Your Questions Answered - A Luxury Safari Experience
Though I have traveled to 65 countries, my favorite experiences have included those in which I went on safari, in Rwanda, Botswana, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Getting up close with animals in their natural habitat truly is a life-changing experience. You never know what each day will bring – as you marvel at a lioness with her cubs, a leopard lounging in a tree, a herd of elephants walking through the brush, warthogs running (they always seem to be running!), or the graceful giraffes peaking above the trees. And there is nothing like falling asleep listening to the sound of the animals.
With many countries to choose from, styles of accommodations, animal species, and activities, there is a safari experience for every traveler!
WHO SHOULD GO ON A SAFARI: Safaris are great for couples, multi-generational families, friend groups – really anyone who has a passion for animals and culture. When it comes to children, 10-12 years of age and older is recommended.
WHERE CAN YOU STAY ON A SAFARI: Depending on your budget, style, and preferences, you can opt for luxury style tented camps, luxury lodges, or mobile tented camps. My personal preference is the luxury tented camps, with beautiful bedding, copper bathtubs, incredible dining – and with only 6-8 rooms, the service is very personalized.
WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE ON A SAFARI: Days start early in Africa, with a wake-up call by your guide, (who can bring coffee or tea to your room), followed by a light breakfast so that you can get out looking for animals as the sun is rising. By late morning you are back in camp for brunch, followed by several hours to relax, use the pool, or engage in other special activities at your camp (by vehicle, or by boat, depending on where you are). By late afternoon, it’s time to have high tea (more food!) And head out for another game drive. Most days you’ll stop for a sundowner (drinks and food) and followed by an early evening drive to spot some nocturnal animals. Then back to the camp for a fabulous dinner, and time around the fire pit to reflect on all that has happened during the day!
IS A SAFARI ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE: The lodges and camps I recommend are environmentally responsible and contribute to the well-being of local communities and the wildlife. This means that your trip supports conservation efforts, helps save species that are in danger of extinction, and makes a difference to the local people.
IS A SAFARI SAFE: During your safari, you will be accompanied by expert guides who keep both you and the animals safe.
DO I NEED FANCY CAMERA EQUIPMENT: You can use whatever you are comfortable with! Use your phone or bring your camera. Regardless of what you choose to use, make sure to bring extra power banks, batteries, memory cards, and storage devices for backup!
WHAT ELSE CAN YOU COMBINE WITH A SAFARI: There is so much to do on this great continent! Go wine tasting in South Africa, hike Africa’s highest mountain in Tanzania: Mount Kilimanjaro, explore the beautiful coastlines and idyllic islands of Tanzania and Kenya for some relaxing beach time, snorkeling and diving, go biking, learn African dance or take part in African culinary experiences.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO GO ON A SAFARI: The great part is that you can go year-round! When and where you go will depend on what you want to see – from the great wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara, to the wet season in the Okavango Delta, the experts at Journeys Around the World will help you find the perfect fit!
Interested in planning your own safari? Click on the button below to get in touch!