & More

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Not only does an African safari experience provide educational value for children, but it also allows for families to bond in the most remote and wild areas. Spend 12 nights enjoying these three beautiful countries, sharing life-lasting memories and stories along the way.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 13,593
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Botswana See Trip Details

  • A Tale of Two Safaris: Amazulu Private Game Reserve, Umhlanga & Greater Kruger

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Enjoy superb game viewing and luxury accommodations in the Manyoni Private Game Reserve and the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve on this 9-day South African vacation. Search for the Big 5 and other incredible wildlife living within the country’s finest private game reserves and spend two nights relaxing on Umhlanga's beaches in between.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,662
    Trip Type:
    Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Classic Tanzania 7 Days: Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro,& The Serengeti

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Tanzania is renowned for its magnificent wildlife, scenery, and first-class African safari experiences. Spend time visiting famous sites like Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 5,854
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Tanzania See Trip Details

  • Highlights of Botswana: Makgadikgadi Pans, Okavango Delta & Chobe National Park

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Experience the natural wonders of Botswana and extraordinary game viewing on this safari to three celebrated game reserves. Connecting to Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, Moremi Game Reserve, and Chobe National Park, you’ll search for lions, elephants, and cheetahs, while enjoying deluxe accommodations.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 7,477
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Botswana See Trip Details

  • Winelands & Wildlife: Cape Town, Stellenbosch & Sabi Sands Game Reserve

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore vibrant Cape Town and see the sights of the Cape Peninsula. Visit picturesque Stellenbosch, the heart of the Winelands before a ‘Big 5’ encounter at Kruger National Park.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,208
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Deluxe Mountain Gorilla Encounter Uganda

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: African safari tours come in many forms, but few are as revealing or special as an encounter with Uganda’s Mountain Gorillas. Taken on its own or as an add-on to an African safari, it’s a life-changing experience.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,659
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide
    Uganda See Trip Details

  • Signature Victoria Falls & Livingstone

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Experience one of the greatest natural wonders in Africa - Victoria Falls. Marvel at the mighty falls and enjoy a walking safari and an art experience before transferring across the border to the Zambian side of the falls for your 3 night stay.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,898
    Trip Type:
    Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Zimbabwe See Trip Details

  • Tented Camps of Tanzania: Tarangire, Ngorongoro & The Serengeti

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore three of Tanzania’s great game parks on this tented camp safari through the country. In Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti, you’ll head on daily game drives to see lions, elephants, zebras, and many more spectacular animals across the East African wilderness.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 13,180
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Tanzania See Trip Details

  • Botswana Express: Central Kalahari, Okavango Delta & Chobe National Park

    FIRST CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Discover some of the world’s best wildlife in three distinct regions across Botswana. See lions in the famous desert of the Central Kalahari, explore the wetlands of the Okavango Delta, and have close encounters with elephants in Chobe.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 6,553
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Botswana See Trip Details

  • Kenya in Depth

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Bring your safari dreams to life on this journey through some of the best safari parks in Africa. Travel throughout Kenya and head on game drives in Samburu, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Tsavo West, and Amboseli to spot elephants, leopards, rhinos, and other beloved animals.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 6,715
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Southern Africa Extravaganza: Greater Kruger, Cape Town & Victoria Falls

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Combining a superb African safari with a trip down the Western Cape, this South Africa travel opportunity takes you to one of the world’s most beautiful cities, Cape Town, before ending at spectacular Victoria Falls.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 8,405
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Ultimate Botswana Family Safari: Makgadikgadi, Okavango Delta, Savute & More

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: This Ultimate Botswana Family Safari allows for the family to experience 5 of the key ecosystems and environments within Botswana on a fun-filled adventure of discovery, suited and focused on the specific needs of the family.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ On Request
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Botswana See Trip Details

  • Chinzombo, South Luangwa National Park: Stays of Distinction

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Experience the famous South Luangwa National staying at a luxury lodge. After enjoying game drives into the park which teems with wildlife, why not return to your private villa and relax on your private verandah overlooking the Luangwa River as you enjoy the beauty of the pristine African wilderness.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 7,853
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Zambia See Trip Details

  • Signature Masai Mara and Serengeti

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Discover two of East Africa's premier game parks on this safari. This 7-day luxury trip begins in Nairobi before you fly to the famous Masai Mara for 3 nights. Next stop, Tanzania and the Serengeti, where you'll stay in luxurious accommodations.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 15,104
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Lake Kariba and the Matusadona National Park

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Avoid the crowds and bask in nature on this safari experience in Matusadona National Park. Staying on the banks of Lake Kariba at Changa Safari Camp, you’ll enjoy rustic luxury as you head on game drives in search of elephants and fish on the lake, enjoying its natural tranquility.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,175
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Zimbabwe See Trip Details

  • Classic Tanzania 9 Days: Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro & The Serengeti

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Tanzania is renowned for its magnificent wildlife, scenery, and first-class African safari experiences. Spend time visiting famous sites like Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    AU$ 8,509
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Small Group Touring
    Tanzania See Trip Details
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