What activities are available on safari?

Game drives are the quintessential African bushveld safari experience, offering the chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. No matter where you are on this great continent, the expectation and thrill of heading out in the game drive vehicle in the early morning and late afternoon define your safari day.

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Walking in the bushveld with an experienced guide is a great way to learn about the detail of nature. Learn about the tell-tale signs that animals leave when they pass by and evidence of violent encounters between predators and prey. Walking safaris are perfect for those who want to connect with nature on a deeper level and appreciate the quieter aspects of the wilderness.

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Night drives offer a thrilling opportunity to see nocturnal animals in action. With the help of guides, you will experience creatures like hyenas, leopards, and bush babies that are rarely seen during the day. Night drives provide a completely different perspective on the African bush and the behaviours of its inhabitants.

Is your primary interest ticking off Africa's > 2,700 bird species on the mainland and associated islands? Then bird watching on your safari is a must! Bird watching on safari can be a dedicated activity or part of a general game drive. Bring your binoculars and a field guide to make the most of this avian adventure.

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Have you ever wanted to take wildlife photographs like a pro? Spending time on safari with a professional photographer will help take that image you have always dreamed of. During a photographic safari, activities will be tailored for shutterbugs eager to capture Africa's stunning landscapes and wildlife. These safaris are often led by professional photographers who provide tips and guidance on how to get the best shots. Vehicles may be equipped with camera mounts, and schedules are designed to take advantage of the best lighting conditions, ensuring you capture the perfect moments.

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For a truly breathtaking experience, a trip in a hot-air balloon over the African savannah offers a bird's-eye view of the landscape and wildlife. Drifting silently through the air at sunrise, you'll have an unparalleled vantage point to see animals and take in the beauty of the vast terrain below you. This serene adventure is often topped off with a champagne breakfast after landing.

The African continent is strewn with sites of archaeological, historical, and religious significance, and rural people still honouring their age-old traditions and cultural practices. Sensitively managed cultural tours allow you to visit nearby villages, meet people from indigenous communities, and learn about their traditions and ways of life. Understanding the local culture is an enriching aspect of any safari.

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In regions with significant waterways, such as the Okavango Delta or the Zambezi River, exploring an area by boat offers a different perspective on wildlife viewing. From the water, you can observe animals like hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species. Boat safaris are especially enjoyable for their tranquil pace and unique vantage points – whether on a small motor boat, a ferry or a houseboat

Mokoro safaris are a popular activity for tourists. Mokoros are dugout canoes propelled by local guides, allowing you to glide silently through the channels and observe aquatic life, birds, and even larger animals coming to drink. Glide down water channels and view life from a unique low perspective (great for photography!) as you look out for colourful birds, frogs and rarely-seen species such as otters and sitatungas. For example, a mokoro safari offers a tranquil and traditional method of exploring in the Okavango Delta's waterways.

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For a more adventurous way to experience the bush, consider exploring the savannah on horseback. Horseback riding may be an exciting and stimulating optional activity during your safari. Riding through the wilderness allows you to cover more ground than on foot while being unobtrusive to the wildlife. This activity suits experienced riders and provides a thrilling way to experience the natural world up close.

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Participating in conservation activities offers a meaningful way to give back while on safari. Many lodges and reserves provide opportunities to engage in conservation efforts, such as tracking and monitoring wildlife, participating in anti-poaching initiatives, or helping with local community projects. These activities provide a deeper understanding of the challenges and successes of wildlife conservation.

Art safaris are a fun way to be creative while on safari. An art safari is perfect for those who wish to capture the beauty of the African landscape and its wildlife through various artistic mediums. Whether you are an amateur or a professional artist, these safaris offer a tranquil setting to paint, draw, or sketch. Guided by experienced artists, you will have the chance to create masterpieces inspired by the breathtaking scenery and diverse animal life.

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Combine the thrill of wildlife viewing with the relaxation of a beach holiday while on safari. The long African coastline and many islands have beaches - from wide sandy playgrounds to private tropical alcoves. And then there are the many inland beaches on her vast lakes. Coastal regions like Kenya's Diani Beach or Tanzania's Zanzibar offer stunning beaches and opportunities for game drives and marine safaris. After a day of exploring the savannah, unwind on pristine beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or enjoy water sports, making for a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

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Spending time with chimpanzees - our closest genetic ancestors - is a humbling experience. Chimp trekking is one of those bucket safari list items that you should not miss out on. In regions like Rwanda, Uganda and Tanzania, a chimpanzee trekking safari offers a unique opportunity to observe chimpanzees in the wild. Guided treks through dense forests allow you to see these intelligent primates up close, watching their social interactions and behaviours. This thrilling adventure is both educational and deeply moving.

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Many have described gorilla trekking while on safari as a life-changing experience. Spending time with this fellow great ape is a humbling and profoundly spiritual experience that has to be at the top of your bucket list. Trekking through the lush rainforests of Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, or Congo-Brazzaville, you'll have the chance to encounter mountain or lowland gorillas in their natural habitat. Observing these gentle giants is a rare privilege, offering unparalleled insight into their lives and conservation status.

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River rafting, also called white water rafting, is one of Africa's most adrenalin-infused activities. For thrill-seekers, river rafting during safari combines the excitement of white-water rafting with wildlife viewing. On rivers like the Zambezi, you can experience the adrenaline rush of navigating rapids while enjoying the stunning scenery and spotting animals along the banks.

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There is nothing quite like spending a night in the open - on a star bed or even a more rustic sleep-out. This epic safari activity involves spending nights under the stars in a secure, open-air setting, often on an elevated platform or a comfortable bedroll. It’s a breathtaking way to connect with nature, listening to the sounds of the bush and gazing at the clear, starlit sky.

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Combine your safari with a taste of local culture by visiting wine farms in regions like South Africa's Cape Winelands or along Namibia’s wine route. Enjoy tours and tastings at renowned vineyards, learning about the wine-making process while savouring some of the best wines in the world. This activity offers a perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delight.

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