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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

  • Dubai Overnight Safari

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Experience the desert like the Bedouins do on this overnight glamping experience near Dubai. Ride camels, watch falconers put on dazzling displays, and sleep on a sand dune beneath the stars at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.
    Duration:
    2 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 734
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    United Arab Emirates See Trip Details

  • African River Safari: Chobe Princess

    FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: Those who say you can’t do an Africa safari on the water have never been to Botswana. See the rich wildlife of the Chobe River and its surrounds on the ideal short cruise journey for animal lovers.
    Duration:
    3-4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 993
    Trip Type:
    Cruises & Sailing, Safaris Worldwide
    Botswana 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$ 7,830
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Rwanda See Trip Details

  • Mountain Gorilla Encounter 3 Day: Kigali & Volcanoes National Park

    MODERATE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Spend 3 days in the area made famous by Dian Fossey, the home of the world’s last surviving mountain gorilla population. Be one of only a few to see these gorillas in their own habitat.
    Duration:
    3 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,133
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Rwanda 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:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,057
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly
    South Africa 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$ 5,133
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Zambia 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:
    US$ 5,559
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Zambia See Trip Details

  • Grootbos Nature Reserve

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Nestled in an ancient Milkwood forest surrounded by fynbos and mountains, the accommodation at Grootbos offers a complete immersion into the pristine natural surroundings within the gentle embrace of comfort and luxury.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,690
    Trip Type:
    Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
    South Africa 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

  • Mountain Gorilla Encounter 4 Day: Kigali & Volcanoes National Park

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Spend 4 days in the area made famous by Dian Fossey, the home of the world’s last surviving mountain gorilla population. Be one of only a few to see these gorillas in their own habitat.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 6,449
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Rwanda See Trip Details

  • Mountain Gorilla Encounter Uganda

    FIRST-CLASS | 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:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,240
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Uganda 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$ 3,129
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Uganda 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$ 6,134
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Rwanda See Trip Details

  • Savanna Private Game Reserve: Greater Kruger National Park

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Savanna Private Game Reserve is an exclusive 5-star lodge situated in the internationally famous Sabi Sand Reserve. It offers outstanding game viewing, personalised service and luxurious accommodation to a limited number of discerning guests.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
    South Africa 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$ 8,938
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Tanzania 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$ 11,354
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Rwanda 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$ 8,938
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Tanzania 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$ 3,306
    Trip Type:
    Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Tanzania 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$ 5,045
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Campfire Adventures in Tanzania: Arusha & The Serengeti

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: What caps the perfect day on an Africa safari? Swapping stories around the campfire in your luxury camp, of course. Enjoy the ideal balance of comfort and nature on this Tanzania safari.
    Duration:
    5 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 7,528
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Tanzania 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$ 4,764
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide
    Uganda 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

  • 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$ 4,565
    Trip Type:
    Escorted Coach Touring, Safaris Worldwide, Small Group Touring
    Tanzania 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$ 4,502
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
    Uganda 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$ 965
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Qatar See Trip Details
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