1. Game drive

A safari safari is by far the most popular way to explore the African bush. Animal viewing generally takes place early in the morning (6 to 8:30 am) and in the late afternoon (4 to 6:30 pm), when the animals are most active. Vehicle types range from open 4 x 4s to minibuses with sunroofs.

2. Night driving

Night drives are especially good for spotting nocturnal animals such as leopard, porcupine, wild cat, African civet, or spotted hyena. Also keep an eye out for bird species such as nightjars and owls that frequent the area.

NB: If you have the opportunity to use the spotlight, make sure not to shine the light directly into the animals’ eyes, as this can blind them!

3.Walking Safari

Safari treks give you the opportunity to “feel” nature in a totally different way than safari activities like game drives. Learn about various aspects of the bush, such as bird watching (and the calls they make), tree identification, and animal tracking. Walking safaris also give you the opportunity to get up close to the animals at close range, although in most cases they will flee as soon as they spot you.

Tip: Try to wear neutral colors (dark colors, eg khaki). Bright colors tend to scare off animals.

4. Boat cruise

The most relaxing way to enjoy nature! Boat cruises allow you to encounter aquatic species up close: hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds (pied kingfishers, osprey, goliath heron, etc.). Some safari operators even offer sunsets where you can enjoy refreshing drinks while taking in the stunning scenery.

Alternatives: Canoe down the Zambezi River or explore the Okavango Delta in a “makoro” (also spelled mokoro/mekoro; traditional canoe; see below).

5. Camping/Sleeping in the mountains

Camping can be an adventure in itself, especially when your tent is located in the middle of nowhere. The most exciting part of the experience is at night, when the wild animals come out and relieve themselves. They can be quite “loud”, and their midnight “concerts” are entertaining. 😉 The most common “trespassers” include hungry hippos, loud elephants, and cunning hyenas.

NB: Do not leave food scraps (or any personal items) outside your tent, as you will most likely not find anything the next morning. Monkeys (especially vervets and baboons) are regular “robbers” during the day, while hyenas become very active after sunset.

Other safari activities worth seeing

– Safaris on elephant backs.

– Horseback safaris.

– Balloon safaris.

– Camel safaris.

– Gorilla safaris.