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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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • City Lights & Safari Sights: Cape Town & Pilanesberg National Park

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Combine South Africa’s most attractive city with the wonders of the African bush on this city lights and safari sights vacation. Start in Cape Town where you’ll have three days at leisure to experience its charms. Then head on to Pilanesberg National Park to head on daily game drives in search of the Big Five.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,504
    Trip Type:
    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$ 1,557
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

  • Qatar and South Africa Safari

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore 2 great countries in one trip. Beginning in Cape Town, you'll have 3 full days to discover what makes the 'Mother City' and surrounds one of the most beautiful regions of the world. Next its off to Pilanesberg National Park for your African Safari. Finally, fly to Qatar for a 3 night stay as you explore the capital, Doha - a wonderful blend of culture, tradition and modern innovation.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,112
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    South Africa See Trip Details

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

    MODERATE | SMALL GROUP: This fascinating country is full of wide horizons, endless stretches of golden desert dunes and unusual rocky plains. Begin in Windhoek and spend time discovering Namibia’s many highlights.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,171
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Namibia See Trip Details

  • Wonders of Kenya: Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Amboseli

    MODERATE | SMALL GROUP: Journey to Kenya's most picturesque regions. Get acquainted with bustling Nairobi before heading to the open plains of Masai Mara, the shimmery pink waters of Lake Nakuru, and the swamps of Amboseli, set in the shadow of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Enjoy daily game drives to see the Big Five and other animals.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,227
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Kenya 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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$ 2,939
    Trip Type:
    Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Zimbabwe 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

  • 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

  • Jambo Kenya Safari

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL-GROUP: Embark on an unforgettable journey through Kenya’s majestic landscapes and wildlife havens. This small-group safari features first-class tented camp accommodations and daily wildlife viewing that will help you spot elephants at Amboseli, hippos on Lake Naivasha, and the iconic Great Migration in the Masai Mara.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,129
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Small Group Touring
    Kenya 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

  • Kenya Odyssey Super Special

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Explore some of the best safari game parks in Africa and stay in beautiful luxury safari camps each night. From Nairobi, connect to Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Lake Nakuru, and Masai Mara to head on game drives to search for the Big Five, visit Masai villages, and learn about animal conservation.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,149
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Kenya See Trip Details

  • Cape & Kruger Escape: Cape Town & Greater Kruger National Park

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore the most beautiful regions of South Africa on this adventure. Explore the Western Cape before embarking on an African safari through a private game reserve in Kruger National Park.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,168
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    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

  • Tanzania Odyssey Super Special: 7 Day

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Tanzania is renowned for its magnificent wildlife, scenery and first-class game lodge experiences. Spend time visiting famous sites like Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,199
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
    Tanzania 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

  • 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

  • South Africa and Victoria Falls Escapade: Victoria Falls, Cape Town & Pilanesberg National Park

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Combine South Africa’s most attractive city with a game safari and a visit to Victoria Falls on one great African vacation. Start in Zimbabwe, where you’ll witness the majesty of Victoria Falls. Onward to Cape Town to tour the city and enjoy some wine tastings. Cap the trip off with a safari in Pilanesberg National Park.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,349
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Zimbabwe See Trip Details

  • Cape Highlights and Safari: Cape Town, Garden Route & Kariega Game Reserve

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Enjoy a stay in South Africa's Mother City; Cape Town before getting up close with African wildlife on the Eastern Cape. Visit the world's ostrich capital, sample the best of South Africa's famous Winelands, and follow the Garden Route to see South Africa in all its diverse beauty.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,416
    Trip Type:
    Safaris Worldwide, Small Group Touring
    South Africa See Trip Details
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