The experience is just as amazing as many people will have told you and can be life-changing.
But, there are a few things to keep in mind before you leave, just to make sure things go smoothly.
Choose the right safari destination
South Africa has many game reserves, including Kruger National Park, where I spent my time.
Kruger is the largest and most famous, offering a range of landscapes and wildlife.
Both self-drive safaris and fully guided experiences are available, so make sure you do your homework and work out which one would suit you best. Especially factor in which option is safest for you and your group as well as which option will get you closest to the animals you want to see.
When to go
South Africa’s dry season is between May and October. It’s considered the best time to go on safari as animals will gather around water sources making spotting wildlife a lot easier.
In saying that, November to February is a great time for birdwatching and as well as seeing new born animals.
Pack smart
Bring neutral-coloured, breathable clothing so you don’t stand out. This will also make dealing with the heat a lot easier. Take an extra layer or two for chilly mornings and evenings.
Comfortable walking shoes or boots are pretty much all that’s needed for your safari trip. There won’t be any need for fancy shoes for a dress-up night.
Do NOT forget sunscreen, as some places sell it with an extremely high mark up and there’s no 7-Eleven around to hook you up.
Other must-haves are sunglasses, insect repellent and a reusable water bottle.
Also, make sure you have all your camera batteries, chargers and memory cards as well as binoculars if you’re planning on using them.
Also, if you are taking a smaller aircraft to your safari location, check its luggage restrictions as some only allow for carry-on sized luggage. In this case, luggage storage can be arranged at stores in the major city airports.
Don’t be that guy
When your group is close to or approaching animals, avoid sudden movements and loud noises as these can disturb them and even trigger aggression. And, kinda annoy your travel mates!
Never leave your vehicle unless explicitly allowed by a guide. Wildlife can be unpredictable and the animals need their space. That rule applies to pretty much the entire experience. Your guides are guides for a reason. Listen to them and respect them.
Patience is key. The best safari moments come from when groups stumble upon animals they weren’t expecting.
Every drive is different and while this is part of the thrill it does mean that it can take time to see animals on some drives.
Study up
Do a bit of research into the animals you are likely to see, or specifically want to see. This can make seeing them in the wild all the more exciting.
Also, get familiar with the term, “Big Five.” This refers to lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalo.
Adjust to the safari schedule
Safaris usually take place early in the morning or late in the evening. So, be prepared for some afternoon downtime. It’s great for taking a nap or doing some reading.
Some properties also have spa facilities on site so kill a bit of time with an amazing massage in the wild.
