There are few travel experiences as soul-stirring, cinematic, and unforgettable as an African safari.
For many, the word safari conjures images of lions stalking through golden grasses, elephants silhouetted against a burning sunset, and the rhythmic beat of drums in the distance. But a true safari is more than that—it’s a sensory journey into nature, where the wildlife is wild, the landscapes are vast, and you become part of a new story every day.
I am excited to jump into a new series as we spend the next several weeks exploring Africa, and specifically- African safaris! This is a bucket list item on almost every traveler’s itinerary, but a safari is so much more than a vacation- it’s a whole experience! And as it is such a grand adventure, researching and planning for it can become somewhat overwhelming pretty quickly.
With that in mind, this series is meant to inspire you, educate you, and get you excited about finding the safari journey that fits your own personality and travel style. So, be sure to follow along by subscribing and commenting what you would most like to learn about safaris!
Let’s Start Simple: What IS a Safari?
The word safari comes from the Swahili word for “journey,” and that’s exactly what it is: a journey—not just through Africa’s extraordinary terrain, but into something deeper. Whether by open-air 4×4, aboard riverboat, or even soaring above in a hot air balloon, a safari takes you into protected wilderness areas where animals roam free and humans are respectful guests.
Modern safaris come in many forms—from rustic bush camps to opulent lodges with plunge pools, private chefs, and sommelier-curated wine cellars. And while the creature comforts may vary, the heart of safari remains the same: an up-close, intimate connection with nature.
Expect to rise with the sun, track wildlife with expert guides, pause for sundowners overlooking the savanna, and fall asleep to the distant roar of lions or the gentle chirp of night frogs.
Where to Go on Safari: The Best Parks and Private Reserves
Africa is vast and diverse, and there is no single “best” safari destination, only the one, or ones, that fit your vision. Here are just a few of the legendary regions where unforgettable safaris await:
- Kenya – The Maasai Mara
Home to the Great Migration, the Mara offers dramatic big cat sightings and sweeping vistas. Ideal for first-time safari-goers. - Tanzania – Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
This iconic safari circuit delivers epic wildlife, diverse terrain, and the chance to witness all of the Big Five. - South Africa – Kruger National Park & Private Reserves
A perfect blend of luxury and wildlife access, especially within private reserves like Sabi Sand and Timbavati. - Botswana – Okavango Delta & Chobe
Exclusive, remote, and rich with waterways, Botswana is safari at its most tranquil and luxurious. - Namibia, Rwanda, Uganda, Zambia –
For the more adventurous, these lesser-traveled regions offer desert-adapted elephants, mountain gorilla trekking, and immersive cultural experiences.
Each destination offers something unique, from predator sightings to rare bird species, from wide open plains to thick riveting forests.
Where You’ll Stay: Types of Safari Lodging
One of the most delightful surprises for many first-time safari travelers is just how varied—and luxurious—safari accommodations can be. Whether you’re looking for a back-to-nature experience or indulgent comfort in the wild, there’s a safari stay to suit your style. Here are some of the most popular lodging options:
Luxury Tented Camps: Don’t let the word “tent” fool you—many of these are more opulent than boutique hotels. Think: king-size beds, polished hardwood floors, en-suite bathrooms, and candlelit dinners under the stars. Tented camps offer an authentic, immersive experience with all the comforts of high-end travel.
Lodges: Safari lodges are permanent structures, often beautifully designed with natural materials, panoramic views, and lots of luxurious amenities! Many are located inside or near private reserves for exclusive access to game drives.
Temporary Camps: Set up temporarily to follow wildlife patterns (like the Great Migration in Tanzania or Kenya), these camps provide a flexible, close-to-nature experience without sacrificing comfort.
Private Villas: For families or groups seeking privacy, many safari properties offer fully staffed private villas or safari houses. The perfect option for customized schedules and complete seclusion in the wild.
Star Beds & Sleep-Out Decks: For the truly adventurous (and romantic), some camps offer open-air platforms or “star beds” where you can sleep under the African night sky. With the sounds of the bush around you and nothing but a canopy of stars overhead.
Each style of lodging offers its own rhythm, atmosphere, and connection to the surrounding wilderness. Your choice will shape your experience—whether you’re drawn to barefoot luxury, ultra-private elegance, or an immersive journey into nature.
We’ll dive deeper into what it’s like to stay in each of these spectacular accommodations in a future post that will give you the information you need to choose the one that perfectly fits your travel style.
Begin Your Journey
Whether you’re dreaming of tracking elephants across golden grasslands or sipping wine by a lodge fire as zebras graze nearby, a safari offers something no other trip can: a deeper connection to the earth—and to yourself.
In this blog series, we’ll explore everything from:
- What to pack for safari (and what not to!)
- A sun-up to sun-down sample itinerary
- The best times to go
- How to choose between countries and travel styles
- Real examples of luxury safari itineraries
…and more.
🌿 Follow along as we explore the wild, luxurious, and unforgettable world of African safaris.
Your next adventure may be closer than you think.
Let’s Work Together!
I would love to meet you and get to know all about your dream vacation! So, if you’re ready, schedule your first travel consultation with me now! Not quite ready to start planning yet? Get inspired HERE, and check out my Planning Process to see how I work.
I appreciate you taking the time to read this article, and I do hope you’ve found the information in it valuable. Please remember to like and subscribe so that you never miss out on my travel tips and updates! And don’t forget to share this article with everyone you believe might benefit from the information.
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