Discussing what to expect from a African Safari experience
Few experiences compare to a safari in Africa. Rugged, unspoiled landscapes, exotic wildlife, and welcoming locals create a setting of unparalleled natural beauty and thrilling adventure. When you first set foot in Africa, you may not know where to start. A good starting point is to determine what kind of African safari experience you want. Do you want an expert guide to point out the sights and explain their meaning? Do you want to join a guided tour and get a more structured introduction to safaris? Or do you prefer to go it alone and explore for yourself? Whichever route you choose, you won't be disappointed. African safaris offer something to everyone. Whether you're looking for the big 5 or just a relaxing vacation to take in some exquisite landscapes, you'll find it in Africa. In many African safaris, it's not just about getting up close and personal with animals. You can also experience indigenous cultures, spot unique wildlife, and explore stunning jungle settings that can't be found anywhere else in the world. Whichever African safari you choose, keep in mind there are both leisurely and fast-paced experiences out there. From taking a game drive to socializing with locals and learning about their customs, you can customize your African safari to your schedule and budget. Whether you're looking for close encounters with exotic wildlife or just want to take in the natural beauty of Africa, the African safari experience will leave you in awe. So get out there and explore! But there are realities to deal with when it comes to going on a Safari. We will discuss them here
The Weather
Your game drive is not guaranteed to have good weather, it could rain the entire time you are there, so pack some raincoats just in case.
Other Guests
Unless you have paid for a private vehicle with your own ranger, you will probably be sharing the experience with other guests, from various countries. a game vehicle sits 9 people, so be prepared to work around this. It will impact things like photo opportunities.
Your ranger
So a game ranger sometimes has more to do than drive the guests around, other times they are literally just what we call jeep jockey's. But remember, whatever he is telling you, he has probably said a hundred times already, and it is probably rehearsed time and time again as there is not much changing on game reserves. Unless a new animal was introduced, recently born etc, its the same thing for him. Some are people persons, others are not. They also don't actually get paid a lot, although lodging and food is included, but as a career, there is very little growth in it. So tipping is appreciated, but give it to the ranger directly, I have seen instances where tips paid to the company disappeared into one persons pocket even though it was supposed to be shared out amongst everyone.
The Schedule
When you plan these drives, they usually offer a morning drive, a afternoon drive, and a night drive. I would suggest scheduling a morning and a night drive as these offer unique opportunities and they usually include a stop for breakfast somewhere on the reserve while doing the game drive. The afternoon drives are generally for animals that move about during the day, but don't expect the lions to be very active, they generally get up as the sun goes down. And try to keep your ranger in mind, having him up at 4am to do a drive and then wanting a night drive till 11pm the night before, they are human and need some sleep as well.
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