{"id":876186,"date":"2025-01-10T01:19:07","date_gmt":"2025-01-10T00:19:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/?p=876186"},"modified":"2025-02-21T02:02:19","modified_gmt":"2025-02-21T01:02:19","slug":"a-day-on-african-safari-what-to-expect","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.adventureworld.com\/blog\/a-day-on-african-safari-what-to-expect\/","title":{"rendered":"A day on African safari: what to expect"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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From searching for the Big Five in a 4WD to swapping stories around the campfire as lions roar into the night, every day on an African safari is a wild adventure. Derived from the Swahili word for \u2018journey\u2019, a typical day on safari combines two thrilling game drives \u2013 one at dawn and another in the late afternoon \u2013 when the animals are most active. In between, there\u2019s plenty of time to dive into the local culture, sink your teeth into traditional African food, glow up at a day spa, or simply kick back and enjoy lodge life. Whether you\u2019re exploring a national park, private concession or conservancy, here\u2019s how your day on safari will unfold\u2026\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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5.30am: Your wake-up call<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Most lodges and camps provide wake-up calls either in person, or via the phone or walkie-talkie, as well as a quick coffee and snack before you set off on your morning game drive. No matter where you are, mornings in the African bush are chilly \u2013 even more so in an open safari vehicle \u2013 so dress in warm layers (it\u2019s a great idea to lay out your clothes the night before, as you\u2019ll want to get out the door as soon as possible). And while getting up in the dark and cold might not sound all that appealing, it\u2019s always well worth it: the animals are most active at dawn, with many species out and about, foraging and hunting, before the sun heats up the savannah.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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6am\u20139am: The morning game drive <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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In private concessions, you can head out at any time; in national parks and reserves, you\u2019ll have to wait for the gates to open. Either way, your adventure begins when you take your seat in the 4WD safari vehicle. To maximise your views these are usually open (although some have canopies for shade), with a few rows of seats behind the driver. Some also have a single seat attached to the front, where an additional guide may sit to track wildlife.\u00a0<\/p>

As you set off, the guide might brief you about what to look for, follow animal tracks and other signs (for example, soaring vultures indicate predations), and speak to other guides via radio to confirm and share sightings \u2013 all while pointing out the menagerie of critters going about their morning around you. Predators like lions, leopards and hyenas are often seen finishing their hunts or resting after a feed, while herbivores like rhinos, elephants, gazelles, giraffes and zebras are grazing and slowly moving towards waterholes. Birds are also especially active in the early mornings. For photographers, the morning\u2019s soft, golden light creates gentle contrasts and long shadows, making it an ideal time to capture landscapes and wildlife.<\/p>

At some point in your game drive, there\u2019ll be a short break so you can stretch your legs, and your guide will serve tea, coffee and lights snacks. Usually, you\u2019ll return to your camp or lodge around mid-morning \u2013 by then the temperatures are rising, animals are retreating to the shade to rest, and you\u2019ve earned yourself a proper breakfast!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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9am\u201311am: Breakfast or brunch <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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While most safaris will return to camp for your main morning meal \u2013 which might include hot breakfast favourites like bacon and eggs, continental options, local meats and traditional African dishes like pap (maize porridge) \u2013 some may offer a bush breakfast or brunch in the field. These unique dining experiences are usually part of your morning game drive, with camp staff setting up a dining table in a remote location, often near a waterhole or beneath a shady tree. You\u2019ll be served anything from continental breakfast bites to a classic hot breakfast with all the trimmings \u2026 including Champagne!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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11am-1pm: Time to relax or explore <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t
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Follow the animals\u2019 example and beat the heat with some well-deserved down time. While only some lodges have day spas, pools, guided nature trails, gyms and libraries, wherever you stay will have plenty of shady places where you can relax ahead of your afternoon game drive. But this is also a great time for excursions to local communities and other nearby attractions. For example, in this Victoria Falls & Chobe<\/a> itinerary, you can visit a local village and experience the culture, traditions, and stories of the people who\u2019ve called Botswana\u2019s Chobe area home for generations. On an Authentic Namibia Self-Drive<\/a> adventure, you can meet the Herero, Himba and San people in Damaraland and Okahandja. And on the Treasures Of Tanzania<\/a> safari, you\u2019ll go to a Maasai Village to gain an insight into the life and culture of the Maasai people.\u00a0 Such excursions are not only an excellent way to learn about the communities who call the wilderness home, they\u2019re also a chance to Make Travel Matter and give back to them.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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1pm \u2013 2pm: Lunch <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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If you had a big brunch or breakfast you might opt for a lighter bite \u2013 and many larger lodges and camps offer a buffet style lunch so you can choose as much, or as little, as you like (more intimate camps might serve a set menu). Either way, you can expect a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of fresh, locally grown produce, classic dishes like sandwiches, soups, and perhaps also a few African specialities. In South Africa, for example, you might try bobotie (a spicy meat dish), bunny chow (curry with a choice of protein), or chakalaka (spicy vegetable relish). In Kenya, lunch could include nyama choma (roasted goat, beef, or chicken), ugali (a maize-based side dish), or kachumbari (tomato and onion salad). Wherever you\u2019re dining, lunch is often served with excellent views over the bush, so you can watch nature\u2019s show unfold while you eat.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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3.30pm: High tea <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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A high or afternoon tea is a beloved safari tradition \u2013 a legacy of the British colonial era \u2013 and a top opportunity to catch up with your fellow adventurers at the lodge and reflect on your morning\u2019s sightings. Along with tea and coffee, freshly baked cakes, scones, fruit, biscuits, finger sandwiches, petit fours, pastries, and bite-sized savouries like cheese and crackers, are often served. As the meal is usually served immediately before your afternoon game drive, it\u2019s a good idea to bring your gear with you so you can go straight to the 4WD afterwards. And, even if you aren\u2019t feeling peckish, this is an excellent chance to pre-fuel ahead of your adventure, especially as dinner won\u2019t be served until you return from the game drive, well after dark. By then it\u2019ll be colder, and the mosquitoes will be quite active, so leave \u00a0fully prepared with layers of clothing in light neutral colours (mozzies are attracted to dark hues) and environmentally friendly insect repellent.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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4pm\u20137pm: Afternoon game drive<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t
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Animals start to emerge from their shaded retreats to drink at waterholes and graze as the temperature cools. Like the morning game drive, the afternoon experience lasts two to three hours. Your safari guide will draw on their expertise in animal behaviour to find and track wildlife and stay in touch with colleagues in the field to find the best sightings. Bear in mind, every game drive is different \u2013 wild animals move and behave however they wish. But, with a bit of luck, you might see some action: predators begin their patrols and hunts around this time, while large herds of herbivores gather around waterholes and rivers, making them top spots to observe their social dynamics.\u00a0<\/p>

During your drive you\u2019ll also stop for Sundowners \u2013 a classic safari tradition where you\u2019ll get out of the vehicle at a scenic viewpoint and sip a classic gin and tonic, wine, or a soft drink to toast the setting sun (snacks may also be served).<\/p>

If your game drive is in a national park you\u2019ll leave before sunset as park gates close at dusk, but if you\u2019re staying in a private concession or conservancy, you\u2019re allowed to explore after dark, using a spotlight to look for nocturnal animals on your way back to camp for dinner.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Sundowners in Chobe National Park with Linyanti Tented Camp<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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7.30pm: Dinner and a campfire <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t
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Depending on what time you return from your game drive, you may spend some time relaxing around a campfire in a boma \u2013 a traditional African-style outdoor area enclosed by a rustic wooden fence to create a relaxed, communal atmosphere \u2013 where you can swap stories with fellow travellers under the stars. Dinner will be served in an indoor dining area or outside in the boma, and whether it involves a buffet, set menu, an a \u2019la cart selection or a traditional barbecue (braai), loosen your waistband because there\u2019ll be multiple courses! You may also be treated to live music, dance shows, cultural demonstrations, lectures and cocktails as part of\u00a0 your evening entertainment. And, in between bites and sips, be sure to look up: most camps are located in dark sky areas with minimal light pollution, making stargazing and astro photography extra rewarding.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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The Boma at Linyanti Tented Camp<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t
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9pm onwards: Bedtime<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t
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After such an early \u00a0start, most travellers are ready to call it a day after dinner. If you\u2019re staying in a remote camp or lodge, wildlife may walk through it in the night \u00a0\u2013 so for safety\u2019s sake, lodge staff may see you to your room. For additional safety, some camps also have night watchmen on duty to keep an eye out for four-legged visitors, and your room will have a walkie-talkie or phone for (extremely unlikely) emergencies. Then, slip into bed and let the wilderness\u2019 magical soundtrack of grunting hippos, whooping hyenas and roaring lions lull you to sleep \u2013 the perfect end to an epic day on safari!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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7 common safari questions, answered<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Which country is best for safaris?<\/strong><\/h4>

Ultimately, the best destination depends on what you most want to see, as each African country has its own unique landscapes, cultures and wildlife to put their own spin on the safari experience. Kenya<\/strong><\/a> and Tanzania<\/strong><\/a> are famous for the Serengeti and Masai Mara and the Great Migration, along with an abundance of lions, elephants, and giraffes. South Africa<\/strong><\/a> is a top choice for its well-established Kruger National Park, home to the Big Five, and private reserves like Makutsi Safari Springs<\/strong><\/a> that offer exclusive, luxury safari experiences. Botswana<\/strong><\/a>\u2019s pristine scenery supports a wide variety of ecosystems, particularly in the Okavango Delta, where boat and mokoro (traditional canoe) safaris enhance your adventure. Namibia<\/strong><\/a> is known for its desert-adapted wildlife, including elephants and lions. Rwanda and Uganda<\/strong><\/a> offer excellent opportunities for walking safaris to see chimpanzees and gorillas, and of course, Zimbabwe <\/strong>is home to Hwange National Park, famous for its massive elephant herds and jaw-dropping Victoria Falls. Adventure World\u2019s Destination Experts can tailor your safari to suit your specific interests.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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When is the best time for a safari holiday?<\/strong><\/h4>

The best time for a safari is generally during the dry season from May to October, especially in places like the Serengeti, Masai Mara, and Kruger National Park. During this period, animals gather around waterholes to stay cool, so sightings are a lot more dynamic. Alternatively, the rains of the green season (November to April) bring lush landscapes, vibrant birdlife, and baby animals. While the wetter weather can make travel a little more challenging, the calmer atmosphere brings a more peaceful experience.<\/p>

What\u2019s the difference between a safari in a national park, private concession and a conservancy? <\/strong><\/h4>

Generally, private concessions and conservancies offer more flexibility and seclusion, while national parks provide a more traditional safari experience. In a national park, game drives are on set, public routes, so you\u2019ll share your sightings with more people. A private concession is a more exclusive area that public vehicles can\u2019t access. In fact, as these lands are privately owned, off-road driving is often possible, so you may see areas that are off-limits in national parks. A conservancy offers a similar exclusive experience but often focuses more on sustainable tourism and conservation efforts.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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How many game drives are there each day, and at what times? <\/strong><\/h4>

Most safari camps and lodges offer two game drives each day, one at dawn and another in the late afternoon. These are the best times of day for game drives because this is when the animals are most active: in the early morning, animals are usually feeding or heading to waterholes, while in the late afternoon, predators begin hunting and herbivores graze before nightfall. If you’re staying in a private conservancy, you may also have the chance to go on night drives, where you’ll use a spotlight to search for nocturnal animals.<\/p>

Apart from game drives, what other activities can I do on safari? <\/strong><\/h4>

Walking safaris are a top option if you\u2019re keen to stretch your legs \u2013 these guided bush walks can range from short, 1-hour nature walks to full-day treks. Throughout the experience your guide may show you how to look for animal tracks, wildlife scat and important native plants. In some locations, safaris may also include hot air ballooning, horseback riding, quad biking, kayaking, boating or canoeing, or longer, more strenuous hikes (like gorilla trekking<\/a><\/strong> in Rwanda, for example). Chat to Adventure World\u2019s<\/a><\/strong> Destination Experts for details.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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What are the Big Five, and will I see them?<\/strong><\/h4>

The Big Five refers to five iconic African animals: lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. Originally coined by hunters as the hardest animals to hunt on foot, these species are now the highlight of most safaris for many travellers. But sightings are never guaranteed \u2013 leopards and rhinos can be particularly elusive. In saying that, there\u2019s so much more to see than this small handful of icons! \u00a0Africa is home to more than 1,000 mammal species and at least 1,500 types of bird \u2013 so every safari is an opportunity to see something new.<\/p>

What should I bring on a safari? <\/strong><\/h4>

You won\u2019t need very much, and you may also be travelling on small aircrafts with limited weight allowances, so it\u2019s best to pack lightly. Wear layers of comfortable, moisture-wicking and breathable clothes in neutral colours (to blend in with the environment and avoid attracting insects), as well as sunglasses, hat, sunscreen and insect repellent for extra protection against the elements. A pair of binoculars will help you spot wildlife, and a camera with a zoom lens will enable you to capture it from a distance (it\u2019s worth bringing spare batteries and memory cards, too). Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated on the go, and a flashlight or headtorch for after-dark activities, preferably with a red-light option (as these have less impact on wildlife).<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\tBook your ultimate safari holiday today!\t\t\t\t\t<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\tAdventure World\u2019s authentic, fully customisable safari holidays across Africa, India and Sri Lanka feature unique, handpicked safari experiences, which also give back to grassroots conservation and community initiatives to Make Travel Matter. Visit us online to choose your own adventure or call our Destination Experts on 1300 363 055 in Australia, 0800 238 368 in New Zealand and 1-800 687 4003 in the US to plan your ultimate safari adventure today.\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\tContact us\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

From searching for the Big Five in a 4WD to swapping stories around the campfire as lions roar into the night, every day on an African safari is a wild adventure. Derived from the Swahili word for \u2018journey\u2019, a typical day on safari combines two thrilling game drives \u2013 one at dawn and another in […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":92,"featured_media":876188,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_oasis_is_in_workflow":0,"_oasis_original":0,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":null,"ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":null,"ast-hfb-below-header-display":null,"ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":null,"ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":null,"stick-header-meta":null,"header-above-stick-meta":null,"header-main-stick-meta":null,"header-below-stick-meta":null,"astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center 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