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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

  • Essential Victoria Falls & Hwange

    FIRST CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Witness one of the greatest natural attractions in Africa, and one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. Experience Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife reserve with a stay in an award-winning intimate tented camp located in the heart of all the action.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,837
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Zimbabwe See Trip Details

  • Namibia Highlights: Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Damaraland & More

    MODERATE | SMALL GROUP: Discover the main highlights in Namibia, from the awe-inspiring seas of sand of the Namib desert, the cultures and impressive landscapes of Damaraland and the variety and amounts of wildlife. This tour showcases the significant highlights of the country. This safari is ideal as an introduction or as a once only visit.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,402
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Namibia See Trip Details

  • Tanzania Escapade: Ngorongoro & The Serengeti

    MODERATE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Experience two of Tanzania’s and the world’s greatest game parks, Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park with their abundance of fascinating wildlife. Also have a visit to the Olduvai Gorge with its amazing archaeological finds.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,299
    Trip Type:
    Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Tanzania See Trip Details

  • Transkalahari Adventure: Cape Town, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, Sossusvlei & More

    MODERATE | SMALL GROUP: From exploring the towering sand dunes in Namibia to floating along the stunning waterways of the Okavango Delta, this trip combines the best of Southern Africa as you make your way through South Africa, Namibia and Botswana before ending in Zimbabwe.
    Duration:
    20 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,199
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Small Group Touring
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Signature Madikwe & Kruger Safari: Madikwe, Johannesburg & The Sabi Sands

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Explore two of the best game reserves in South Africa, as well as Johannesburg. Start in Madikwe Hills Game Reserve, where you’ll head on game drives along the northern border. Next, explore the history of apartheid and liberation in Johannesburg. End your journey in The Sabi Sands Game Reserve for more game drives in a beautiful environment.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 9,164
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Adventures in Nature: Cape Town & Karongwe Game Reserve

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Venture through South Africa as a family to have unforgettable wildlife encounters. This family vacation takes you from Cape Town to Greater Kruger to see South Africa’s famous animals like lions and cheetahs, and incorporates kids programs for stress-free family travel.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,497
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Luxurious Cape & Kalahari: Cape Town & Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: This deluxe itinerary features two iconic destinations. Cape Grace melds the modern comforts of a luxury hotel with traditional Cape heritage and culture. Tswalu is South Africa's largest private game reserve. This malaria-free landscape is home to over 80 game species including the Desert Black Rhino and black-maned Kalahari lions.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 10,847
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Sun, Sand & Safari: Thanda Private Game Reserve & White Pearl Resort

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: A wonderful combination of time spent at a game reserve in South Africa combined with a stay at a beautiful resort hotel situated on the attractive coast of Mozambique. Enjoy wildlife safaris and then go swimming, snorkeling and/or scuba diving or just relax.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,322
    Trip Type:
    Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Cape & Safari Dynasty: Madikwe Game Reserve & Cape Town

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: This South Africa vacation emphasizes the natural beauty of this incredibly diverse country, from African safari opportunities in the northwest, to the unrivaled environments and wildlife of the Western Cape.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,372
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Bisate Lodge, Rwanda: Stays of Distinction

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Venture into the jungles of Volcanoes National Park to see Mountain Gorilla families up close and personal on this Rwanda vacation. When you're not trekking through the jungle, you'll stay at the exclusive and luxurious Bisate Lodge, which sits on the edge of an eroded volcano and offers incredible views of the mountain range.
    Duration:
    3 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 7,813
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Rwanda See Trip Details

  • Sultans to Safari

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore Dubai and Kenya for the perfect combination of city and safari. Spend 3 nights in Dubai, just enough time to explore this futuristic city and enjoy a desert safari. Then connect to Kenya for 4 nights in the Masai Mara, with daily game drives in search of the Big Five.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,327
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    United Arab Emirates See Trip Details

  • Singita Kwitonda Rwanda: Stays of Distinction

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Drive through Rwanda, one of the most picturesque countries in Africa, to Volcanoes National Park. This area made famous by Dian Fossey, is home to the world's last surviving mountain gorilla population. After your trek, return to your luxury accommodations for a well-deserved rest.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 11,330
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Rwanda See Trip Details

  • The Best of Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls, Hwange, Lake Kariba & More

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Embark on an exhilarating African adventure exploring Zimbabwe's natural wonders on this 10-day Africa vacation! Witness the awe-inspiring grandeur of Victoria Falls, encounter majestic wildlife at Hwange National Park, relax amidst Lake Kariba's serene beauty, and experience thrilling safaris in the untamed wilderness of Mana Pools. A journey brimming with nature's marvels awaits.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 9,439
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Zimbabwe See Trip Details

  • One&Only Nyungwe House, Rwanda: Stays of Distinction

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Head to the verdant landscapes of Rwanda and the edges of Nyungwe Forest on this safari vacation. Staying at the luxurious One&Only Nyungwe House, you’ll enjoy premium accommodations and world-class service as you learn about Rwandan history and trek through the jungle in search of chimpanzees.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 6,120
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Rwanda See Trip Details

  • Cape, Wine and Safari: Cape Town, Stellenbosch & Kruger

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: This 12 day South Africa trip will have you experiencing both the Western Cape and the thrill of an African Safari. Beginning in Cape Town, you’ll have plenty of time to take in not only the beautiful Mother City, but also its surrounds with your 5 nights stay. Next up, its off to the Winelands. Enjoy a private food and beverage tour through the streets of Stellenbosch as well as wine tasting of course. Lastly, its off to Karongwe Game Reserve for your exciting African Safari as you search out all the animals that call this area home.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,999
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Kenya and Qatar Interlude

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Pair one of the stars of East Africa with a rising star on the Arabian Peninsula. In Kenya, you’ll explore the city of Kisumu and a surrounding preserve on the shores of Lake Victoria. Next up is the legendary Masai Mara for several days of safari game drives in search of lions, elephants, and cheetahs. The adventure ends in Doha, the Qatari capital.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,999
    Trip Type:
    Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Highlights of Doha and The Desert

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore the city and desert on this trip to Qatar. Start in Doha, where you'll explore Souq Waqif and tour the futuristic city lit up at night. Then connect to Regency Sealine Camp outside the city for a two-night desert safari, with luxury tent accommodations and adventure activities on the dunes.
    Duration:
    6 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,581
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Qatar See Trip Details

  • Southern Africa Odyssey

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Embark on a soul-stirring journey through Southern Africa. Connecting from Cape Town’s cosmopolitan charm to Makalali’s wild majesty to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, this elevated small group journey promises an unforgettable immersion into Southern Africa’s diverse landscapes and captivating wonders.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,279
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Africa On Foot: Klaserie Private Nature Reserve

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: A true wildlife experience in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve combining walking and vehicle safaris through Big Five territory in one of the largest privately owned game reserves in South Africa.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,574
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Giraffe Manor and Safari

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: This 8-day African safari vacation begins at the iconic Giraffe Manor before venturing into some of Kenya's best National Parks. Make your way from Nairobi to Samburu and the Masai Mara, immersing yourself in Kenya's diverse history, culture, and unique natural settings you won't find anywhere else.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 11,719
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Hwange and Victoria Falls Escapade

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: See the best of Zimbabwe in Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls. Split your time between two lodges in Hwange and head out on daily game drives to explore the park and spot wildlife including elephants and lions. Connect to the Zambezi River and tour Victoria Falls, the world’s mightiest waterfall system.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 6,169
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Zimbabwe See Trip Details

  • Magical Malawi

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Madonna may have helped put it on the mainstream map, but Malawi has been one of Africa’s hidden delights for years. Focused on the national parks, this Malawi tour showcases the country’s natural beauty.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 6,261
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Malawi See Trip Details

  • Selous Game Park

    The Selous is home to roaming elephant populations and some of the last black rhino left in the region. Due to its remote location, it is one of the untouched gems of Tanzania’s parks.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,010
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Safaris Worldwide, Small Group Touring
    Tanzania See Trip Details
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