The history of safari experiences in Africa
The Swahili people of Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Mozambique were the first to introduce the notion of a ‘safari’ to the general public. The term “safar” comes from the Arabic word for travel and the “safari” was popularized in the nineteenth century, when explorers, adventurers, and hunters, mostly from Europe, journeyed to the continent. At the time, a safari referred to extensive travel for the purpose of hunting animals in the bush. By the early twentieth century, hunting safaris had depleted natural resources, putting many of Africa’s wild animal species at risk of extinction. In the years that followed, the newly independent republics created nature reserves to safeguard and protect their wildlife. According to modern ecological methodologies, “safari” has been reinterpreted as ‘wildlife observation’ rather than hunting.
The best countries in Africa for safaris
Africa, the birthplace of the safari, offers an array of options for watching animals, particularly the “Big Five”: lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and African buffalo. The “Great Migration” of Kenya’s Masai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti provide breathtaking sightings, as does South Africa’s Kruger National Park, while the Okavango Delta, in Botswana, and the 2,574-kilometer Zambezi River are known for water safaris. Keep reading to find out more!
Masai Mara: On the trail of the Great Migration
One of the most noteworthy safari destinations on the African continent is the Masai Mara, in the southwest of Kenya. Featuring a surface area of 1,510 square kilometers, the Masai Mara is inhabited by millions of animals. While herds of animals are traversing the Masai Mara at any given time in search of food, the Great Migration generally occurs between July and October, when the grasses are green from heavy rainfall. Enormous herds of zebra, gazelle, wildebeest, and other species cross the rivers to feast on the lush plains. It’s a stunning sight! Naturally, this is also a busy season for safaris.
Wildlife of the Serengeti in the heart of Africa
Northern Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is one of Africa’s most dramatic natural settings. With expansive savannahs and predators prowling its long plains, the 15,000-square-kilometer park is a popular safari destination. The Serengeti is home to wild creatures that include buffalo, elephant, hippopotamus, cheetah, leopard, and spotted hyena, but the park’s lion population is what makes the area unique.
Kruger National Park: South Africa’s wild wonderland
One of the safari destinations where the heart of Africa’s wildlife beats is Kruger National Park, a standout in terms of unique natural beauty and animal diversity. The park is in the northeast of the Republic of South Africa, on the borders of the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces. Kruger National Park hosts the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), as well as more than 500 bird species, including ostrich and marabou storks. Amphibians such as frogs and salamanders, and many reptiles such as crocodiles and chameleons also live in the park. In addition to vehicle safaris, guided walking tours are available in Kruger National Park, enabling a closer look at African nature. Visitors can take early morning walks, watch the sunrise, and observe animals at their most active. The lake is a popular place to watch the sunset.
Okavango Delta Botswana’s enigmatic water world
The largest inland delta in the world that does not flow into the sea, Botswana’s Okavango Delta offers an additional dimension to a safari. Similar to an oasis, this delta houses a diverse collection of flora and fauna. Encircled by marshes and beautiful green trees, the delta’s pristine waters contain tilapia, tiger fish, and other freshwater fish. During tours in traditional canoes called mokoro, visitors can see elephants drinking, and hippos popping in and out, witnessing the delta’s natural life from a unique vantage point.
Zambezi River and Victoria Falls: Where adventure and safari meet
Victoria Falls, set on the Zambezi River on the Zambia and Zimbabwe border, beckons to travelers seeking to reconnect with nature. In a region where water safaris are popular, the thrill of seeing Victoria Falls is unparalleled. Traveling by boat along the Zambezi River, visitors can observe beautiful woodlands, birds of prey hunting, and wildebeest drinking on the riverbank. In brief, you’ll experience the fine line between tranquility and adventure while listening to nature’s heartbeat.
When is the ideal time to go on safari?
The answer to this question depends on the destination country and region. Generally, safaris are more popular during the dry season (June, July, August, September, and October), when animals tend to concentrate near water sources and are more easily visible.
Safari photography: Capture the best moments
A safari is an unforgettable adventure and each one — whether it’s the first or the twenty-first — will be one of the most amazing experiences you’ve had and you’ll want to record it. We’ve listed some safari photography tips and suggestions below.
- Select a mirrorless camera that can handle extended focal length lenses.
- Set your camera’s light sensitivity, shutter speed, and aperture. Use a quicker shutter speed while photographing fast-moving animals.
- Create gorgeous compositions by incorporating natural elements into your photograph.
- Make the most of natural lighting. The golden hours (when the sun rises or sets) are perfect for taking photographs.
- Shoot from various perspectives. Low angles make the animals appear even more majestic.
- To avoid disturbing the animals — after all, you’re a visitor in their home — stay calm and quiet, and refrain from abrupt movement.
- Pay attention to what’s around you, including the animals. Stay in the moment and you’ll be rewarded with some beautiful photos.
Planning a safari: Things to consider
Before embarking on a safari, keep the following in mind, to ensure the safest and most fun experience.
- Safety: Pay attention to the rules of the area and the park; follow the guide’s instructions. It is especially important to follow basic rules such as not approaching predators, staying quiet, and staying in the vehicle — unless the guide has expressly given you permission to exit the vehicle.
- Choosing a guide: An experienced guide who knows the area well can help assure a safe and fruitful safari. Guides who are thoroughly familiar with the area and local culture will also have information on where the animals can be observed. Conduct some research before selecting a guide and pay attention to any references they may have.
- Accommodation options: Many safari areas have accommodation options for every budget, whether in the park or nearby. You can often find options ranging from sumptuous luxury camps to minimalist tents or low-key hostels.
- Equipment: Safari-appropriate clothing (natural, muted colors, comfortable pants and shirts), binoculars, sunscreen, and a hat are essential items!
- Budgeting: Depending on the level of accommodation, as well as guide services, transportation, park admission fees, and other activities, a safari can be very expensive. Devise a budget and plan accordingly.
- Travel insurance: Since safaris are usually conducted in remote — albeit scenic — areas, it is important to have travel insurance. In fact, some tours will not accept participants who do not have travel insurance. Consider the possibility of unexpected injuries and medical emergencies and choose a comprehensive insurance package.
- Necessary vaccinations and health precautions: Certain countries require visitors to have vaccinations for diseases such as malaria and yellow fever. When planning your trip, do find out whether your destination has vaccination requirements or other conditions for entry.
