SAFARIS: 7 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

The difference between a good guide and an exceptional one is the subtleties. Finely honed skills such as their eagle eyes being able to spot hidden animals, their story telling abilities which bring facts to life, and their ability to engage you by their sheer passion. We know where to find the best guides in Africa.

Seeing wild animals in their natural environment comes with some surprising emotions. If you are lucky enough to see predators hunt it is fascinating and thrilling, while catching their prey can be sad and gruesome – all part of the circle of life. Expect to be on an emotional rollercoaster.

In national parks, driving off-road is prohibited. This limits a safari experience as animals often just wander across them. The ability to drive through the bush is often the difference between getting a glimpse of a lioness, or spending time with her and her cubs. This is mostly only possible in private reserves, which of course is where most of the decent camps and lodges are.

Going on safari generally means catching your rest time during the day. Wake up is between 4.30 and 5.30am as animals are mostly active in the cooler mornings, rather than the heat of the day. You’ll then have the rest of the day to eat, sleep, drink, swim, spa, read – whatever takes your fancy before heading out on your afternoon game drive (you can of course skip the mornings though if you prefer).

Before your morning game drive there is a light breakfast followed by brunch, high tea, sundowner snacks and then dinner. That’s five meals a day so no chance of starving. It is always incredible to see what the chef manages to rustle up in the middle of the bush – you’ll be surprised at both the variety and the quality of the dishes served.

Unless you are an excellent wildlife photographer, your photos probably won’t do your experience much justice – although good cameras help! Lots of our favourite safari camps provide complimentary high spec equipment to borrow, so there’s no need to travel with anything other than a USB stick.

One of the most enthralling things about being on safari is the engagement of all your senses. The smell of the earth, the sheer spectacle of an African sunset and the sound of wildlife outside your room at night – be it a grunting hippo or an elephant gently rambling past. All reminders that you are in the wild and what a wonderful place it is to be.