African Safaris

What to Expect

Safaris are often a lot more structured than normal holidays and are designed to maximize game-viewing as well as guests’ safety and comfort. When on safari, the peak period for watching wildlife is in the morning when the temperatures are not too hot and visibility is good. As a result, early morning rises are common.

Generally, the set routine will include a wake up call by staff serving coffee or tea, followed by an early morning drive or walk to spot game. Breakfast is served following the morning activity. During the middle of the day guests are free to enjoy time to themselves – though wandering around the bush alone is not allowed. Lunch is then provided, followed by siesta and then afternoon tea. By late afternoon another safari drive or walk takes place until sun down. Dinner is served soon after arriving back at the lodge or campsite, and usually includes three courses. After dinner, guests often socialise around the camp fire, turning in early in order to get ready for the next big day.

When it’s time to rest your head after a long day on the land, a night at a lodge is the ideal option. Boasting luxury amenities and privacy, staying at a lodge ensures you get a good night’s sleep and enjoy your holiday to the fullest.

Commonly located within remote areas and purposefully built to blend in with its surroundings, lodges are often found near watering holes in order to attract animals, allowing guests to spot wildlife while enjoying breakfast.

Safari Holidays

Once in Africa, you fly from major African cities into some of the private game parks, or alternatively if you have time on your side, hire a car and drive.

Safari holidays commonly include accommodation (tents, hotels, lodges), transport, main meals as well as services and tours provided by safari staff. Camping equipment and backpacks may also be provided too.

To find out more about the range of tours available with Travel Associates call 0800 482 776 or enquire online.

Safaris and Lodges

Travel Associates can help you take the time and stress out of organising your dream holiday with an all inclusive holiday package. To find out more about the range of holiday packages available with Travel Associates, view our packages below, call 0800 482 776 or enquire online.

Safari Highlights

The appeal of a safari holiday lies in the ability to observe and connect with exotic wildlife in their natural habitat. Imagine looking into the eyes of a mountain gorilla? Such an unforgettable experience is possible on safari in Rwanda. Deep in the heart of Africa, Rwanda’s most popular safaris often involve a trek to Parc National des Volcans to see the majestic gorillas and, if you’re lucky, come face to face with one of these gentle giants.

Kruger National Park in South Africa is one of Africa’s best wildlife reserves and a popular site for safaris. Within this wildlife sanctuary are over 700 species of mammals, reptiles and birds. Sometimes peaceful, at other times frenzied, Kruger National Park is a highly protected environment where endangered species thrive. Observe rare animals such as black and white rhinos, cheetahs, lions and wild dogs in their natural habitat and fall in love with one of Africa’s largest game reserves.

The largest national park in Africa is the Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. Spanning 14,600 square kilometres, the park lies close to the edge of the Kalahari Desert and is home to over 100 mammal species. Hwange National Park safaris often include a visit to the famous Victoria Falls. The famous falls feature a plunging drop of around 105 metres and a width of 1.7 kilometres and are visible for miles. Safaris to this area can also include canoe excursions along the Zambezi River.

Don't leave home without...

Walking shoes and comfortable light clothing are essential items when on safari. If your safari includes canoeing, be sure to pack a bathing suit, towel and a pair of sandals or thongs in case you get wet.

Pack a camera to capture those magical African moments and once in a life time game sightings.

Protect yourself from the harsh African sun and humidity with a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent. You won’t be able to pop down to the local store when on safari or in a remote village, so pack an ample amount of sunscreen and don’t forget to re-apply your sun protection every few hours.

Things to be careful of…

Walking

With wildlife roaming freely nearby, it’s important not to go for walks alone in the bush and always be careful when outside your tent or lodge at night time.

Water

Safari staff will most likely supply suitable drinking water, but be wary of drinking local water from outside the lodge or campsite. Dehydration tablets are also good to have on hand while out on safari.