A Glimpse into a Typical Day on Safari in Africa – Embarking on an African safari for the first time may leave you curious about the day’s unfolding events. While every tour operator may offer a unique experience, certain themes remain consistent. In this blog post, we aim to provide you with a rough idea of what to expect during your day on safari in Africa, offering insights into the enchanting activities that await.
Imagine yourself on a game drive, the safari jeep coming to a stop as your guide scans the dense thicket with binoculars. After a moment, the vehicle reverses, and your guide points to the right. Behind a large shrub, a family of elephants emerges, quietly making their way through the vegetation. The experience is awe-inspiring, and such remarkable sightings are part of your day on safari in Africa, creating memories to share around the night campfire or during dinner. This is the thrill and fascination of an African safari in any country of your choosing, promising a different and captivating adventure.
5:30 am: Morning Wakeup Call/Alarm for Breakfast
Your day begins with a wakeup call or alarm around 5:30 am, signaling the start of a new adventure. Depending on your discussions with your guide the previous night, you may set an alarm or request a morning call from lodge staff. After organizing yourself, it’s time for breakfast before setting off for the game drives. Dressing in layers is advisable for the chilly morning, ensuring a seamless transition from your lodge to the safari vehicle.
6 am – 11 am: Morning Game Drives
The duration of morning game drives depends on your interests for the day. Whether you opt for a full-day adventure with a packed lunch or return to the lodge for a midday break, the magic of the early morning unfolds as the moon sets and the sun rises. Dawn is an enchanting time to witness the activities of nocturnal hunters and early grazers, such as lions and leopards. Elephants, buffalos, gazelles, antelopes, kobs, and giraffes start their journey to waterholes, creating stunning reflections in the soft morning sunlight. Consider the option of a hot air balloon ride, an unforgettable experience available in Namibia, Tanzania, and Kenya, which requires an early start around 5 am.
By mid-morning, the heat prompts animals to seek shade, making it challenging to spot them in the dappled light. Return to the lodge for lunch, followed by a short nap and leisure time to enjoy the facilities and surroundings.
11 am – 4 pm: Leisure Time – Lunch, Read, Nap, Swim, and More
Mid-morning offers a perfect opportunity for leisure. Whether you choose to relax by the pool with a book or engage in other activities, your options depend on the lodge’s facilities. Trek Africa Expeditions ensures that you select a lodge or camp with diverse elements for maximum enjoyment. Lunch is served around midday, providing sustenance for the upcoming adventures. Afterward, a nap, a refreshing swim, or photo editing sessions are delightful ways to spend your leisure time.
3:30 pm – 7 pm: Afternoon Game Drive
As the afternoon approaches, get ready for another exhilarating game drive. Prepare your binoculars, refill your water bottle, and, if needed, grab a scarf, gloves, and a beanie for the cooler temperatures. By 4:30 pm, the animals become active once again, emerging for activities such as drinking at waterholes and lions reuniting after a day of solitary pursuits. For those in national parks, it’s essential to leave by dusk when the gates close.
Mosquitoes are most active at night, so wear long trousers and sleeves and use an eco-friendly repellent. Evening colors are essential to consider when dressing; avoid black and blue to minimize mosquito attraction.
7:30 pm: Dinner Time
Dinner, a multi-course affair, awaits you in the evening. Depending on your accommodation, dinner may be served buffet-style, plated, or à la carte. Enjoy a drink accompanying your meal, and if the night is clear, savor dinner in a designated area like a boma or campfire, often accompanied by local songs and dance. The rhythmic allure of Africa continues with vibrant cultural experiences.
9 pm: Bedtime
With an early wake-up call, you can head to bed after dinner. Some lodges may offer optional evening activities such as lectures by specialist guides or researchers. However, the tranquility of the African night invites you to embrace the peace and quiet.
One of the remarkable aspects of an African safari is the minimal need for decision-making. Unlike city life, where choices abound, an African safari has a built-in rhythm that proves both relaxing and addictively thrilling. Early mornings, delectable meals, fresh air, wildlife encounters, and tranquil nights create a seamless blend of adventure and serenity. To book your ideal East African safari holiday, contact Trek Africa Expeditions and engage with our safari experts who are dedicated to ensuring your experience exceeds expectations.