Your Guide to the Best Ways to Safari
Safaris are essential when touring Africa due to the sheer number of unique biomes and animals between countries. Because of that, it is one of the first things to think about when choosing a vacation here. But did you know that the sky is the limit for what types of safaris you can go on? Whether you want to know your options, want to choose the most unique experience possible or are just plain curious, here is a list of types of safaris, with included tips to help you prepare and choose for your travels.
4x4 Classic Safaris: Game Viewer
One of the most popular and most familiar would be open-sided safari vehicles. These can be shaded with a tarp overhead or completely open depending on the company or region. They are built for withstanding dirt roads, the occasional thorns and some steeper uphills when navigating Africa’s beautiful wilderness.
The reason it is a popular choice for providers and travellers alike is the unhindered views, offering a wide scope for spotting animals and being able to sit at higher vantage points on seats towards the back. Overall, these safaris are budget friendly and have much to offer for any tourist of Africa.
However, all that open air can get nippy, especially towards the evening and in the winter. Remember to bring a warm jacket and beanie in case. Also be wary of overhanging branches. You don’t want to be swatted by a stray branch while searching the savannah for a bucket list Big 5 (though you wouldn’t be the first if it does happen).
4x4 Classic Safaris: Pop-Up Land Cruiser
While not as common, the Pop-Top safari vehicle is a welcomed delight. It is a closed vehicle, but as the name might suggest, the roof “pops” open to allow travellers to peek out. Because of this, there is always an overhead cover and shelter from any adverse weather. It has the same capabilities as the classic, however the closed sides are more inviting to animals and make them less likely to startle. The open tops also mean travellers can stand-up and get 360 views rather than being restricted to one seat and viewpoint. Photographers are big fans of these types. The only downside is this asset can’t be used when driving and may feel more restrictive when on the move. But the wide windows still allow for a brilliant safari experience and may feel more comfortable for temperature sensitive individuals.
These are frequently used in Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda but they appear throughout national parks and game reserves in Africa.
Nomad Vehicles
Here at Nomad, we offer several fantastic options balancing a focus on comfort, visibility and practicality, so all you have to think about is the gorgeous views and photos. We have our Quantums (up to 10 seats) and Custom Trucks (12 and 20 seaters). Our fleet of vehicles aim to be all-in-ones. Able to handle the dustier roads of game reserves and national parks, alongside any long-distance travel, these vehicles offer a perfect mix for overlanding tours.
Have a few people craving to travel? Maybe you need temperature control or simply want a smaller crowd? Our Quantums are the pinnacle of comfortable safaris, ideal for anyone needing to truly unwind and take time to enjoy the nature around them. Complete with wide, tinted windows and a trailer for extra luggage, our Quantums are quickly becoming a favoured option amongst travellers.
Nomad’s custom designed & built trucks are made with larger groups and clear views in mind. Compared to the classic safaris and Quantum, the entire truck is elevated, and you can stand and move around the cabin when stopping to view wildlife, meaning you aren’t restricted to one side or lower vantage point. The 12-seater vehicles also have swivel seats if you would prefer to stay seated throughout. The trucks are sheltered from any untoward weather if there is a thundershower or cold breeze, including tints on the windows and shading nets if the sun is hindering visibility.
Many of our tours do make use of the classic 4×4 safari vehicles, however, a select few may be done on our vehicles. With over 25 years of experience put to good use, we can ensure that they provide just as amazing a sighting as other options on this list.
Boat Cruises
Why stick to land? If you are visiting an area with a large lake or river, check for boat cruises in the area! Not only are they far smoother than the off-roading of safaris, but you can come across unusual sightings. Animals will always congregate near water, but the ones to keep an eye out for are hippos, elephants, crocodiles and reedbuck. For all the birders out there, this is the chance to spot endemic waterfowl and species hanging out in shoreline trees. Boat cruises offer the full 360 view and allow for standing and moving around when stationary to get closer looks at wildlife. Depending on the type of cruise, you can even have a dining experience. Imagine a dinner, with a glorious sunset and elephants… sounds like quite the dream.
Popular boating areas include the Chobe River in Botswana, the White Nile located in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda, the Zambezi River around the Victoria Falls, and St Lucia in Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. There are also ocean safari cruises along coastlines if you are more interested in seeing whales and dolphins!
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
The bucket list item to end all bucket list items, a hot air balloon safari is an experience and a half. The views are hard to top – especially at sunset. Worried the animals may be a bit far away to see? Well, while these safaris rarely go as close to wildlife as classic 4x4s, they go from sailing in the sky to practically skimming the grass in remote, unreachable areas so you get the best sightings possible. If you are concerned, then we recommend bringing binoculars in case. You will see animals from a whole new perspective, tracing them over rolling plains as they stroll, bolt and bound in their natural habitat. The only con would be if you are afraid of heights. If you are, be prepared to steel your nerves, because seeing the landscape like this is a lifelong memory you don’t want to miss out on.
These safaris are limited to certain regions due to the open space needed to set-up balloons and get consistently amazing wildlife sightings. The most popular places are the Serengeti in Tanzania, Masai Mara National Park in Kenya, Soussusvlei in Namibia, and the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Do note that some hot air balloons require you to stand for an extended period, so remember to check with your providers if it is a seated or standing outing.
Walking Safaris
Want to walk in the steps of rhino, wild cats and wildebeest? There is an opportunity to do so with walking safaris. Get close and personal with the veld and the animals that inhabit it. Every walk is led by an expert guide, who is driven by passion for the land around them and dedicated to keeping their travellers safe. You’ll learn details about animals you love and other animals you never thought to consider. Walking safaris may not have as many sightings but being on foot a few hundred meters away from an endangered rhino more than makes up for it. It’s never boring, and in other words, maybe a bit adrenaline-inducing if you need the rush.
When prepping for a walking safari, here are three tips: wear longer pants, closed shoes and check yourself over for insects afterwards. Treading paths with Africa’s wildlife is amazing, but it is still wild and unpredictable, so listen closely to your guide’s instructions and safety measures. We offer an optional one at South Luangwa, Zambia, as well as several Nomad Guide led hikes in national parks to reconnect you with nature.
Horseback Safaris
A real treat of an outing, horseback riding takes you into the heart of the action along footpaths carved by animals to meet them in areas unreachable by vehicles. Like walking safaris, you will have a guide at your side, navigating and setting the pace.
Not an experienced rider, but interested in going? Do not fear – many of these rides have different experience levels and are adjusted according to your group. It is recommended to have some knowledge, but not a requirement as your guide will help you with handling if need be. If you are an experienced rider, communicate this with your provider and guide if you want an outride to suit your tastes. Do keep in mind that this activity is more physically intensive than others on our list.
Horseback riding across African landscapes can be a dream come true. If you are planning to try it out, remember to wear a long pair of tighter fitting pants or jeans and bring a pair of closed, sturdy shoes. If you are unused to riding, two tips: try to keep your heels pointed down for better stability and relax into your horse’s steps.
While we do not offer this on our standard itineraries yet, except for optional pony treks in Lesotho, our Tailormade department can definitely arrange this exceptional activity.
Ocean Safaris
With gorgeous coastlines along Africa’s edges, it is no surprise that marine life is so abundant. There are several activities to do by the beaches and lagoons, but one of the lesser known is ocean safaris. From Hermanus’ annual whale migration to the more adrenaline inducing shark cage diving, there is plenty more to do than swim! Ocean safaris will take you out sea, finding nearby locations where there was animal activity so you can see up close dolphins, whales, sharks and seals. Because of the seasonal changes, there are certain windows you have to watch for if there is a specific activity or animal you would like to see.
A very popular activity, which also counts as a walking tour, is visiting the Stoney Point penguin colony. Here you can watch the endangered black and white birds waddle, hop and huddle amongst the boulders. Charmingly clumsy on land, it is a delight to see them come in and out of the water. Like the Hermanus Whale route, there is a boardwalk that can be followed to provide ideal viewing spots.
When going out onto the water, you will likely be required to wear a lifejacket or remain seated when moving. Winds along the coast can also strike up and be colder than expected. Remember to pack sunscreen as hats struggle to stay on with said wind.