Escaping on a wildlife safari is the perfect holiday if you seek a mix of adventure and tranquility. Once you book your tour, pack appropriately, and learn about safari safety, you will be ready to begin the journey of a lifetime.
Have you ever gone to the zoo and dreamed of seeing the wildlife in their natural habitat? Do you long for a remote and authentic experience with some of the most iconic animals on the planet? If so, a wildlife safari may be an ideal solution.
In this guide, you will learn all about how to plan, pack for, and enjoy your African safari adventure.
Which Country Is Best for a Wildlife Safari?
It depends on factors such as your budget and the wildlife you would like to see. Some of the most popular African countries for wildlife safaris include:
- Tanzania
- Botswana
- Kenya
Tanzania
Tanzania is a premier safari destination primarily due to its large amount of uninhabited land, where animals roam. Many tour packages in Tanzania allow tourists to get up close and personal with the wildlife, without the hustle and bustle of civilization to break the spell.
Tanzania is also home to a diverse range of biomes, from national parks like Serengeti and Kilimanjaro, to marine life and tropical oases that you would expect to find in the Caribbean or South Pacific. On a wildlife tour in Tanzania, expect to see:
- Rhinos
- Leopards
- Elephants
- Buffalo
- Lions
Botswana
Though Botswana is landlocked with no access to the African coast, there is no shortage of opportunities to view wildlife in this desert biome. The Okavango Delta provides water for many different types of animals, including:
- Cheetahs
- Giraffes
- Hyenas
Kenya
Kena is another incredibly diverse country, with its proximity to the coast of the Indian Ocean and vast savannah areas. Safari trips usually depart from Nairobi, the capital city, so vacationers can enjoy the thriving urban culture as well as the stunning wildlife.
One unique feature of Kenya is that it is home to an annual wildebeest migration, unlike anything else you can see in Africa. The migration includes millions of animals, such as:
- Wildebeests
- Gazelles
- Zebras
Safari Packing Guide
Before you embark on your safari, put together a packing list and ensure you have everything you need. Here are some key items to include on your safari packing list:
- Natural fabric
- Neutral-colored clothing
- Long sleeves
- Insellect repellent
- Earth-toned shorts
To see the wildlife up close without disturbing them, neutral shades that blend in with your surroundings are important. Additionally, light layers can combat the weather changes, from the sizzling heat of daytime to the cooler temperatures in the evening.
Wildlife Photography Tips
Many wildlife enthusiasts bring professional camera equipment on safari. After all, it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to capture potentially career-defining photos.
How can you ensure that you take the best photos possible while still enjoying the animals in person? Here are some key tips:
- Shoot during the "golden hours," which occur right before sunrise and as the sun is setting, when the animals are most active and there is better lighting.
- Wait for the right moment, even if it means sitting or standing in the same position for several minutes to get the perfect shot.
- Use a fast shutter speed to avoid blurriness, especially when wildlife is on the move.
- Squat, sit, or lie down so you are at eye-level with the wildlife for a more intimate experience.
Safari Safety Advice
Remember, when on safari, you are in the habitat of the wildlife. Make sure to follow all safety rules from your guides. If you are in a vehicle, stay inside at all times.
How Do You Go to the Bathroom on a Safari?
Many safaris have rest stops at local lodges and park entrances. However, if you need to go out in the wilderness, talk to your guide so they can lead you to a safer location.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Some Animal Observation Strategies for Prime Safari Viewing?
If you want to take advantage of your safari viewings, book tours for dawn and dusk, when the wildlife is most active. Animals often venture out when there is less heat, so you are less likely to see them during the height of the day.
Animals are almost always guaranteed to be near a water source. Look for a local river, lake, or watering hole and see which animals come to take a drink. Staying hydrated is especially crucial in the hot and dry environment.
The location of the animals also depends on when you visit. Animals are more likely to be nearer to water sources during the dry season, while they tend to reproduce during the wet season and stray further away from permanent water fixtures.
When Is the Best Time of Year to Go on a Safari?
It depends on your safari goals and which type of wildlife you are hoping to see. The dry season, approximately June through October, is the most popular time for safari bookings because you are more likely to see a larger variety of animals in concentrated locations. However, it can also be more expensive and crowded.
The wet season, November through May, offers a cooler, greener environment. Since this part of the year is calving season, you are also much more likely to see little ones bonding with their mothers, which can make for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Shoulder seasons are wonderful options if you want to avoid the crowds and save a bit of money, while still soaking in the beautiful weather and the vast array of wildlife.
Is a Safari a Good Experience for Children?
It can be. Ideally, wait until children are old enough to enjoy the experience. Managing an infant or toddler can be difficult in a remote environment, while older, more self-sufficient children will appreciate the vacation.
Plan the Wildlife Safari of Your Dreams
If you have ever wanted to go on a wildlife excursion, it no longer has to be an unattainable fantasy. With this guide, you can escape into the African wilderness and create unforgettable experiences that will last a lifetime.
Would you like to learn more about how you can plan your travel? Take a look around our website for more tips, tricks, and guides, so your next vacation is flawless.
This article was prepared by an independent contributor and helps us continue to deliver quality news and information.
