Six ways to safari in Southern Africa
It’s hard to beat the experience of an African safari, the excitement of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat, the joy of being immersed in nature and the promise of an evening sundowner in a luxury tented lodge. Having lived in and explored this beautiful continent, our Travel Specialists can tailor luxury safari holidays just for you. From galloping across the floodplains of the Okavango Delta to cycling along active elephant migration paths, we’re sharing some of our tried-and-tested ways to experience Southern Africa on safari.
Mokoro boat safari | Okavango Delta, Botswana
Discover the world’s only inland delta, as you cruise the Okavango through channels and lagoons aboard a traditional mokoro canoe. Each canoe typically carries two people while your guide and boatman stand at the rear using a ngashi pole to gently propel you through the lagoons. A mokoro cruise is a unique way to help you get up close to Africa’s wildlife. The benefit of having no engine noise means that the wildlife are never startled, allowing you to quietly pass by. As you journey through the reed-lined channels, listen for the call of the fish eagle, watch out for crocodiles and hippos lounging or maybe witness an elephant calf crossing the channels with the herd.
Walking safari | Mana Pools, Zimbabwe
A walking safari means that you can stop and experience the little things, including tracks, insects and the scent of the bush. With your guide, learn how to study animal behaviour as you get up close to incredible wildlife on foot. One of the finest areas in Southern Africa for walking safaris in Mana Pools National Park. Your expert guide will know the safest trails to follow and can help you experience memorable moments like watching elephants raise themselves on their hind legs for the last remaining seed pods and encountering the famous wild dogs of Attenborough’s Dynasties along the Zambezi riverbed.
Cycling safari | Northern Tuli Reserve, Botswana
Cycling safaris are exciting and adventurous. The Northern Tuli Reserve is the best place to enjoy a cycling adventure filled with up-close wildlife encounters. With your experienced guides, cycle at leisure along active elephant migration paths and past vast herds of wildlife. From May to August, there are excellent game viewing opportunities. Wildlife congregates around waterholes and the bush is less dense, enhancing viewing abilities. Along your cycling adventure keep a lookout for lion, elephant, zebra, cheetah, giraffe and maybe even leopard.
Birding safari | Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa
There are so many benefits to birding safaris. Though it may seem like a niche pastime, it is a peaceful and relaxing outing that anyone can enjoy. With your expert guide, explore a variety of ecosystems including wetlands, forests and grasslands. At Phinda Game Reserve, there have been an astonishing 415 species recorded. Prime viewing time is from November to April when migratory birds from Europe and northern Africa are present. With your specialist birding ranger, make use of your bird guide and complimentary Swarovski binoculars as you search for wonderful species like Rudd’s Apalis and the stunning Narina Trogon.
Horse riding safari | Okavango Delta, Botswana
A horse-riding safari is one of the most exhilarating adventures you can experience. Gallop alongside some of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife as you journey through the plains of the Okavango Delta. With your expert guide and from your improved vantage point, watch herds of lechwe and impala leap across the floodplains. A truly excellent way to game view, you have the benefit of no engine noise and can quickly weave through small passageways and move quickly and swiftly. We do have to mention that this type of safari is only suited to experienced horse riders!
Photographic safari | South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
For budding photographers, this safari is for you. Suitable for all levels and led by expert photographers, embark on game drives in fully equipped photographic vehicles. Learn the best way to use your camera, capture epic photos and edit them using the latest software. This is a unique opportunity to learn tips and tricks from leading wildlife photographers. One of the best photography destinations, South Luangwa National Park, is home to over 60 mammal species, so this is your chance to capture outstanding wildlife imagery like the endangered wild dog, hippos and leopards.
