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Home / What is a Safari? Everything you need to know

What is a Safari? Everything you need to know

Many tourists who are not familiar with africa ask the question – what is a safari .

A SAFARI is an exciting and adventurous way of seeing the ‘real Africa’ because it enables you to view a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. As a result, going on a safari gives you an authentic experience of Africa.

Safaris can involve walking through the wilderness, driving in 4×4 vehicles or by flying in light air craft. The purpose of a safari tour is to allow you to get intimate with the landscape and scenery.

While overland tours are mostly challenging, you need to be young at heart and open-minded to get the best out of an overland safari trip. All safari vehicles are custom-built to travel to remote parts of Africa often on long, bumpy roads, while allowing you to view wildlife from a safe distance in comfort.

Why go on a Safari?

• Slow down and get in touch with the earth
• Experience wildlife in their natural environment
• Engage with local cultures and learn about their traditions
• Take part in adventurous outdoor activities

The accommodation on safaris vary depending on your trip. Anything from basic two man tents through to tented camps and luxury lodges with en suite bathrooms. Certainly there is something to suit everyone!

What types of Safari Trips can you go on?

The term SAFARI is a type of experience where you have the opportunity to observe and photograph wildlife. An African safari in an overland truck is an adventure with lots of sightseeing and activities. Specialist forms of safaris cater for a variety of needs and budgets.

Some examples include migratory safaris, birding, medical safaris, hiking, culinary, family, horse back and photographic safaris. A safari tour can range is length from a couple of days to longer overland trips . While the longer safari tours traverse over numerous countries and include 1-2 months of travel.

Let travellers Konrad and Brooke tell you all about an Overland Tour in Africa:

What is a camping overland safari trip.

A camping overland safari is for travelers who want a hands-on experience of Mother Nature. Either setting up your campsite or helping build a campfire whilst surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and scenery. During an African camping safari you will stay in large dome canvas tents which are spacious enough for two adults and your luggage.

Most camping safaris include a sleeping mat and you only need to bring your own sleeping bag, pillow and towel. The African campsites are basic and comfortable. Most have warm showers and flushing ablutions, while others may have natural ablutions.

What are Accommodated or Comfort Overland Safari Trip?

Accommodated safaris are designed for travelers who prefer extra comforts. Most importantly, it is comfort without the price tag! Our accommodated safaris make use of a combination of lodges, hostels, bungalows, chalets, permanent safari camps, hotels and traditional huts.

Our properties are ideally located at each destination for an authentic experience with incredible views. The standard of the properties varies along the trip. While Southern Africa properties are much more established than the East Africa accommodation. They vary from basic comfortable accommodation to breathtaking properties.

What is a Lodge Safari Tour?

Lodge safaris allow travelers to access wildlife over a shorter period of time. Therefore the lodges are located close to the wildlife and allow you more comfort. Most lodges can be accessed by air or by land transfers thus allowing you to maximize your time and experience. Also the quality of lodges vary for budgets and level of comfort.

What is a Mobile Tented Safari Tour?

Mobile tented Safaris  are designed to allow for less impact on the environment. Tents are set up for your accommodation and then dismantled when you leave to ensure only footprints are left behind. Guides will drive the support vehicles ahead of the travelers and set up the camp.  As a result the entire camp is all set up before your arrival.

By the time you arrive all you have to do is unpack, sit back relax and wait for dinner to be served. You will sleep on stretcher beds with a sleeping bag and a pillow provided. Bucket showers are provided with heated water for you to freshen up.

R 163,450

42 Day Cape Town to Nairobi Tour (Most Popular) (Accommodated)

R 98,250

+ Local Payment USD 1185 (Jan - June) - USD 1365 (Jul - Dec)

15 Day East Africa Migration Safari (Accommodated)

R 40,710

11 Day Botswana Adventure Semi Tour (Camping)

Luxury tented camps.

Some of the camps are luxury camps which are spacious tents with beds and crisp good quality linen. Resident chefs will prepare all your meals and there is a designated guide to organise and maintain the campsite.

There are a few permanent tented camps which are erected seasonally in wildlife-dense areas for the best game viewing experience. Once the season is over these tents are dismantled and moved to another area for optimum game viewing.

What is a typical day on a Safari Trip?

Early mornings are frequent so that you can enjoy a hot beverage and a light breakfast before heading out on a game drive. The mornings can be crisp and cold while refreshing, with the reward of watching nature awaken.

The morning game drives can be between 2 to 3 hours long. Allowing you plenty of time to explore the area before returning to the campsite for lunch or enjoying a picnic in the bush. You might go on another game drive in the afternoon or take part in an activity such as canoeing, birdwatching or white water rafting.

Dinner will be prepared for you to sit back, relax and chat to your fellow companions over sundowners while a crackling fire is ready to keep the chill off. Early nights are usually encouraged so that you wake up refreshed and ready for a another adventurous safari.

When is the best time to go on a Safari Tour?

The Winter months of June to October offer the best game viewing throughout East and Southern Africa. The best wildlife viewing is when the herds of game graze on the dry Savannah during the day. Whilst watering holes and riverbeds are the main attraction at sunset.

Winter is also the best time to see and experience the wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara Game Reserve. The migration is definitely one of Africa’s greatest phenomena and well worth the trip.

It is ideal for a beach vacation on the East coast of Africa with moderate daily temperatures. Naturally these conditions are perfect to soak up the sun.

In the Summer months of November to March  the bush transforms with lush green vegetation. The African sky offers up a dramatic backdrop of dark thunderstorm clouds. It is therefore the ideal playing field for energetic young grazers, with intensified predator action. Also the most popular season for birding enthusiasts with big flocks of migratory birds returning south.

Get a feel for what a Overland Safari in Africa is like from Cape Town to Victoria Falls:

Nonsense – Africa from Little Bear Films on Vimeo . Filmed while travelling on Cape to Vic Falls Tour

Is East Africa Safari or Southern Africa Safari better?

The big question when people consider a safari holiday in Africa is where is a safari tour possible and how to choose between East Africa and Southern Africa .

Southern Africa includes the countries of South Africa , Botswana , Zambia, Zimbabwe , Namibia , Malawi and Mozambique.  While  East Africa  includes the countries of Kenya , Tanzania , Uganda and Rwanda. These are the two main regions for safari holidays in Africa. Each region offers different landscapes, wildlife experiences and attractions.

Therefore lets dive into the pros and cons of a safari in each region to help you decide on your African safari tour .

East Africa Safari

The east african landscape.

When people think of images of an African safari, they usually have scenes from an East African safari in mind. Countless nature documentaries are set on the vast savanna of Kenya and Tanzania.  These two countries boast postcard-perfect landscapes of rolling savanna dotted with acacia trees and are home to the wildebeest migration . The annual migration of millions of animals that takes place between the Masai Mara and the Serengeti . This is truly one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on Earth.

Both East Africa tours and Southern Africa tours have the Big Five wildlife and an amazing diversity of other animals. However East Africa has a higher concentration of game than in Southern Africa. Wildlife are also easier to spot on the open savanna plains. Due to East African national parks not being fenced the wildlife move freely in their migratory patterns.

Here’s a taste of an African Safari in the Ngorongoro Crater of Tanzania:

The east african wildlife safari.

While Kenya and Tanzania are the top countries in East Africa Wildlife Safari tours, Uganda and Rwanda have their own attractions as they are known for wild mountain gorillas. Along with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and Rwanda are the only places where you can see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Tracking mountain gorillas is thrilling and hugely rewarding. Undoubtedly a bucket-list wildlife experience to try and tick off your ever growing list. The experience of coming face to face with a huge silver-back gorilla   is truly unforgettable! You can also go chimpanzee tracking in Uganda and Rwanda, which doesn’t get you as close as you do to the gorillas, but it’s still an amazing wildlife encounter.

Another main attraction of a safari tour in East Africa is a hike up Africa’s highest mountain in Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro . Tanzania and Kenya have beautiful coastlines and idyllic islands for some relaxing beach time, snorkelling and diving.

A few downsides of east African safaris are the number of vehicles at sightings in the popular parks, such as the Masai Mara and the Serengeti . With no limit to the number of cars, you will likely be sharing the view with 10 other vehicles.

Ready to plan an East Africa tour? 

R 75,100 Original price was: R75,100. R 63,835 Current price is: R63,835.

13 Day East Africa Game Parks and Zanzibar Safari (Camping)

Southern africa safari, the southern african landscape.

While Southern Africa doesn’t have the same concentration of wildlife as East Africa, it offers greater diversity of landscapes. Southern Africa highlights include the vast wetland of the Okavango Delta in Botswana  as well as the beautiful Kalahari Desert in Botswana and South Africa.  In addition, the tallest sand dunes in the world in the Namib Desert in Namibia and Africa’s largest waterfall,  Victoria Falls , which straddles Zambia and Zimbabwe.

No forgetting  Mozambique ’s long and beautiful coastline with its beautiful palm lined archipelagos. Mozambique safaris are popular for their picturesque scenery and rich cultural experiences.

With incredibly varied landscapes and climates,  South Africa is the most popular safari destination in southern Africa for good reason. Not forgetting an amazing Big Five safari holiday visiting the country’s flagship park, Kruger National Park  allows you to experience a wide diversity in a short time. Certainly South Africa offers so much from city sightseeing in beautiful Cape Town to a beach holiday on the Garden Route. Mountaineering in the Drakensberg or wine tasting in the Cape Winelands are also popular attractions.

The Southern African Wildlife

Apart from Etosha National Park in Namibia , many of the national parks and reserves in Southern Africa have dense bushveld unlike in East Africa, making game viewing a little bit more challenging. An advantage is you can often get much closer to the wildlife in Southern Africa. Therefore you’ll get to see those elephants or lions up close.

Private reserves or concessions in Southern Africa have strict rules about how many vehicles can be at a viewing. This means that you get more of an intimate experience at a sighting than you might do in East Africa.

If you’re looking for a malaria-free safari destination then east Africa is unfortunately not an option. Africa’s only malaria-free safaris are in South Africa and Namibia (here is our list of the best malaria-free safaris in southern Africa ).

Safari Tourism: A Catalyst for Conservation and Community Empowerment?

Safari tourism, a form of ecotourism, involves visiting and experiencing natural areas, particularly those inhabited by wild animals. It has emerged as a popular travel trend, offering unique opportunities to connect with nature and learn about diverse ecosystems. Beyond the thrill of wildlife encounters, safari tourism plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation and the development of local rural communities.

Wildlife Conservation

• Safari tourism generates significant revenue for conservation efforts. Park fees, accommodation costs, and other related expenditures contribute to funding wildlife protection programs, habitat restoration, and anti-poaching initiatives.
• Tourists often support research projects that help scientists understand wildlife behavior, population dynamics, and habitat requirements. This information is invaluable for developing effective conservation strategies.
• By showcasing the beauty and importance of wildlife and their habitats, safari tourism raises public awareness about conservation issues. This can lead to increased support for conservation efforts and a reduction in harmful activities such as illegal hunting and habitat destruction.

Benefits to Local Communities

• Economic Development: Safari tourism can create jobs in various sectors, including accommodation, transportation, guiding, and souvenir production. This can help alleviate poverty and improve the livelihoods of local residents.
• Infrastructure Development: Increased tourism often leads to improvements in infrastructure, such as roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. This can benefit not only tourists but also the local population.
• Cultural Preservation: Safari tourism can help preserve local cultures and traditions. As tourists become interested in learning about indigenous communities, there is a greater demand for cultural experiences, such as traditional dances, music, and crafts.

It is important to note that safari tourism must be conducted responsibly to ensure its long-term sustainability. This includes minimizing negative impacts on wildlife and their habitats, supporting ethical tourism practices, and ensuring that the benefits of tourism are fairly distributed among local communities. By promoting responsible safari tourism, we can contribute to the conservation of wildlife and the well-being of local people.

Inspired to go on a Safari Tour in Southern Africa? 

R 105,200

41 Day Cape To Cape Southern Explorer Overland (Camping)

R 78,900 Original price was: R78,900. R 67,065 Current price is: R67,065.

25 Day Southern Africa Adventure Safari (Camping)

R 80,700 Original price was: R80,700. R 72,630 Current price is: R72,630.

20 Day Cape Town to Victoria Falls Ultimate Tour (Comfort) *Most Popular*

If you can’t possibly choose between East Africa and Southern Africa for a safari tour then explore both regions on one of our long overlanding tours ?

Our 55 day Nairobi to Cape Town overlanding tour starts in Kenya and takes you through Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia before coming to an end in Cape Town, South Africa. Along the way you will visit most of the best national parks and reserves in both East and Southern Africa.

Some of the best Safari tours travelling to Africa:

• Cape Town Tours
• Johannesburg Tours
• Nairobi Tours
• Victoria Falls Tours
• Zanzibar Tours
• Swakopmund Tours
• Garden Route Tours
• Southern Africa Tours

Our Top Safari Game Reserves:

• Kruger Park Safaris
• Etosha Safaris
• Chobe Safaris
• Okavango Delta Safaris
• Serengeti Safaris
• Masai Mara Safaris
• Ngorongoro Crater Safaris
• Moremi Safaris

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• Malawi Safaris
• Lesotho Safaris

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A day on safari in Africa: what you can expect in camp and in the wild

Oct 22, 2019 • 5 min read

A luxury camping tent in the southern section of Serengeti National Park, Tanzania © Jonathan Gregson / Lonely Planet

If you’ve never before been on safari, one of the great pleasures of travelling in Africa awaits. If you’re lucky, you’ll spend your days tracking down one species of charismatic megafauna after another, from elephants and rhinos to big cats, buffaloes and giraffes. But what does a typical day on safari really involve?

Although experiences will vary depending on your budget and the type of accommodation, whether you’re camping, sleeping in lodges, or glamping under canvas in a luxury tented safari camp, some elements remain constant. Here’s what to expect.

Most days on safari begin before dawn. While watching the sunrise in Africa is reason enough to rise before the sun, you’re also up early because the first two hours of daylight are the best times to see wildlife – in the cool of early morning, most animals are out and about and active (even some of the nocturnal species such as hyena). Even so, there should be no need for an alarm clock – on most safaris, a camp attendant will wake you, a quiet African voice coming from the darkness. Sometimes you’ll be served tea and coffee in your tent, and there may be light breakfast snacks available in the camp’s communal areas while everyone assembles.

As close to dawn as everyone can manage, you’ll be on the trail of wildlife, most often in an open-sided safari vehicle with tiered seating. The norm is that you’ll share these vehicles with other guests (private vehicles cost extra), but they’re rarely crowded. The better camps will provide you with blankets – mornings can be decidedly (and, for some, unexpectedly) chilly! Sometimes called ‘game drives’ in a nod to the safari drives of old, wildlife drives can last for two hours or even twice that – it all depends on what’s happening in terms of wildlife sightings. Very often, guides and drivers from the same camp will be in touch with their colleagues over the radio to make sure that everyone in camp gets to see the same wildlife where possible.

Drives in 4WD vehicles are the most common ways to explore, though walking safaris are sometimes a possible alternative if you're staying in a private conservancy; outside of Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa, walking options are rarely permitted in national parks. Boat excursions are another possibility in some areas, such as the dugout canoe ( mokoro ) trips in the Okavango Delta , Canadian-style canoes on the Zambezi in Zimbabwe (Mana Pools National Park) and Zambia (Lower Zambezi National Park), or the powered sightseeing boats in Botswana’s Chobe National Park or Tanzania’s Selous Game Reserve .

The heat of the day

On most days, you’ll be back in camp by mid to late morning. A more substantial breakfast or brunch usually follows, although sometimes this meal is served a little later as lunch. Whatever you call it, this meal is often followed (and sometimes preceded) by free time – have a siesta, laze by the pool if there is one, or simply find a vantage point from which to contemplate the beauty of wild Africa. If your safari experience includes the option of a visit to a local village or some other non-wildlife excursion, then it will most likely occur around this time.

Afternoon tea – sometimes called high tea – is an old safari tradition, and is ordinarily served around mid-afternoon, between 3pm and 4pm. How much food and drink are offered varies from camp to camp, but you’ll rarely leave hungry, and high quality cuisine is increasingly a part of the safari camp offering.

Late afternoon & evening

As the heat of the day passes, you’ll leave camp for another wildlife drive (or walk, or boat excursion…). These usually last for a couple of hours, and before you return to camp, most safari drives will pause at a scenic site for what’s known as the 'Sundowner', another venerable old safari custom. Nursing the drink of your choice while watching the sunset overlooking a waterhole or acacia-framed golden grasslands of the savannah – bliss!

If you’re visiting a national park, you’ll need to leave the park (if you’re staying outside) or be back in camp (if you’re staying inside) before the sun sets. If, on the other hand, you’re staying in a private or community-run conservancy, there are fewer (very often no) restrictions about driving after dark. In such cases, you’ll return later to camp on some nights, taking advantage of the opportunity to spot nocturnal species using an animal-friendly spotlight. While this could be all kinds of species that you can also see during the day, a night drive opens up a whole world of other possibilities, including rarities such as aardwolves, civets and aardvarks. Another advantage of these conservancies is that, day or night, your driver may be allowed to drive off-road as they try to find wildlife. 

Whenever you arrive back in camp, you’ll be given time to freshen up, and change for dinner. In the more luxurious lodges and camp, you may be expected to dress for dinner as you might in a high-class restaurant. More often, a change of clothes is more about comfort than dress codes. Before and after dinner – which in most camps and lodges is the main meal of the day – there’s usually an open fire burning where you can take your evening drink to stare into the fire or talk with other guests. In some camps, there may be a pre-dinner lecture by a naturalist or some form of cultural entertainment.

When it comes time to return to your tent or room, chances are that you’ll be escorted by a camp attendant with a torch, just to make sure that you don’t stumble upon an elephant, lion or buffalo that may be hanging around camp at night. And then the lights go out and you fall asleep to a chorus of the night noises of Africa.

You might also like: Where you should go on your first safari in Africa The joys of a mobile safari The story of lions (and your guide on where to see them on safari) Are you ready for a self-drive safari in Africa?

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Magical Morning on the African Bush Walk Safari - Part I

Your Guide to Africa

Our Collective

Louise Monsey

What is it you love about being in the African bush? Is it the wildlife? The wide open spaces? The feeling that you are back in the place you belong? The glittering night sky? The sunrises and sunsets that seem unmatched anywhere else in the world?

For me, it’s all of those things – but the magic I find most difficult to describe or capture is the way an African safari awakens your senses.

Louise Monsey – Wilderness Botswana Guide Trainer

As guides, we learn to tune back in to our senses, especially that sixth sense that most of us have learned to ignore, in a world where your senses are often assaulted by too much information, or should I say, information of the unnatural kind.

When you sleep under the stars, there is no hum from the refrigerator or the TV on standby, no artificial lights to impact your sleep… and I even breathe more easily in the fresh air, not cooped up by walls or windows.

My morning safari often begins to take shape in the middle of the night, as I am stirred from sleep by that most evocative of African sounds… the call of the lion. I will never forget hearing my first lion in the wild. I sat bolt upright in bed, every hair on my body standing on end and a tense excitement surging through my veins. It doesn’t matter how long I have been guiding or how many lions I have heard since, I still feel that same nervous excitement. Every. Single. Time. I think it awakens a primal fear in us all. You may never have heard that sound in your life before but your primal self knows. Your ancestors feared that sound and I believe it has been passed down in your genes. Your instincts are still strong.

I try to establish in my sleepy slumber the direction the lions are calling from, and my subconscious seems to track how close the calls get and where they are headed. The wolf-like wails of the black-backed jackals also throng the African night.

As I walk to meet my guests, I’m already checking for tracks. As my guests arrive for morning coffee we hear the lions call again and we grab some of those freshly baked muffins and brewed coffee as takeaways. As I hurry my guests onto the car, the excitement and anticipation grows as we try to beat the sunrise, knowing this is the best time to catch predators on the move. The eerie, low, whooping call of the spotted hyena adds to our excitement.

I breathe in the fresh, crisp air and smell the aromatic wild sage as we drive out of camp; I feel the cool morning wind on my face and count my lucky stars that I get to do this every day.

As we watch the sun appear from the horizon, I stop and switch off the car so that we can just watch. It always amazes me how quickly the sun rises and that no one sunrise is the same.

Tracks are easiest to see in the early morning light and I read the freshness of each track by the morning dew, any disturbance in the track and the presence or absence of other tracks on top.

If we’re lucky, we find those lion tracks and our search continues…

The early morning call of the francolin or spurfowl encourages a contented smile and I may later rely on their alarm calls to alert me to the presence of that lion.

I ask the guests to open their ears to the sounds of the bush; often it is difficult for people from busy cities to single out the sounds and calls when they are used to zoning out to so many noises, and I explain that we use alarm calls to inform us of where predators might be.

Then suddenly a baboon barks loudly and I scan around; a large male is sitting at the top of a sycamore fig tree, which looks bright yellow in the early morning light, and on further inspection I see he is looking east into the river. Then a francolin alarm calls and vervet monkeys start going crazy further east. I tell the guests to keep their eyes peeled in the direction of the calls and suddenly there she is – the exquisite beauty of a leopardess padding silently through the sandy riverbed. We would never have seen her if it had not been for other animals alerting us to her presence. Her rosette spots blend beautifully into the riverine vegetation to camouflage her perfectly from all but the most vigilant eyes, and she makes our morning, vocalising with the classic ‘see-saw’ cough. This leopard is not hunting but advertising her territorial boundaries to other females.

We set off for a closer look and photo opportunities of the leopard, and even though we lose visual for a while, we find her again through the alarm calls of impala and a tree squirrel this time – and the distinct smell of ‘popcorn’. Yes, you read that right, a leopard’s scent-marking smells (to some noses at least) quite a lot like popcorn. It takes a while to pay attention to the smells too… to open your nose along with your ears.

Now a smell you can never forget is if your guide mistakenly drives through the scat of a lion: it is something no guide ever does on purpose, as the smell is really quite repulsive.

As my guests and I are laughing about my rookie error I stop to show them some scratch marks on a tree; as we piece the puzzle together we decide that due to the height of the marks, their size and distance between claws they were likely made by a leopard like the one we had seen earlier; but both leopard and lion will mark their territories in this way, and leopards will leave scratch marks when climbing into and out of trees.

We drive in silence once again, appreciating the beauty of the dawn chorus and feeling grateful that we woke so early to be a part of a morning that we could have missed if we were lying in bed. I consider identifying some of the birds for the guests but we have such a human tendency to have to name and classify everything, that I let them just listen in wonder to the African morning. I do this with stars at night too and whilst sitting watching elephants. Some moments are too magnificent for words and would be spoiled by them. I even encourage my guests to sometimes put their cameras and binoculars down and just see through their eyes rather than through a lens. To be mindfully in the present moment is as important, if not more so, than that perfect photograph – and those are the memories that will last forever.

We’re back on the tracks of the lions now, two large males, when we hear a kudu bark. ‘Kudu never lie’ so we drive in the direction of the alarm call, and as we gaze in the same direction as the stunningly beautiful kudu bull, there they are in the golden, relentless African sun. Two huge, black-maned Kalahari lions, and we wonder if this morning could have been any more perfect.

Put your headset on and take an audio journey with Louise here:

Read part II here

Let’s plan your next journey

When we say we’re there every step of the way, we mean it, literally. From planning the perfect circuit, to private inter-camp transfers on Wilderness Air, and easing you through Customs. We’re with you on the ground, at your side, 24-7, from start to finish. Ready to take the road less travelled? Contact our Travel Designers to plan an unforgettable journey.

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• Apr 14, 2023

Which is better- a Morning or Afternoon Safari in Yala National Park?

When it comes to deciding between a morning or afternoon safari in Yala National Park, it really depends on what you're hoping to see and experience.

At Wild Lotus Yala, our morning safaris typically start early, with most guests leaving the villa around 5:30 am. The early start gives a feeling of adventure and excitement as you head out into the park in our open air Land Rover as the sun is just peeking over the horizon. Morning safaris can also be a great option if you want to see animals that are more active in the cooler temperatures of the morning. During this time, you might have a better chance of spotting leopards, elephants, and birds. In addition, the morning safaris free up the rest of your day to relax around the pool or do a bike tour around our village.

Our afternoon safaris usually start around 2:30 pm and are a great option if you want the chance to see nocturnal animals and witness the beauty of the sunset in the park. You might spot animals like the leopard, sloth bear, and even a jackal or two as they become more active in the cooler temperatures of the late afternoon. Additionally, the "golden hour" lighting during this time can create a magical atmosphere, making for some truly memorable photo opportunities.

Our afternoon Wild Lotus Safari guests return around 6:30, just in time for a bonfire and an al fresco feast prepared by our in house chef.

Ultimately, there's no right or wrong choice when it comes to choosing between a morning or afternoon safari. It really depends on your own preferences and what you hope to see and experience in the park.

Many guests choose to do a full day safari to maximize their chances of seeing wildlife and enjoying their Sri Lankan safari experience to the fullest.

Want to learn more? We are happy to help and only a message away.

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African Safari Explained: What, Why, Where, When, and How much

by Erika Atienza | 5 comments

How To Get There

“African safari is an expedition or a trip, usually by tourists, to observe animals in their natural habitat.”

These natural habitats can be national parks or game reserves such as Kruger national park in South Africa, Masai Mara in Kenya, and Serengeti in Tanzania. For the sake of basic understanding, I will limit my examples to these Top 3 safari destinations that are also my personal favorites.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Serengeti in Tanzania is one of the famous national parks in the world. It spans thousands of kilometers where animals including Simba and Mufasa live and hunt freely. They don’t belong to an owner and they roam wherever they like. You might as well call them wildlife citizens of Tanzania because they live there and are protected by rights in that country.

So as a tourist in Africa, the way to see them is to go on a safari.

Types of Safaris

There are different forms of African safaris. The most notable ones are walking safari, hiking, or the most popular, game-drives.

Walking Safari

A walking safari involves you, your fellow travelers and a qualified guide along with an armed game scout that will take you to the best spots in the park to see wildlife or picturesque views. Like any other type of safari, walking safaris may either be a private tour or a group wherein you join other travelers.

Hiking Safari

Hiking safari, on the other hand, is when you go on a trekking expedition to experience the mountains like Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya, and the Drakensburg mountains. Usually, people combine these safaris with game-drives.

Game-Drives

Game-drives are a staple safari activity. You explore parks and game reserves by riding a vehicle with a pop-up roof. A tour guide/driver will come with you to drive for several hours in search of wildlife. You will drive from between 5-6 hrs. a day and whenever your guide sees a Lion, elephant, or any wildlife, you will stop to see them and/or take photos from inside your vehicle (through the pop-up roof).

Unlike in a zoo, there’s no set place to see the animals. Nobody knows where they will be hanging out at any time of the day, but your professional guide who’ve had years of training and experience spotting wildlife would know where they “might” be. This is why it’s important to have a good tour guide or else you will miss seeing the animals.

Game Drive Safari in Tanzania

Before I traveled to Africa and did my first safari, my only knowledge of the wild are those that I see from the National Geographic Channel or Animal Planet. My closest encounter would be from the not-so-many ZOOS that I’ve been too.

It was so surreal to see animals in their habitat where they live freely. It’s like finally meeting a celebrity you’ve only known and seen your whole life on TV. I was starstruck to see Mufasa come to life gracefully walking in the savannah to join his pride. My jaw dropped when I saw a towering Giraffe up close, and elephants walking past our vehicle felt like a Jumanji experience. All the while, Enya’s Storm in Africa song played in my head as I witness all of it.

You can see temples, museums, and beaches everywhere but an African safari is a completely different experience. It’s out of the ordinary where it feels like traveling to another planet — Animal Planet. The Lion King movie is fiction but the setting and the casts are all based on reality. So if you go to Kenya or Tanzania , you’ll see the real setting and meet the full cast of Lion King… or maybe even more.

If you get the chance, think no further and just go. An African safari is something you should do at least once in your lifetime.

Safari road trip in the Animal Planet

There are several African countries where you can do a safari but the top ones are: Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa

There are several African countries where you can do a safari. South Africa is a popular safari destination being more developed and more-friendly for tourists who want to have more flexibility in doing their safari. Self-drive safaris are common here. This means that you can drive your vehicle because the park has signposts and even have restaurants and gas stations within the area.

In my case, I prefer Kenya or Tanzania if you want to experience a full African cultural immersion. The fact that it’s not as developed, and not as accessible all adds to the African charm. You will see tribes and hundred-old traditions that still survive and the overall ambience screams Africa better than anywhere else. But this also means you have to depend on a tour operator to arrange for everything including accommodation and meals for the whole duration of your safari. The good thing is, you can always tell them what you want to experience, what you want to see and where you want to go so they could design an itinerary that fits your liking.

Around 500 USD per person for a 5 days safari (all-inclusive), meaning all meals, tours, and budget accommodation is included

Around 1000 USD per person for a 5 days safari (all-inclusive), meaning all meals, tours, and budget accommodation is included

Around 1500 USD per person for a 5 days safari (all-inclusive), meaning all meals, tours, and luxury accommodation are included

South Africa

The budget on a safari in South Africa will depend on the activities you ought to experience. If you add a hot air balloon ride or a helicopter tour, for example, prices can soar up to 400 USD for the helicopter add-on alone. The accommodation also affects the entire budget. If you choose a no-frills camping safari, 120-200 USD per person per day would suffice. If you go for the ultra-luxe tented camps, prices can go as high as 1000 USD per person per day or even more.

Compared to East Africa, South Africa is more affordable with an even wider range of accommodation options. Park fees are also cheaper and you can always opt to self-drive. Although frankly, self-driving or doing-it-yourself doesn’t automatically mean it’s the cheaper option. It often can be, but sometimes, all-inclusive packages from tour operators can be less expensive as well. So it’s better to weigh your options first.

Kenya versus Tanzania

Kenya is usually cheaper because it’s common to do a group-joining safari, meaning if you’re alone, you can join other travelers and therefore pay a lower cost. Masai Mara, the most popular park in Kenya, is smaller hence, it’s easier to spot animals. It’s the best place to see the Big 5* too. Tanzania usually only offers private safaris so it’s more expensive especially if you’re traveling alone. Serengeti, the famous park in the country and probably all over Africa, is much bigger so you have to drive farther and the search for wildlife usually takes longer. Overall, both countries have their charm with Kenya being more affordable and accessible.

All safaris are the same, meaning they visit the same parks and game reserves. The only difference in each safari is the accommodation, which is usually classified into BUDGET, MIDRANGE and LUXURY. The rates also differ as levels of service vary from one tour operator to another.

*BIG 5 – Lion, Elephant, Rhinoceros, Leopard, Buffalo. These are the most difficult to see and therefore usually make up the Must-see wildlife when in Africa.

Budget Accommodation

Midrange Accommodation

Luxury Accommodation

Between May and September-  the best time to see wildlife in Kruger or other safari parks

Kenya and Tanzania

Between June and October- wildlife viewing in either country is at its prime

June to August – best season to see the Wildebeest Migration

As year-round destinations, South Africa, Tanzania and Kenya promise excellent holidays, meaning you can go on a safari at any time of the year. But, considering factors like rain and wildlife viewing quality, the best times to visit these countries may vary. Also, if you’re eyeing to see the top wildlife events such as the Great Migration, you should know when and where to go for you to be able to catch it.

South Africa has a varying regional climate although it is mostly sunny and warm with cool nights. The best time to see wildlife in Kruger or other safari parks is between May and September when animals congregate around watering holes and there are fewer tourist crowds. If you want to add other activities in your trip, July to November is ideal for whale watching while November to February is splendid in the Cape.

Being by the Equator, both Tanzania and Kenya share the same climate classified into wet and dry seasons. With less vegetation during the dry season, particularly between June and October , wildlife viewing in either country is at its prime. You can easily spot wildlife around you and it’s almost always a guarantee that many of them are around the watering holes. This is also an optimal time to see the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti in Tanzania. By this time, the herds have reached the Western Corridor and then by the end of July to late September, they will be experiencing the toughest feat of their journey: the Mara River crossing. For October and early November, Masai Mara in Kenya is the place to go as the surviving herds celebrate their survival in a feast of fresh grasses.

By late December to early March , the wildebeest calving season in southern Serengeti, Tanzania ensues. This is another event, which is part of the Great Migration, that should not be overlooked because predator action is guaranteed to be at its finest — from predator-prey action to predator vs predator activity.

The Great Migration is a special event that most people dream of seeing firsthand. I never once thought I would be able to witness such an incredible wildlife event but I did. And you should, too. The animal movement is spectacular beyond words… About two million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles move across the plains to find better grazing while opportunistic predators like lions, hyenas, cheetahs, leopards and Nile crocodiles prowl in anticipation for food. So if you want to experience the wildlife, don’t miss out on the Great Migration.

HOW TO GET THERE

Kenya and South Africa are the biggest hubs in Africa because their major international airports are linked to the rest of the world by many major airlines. Due to competition, flights to these countries are also cheaper compared to flights towards Tanzania, Uganda, and other African safari countries.

To South Africa

The main gateway to a safari in South Africa is Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg . From the US, direct flights are only offered by South African Airways and Delta Airways. Flights depart from New York (JFK) and Washington Dulles or for Delta flights, it departs from Atlanta. From the UK and Europe, several flights from almost all major airport offer daily flights to JNB. There are other international airports, too, like Cape Town and Durban international airports but these are usually for those who would like to explore other parts of South Africa. For example, if you’re planning to start your tour with wining and dining and exploring the Garden Route, your best bet is to fly to Cape Town international airport.

In Kenya, the main airport is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi . This is one of the busiest airports in Africa and is another popular point of entry for many tourists across the globe. From the US, you can fly directly to Nairobi from New York (JFK) via Kenya Airways or you can take connecting flights from other cities like New Jersey (EWR), Washington Dulles (IAD), San Diego (SAN), Washington DC (DCA), Baltimore (BWI) and Chicago (ORD) via airlines such as KLM, Qatar Airways, United, Egyptair and Turkish Airlines. Like flying to South Africa from the UK and other parts in Europe, you can get several flights from almost every major airport including Heathrow, Glasgow, Manchester, Amsterdam, and Zurich. For travelers from Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, the most common stopover point is the Middle East, particularly Dubai.

There is another airport in Kenya which is the Moi International Airport in Mombasa. This airport is popular for those who want to start their safari with a visit to Kenya’s coastal areas.

To Tanzania

Flying to Tanzania may be more expensive compared to South Africa and Kenya and flights, although plenty, aren’t as much available. What other people do is book a flight via Nairobi or Johannesburg and then take a connecting flight to Tanzania, which is usually cheaper than a direct flight. The main airports in Tanzania are Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in Arusha , which is perfect for those who are exploring the northern circuit safari parks (Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, etc.); and Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam , which is the most ideal entry hub for those seeking to discover Tanzania’s remote southern safari parks (Selous, Ruaha, Mikumi, etc.) or fly to Zanzibar.

From Europe, you can fly from UK airports such as LHR and LGW or from Amsterdam to Dar es Salaam. No flights are available straight to Kilimanjaro so the most advisable way of getting there is to take a connecting flight via Nairobi or Dar es Salaam. From the US, travelers can take connecting or multiple-stop flights via Amsterdam, UK or Istanbul. Travelers from Asia can depart from Hanoi in Vietnam, Bangkok in Thailand or Mumbai in India. Flights to both DAR and JRO are available from there.

Flight Cost

The costs of flights may vary but to give you an overview, the US to Johannesburg round trip fares can go as low as $680 and the UK to Johannesburg as low as $570 (£428). For flights to Nairobi, you can get roundtrip tickets from the US for about $750 and from the UK for about $533 (£400). The flights to Tanzania will generally cost more especially if you’re flying to Kilimanjaro International Airport in Arusha. However, you can also score as low as $650 for a round trip fare from Amsterdam to Dar es Salaam. Of course, factors like the season of travel and travel mileage can alter price range so it’s better if you check the prices with your preferred airlines first.

Photo Credits: Gosheni Safaris Africa

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Thanks so much for this lovely post please i have read the whole post please thanks so much

I have a enjoyed reading this post thanks so much please

This is great information! The big 5 is definitely a sight worth seeing. I wrote a few tips to consider if you ever go on an African safari! https://bmoblogs.com/2020/07/19/my-african-safari-experience/

-The Blogging Zoomer

Surely i did a enjoy reading this post thanks so much for the time you spent writing this post

I enjoyed this post.I read your blog site relatively typically, and you are constantly bring out some great content. I shared this oon my Facebook page, and a lot of my followers enjoyeed it. Keep up the good work

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We are Erika and Martin from the Philippines and Denmark traveling through Africa. We like to explore new sights, live local, and show the Real Africa. Keep reading.

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Which One to Choose Between Morning and Evening Desert Safari?

June 2, 2023 By Contributor 1 Comment

Desert Safari

A Dubai desert safari is an exhilarating adventure that belongs on every traveler’s must-do list. It offers a thrilling escape from the urban chaos, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty’s of the expansive desert landscapes.

In addition to traversing the dunes, you can partake in a range of activities like camel or ATV rides, sandboarding, and falconry, which provides you insight into the ancient Emirati culture.

The desert safari also presents an opportunity to spot rare wildlife, such as the Arabian oryx and meerkats, in their natural habitat. As the sun sets, the desert transforms into a captivating spectacle with its stunning shades of red and orange.

This sets the stage for a magical evening filled with traditional Arabic dinner served under the twinkling stars, accompanied by enchanting belly dance performances. Whether you choose a morning or evening safari, the Dubai desert adventure promises an unparalleled experience that combines thrills, cultural immersion, and unforgettable memories against the backdrop of the mesmerizing desert landscape.

Morning and Evening Desert Safari’s

Morning desert safari.

Experience the exhilaration of a morning desert safari in Dubai, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the landscape. Enjoy thrilling activities like evening desert safari tour with quad biking, dune bashing,  sandboarding, and camel riding as the sun rises over the majestic sand dunes. This adventure offers respite from the daytime heat while providing an unforgettable desert experience. Interact with local Bedouin people, learn about their culture, and savor a traditional Arabic breakfast. The Morning Dubai desert safari promises unmatched beauty and excitement, leaving an indelible mark on your senses. Embark on this unforgettable journey and discover the magic of the desert at sunrise.

Evening Desert Safari

Add a touch of enchantment to your Dubai itinerary with an evening desert safari . Embrace the thrill of adventure as you venture into the vast desert landscape in a 4×4 vehicle, witnessing the awe-inspiring sunset that bathes the sand dunes in golden hues. Engage in exhilarating activities like sandboarding, henna painting, and camel rides. Treat your taste buds to a delectable BBQ dinner while being entertained by traditional belly dance performances and mesmerizing fire shows. Feel the cool desert breeze on your skin and gaze up at the starry night sky, immersing yourself in a truly magical experience. An evening desert safari offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, leaving you with cherished memories of the captivating desert ambiance.

Why are these safaris highly sought-after experiences?

• Raw and unadulterated desert experience
• Thrilling activities like dune bashing, quad biking, and sandboarding
• Witnessing the stunning sunrise in the desert
• Enjoying a delicious breakfast with aromatic Arabic coffee
• Learning about the unique flora and fauna of the desert
• Thrilling activities like dune bashing, quad biking, and camel riding
• Witnessing the stunning desert sunset during the evening dune bash
• Immersion in Arab traditions and culture with activities at the desert campsite
• Indulging in a delicious traditional Arabian dinner with various courses and refreshments
• Enjoying mesmerizing fire shows and entertainment
• Optional overnight stay with Arabic coffee, bonfire, and magical sunrise
• Savoring an Arabic breakfast in the morning

Best Time to visit

The best time to visit for a morning desert safari in Dubai is during the cooler months, which typically fall between November and March. During this time, temperatures are milder, making the morning hours more pleasant for outdoor activities in the desert. It is advisable to avoid the scorching heat of the summer months, from June to September, as temperatures can soar to extreme levels. Additionally, the early morning hours provide an opportunity to witness the stunning sunrise over the desert, adding to the enchantment of the experience. It is recommended to check the weather conditions and plan your visit accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable morning desert safari.

The best time to visit for an evening desert safari in Dubai is during the winter months, which span from November to March. During this period, the temperatures are cooler and more comfortable, allowing for a pleasant outdoor experience in the desert. The evenings offer a perfect ambiance for the safari, with the temperatures dropping and creating a pleasant atmosphere for activities and entertainment. It is advisable to avoid the summer months, from June to September, when temperatures can be extremely hot, especially during the day.

By visiting during the winter season, you can enjoy the desert sunset, engage in thrilling activities, and savor the evening entertainment without being overwhelmed by the heat. Remember to check the weather forecast and plan your visit accordingly to ensure an enjoyable and memorable evening desert safari.

Morning Desert Safari v/s Evening Desert Safari

When it comes to Dubai desert safaris, choosing between a morning and evening safari depends on your preferences. The morning safari offers a simple and adventurous experience, with dune bashing and a breathtaking sunrise. It concludes with a delightful breakfast and traditional Arabic coffee. Alternatively, the evening safari is a vibrant and action-packed affair. It includes thrilling activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and quad biking.

The traditional campsite provides a glimpse into desert customs with henna painting and shisha smoking. You can relish a delicious barbeque dinner while enjoying mesmerizing belly dance performances and a traditional Tanura show.

The morning safari is ideal for those seeking a short and tranquil adventure, while the evening safari caters to those looking for a longer and more eventful experience. Consider your preferences for adventure and entertainment when making a choice. Whichever safari you select, a memorable desert experience awaits.

July 12, 2023 at 9:31 pm

I get that a morning desert safari can be fun and exciting to kickstart your day, but if I had to choose, I’d prefer an evening desert safari. It’s more attractive because you get to see the stunning sunset and enjoy thrilling local entertainment like sandboarding, henna painting, and camel rides.

However, I do worry that capturing good pictures for social media might not be as easy during an evening desert safari. Do you think there’s a way to take high-quality photos in the evening?

Cheers, Femi

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A Typical Day on Safari: What to Expect from Morning to Night

Introduction

Embarking on an African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it’s natural to wonder what a typical day on safari entails. From the crack of dawn to the starlit night, each moment is filled with adventure, wonder, and unforgettable encounters with Africa’s mesmerising wildlife.

In this article, I’ll walk you through a day in the life of an African safari, from morning to night, so you know what to expect when you book your adventure with The Grown-up Travel Company.

Morning Game Drive

• Dawn wake-up call: The day starts early on an African safari, usually around 5:30-6:00 am. Don’t worry, you’ll get used to it. The first morning might be tough but you’ll soon adapt to “safari time” – early to bed and early to rise. As the sun comes up, animals become active, and the morning light offers incredible photographic opportunities. You’ll be gently woken with a knock on your door and a hot beverage to help you shake off the sleep.
• Breakfast: Before setting off, you’ll enjoy a light breakfast at your lodge or camp. The menu typically includes fresh fruit, yoghurt, cereal, and pastries, along with tea, coffee, and juice.
• Game drive: With your experienced guide and trusty 4×4 vehicle, you’ll venture out into the wilderness to witness the African bush come to life. Morning game drives usually last around 3-4 hours and offer a chance to see a variety of wildlife, from majestic elephants to elusive leopards.

Mid-Morning and Lunch

• Brunch or lunch: After your morning game drive, you’ll return to your accommodation for a well-deserved meal. Depending on the lodge or camp, you may be served a hearty brunch or a lighter lunch. Expect a delicious spread of cold meats, cheeses, salads, and fresh bread, alongside local dishes and sweet treats. Or you can go for a full “English” breakfast, nobody’s judging.
• Relaxation time: Mid-mornings and early afternoons are perfect for relaxing and unwinding at your accommodation. As the African sun reaches its peak, animals tend to seek shade and rest, making wildlife sightings less frequent. This is your chance to recharge your batteries, perhaps with a refreshing dip in the pool, a siesta, or a good book on your private deck.

Afternoon and Evening Game Drives

• High tea: Around 3:00 pm, you’ll be treated to high tea, featuring an array of sweet and savoury snacks, accompanied by tea, coffee, or even a refreshing cocktail. Again, nobody’s judging. This provides a perfect energy boost before you head out on your afternoon game drive.
• Evening game drive: As the heat of the day subsides and the sun begins to set, wildlife becomes active once more. Your afternoon game drive is an opportunity to spot different species and observe their behaviour as the day turns to night. The golden hour just before sunset offers breathtaking landscapes and dramatic lighting for your photographs.
• Sundowners: A safari tradition, sundowners are a chance to pause during your game drive, enjoy a drink, and watch the sun sink below the horizon. This magical moment is a highlight of any African safari and a time to reflect on the day’s experiences while immersed in the beauty of the African bush. You will probably choose your type of sundowner before leaving the camp because your guide will be taking what’s needed with you. And that’s a G&T or two, right?

Dinner and Night-time Activities

• Dinner: After a day of exploration, you’ll return to your lodge or camp for a sumptuous dinner. Menus often showcase a fusion of African flavours and international cuisine, with dishes prepared using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Dinner might be served in a communal dining area, around a roaring fire, or under the stars in a lantern-lit boma.
• Campfire stories and stargazing: Once you’ve savoured your meal, it’s time to gather around the campfire with your fellow travellers, share stories of the day’s adventures, and listen to your guide’s fascinating tales about life in the bush. The clear African skies also offer a prime opportunity for stargazing. Marvel at constellations and celestial wonders while your guide shares their knowledge of African folklore and astronomy.
• Night-time game drives (optional): Some lodges and camps offer optional night-time game drives, allowing you to experience the African bush after dark. Equipped with powerful spotlights, you’ll have the chance to spot nocturnal animals and witness the thrilling action of predators on the hunt.

A day in the life of an African safari with The Grown-up Travel Company offers a perfect blend of thrilling wildlife encounters, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. From the first light of dawn to the enchanting night skies, you’ll be immersed in the magic of Africa, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re an experienced safari-goer or embarking on your very first adventure, our personalised, professional service ensures that you’ll enjoy the best that Africa has to offer.

As someone with over 30 years of experience in Africa, I can attest to the incredible adventures that await you. When you choose The Grown-up Travel Company , you’re not only booking a holiday, but you’re also investing in a life-changing experience that will leave you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Africa’s awe-inspiring landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Ready for Your African Safari Adventure?

Now that you know what to expect from a day on safari, it’s time to turn your African dream into a reality. Contact me today to start planning your perfect safari adventure, tailored to your individual preferences and desires.

Together we’ll create your very own adventure in the magnificent wilderness of Africa, with the promise – and I would say guarantee – of unforgettable memories that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

A Travel Designer, not a Travel Agent.

I will use my unmatched experience and connections to help you create an unforgettable adventure in Africa. I offer truly personal service – that means you will only deal with me. Every trip contributes to local economies, conservation and community initiatives.

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Choosing Between Morning and Evening Desert Safari

Being one of the top tourist destinations globally, Dubai is keen on adding all flavors to satiate the tastes of passionate travelers. The city has something for everyone, whether a holiday for sightseeing, romance, adventure, or relaxation. It is also confident that you will get the best of everything.

The city has the best adventure parks and tall buildings that provide exciting opportunities for the BASE jump adventure. Helicopter tours, hot air balloons, snowboarding, Jet Ski, and everything is available. But the most popular of all of them is the Desert safari Dubai . It is an exciting journey to the deserts, including adventures, entertainment, and sightseeing.

Highlights of a desert safari

Desert safari ensures a day full of fun. It will take you to the tranquil stretches of sand, provide many opportunities for adventures, give a peep into the authentic Arabic traditions, and entertain you by every means. Have a look at the perks of the trip:

Dune Bashing

This is a crazy ride over the dunes. A skilled driver will take you for a roller coaster ride as you hop onto an SUV. Dune bashing is all about high-speed climbing up and down a dune. The vehicles’ tires are deflated before the journey to allow maximum flexible movement on the dunes. It will last for around half an hour, with photo stops in between.

Sandboarding

Thrill-seekers who crave a solo sport on the sand can try sandboarding. Newbies can try this in a desert safari, as sand is the safest adventure. Strap the sandboard onto your feet and glide over the dunes.

A journey to the desert is incomplete without seeing a camel. They were the companions of the Bedouins (the nomadic Arabs) and the essential means of transportation back then. Though the swinging movement of camels may scare you initially, you will start to enjoy camel riding .

Belly dance

Dubai is renowned for belly dancing. Desert safari gives you the rare opportunity to see a belly dance. A pretty woman will dance mostly with her hip movements. The performance requires excellent flexibility. She will spice the show with colorful props like veils, wings, and canes.

This is an Egyptian folk dance performed by a man. He will spin throughout the performance by wearing a multicolored skirt. The skirt with geometrical patterns and LED lights is a crucial element in Tanoura. The dance form was developed from Sufi dance in Turkey and Egypt.

Desert safaris are offered at two different times, morning and evening. Both are unique experiences, and you can pick one for your tastes and comfort. Following is a comparison of the two popular desert safari packages, which will help you make a wise decision.

Morning desert safari

It is the ideal way to begin a day. A morning desert safari starts at 9 AM when a driver will pick you up from your location and head to the mysterious deserts. Once you reach the red dunes, the adventures will unveil. Dune bashing is the first and most thrilling activity of the day. After that, you can try solo sports like sandboarding, quad biking , and camel ride. This package doesn’t include food except for light refreshments like cold drinks.

Morning desert safari is a simple, no-frills journey that emphasizes adventurous activities. You won’t see a Bedouin camp or the entertainment programs like evening safari. It is a complete trip that offers the utmost privacy. The duration of the journey will also be less compared to the evening desert safari. Another main thing to consider is that it will be unpleasant during summer.

Morning desert safari package

·         Pick-up & drop-off at anywhere in Dubai & Sharjah in a 4×4 Land Cruiser

·         Dune bashing on the red dunes

·         Camel ride

·         Sandboarding

·         Falcon display

·         Quad biking (additional)

·         Unlimited packaged water and soft drinks

  Evening Desert Safari

Frolic in the sand at twilight. Evening safari is known as regular desert safari Dubai which is a fun-filled voyage to the desert in which you will have adventure, entertainment, and food. It will start with dune bashing and give ample time for solo sports like sandboarding, camel riding, and quad biking. Evening desert safari enables you to witness the incredible sunset in the desert. Capture some fantastic pictures as the sun disappears behind the dunes in the backdrop.

After the desert activities, you will be taken to the Bedouin camps, where more delight awaits.   You can smoke a fruit-flavored shisha, get your hands painted with the Henna , and shop for souvenirs for your loved ones. The entertainment programs, including Tanoura, Belly dance, and fire show, provide breathtaking vistas for the eyes. And the best is saved for the last. Enjoy the culinary delights at the dinner buffet with international and traditional cuisines.

Evening desert safari package

·         Pick-up timing: between 3.30 PM and 4:00 PM

·         Dune bashing in the Lehbab desert on the red dunes

·         Camel ride and sandboarding

· Photo stops to capture the sunset

·         Campsite modeled after Bedouin Arabic traditions

·         Traditional Arabic dress-up

·         Henna Painting

·         Hubbly Bubbly Shisha at the Shisha corner

·         Unlimited Arabic coffee and soft drinks

·         Fire show, Tanoura & Belly Dance

·         Buffet BBQ (Barbecue) dinner with both vegetarian and non-veg menus

·         Drop-off to your location at around 9 PM

Comparing the prices

In the morning desert safari, you get a whole journey with your group in a car. It means you can’t go for a solo trip to share the vehicle with others. On the contrary, a shared ride is available in the evening desert safari. The price range for a morning desert safari is between 500-700/per car, while the cost is between 100-300/per head for an evening desert safari.

What to wear

While going for a tour, your clothes are central in determining your comfort. Desert safari is an adventurous trip, meaning you must wear simple clothes. Don’t wear anything that makes you reluctant to try thrilling activities or gives you discomfort. T-shirts, jeans and shorts are lovely. Sand will get into everything when you try adventures like sandboarding and quad biking. So, please don’t wear expensive attire as you may ruin them.

Which safari to choose

When it comes to choosing between morning and evening desert safari, it entirely depends on your interests and preferences. While morning safari shows desert life in a nutshell, evening desert safari is an extended version with flavors like adventures, entertainment, and food.

Morning safari is short and focuses mainly on adventures, while the latter blends everything in a desert. You must share the tour with others on an evening safari unless you have opted for a premium package. Both of them have their distinct features, and the choice is all up to you.

African Safari Terms: What You Should Know Before You Go

If you’re planning on going on an African safari, or have been on safari and felt like you were missing something? Well, hopefully you’ve enjoyed your time in the bush, but chances are you’ve been wondering what all of those native African words and phrases mean!

In African Safari Terms what is a Wild Camp?

Wild camping usually done in a tent can be done in a variety of places, including National Parks and Wildlife reserves, back country areas close to cities or towns, and on privately owned land. The benefits of wild camping include experiencing nature and wildlife undisturbed, gaining independence from conveniences such as campsites. Learning about “Leave No Trace,”and developing wilderness skills. Some wild camps allow visitors to stay for extended periods in order to connect with local wildlife and the local culture. Wild camping can also be known as camping where you are not supposed to be. It is also referred to as stealth camping.

What is the “Bush” in Safari?

The “bush” refers to the natural environment, where animals live and roam free. A wide phrase for sparsely inhabited natural regions characterized by brush and woods.

What is a Bush Walk?

A bush walk is a type of safari where you explore the area by foot. Bush walks are nature hikes that take place in a forest or other natural area. They can be short walks of a few kilometers or long walks of many kilometers. Bush walks offer a chance to see nature and wildlife up close and can be a great way to get some exercise.

What is a Bush Breakfast

Bush Breakfast is an morning meal that is served outdoors, sometime under a canopy where safari guests can learn about the area and the tourism opportunities available. Bush breakfast is a meal that includes eggs, sausage, yogurt, granola, cereal, fruit, nuts and homemade bread.

What is the Big five?

The Big Five of Africa is a hunting term to name the five most difficult and most dangerous animals to hunt. While adventurous photo safari goers hope for a change to photography the Big Five, (Elephant, lion, leopard, cape buffalo, and rhino). Your guide knows that the African bush has so many more wonders to share, many of which can be missed because they are so small, and perhaps insignificant to some. The Ugly Five are the unfortunate African animals that do not meet the unrealistic beauty standards set by the Big Five.

What is a Balloon Safaris

imagine softly floating in the air traveling where wind blows you. A photo journey from above, hovering over the savanna in a balloon. Many places in Africa, offer balloon ride, including Kenya, Tanzania, and Namibia, you may encounter the wilderness and wildlife in the wonderful early rays of the sun. The Balloon Safari is a hot air balloon ride that offers scenic rides over some of the most beautiful landscapes in Africa.

What is the “Great Migration” of Animals on Safari?

The Great Wildebeest Migration, also known as the Great Migration, is a remarkable event. Every year, over two million animals migrate from Tanzania’s Serengeti to Kenya’s Masai Mara. The herd is mostly made up of wildebeest, although gazelles and zebras are also present.

What is Kopje?

A “kopje” is a type of rock formation that may be seen in areas like Tanzania’s Serengeti. A mound made mostly of granite and gneiss rises from the flat plain or Savannah. The picturesque pile is also known as an inselberg, and its name is pronounced “copy.” Because kopjes attract animals, it’s a fantastic spot to photography wildlife.

What Are the Maasai People?

The Maasai are an ethnic group inhabiting southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. They survive mostly on the milk supplied by the cattle they raise, which forage in the plains. Their regular diet consists of a combination of calf blood and milk, with the odd serving of oatmeal. They are among the best known of African tribes due to their distinctive customs and dress.

What is a Night Drive?

Night drives are similar to Game Drives except they are done after the sun goes down. They are the perfect opportunity to see nocturnal animals. Night drives can be exciting, as you a chance to see predators at night, during active hunting hours.

What is Sun Downer?

A sun downer is ‘happy hour’ in the African bush at sunset. Your photo adventure will be spiced up at camp with a sun downer to round off your afternoon experience.

What is a Tusker?

A Tusker is slang for elephant in Africa. They are the largest land animals on the continent and can weigh up to two tons. Tuskers are known for their large tusks, which can grow up to six feet long. Tusker is also a beer brand in Kenya.

African Vocabulary for Conservancy

There are many African words and expressions that could be used for a conservancy. Some words and expressions that come to mind are:

• Ubuntu: A Zulu word that roughly translates to “I am because we are.” It is often used to describe the interconnections of all life and the importance of community.
• Sustainability: A key concept in African cultures, sustainability refers to the ability to maintain something over a long period of time.

Diurnal Animals, Wildlife Terms

Diurnal animals are animals that are active during the day and sleep at night. This is in contrast to nocturnal animals, which are active at night and sleep during the day. Diurnal animals are most active during the day.

Safari Game Drive

A game drive is a safari term for a guided tour of the wildlife in a designated area. Game drives are typically conducted in open-air vehicles so that visitors can have an unobstructed view of the animals. Game Drives usually happen in the mornings and evenings as that is when majority of the animals are active.

Mark my Territory

African slang for going the washroom in the outdoors.

National Park

National parks are managed by the government as a part of their conservation efforts. Visitors are not allowed to go hunting or fishing inside a national park. There are usually stricter rules to follow in national parks are well. at some of the parks you not allowed out of the vehicle.

What is a Night Drive

Night drives are a type of safari that takes place after the sun goes down. They are like daytime safaris, except you have a higher chance of seeing nocturnal animals. Night drives can be exciting, as you have a chance to see predators at night.

What is a Nocturnal Animal

Nocturnal animals are animals that are active at night. There is a good possibility of seeing nocturnal creatures on your night game drive.

What is a Safari Guide Called?

As Safari Guides (Rangers), who are they? ‘A person who advises others, especially on matters of  animal behaviour on an expedition to study animals in their natural habitat,’ according to the dictionary.

What is a Ranger or Safari Guides

Ranger or African guide, is the trained expert that will not only track wild animals so that you maximise your wildlife photo opportunities, but also ensure your safety and enthral you with their knowledge and stories of the bush.

What is a Savannah

The Savannah is a grassland with a few trees and plants strewn around. There are only two seasons in this ecosystem: rainy and dry.

What is a Self-Drive Safari

Self-Drive Safaris are a great way to see some of the best wildlife reserves and parks in Africa. Guests are able to drive themselves around the reserve in their own car, making their own game drives and stops at any time they wish. You can decide where you want to go and how long you want to spend at a certain place, without having to worry about other people or a schedule. A self-drive safari is cheaper than an organized ride and children of any age can participate without restrictions.

A self-drive safari is a great way to spend a day with the kids.

What is a Tse Tse Fly

The Tse Tse Fly is a type of fly that is found in Africa and is known for spreading the disease Trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness. The Tse Tse Fly can also spread other diseases such as yellow fever, malaria and West Nile virus.

A fly that is attracted to dark colors like black and dark blue. Read our article on What to Wear on an African Safari

What is a Tented Camp

Similar to a lodge, there are permanent and semi-permanent camps. Typically consists of safari tents, a lounge, a food tent, and, on occasion, a pool.

What does Territory Refer to?

In the context of African safaris , territory refers to the areas that different animals frequent and call their home. For example, lions are known as territorial animals and will protect their area at all costs. Additionally, territory may refer to a specific geographical region or country depending on the context. These are just some examples given by the passage itself.

What is a Ugali

A porridge produced from the manioc plant’s maize or cassava. The porridge is accompanied with fish, meat, or vegetables. You will very certainly come across an Ugali on your safari, especially if you are visiting one of the East African nations like as Tanzania.

What is a Walking Safari

A walking safari is an exhilarating experience in which individuals go on a slow-paced, guided hikes with the primary goal of exploring various animal species across the bush. The slower speed and lower perspective of being on foot bring to light the minor nuances that are often ignored on game drives.

Conclusion on African Safari Lingo

Safaris are an amazing way to travel and discover a new region of the globe. You’ll be able to see the creatures in their native habitats whether you travel off the beaten road on a private jeep safari or arrange a guided trip.

The more you know before you travel, like with many things in life, the smoother your journey will be. Make sure you’re well-prepared with the proper equipment and understand how to act in the wilderness. Then go out and see the incredible wildlife of Africa for yourself!

Bob Wild is a professional photographer and the former owner of African Photo Safari, having led guided photo safaris to numerous destinations including Namibia in western Africa. He owns Who Said Photography and continues to help introduce newcomers to the joys of photography.

Song Meanings and Facts

The Beach Boys

Surfin’ safari by the beach boys lyrics meaning – riding the waves of nostalgia and freedom.

by SMF AI · Published January 24, 2024 · Updated April 26, 2024

• Music Video

Catching the Break: The Start of a Music Revolution

The camaraderie of the ‘safari’: more than just surfing, unbuttoning the hidden depths: the song’s subtext, iconic lyrics: ‘come on and safari with me’, riding the historical swell: the enduring legacy of ‘surfin’ safari’.

Early in the morning we’ll be startin’ out Some honeys will be bake in the scene I loaded up my Woody with our boards on top And I put on a faded blue jeans (’cause we are)

Come on (surfin’) baby wait and see (surfin’ safari) Yes I’m gonna (surfin’) take you surfin’ (surfin’ safari) with me Come along (surfin’) baby wait and see (surfin’ safari) Yes I’m gonna (surfin’) take you surfin’ (surfin’ safari) with me

Let’s go surfin’ now Everybody’s learning how Come on and safari with me (Come on and safari with)

At Huntington and Malibu They’re shooting the pier At Rincon they’re walking the nose We’re going on safari to the islands this year So if you’re coming get ready to go (we’re gonna go)

Well, surfin’ is big in Sunset-Beach They do it in South Africa too They all getting stoked on the surfin’ craves From Hawaii to the shores of Perus (go down let’s come)

Surfin’ safari

Full Lyrics

At the crest of the 1960s, a tidal wave of musical exuberance washed over the American landscape, carrying on its foamy peaks the sun-soaked harmonies of The Beach Boys. ‘Surfin’ Safari’ wasn’t just a song; it became an anthem for a generation looking to ride the waves of change. As a guiding light of the surf music genre, it encapsulated the zeitgeist of coastal freedom, youthful rebellion, and the pursuit of the American dream.

Diving beneath its catchy melody and upbeat tempo lies a cultural artefact that shaped and was shaped by the era’s shifting sand. It’s a timeless ode to the simple pleasures, a call to break from the mundane, and an invitation to embrace a life where the only compass needed is the direction of the ocean swells.

The year was 1962, the world was teetering on the brink of profound social and political change, and The Beach Boys were about to provide the soundtrack. ‘Surfin’ Safari’ catalyzed the surf culture, introducing it to the inlanders and major cities. Not only did it capture the essence of California living, but it also painted a picture of escapism and leisure that resonated across the globe.

The song’s deceptively simple structure belied its transformative power. Through ‘Surfin’ Safari,’ The Beach Boys were not just recounting their experiences; they were inviting an entire generation to cast away their worries and find a new rhythm in life.

Far beyond its literal call to the waves, ‘Surfin’ Safari’ was an allegory of togetherness. The repeated lines ‘Come on and safari with me’ weren’t only about joining a trip to the beach; they became a metaphor for communal experience, for shared moments amidst the sun and sea. The song united listeners under a banner of collective joy and the pursuit of shared passions.

The Beach Boys didn’t just observe a movement; they helped construct a community. The notion of ‘everybody’s learning how’ served as an equalizer – no matter who you were or where you came from, the waves were a democratizing force.

Like the ocean itself, ‘Surfin’ Safari’ had depths that many might not initially perceive. The safari symbolized an exodus from the structured norms into something more primal – a return to nature through the act of surfing. It was a retreat from industrialism and a plunge into a philosophical reconnection with the Earth.

Moreover, the song’s reference to surf spots around the world, from Malibu to Peru, hinted at the unifying power of surf culture. It was a song of boundary-breaking exploration, encouraging listeners to dissolve cultural and geographical divides.

The central line of ‘Surfin’ Safari,’ the recurring invitation to ‘Come on and safari with me,’ epitomized the spirit of inclusion and adventure. It pushed against the known, urging people to leave behind the familiar shore and embark on a journey led by the pursuit of pleasure and discovery.

It was a call to arms, or rather, a call to boards – a declaration that life was to be lived with the same verve and vivacity that one brings to the waves. In these memorable lyrics, The Beach Boys encapsulated the ethos of a burgeoning culture and a new way of living.

As the years have passed, ‘Surfin’ Safari’ remains a touchstone for nostalgia but also a tether to the indomitable spirit it fostered. Its enduring legacy is found in its continued celebration of freedom, its ability to evoke an era where a board and a beach were the only ingredients needed for happiness.

The song is a time capsule and a reminder that sometimes the most insightful messages are found in the simplest of pleasures. Through ‘Surfin’ Safari,’ The Beach Boys didn’t just capture the feeling of a generation; they provided a harmonious roadmap for any soul seeking the timeless allure of the surf.

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• Don’t Worry Baby by The Beach Boys Lyrics Meaning – Exploring the Depths of Reassurance and Love
• Don’t Talk (Put Your Head on My Shoulder) by The Beach Boys Lyrics Meaning – Unraveling the Silences Within Intimacy
• I’m Waiting For The Day by The Beach Boys Lyrics Meaning – Unraveling the Emotive Layers of Lost and Found Love
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Song Meanings & Facts

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Meaning of safari in English

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• air corridor
• amenity kit
• caravanning
• high season
• phrase book
• post-holiday
• put something up
• ranger station
• tourist trap
• trailer park

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

safari | American Dictionary

Examples of safari, translations of safari.

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to move something by pulling it along a surface, usually the ground

Treasure troves and endless supplies (Words and phrases meaning ‘source’)

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Definition of safari

Examples of safari in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'safari.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Swahili, journey, from Arabic safarī of a journey

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing safari

• safari jacket
• safari park
• safari suit

Dictionary Entries Near safari

Cite this entry.

“Safari.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/safari. Accessed 12 Sep. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of safari, more from merriam-webster on safari.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about safari

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[ s uh - fahr -ee ]

• a journey or expedition, for hunting, exploration, or investigation, especially in eastern Africa.
• the hunters, guides, vehicles, equipment, etc., forming such an expedition.
• any long or adventurous journey or expedition.

verb (used without object)

• to go on a safari.

/ səˈfɑːrɪ /

• an overland journey or hunting expedition, esp in Africa
• any recreational journey or expedition
• the people, animals, etc, that go on the expedition

Word History and Origins

Origin of safari 1

Example Sentences

If you want to see Saturn’s rings and distant galaxies, the Jackson-based nonprofit Wyoming Stargazing offers stargazing safaris.

Snorkelers can take a guided snorkel safari with Reef Magic Cruises and survey a coral stabilization project installed over a cyclone-damaged coral rubble field.

Recent gems include a $119,000 one bedroom, one bathroom apartment filled with large safari animal statues—including a giraffe peering into the shower.

One day, while the others were out on a safari, Ramani and I got talking.

She was fascinated by his stories about the safari he just took in South Africa.

One of the earliest ticker-tape parades was for Teddy Roosevelt when he returned from an African safari in 1910.

But he fell out of favour when it was revealed he had been on a big-game hunting safari.

A mere 800 travelers are allowed to visit the northern area of the park each year through safari tours, and prices are steep.

Would William support a hunting safari in Africa, whose supporters often make the very same arguments?

Earlier this month the two truly got away from it all when they went on an African safari with Eugenie and her boyfriend.

You start on safari to the railway as soon as possible, or sooner.

They set out on a leisurely return to the little safari, accompanied for a few miles by the soldierly Zulus.

A little after noon as they neared the safari they came upon a village which was in great excitement.

The next morning the safari filed out from the camp, the Masai greeting the inspanning with huge delight.

"Safari" is itself a Swahili word of Arabic origin, meaning an expedition and all that pertains to it.

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safari noun

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What does the noun safari mean?

There are four meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun safari . See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

How common is the noun safari ?

How is the noun safari pronounced, british english, u.s. english, where does the noun safari come from.

Earliest known use

The earliest known use of the noun safari is in the 1860s.

OED's earliest evidence for safari is from 1860, in a paper by Richard Burton, explorer and author.

safari is a borrowing from Swahili .

Etymons: Swahili safari .

Nearby entries

• sadware, n. 1683–
• sadza, n. 1899–
• sae, n. Old English–
• S.A.E., n. 1924–
• S.A.E., n. 1939–
• saeta, n. 1898–
• saeter, n. 1799–
• sae-tree, n. 1880–
• saeva indignatio, n. 1796–
• Safaitic, adj. 1887–
• safari, n. 1860–
• safari, v. 1908–
• safari ant, n. 1910–
• safari bed, n. 1936–
• safari camp, n. 1912–
• safari jacket, n. 1938–
• safari lodge, n. 1953–
• safari look, n. 1956–
• safari park, n. 1969–
• safari ranch, n. 1960–
• safari suit, n. 1935–

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Meaning & use

Pronunciation, compounds & derived words, entry history for safari, n..

safari, n. was revised in September 2011.

safari, n. was last modified in July 2023.

oed.com is a living text, updated every three months. Modifications may include:

• further revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
• new senses, phrases, and quotations.

Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into safari, n. in July 2023.

Earlier versions of this entry were published in:

A Supplement to the New English Dictionary (1933)

• Find out more

OED Second Edition (1989)

• View safari, n. in OED Second Edition

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Citation details

Factsheet for safari, n., browse entry.