Amanda PhillipsAfrican safari
Africa, for many, is a dream destination. One of the many reasons why someone chooses this continent for their bucket list is the desire to go on safari and spot animals they’ve only ever seen on TV. Though some people see this as a holiday that will remain a dream.
A safari in Africa is not as unachievable as some travellers might imagine. It is a long journey down to southern Africa – where most safaris take place – and can be perceived as an expensive holiday. Africa is now however becoming a more accessible holiday option for British travellers with many special packages including flights, hotel and a safari trip. If you’re tempted to book your first safari here are some of our top tips to make sure you get the most out of it.
1. Know what animals you want to spot
A safari isn’t like a zoo where different animals have been purposefully brought together for visitors. Out in the wild, the animals decide where they live. Leaving some safari parks better suited to predators such as leopards while some are better located to spot tamer animals like giraffes. The time of day you go for a safari is also important (lions for example, tend to be easier to spot in the morning). Some will also provide more local culture – such as tribal dances – than others. When choosing which country – or even which reserve – researching where certain animals populate is essential to making sure you tick off as many bucket-list sights as possible.
2. Buy a camera with a good zoom
You’ll want to take home some great pictures for your loved ones and for yourself to cherish forever. The animals however might not move close enough for you to get decent pictures and you’ll be wishing you had a camera with a high-zoom lens. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your camera anyway, before your safari is the perfect time to do so. If you’re generally quite happy with your camera equipment and don’t want to purchase anything new for one trip, you can instead look into renting a camera or even just a lens.
3. Drink plenty of water
It’s hard to imagine just how hot Africa can get unless you’ve actually experienced it. It’s hot with dry air therefore it doesn’t take long for that thirsty feeling to creep in. Drink plenty in the morning before you leave and take a water bottle with you while you’re out and about.
4. Dress in lightweight clothing but pack waterproofs
A lot of safaris involve boarding a boat to see the wildlife on islands and swamps. Keep a thin waterproof poncho in your bag and make sure your bag itself is waterproof to protect your camera and other valuables. Remember a big sunhat and sunglasses too!
5. Bring binoculars, and patience
These are wild animals that are not trained to interact with humans. Guides can’t always get up close to the animals and safaris don’t work to a set schedule. Take a pair of binoculars so when you do see one of the Big 5 luring in the distance, you’ll be able to take a closer look (without getting scarily close).