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What is a safari.

When we think of safaris, we often picture vast open savannahs, majestic wild animals, and rugged four-wheel drive vehicles. But what exactly is a safari?

The word “safari” is derived from the Swahili word “safar,” which means journey or travel. Originally used by hunters, a safari now refers to a guided trip or expedition to observe and appreciate wildlife in their natural habitats. Safaris can take many forms, from walking safaris to hot air balloon safaris, and can be tailored to suit a variety of interests and budgets. 

This blog post shares each of the different safaris available to wildlife lovers, in order to help you understand exactly what a safari is and the type that works best for you.

One of the most popular types of safari is the game drive safari. This involves travelling through a wildlife reserve or national park in a specially adapted vehicle, typically a four-wheel drive. These vehicles are designed to provide maximum visibility for passengers and can accommodate a range of group sizes. Game drives are led by experienced guides who are trained to spot wildlife and provide interesting facts and information about the animals and their behaviours.

Game drives are a quintessential part of a safari experience, offering an exciting and immersive way to explore the wilderness and witness wildlife up close. Riding in a specially designed safari vehicle with an experienced guide, participants can venture into national parks, game reserves, or other remote areas to search for a diverse array of wildlife. Game drives offer the opportunity to encounter iconic species like lions, elephants, giraffes, and more, in their natural habitats. 

With keen eyes and deep knowledge of the area, guides can track and interpret animal behaviour, providing fascinating insights into the natural world. Game drives also offer the chance to witness the breathtaking beauty of the landscape, from sweeping savannahs to lush forests, and capture stunning photographs of the wild scenery. The thrill of the chase, the anticipation of a wildlife sighting, and the raw connection with nature make game drives an exhilarating and unforgettable safari experience.

Walking Safari

Walking safaris offer an unparalleled opportunity to intimately explore and connect with the natural world. Instead of observing wildlife from a vehicle, walking safaris allow travellers to step into the wild and experience the sights, sounds, and scents of the wilderness up close. Led by experienced and knowledgeable guides, walkers can learn about the intricacies of the ecosystem, from identifying animal tracks and signs to understanding the complex relationships between different species. 

These safaris typically take place in smaller groups and are led by a guide who is well-versed in the local flora and fauna. Walking safaris can be tailored to suit different fitness levels, and participants can expect to encounter a variety of wildlife, from insects and birds to larger mammals such as elephants and lions.

Walking safaris also provide a deeper cultural immersion, as participants can interact with local communities and gain insights into their way of life. With every step, walkers can encounter unexpected moments of wonder, from spotting a hidden bird’s nest to encountering a herd of elephants at a waterhole. Walking safaris offer a truly authentic and immersive experience, allowing travellers to appreciate the beauty and diversity of nature in a more intimate and mindful way.

Hot Air Balloon Safari

For those looking for a truly unique experience, a hot air balloon safari may be just the thing. These safaris offer a bird’s-eye view of the landscape and wildlife below, providing a different perspective than a ground-based safari.

Hot air balloon safaris are typically conducted early in the morning when the air is calm and the wildlife is most active. As the balloon gently glides through the sky, adventurers can marvel at panoramic views of vast savannahs, rolling hills, or serene landscapes below. The elevated vantage point provides an unparalleled opportunity to capture breathtaking aerial photographs and witness the beauty of the wilderness from a completely different angle. The serene and peaceful experience of floating in a hot air balloon allows for a tranquil and immersive encounter with nature, devoid of the noise and disturbance of vehicles. 

Wildlife sightings from the balloon are often unexpected and awe-inspiring, with the chance to spot animals from a distance without disturbing their natural behaviour. Hot air balloon safaris provide an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of soaring through the sky with the unparalleled beauty of the natural world, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Photography Safari

Photography safaris offer a thrilling and immersive experience for nature and wildlife enthusiasts who want to capture the beauty of the natural world through their lenses. Embarking on a photography safari allows photographers to venture into stunning landscapes and remote wilderness areas, where they can capture unique and awe-inspiring shots of wildlife, landscapes, and cultural elements. With the guidance of expert wildlife guides and professional photographers, participants can learn valuable photography techniques, such as composition, lighting, and wildlife behaviour, to enhance their skills and capture stunning images. 

Photography safaris also provide opportunities to observe and photograph rare and elusive species in their natural habitats, creating unforgettable memories and remarkable photographs. Whether it’s tracking lions on the African savannah, photographing polar bears in the Arctic, or capturing the vibrant colours of a tropical rainforest, a photography safari is an extraordinary adventure that combines the thrill of wildlife encounters with the art of photography.

Boat Safari

Boat safaris offer a unique and immersive way to explore the diverse ecosystems and wildlife of rivers, lakes, and waterways. Cruising on a boat allows participants to access remote and untouched areas that may not be reachable by land, providing a different perspective and vantage point for wildlife viewing.

Boats make it possible to spot a wide range of wildlife, such as crocodiles, hippos, water birds, and even elephants and other animals that come to the water’s edge to drink. Guides with specialised knowledge about the local flora and fauna can provide insights and interesting facts about the ecosystem and its inhabitants. The tranquil rhythm of the boat and the serene surroundings create a calming and peaceful experience, perfect for enjoying the beauty of nature and capturing stunning photographs.

Whether it’s gliding through the winding channels of the Okavango Delta, exploring the mighty Amazon River, or cruising along the serene backwaters of Kerala, boat safaris offer a unique and unforgettable adventure for wildlife and nature enthusiasts alike.

No matter what type of safari you choose, it’s important to remember that these experiences are about more than just seeing animals. They are an opportunity to connect with nature, appreciate the beauty and diversity of our planet, and learn about the importance of conservation and sustainability.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time adventurer, a safari is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Anna is the founder of Really Wildlife. She's a 30-something lover of wildlife travel, vegetables and listening to the Lion King soundtrack on full blast.

Safari vs. Jungle — What's the Difference?

Difference Between Safari and Jungle

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Definition of safari

Examples of safari in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'safari.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Swahili, journey, from Arabic safarī of a journey

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing safari

• safari jacket
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• safari suit

Dictionary Entries Near safari

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“Safari.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/safari. Accessed 16 Aug. 2024.

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10 Types of African Safaris: Different Ways to Experience a Safari

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Aerial safari

There are countless ways to experience a safari, from open-vehicle game drives to guided walks and horseback riding, and we have compiled 10 types of African safaris you can choose from.

From open savannahs and forested havens to breathtaking mountain landscapes with rolling hills overlooking water channels, the scene is set for a dramatic animal encounter, no matter how you choose to safari.

Whether it's a complete experience or a combination of options, your safari is bound to be unforgettable, no matter which option you decide upon.

1. Guided Game Drives

2. walking safaris, 3. aerial safaris, 4. mountain bike safaris, 5. water safaris, 6. horseback safaris, 7. primate safaris, 8. mobile safaris, 9. photographic safaris, 10. hideout safari experiences, experience the best types of african safaris.

Game drive in Kruger National Park, South Africa

Stepping into an open 4x4 safari vehicle, you may get a sense that something quite unique is about to begin. The optimum viewing platform, a game drive is not only the most popular way to experience a safari, but one that allows you to traverse vast landscapes for a stunning experience in Africa.

Journey across open savannahs, through rocky outcrops, and forested hideouts, coming across a herd of elephants or a lone kudu as you quietly pass wildlife in action. Game drives are an excellent way to see the wildlife, whether on Kruger National Park safaris or Serengeti safaris .

Night drives provide an opportunity to spot nocturnal favorites such as aardvark and civet, and experience the haunting yet exhilarating sounds of the bush after dark. Guides and trackers will use spotlights to reveal wildlife in trees and on land as you navigate under a brilliant African night sky.

Best Places for Guided Game Drives: Kruger National Park, South Africa • Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa • Masai Mara National Park, Kenya • Serengeti National Park, Tanzania • Chobe National Park, Botswana • Okavango Delta, Botswana • South Luangwa, Zambia

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Bush walk with Marataba Safari in South Africa. Photo courtesy MORE Family Collection

A walking safari gives you a more intimate experience of the land and wildlife, guided by a trained professional who understands the terrain and animal life across the best African safari countries .

Tribal communities have lived in proximity to wildlife for millennia, with guides sharing their respect for the environment and its inhabitants with safari walkers.

Get a deeper understanding of the flora and fauna around you and enjoy up-close and personal encounters with the smaller members of the animal kingdom, such as beetles and small birds.

Best Places for Walking Safaris: Chief’s Island, Okavango Delta • Kruger National Park, South Africa •  North Luangwa, Zambia • Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania • Serengeti National Park, Tanzania • Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Aerial safari in Tanzania

An aerial safari gives you a macro panorama of the landscape and wildlife of any destination, the action and drama unfolding beneath you.

Such a safari could take the form of a hot-air balloon ride, microlight flight, helicopter flip, or one on a small plane conducting air-hops between destinations, each providing a view of the scale and wonder of the wilderness, no matter when you go on an African safari .

You may find herds swirling across the grasslands or plains lined with marching elephants, each sighting unique in its unfolding. A safari from the air is one of the most incredible ways to enhance such an experience, with exceptional options on Masai Mara safaris .

Best Places for Aerial Safaris: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania • Masai Mara National Park, Kenya • Okavango Delta, Botswana • Virunga National Park, Rwanda • Kafue National Park, Zambia

Biking in Kenya

Picture traversing a vast landscape on 27-inch tires as you take a mountain bike safari through nature reserves and parks, keeping an eye out for game along the way.

Terrain changes from open savannahs to rugged pathways set among lush rainforests, with opportunities to spot animals in trees and around rocky outcrops. Your qualified guide will point out, from a safe distance, a variety of wildlife.

Enjoy the freshness of the great outdoors, the satisfaction of being active, and the thrill of cycling through parks and reserves, immediately at one with the African bush.

Best Places for Mountain Bike Safaris: Northern Tuli Reserve, Botswana • Laikipia, Kenya • Lower Zambezi, Zambia • Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve, South Africa • Gonarezhou-Malilangwe, Zimbabwe

Mokoro boat safari in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

With a huge focus on water for the land’s survival, it makes sense that one of the more popular ways of experiencing a safari is on water.

With predators and prey tentatively eyeing permanent water sources, game viewing from a mokoro (dugout canoe) or small boat brings you close to the action in a unique way, even when looking for the Big Five and Little Five .

Channels, rivers, and lakes reveal wildlife beneath the surface and on land nearby, creating an immersive yet slow-paced exploration. Boat safaris are one of the best ways to experience the wilderness by waterways, especially on Okavango Delta safaris .

Best Places For Water Safaris: Okavango Delta, Botswana • Chobe Game Reserve, Botswana • Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania • Lake Manyara, Tanzania • Lake Nakuru, Kenya  • Kruger National Park, South Africa • Etosha National Park, Namibia

Lewa Conservancy, Kenya

A horseback safari is one of the most unusual yet inspiring ways to experience the wilderness. Skilled and semi-skilled riders follow trails and tracks through nature reserves and forested parks where predators are a safe distance away.

Imagine coming across a tower of giraffe grazing in the trees above or leading your horse to a shaded rest spot where, once dismounted, a warm beverage awaits you.

Discover parts of a game park or reserve where vehicles may not be allowed to take advantage of snapping some wonderful wildlife shots as you quietly approach antelope, birds, and diverse and breathtaking landscapes and habitats .

Best Places for Horseback Safaris: Makalali Game Reserve, South Africa • Matlapeng Reserve, Botswana • Tuli Reserve, Botswana • Pakamisa Private Game Reserve, South Africa • Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe • Masai Mara, Kenya

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda

A primate safari takes you deep into the jungle or forested terrain of East Africa in search of wildlife like mountain gorillas or chimpanzees.

Discover the wonders of a guided trek through otherwise impenetrable forests, ending up on lush mountain slopes in search of primates swinging from tree to tree or chewing on plant matter. From Rwanda gorilla trekking to Uganda safaris , the encounters with primates are sensational on these expeditions.

This type of safari requires planning well ahead, with opportunities to incorporate other safari types before or after a gorilla or chimpanzee trek.

Best Places for Primate Safaris: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda • Volcanoes National Park • Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda • Kibale Forest, Uganda • Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania • Mahale Mountains National Park, Tanzania

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The beauty of a mobile safari is being able to wake up in one location, then end your day sipping a beverage of choice beneath the stars in a different spot.

Reducing a safari-goer’s carbon footprint and being able to relocate as often as your itinerary allows make mobile safaris popular.

Accommodations are comfortable and simple, easy to pack up and move, with all the mod cons necessary for this kind of experience. Gain access to more sites and sounds with a mobile camping safari.

Best Places for Mobile Safaris: Chobe Game Reserve, Botswana • Serengeti National Park, Tanzania • Masai Mara National Park, Kenya • Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Game Drive Photo Vehicle in South Africa. Photo courtesy of MalaMala Camp. Photo courtesy of MalaMala Camp

Embark on a photographic-focused safari, during which time doesn’t seem to exist as you patiently wait to capture that perfect shot, the African bush your inspiration.

Professional guides help direct you to ensure you are positioned just right to get that winning picture. Staying on a siting or venturing into unique locations within parks and reserves, your time out on safari is yours to get as creative as you want.

Vehicles are fitted with special camera holders, each guest assured of optimal viewing throughout the drive. For a walking safari experience, your guide will ensure open spaces, great lighting, and perfect timing are the order of the day. How you want to experience your photographic safari is one of the many reasons to plan your trip with a safari travel specialist .

Best Places for Photographic Safaris: Okavango Delta, Botswana • Tsavo West, Kenya • Kruger National Park, South Africa •  Sabi Sands, South Africa • Amboseli National Park, Kenya •  Timbavati Game Reserve, South Africa • Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Etosha National Park, Namibia

This may seem a strange way to conduct a safari, but viewing animals from the safety and comfort of a hideout offers a unique perspective on game viewing.

Whether coming upon a hidden locale or strategically located structure, sometimes slightly underground, hides offer seating and windows to the show unfolding before you. Unseen, you have the chance to spot without being spotted, including when exploring the best places to visit in Africa on safari .

Some have you placed at eye level with game at a watering hole, while others may see you set high up in a tree, a bird’s-eye view of your surroundings offering an opportunity to spot wildlife far and wide.

Best Places for a Hide Safari Experience: Kruger National Park, South Africa • Sabi Sands, South Africa • Timbavati Game Reserve, South Africa • Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa • South Luangwa, Zambia • Etosha National Park, Namibia

With a variety of ways to experience an African safari, the choices may seem impossible. However, depending on time and preferences, options are available as stand-alone adventures or a combination of a few. Imagine a few days on a guided game drive followed by a walking safari expedition or primate discovery.

To discover a wealth of information and inspiration, visit our African safari travel guide and take a look at our African safaris . One of our expert safari specialists will be on hand to assist you when you are ready to book your specific safari style.

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Meaning of safari in English

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• air corridor
• amenity kit
• caravanning
• high season
• phrase book
• post-holiday
• put something up
• ranger station
• tourist trap
• trailer park

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safari | American Dictionary

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What is an African Safari – An Introduction

Elephants walk past the camp at sunrise. A herd of zebra skips around the river below. Hyenas cackle until a resonant lion roar echoes through the trees. This is African safari, an evocative immersion in the wild world , an intimate insight into a wilderness that hasn’t been tamed.

The best way to think about it is to consider the etymology of safari. It’s a Swahili word meaning “journey” and journey is the only adequate descriptive for the experience.

It’s a journey that connects you with your wild side , an experience that can only be understood after you’ve taken the plunge and visited Africa’s wildernesses.

What Makes Safari So Special

Africa and African safari are usually too challenging to preconceive . If you’ve been to Paris you can make a guess as to what Rome looks like. But it doesn’t matter how many wildlife documentaries you’ve seen, nothing can prepare for the feeling that exists in Africa’s great wildernesses .

A zoo is where a handful of animals are caged for the enjoyment of thousands of visitors. A safari is where you’re invited into the wildlife world , where you are amongst a handful of visitors admiring hundreds of thousands of wild animals.

Visit a zoo and you’ll see animals, perhaps even get a selfie with them. Go on a safari and the experience can’t be encapsulated in a single moment.

Every day brings an incalculable number of scenes and impressions : baboons shouting, leopard stalking, antelope grazing, buffalo charging, giraffe turned to silhouette at sunset.

So trying to compare a safari to a zoo is like confusing Paris’ Louvre with an elementary school art exhibition: sure, both are art, but they’re not the same.

Embracing the Immersion and Intimacy

With an African safari you are completely immersed in the wilderness and the wildlife world. Through game drives and other activities you will really explore, but the experience is 24-7 . Nature sings a daily lullaby, exotic smells guide your journey, and you can be in awe of the landscapes even when there are no animals in the vista.

At a zoo you’re on the outside looking in. With a safari you’re in the heart of it all, surrounded in 360 degrees of wildlife drama. Seeing animals in their natural habitat is one part of the experience; waking up in the wild is another experience entirely.

This immersion is complemented by intimacy . You get close enough to hear the crunch of lions ripping apart a zebra carcass; glances are shared as an elephant bull looks you up and down; an endangered white rhino seems almost close enough to touch.

Often there is so much going on that everyone gets a different experience in the same place . For example, come across a herd of 2000 zebra and there are many micro scenes to find, not including a lone leopard hiding in the grass nearby.

Experiencing Both the Scale and the Detail

On a first-time safari it’s impossible to ignore the call of specific animals . You want to see lions, leopards, elephants, and all the famous characters endemic to Africa. There’s the big five of course and they’re often high on the list.

At first you’re enjoying redolent snapshots of single animals , taking in all the details on a micro level: a baby elephant chasing a warthog, a lion’s mane, hippos yawning in the water. The level of detail is remarkable and after the first two hours you’ll realise that there is always something new when you look the other way.

Even the smallest private game reserves are on a baffling scale. Some of the big national parks and reserves are larger than most European countries! Such enormous wildernesses provide home for huge animal populations .

Witnessing an elephant is a special experience; around 100,000 elephants can be seen in Botswana’s Chobe National Park . It can take three days just to cross Tanzania’s Serengeti , which is home to more than 2 million wild animals .

It’s this mix of scale and detail that has people coming back year after year for a safari.

But Really, What is an African Safari?

Safari isn’t just going to Africa to see some animals. It’s an opportunity to connect with your wild side and experience the natural world as it really is. But all that’s to come.

Where do you start when there are hundreds of different safari destinations and many distinctive ways to discover the landscape?

Although it’s possible to go on a half or full-day safari, especially if you’re staying in Cape Town, at Africa Freak we always recommend a multi-day safari experience . You’ll see more , feel more , and get a deeper sense of the wild world .

On a typical multi-day safari you’ll enjoy two specific activities each day , which usually maximise the times when animals are most active : early morning and late afternoon . There could be other activities after dark as well, or in big parks like the Masai Mara or Kruger you may spend the whole day exploring.

For the rest of the time you are still on safari. Even at the lodge or camp you’ll be listening to and watching the animals. In most destinations it’s worth the trip just to feel the landscape , before you even set eyes on any of its four-legged inhabitants.

Safari is a Journey

On a multi-day safari you’ll start to understand why safari is such a strong Swahili word. Safari really will take you on a journey as it helps to open up your wild side . With two or three days you can fully explore a single park or reserve, but we’d recommend much longer.

Every safari destination is different , with contrasting landscapes, animals and scenes. Spend a week and you could visit three or four different parks, building a more complete picture of Africa’s wild world.

Hey, if it was up to us we’d spend our whole lives on safari, experiencing all the beauty of the world’s final animal strongholds.

Just by reading this you’ve started the journey and we encourage you to continue. That wild side is ticking within you and there’s never a better time than now to start exploring. Remember, Africa is an enormous continent of 54 countries and over 1000 languages .

Every destination is a little different and suited to a different kind of visitor; you could have a private plunge pool overlooking the herds or a mobile camp hundreds of miles from civilization; for some, safari is sitting back and watching the wildlife roam past, while others want to be out discovering at all times of the day.

So explore the WHERE and learn about Africa’s safari destinations .

Read about WHEN to go on safari to maximise your experience.

Learn about WHO you’re going to meet on the journey, from communities and cultures to all the animals.

Discover HOW a safari day unfolds and get practical tips on making your safari an even better success.

See WHY safari is so important for conservation and self discovery.

And start planning your own safari in Africa .

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What is a Safari?

A safari is a trip on land, usually in jungle or savanna environments, which is engaged in for the purpose of viewing or hunting animals. Most often, the modern safari involves viewing, photographing, and experiencing animals in their natural habitats. With greater laws for the preservation of many animal species, fewer people undertake a safari to hunt animals.

Safari is a Swahili word, which originally derives from the Arabic word for travel, safara . Most associate the idea of going on safari with Africa, but actually there are many safari destinations throughout the world. For example, one can take safari trips in India, Australia, Antarctica, Alaska, Brazil or Peru. Essentially any place where one can observe animals in their true habitats can be a safari destination.

Some safari trips are done mostly by motor transport. It may simply be too dangerous to be walking around lions, tigers, and bears, or other possibly deadly animals. It can also be dangerous to the animals to closely interact with humans. Watching animals from the security of a vehicle allows one to come more closely to the animals with less danger to both animals and humans.

Other safari trips are walking trips, and armed guides usually lead them. They may take place on wildlife preserves. People might camp out for a night on the African Savannah, for example, in tent cabins or semi-permanent camps. These are usually the cheapest way to take a safari, but they do have their privations. For example, access to toilets and ability to bathe or shower may be quite limited.

Alternately, many lodges are built near animal reservations. Lodges can also vary in price. Some of the most expensive can cost over 500 US dollars (USD) a night. They usually include meals in the price, and one can experience some fantastic meals if one is willing to fork over quite a bit of money for the more expensive lodges.

With sufficient funds, one can take a vast variety of transport on a safari. Some lodges offer air balloon or helicopter rides. Others may provide boat trips down rivers, or even journeys on elephants, or camels. Many safari lodges also provide additional activities and luxuries to keep guests amused when not viewing animals.

A safari, meaning the actual tour to see or hunt animals, can last anywhere from two days to two weeks. One might also spend part of this time traveling by air or bus to several locations in order to see the best sights. A single safari could involve camping or staying in multiple locations, which makes packing light a good idea, particularly on the more budget oriented safaris.

Though Africa has the largest number of safari offerings, those in Australia, Asia and South America often can be equally exciting. Many are constructed on the same principals as African safaris, with lodges or semi-permanent camps based near wildlife reservations. In places like Alaska, one can also take one-day tours to view grizzly, Kodiak and polar bears in their native environment. These tend to be offered in conjunction with cruises to Alaska.

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15 Animals to See on an African Safari

The word "Africa" is an evocative one that usually goes hand-in-hand with mental images of vast savanna plains dotted with exotic game. The majority of overseas visitors to Africa will go on  safari and, in doing so, discover that there is nothing more magical than a close encounter with the continent's incredible wildlife. Most of the species one sees on safari are unique to Africa, and many of them are instantly recognizable. In this article, we look at 15 of the continent's most iconic animals, including those that make up the African Big Five . 

TripSavvy / Felicia Martinez

To see a lion in its natural habitat is one of the most humbling, impressive sights an African safari can offer. However, while witnessing a kill is the ultimate prize, you're more likely to see one sleeping than in active pursuit of dinner. Lions spend up to 20 hours a day at rest and are most active at dusk and dawn. They are the most social of all wild cat species, living in prides consisting of between five and 10 adult lions. Tragically, lions are threatened by human expansion throughout Africa, with experts prophesying that populations could fall by as much as five percent in the next 20 years.

Best Places to See Lions: Head to Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park on the border of South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana; or to Tanzania's Serengeti National Park during the wildebeest migration. 

There is nothing quite like the first time you see an  African elephant  in the wild. As the largest living terrestrial animal on Earth, their size alone is overwhelming; but many visitors also find themselves drawn by the elephants' tangible aura of wisdom. Elephants are found in various sub-Saharan habitats, including forests, deserts, and savanna. They are herbivorous, processing up to 600 pounds of vegetation per day. Although most elephants are peaceful by nature, they can be dangerous if provoked; however, they are far more at risk from humans than we are from them. 

Best Places to See Elephants: Vast elephant herds roam Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe and Chobe National Park in Botswana. 

As the tallest animal on Earth, you'd think that giraffes would be easy to spot on safari. However, their distinctive brown and white markings serve as excellent camouflage, and it's not unusual for giraffes to materialize out of the bush just a few feet away. There are nine subspecies found across sub-Saharan Africa, all of which boast blue tongues, stubby horn-like protrusions on their heads, and of course, outrageously long necks. To drink without losing consciousness, the giraffe's neck contains unique veins and valves that regulate the flow of blood to its head. 

Best Places to See Giraffes: Spot large herds of Masai giraffe in the Serengeti, or head to Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda to see the endangered Rothschild's giraffe. 

The elusive  African leopard  is a subspecies of leopard found only in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite its wide range, leopards are among the most difficult of all safari animals to see, as they are both nocturnal and exceptionally wary of humans. Leopards use trees as observation platforms and for protection, and that is where they are most often spotted during daylight hours. They are solitary animals with exceptional predatory skills, including the ability to climb, swim, and drag prey weighing up to three times their body weight up into the trees. Leopards are classified as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. 

Best Places to See Leopards: South Africa's Sabi Sands Game Reserve and South Luangwa National Park in Zambia are famous for leopard sightings. 

White Rhino

Thomas Halle/ Getty Images

The easiest way to tell Africa's two rhino species apart is by the shape of their bottom lip: wide and square for white rhinos and pointed for black rhinos. The name "white" rhino comes from a mistranslation of the Dutch word for "wide." Although the survival of both species is threatened by widespread poaching, white rhinos are more numerous and therefore easier to spot, especially in Southern Africa, where they prefer grassland and savanna habitats. White rhinos are the largest of five extant rhino species. Adult males averaging around 5,100 pounds are also one of the world's heaviest land mammals.

Best Places to See White Rhinos: Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park and Kruger National Park in South Africa offer a good chance of spotting white rhinos.

Black Rhino

Manuel ROMARIS/Getty Images

Once found across Southern and East Africa, the black rhino is now considered critically endangered, with fewer than 5,000 individuals left in the wild and three subspecies already classified as extinct. Adult black rhinos have no natural predators, and their population collapse is predominantly due to poaching. They are killed for their horns, made of keratin, and exported to Asia for use in traditional Chinese medicine. Unlike white rhinos, which can sometimes be seen living in herds, black rhinos are generally solitary (although the bond between mother and calf is strong). They favor thick scrub and bushland.

Best Places to See Black Rhinos: Etosha National Park in Namibia is a rhino conservation success story with a thriving black rhino population. Kenya's Ol Pejeta Conservancy is another renowned sanctuary for black rhinos.

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

The cheetah is the most slender of Africa's big cats, a magnificent animal known for its incredible speed. They are capable of short bursts of up to 70 miles per hour, making them the world's fastest land animal. However, cheetahs often have their kills stolen by other, more powerful predators despite their speed. They are a vulnerable species with only around 7,100 individuals left in the wild, including a tiny population of approximately 40 individuals in Iran. Cheetahs are found throughout Southern and East Africa in wide-open spaces that allow them to reach their top speed while pursuing prey. 

Best Places to See Cheetahs: The Maasai Mara National Reserve provides the ideal habitat for cheetahs. Alternatively, track rehabilitated cheetah on foot at  Okonjima Game Reserve in Namibia. 

African buffalo have a robust build and distinctive fused horns. They are grazers, typically moving in herds, with no natural predators except lions and crocodiles. Unlike other species of wild buffalo, the African buffalo has never been successfully tamed, thanks to its naturally aggressive and unpredictable nature. Although seeing a buffalo herd ranging across the savanna is undoubtedly an unforgettable sight, it's crucial to treat these animals with respect. They are responsible for multiple human fatalities every year and are considered one of the continent's most dangerous species. 

Best Places to See Buffalo: Katavi National Park in Tanzania is famous for its enormous buffalo herds. Chobe National Park is another good bet. 

Hippopotamus

Hippos are a common sight in Southern and East Africa's rivers, swamps, and lakes. Often found in groups of up to 100 individuals, hippos spend most of their life in water, only leaving their aquatic homes to graze on the riverbanks at dusk. They have several fascinating adaptations, including webbed feet, large canine tusks, and the ability to secrete a kind of natural sunscreen. Male hippos are territorial and, like buffalo, can be exceptionally aggressive when provoked. Similarly, take care never to get between a hippo mother and her calf. 

Best Places to See Hippos:  Zambia's  Luangwa Valley  is home to the world's largest concentration of hippos. The Okavango Delta in Botswana is also full of them. 

Nile Crocodile

After the saltwater crocodile, Nile crocodiles are the world's largest living reptile, with the biggest on record exceeding 20 feet in length. In sub-Saharan Africa, they are found in various aquatic habitats, including lakes, rivers, and deltas. Crocodiles are well camouflaged in the water and are most often spotted sunning themselves on the riverbank. They have been around for millions of years, and with heavily armored skin and powerful jaws, they certainly look prehistoric. Nile crocodiles are perfect predators, employing ambush tactics to take their prey unawares. 

Best Place to See Crocodiles: Watch herds of wildebeest and zebra crossing the Mara River during East Africa's annual migration to see Nile crocodiles in action. 

There are three species of zebra in Africa; the plains zebra most commonly seen throughout East and Southern Africa , and the rarer mountain and Grévy's zebras. Although they may look like domestic horses, zebras are almost impossible to tame; their distinctive stripe patterns are unique to each individual as a human's fingerprints. Zebras live on grass, and in some areas, form great migratory herds to seek out the best grazing grounds. They often create a mutually beneficial relationship with another African species during the migration, the wildebeest . 

Best Places to See Zebra: For sheer numbers, you can't beat the Serengeti or the Maasai Mara during migration season. To see the endangered Grévy's zebra, head to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in northern Kenya. 

Thomas Retterath/Getty Images

Easily recognizable by their tan, black, and white fur, African wild dogs are the largest (and one of the rarest) canids in Africa. They are highly social animals, living in packs led by an alpha male and female and communicating with a series of high-pitched twittering sounds. Wild dogs hunt as a team, chasing their prey until it collapses from exhaustion. Unlike other social carnivores, weaned pups are allowed to eat first at the kill to give them the best chance of survival. Nevertheless, African wild dogs are endangered, with populations declining due to habitat fragmentation, human conflict, and diseases spread by domestic dogs.

Best Places to See Wild Dogs: Top destinations for spotting wild dogs include Ruaha National Park in Tanzania, Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa, and Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe.

The most common large carnivore on the African continent, the Hyaenidae family comprises four species of hyena: spotted, brown, striped, and aardwolf. Though their mighty jaws and strong digestive tract are ideally suited for scavenging, hyenas only feed on carrion and other refuse for 30 percent of their meals; for the other 70 percent, they prey on animals of all different sizes and shapes, including wildebeest, antelope, birds, and snakes. Hyena clans can consist of up to 100 members, and individuals will communicate with each other through wailing, screaming, and "laughing." Hyenas (particularly spotted) live in a range of habitats throughout sub-Saharan Africa, from savannas and grasslands to subdeserts and mountains.

Best Places to See Hyena: You can find hyenas in many national parks in Africa, including Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, Namibia's Cape Cross Seal Reserve , and Ruaha National Park in Tanzania. For your best chance at seeing them, plan to sign up for a night safari.

This antelope species can be subdivided into the greater kudu and the lesser kudu subspecies, both of which can be identified by their white vertical stripes, spots, and chevron pattern between their eyes. Greater kudus are most prevalent throughout southern Africa's lowland Bushveld but can also be found throughout East Africa—particularly Kenya and the Horn of Africa region; similarly, lesser kudus tend to prefer the dense thornbush around East Africa. Males, characterized by elongated horns that can grow up to 6 feet in length, can typically be seen alone or with other bachelors, though you may find them with females during mating season. On the other hand, female kudus live in small herds with their offspring.

Best Places to See Kudu: Greater kudus are best seen in Kenya's Tsavo National Park and Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

Warthogs thrive in savanna woodland, grasslands, and marshes, taking up natural burrows and abandoned aardvark holes. With the use of their strong neck muscles and padded knees, warthogs will spend the day foraging for food, digging through soil to uncover tubers, roots, berries, and grass. Sows can be found in matriarchal groups comprising up to 40 female warthogs and piglets, while boars prefer to live alone or with other bachelors.

Best Places to See Warthog: Warthogs live all over sub-Saharan Africa but are most common in the eastern and southern parts of the continent. If you want to spot them on safari, consider planning a trip to Kruger National Park , Masai Mara , or South Luangwa National Park in Zambia.

An Introduction to Africa's Big Five Safari Animals

How to Plan an Affordable African Safari

The Best Time to Go on Safari

Fun Facts About African Animals: The Cheetah

Fun Facts About Africa's Baby Safari Animals

5 Ways to Make a Luxury African Safari More Affordable

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Safari for You

Top Tips for Enjoying a Night Safari in Africa

The Best Destinations for a Family-Friendly African Safari

8 of the Best Scuba Diving Destinations in Africa

Malaria Free Safaris in Africa

Africa's Top Ten Whale and Dolphin-Watching Destinations

Top Five Game Reserves for Safaris Near Cape Town

Top 10 Unmissable African Safari Destinations

10 of the Best Private Game Reserves in South Africa

The Top 12 National Parks to Visit in Africa

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Eyes on Adventure (renamed from Eyes on Africa) is a leader in showcasing the world to those with a longing to experience its unrivaled beauty, get up close and personal with its natural gems, and explore the many different facets of its fauna, flora and people. Decades of travel and safari excursions is backed by a keen insight into booking and organizing the ultimate getaway, tailored to the needs of each person or tour group that books with us. We have service providers and partners around the globe to ensure that our clients get the very best in terms of quality and variety.

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What is a safari and what’s a wildlife safari in Africa like nowadays?

Of course, you've heard about African safaris and seen photos of celebs looking glamorous on safari in Africa. But, what is a safari really? And what is a wildlife safari in Africa like for the regular 21st-century traveller?

Here, we'll tell you all about African safaris and explain what a wildlife safari in Africa is like for most travellers nowadays. By the end of this post, you'll know what to expect on a wildlife safari in Africa today. 

What is a safari?

A safari is a journey.

In the broadest sense, to go on safari is simply  to travel . More specifically, a safari is a journey that involves going into nature to watch wild animals.

The roots of the word safari  are Arabic (and later Swahili), but the modern concept of safari originated in Africa. Today safari is synonymous with Africa.

Can you only safari in Africa or can you go on safari outside of Africa?

Yes, safari is an African thing. Although you can go on a safari-style trip in places outside of Africa, safaris are essentially African. 

Africa is the home of the safari. This is where the classical idea of the wildlife safari was born and evolved. The safari is firmly rooted in Africa.

That said, you can go on 'safari' in Australia, India, Canada, the United States, and other countries. Of course, there are wilderness areas where you can see wild animals, all over the world. But, none of the wild places outside of Africa are quintessential safari territory. Elsewhere you find wildlife expeditions or wildlife tours (safari-style trips).

You can take trips into the wilderness anywhere, but you can only truly go on safari in Africa. 

What is a safari in Africa, then?

A safari is the most famous and sought-after type of holiday in Africa. Going on safari is widely considered the ultimate 'thing to do' in Africa. Usually, a safari in Africa implies a wildlife safari. 

In essence, an African safari is any journey into the wilderness to observe free-roaming wildlife.

This traditional definition of a safari in Africa has expanded over time, however. Nowadays any trip in Africa where you spend some time in nature looking at free-roaming animals can be called a safari. 

In summary, a safari is a journey (or expedition) to look at wild animals, especially in East Africa and southern Africa. 

A safari in Africa is not...

A wildlife safari in Africa is not a trip reserved for khaki-clad bushwhackers and experienced game rangers or scientists. You don't have to be an outdoorsman like Bear Grylls to love your time on safari. Just about anyone can thoroughly enjoy an African safari in the travel style that suits them best.

A safari is not the same as a tour of a wildlife sanctuary or animal rescue centre. Even in Africa, visits to wildlife havens or shelters are not safaris.

A trip to an African zoo is not a safari. A wine-tasting tour in the Cape Winelands is not a safari. A township tour? No. A trip to meet the Omo Valley tribes in Ethiopia? Technically, not a safari. A road trip in Namibia? Also, strictly speaking not a safari - unless you visit a game park with wildlife, like Etosha.

An African safari is still different from a city holiday, beach vacation, historical tour, or cultural trip in Africa.

In Africa, a holiday only becomes a safari when you add an element of wildlife watching in nature. Be it game viewing by 4x4 safari vehicle, boat, canoe, small plane, or on foot, to name a few. Based on this broader definition of safari, boat trips and marine tours are often classed as 'ocean safaris'. 

First, let's take a look at the traditional African safari and how it has evolved...

What does the word safari mean? (the origins of safari)

The word 'safari' originates from the Arabic word 'safara' which means 'a journey'. The Arabic word was later adopted by the Swahili of East Africa and adapted to become the Swahili word 'safariya' which means 'journey' or 'kusafiri' which means 'to travel'.

The English word 'safari' originates from the late 19th century. The word 'safari' was introduced into the English language as a foreign language word in 1858 and later adopted as an English word. It is said that the word 'safari' was introduced into the English language in 1860 by the legendary British explorer, Sir Richard Francis Burton. Then, in 1890 the English word 'safari' was added to dictionaries according to the  Online Etymology Dictionary .

Today, traditional dictionary definitions of 'safari' still often include a component of hunting:

"...an expedition to observe or hunt animals in their natural habitat, especially in East Africa." and "A trip into any undeveloped area to see, photograph or hunt wild animals in their own environment."

Forget the old concept of a wildlife safari as a hunting trip - that outdated usage is history! 

Safari now refers to an adventure or expedition into the wilds of Africa - with no hunting involved. African safari travel typically provides revenue for local conservation projects and game parks, helping to protect habitats and wildlife, rather than taking them out. African safaris also play an important role in creating awareness about wildlife conservation, as well as benefiting local communities. 

A more modern definition of safari is, simply:

A safari (/səˈfɑːri/; from Swahili safari 'journey') is an overland journey to observe wild animals, especially in eastern or southern Africa. (Wikipedia) 

The history of African safaris

The modern concept of the safari can be traced back to the early colonial era in Africa, from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. With the arrival of the first European explorers and colonizers came the first safari-style expeditions. Some of them aimed at exploring new territories, many for the express purpose of hunting animals.

On these early European-led expeditions, big game (large animals) were hunted and arduously lugged overland by a small army of local tribespeople.

Later, US President Teddy Roosevelt popularized the concept in the United States, when he embarked on a safari of enormous proportions , ostensibly with the aim of filling the Smithsonian Institute with African specimens. Some 11,400 Animals fell to the party's rifles, of which 512 were 'big game' - elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, hippos, and rhinos, including six white rhinos - rare even at that time.

Fast-forward to today and you will find that hunting is no longer part of most safaris in Africa. Thankfully the primitive pastime of hunting is largely something of the past. It is not the norm anymore and the vast majority of Africa has long moved on from this colonial-era practice.

Note:  African Budget Safaris absolutely does not promote or sell hunting safaris, nor do we endorse hunting for sport. If you are contemplating a hunting safari, please consider opting for a wildlife-viewing safari instead.

The modern wildlife safari, making a difference in Africa

These days, most people have left the negative hunting connotations of safari travel behind. The outdated ideas of African safaris as hunting trips have largely been replaced by more modern concepts of wildlife safaris. The norm for a safari in Africa is now a socially and environmentally responsible form of travel. 

Nowadays going on safari in Africa means taking an adventurous holiday and having a positive impact at the same time. Wildlife safaris now play a key role in sustaining African economies and protecting wildlife populations. So taking a safari holiday helps make a meaningful difference.

African safaris have become holiday trips that actually benefit the wildlife of Africa. As opposed to hunting wild animals, visitors get to encounter them and help protect them. Most safari tour companies and lodges either actively support (or run) conservation projects, or help generate tourism revenue which contributes to managing wildlife projects and game reserves in Africa.

Eco-safaris & eco-friendly safari travel in Africa

As environmental awareness has grown worldwide, African safaris have become more eco-friendly. Many safari lodges and tour companies have become more environmentally friendly in response to the sustainability challenges we face today.

Finding an eco-safari lodge or a low-impact safari in Africa is easier than ever before. Even the camps and safaris that aren't marketed as being 'green' or eco-friendly often are, in at least some important respects. The camps and lodges located in wilderness areas or national parks, for instance, are typically designed to have minimal impact on the environment and be as self-sufficient as possible due to their remote locations, national laws, and park regulations. 

For eco-friendly safaris that reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to environmental sustainability, talk to us.

• More about eco-safaris in Going Green on Safari  and  Spectacular Eco-Conscious Safari Spots

Socially responsible safari travel in Africa

The modern African safari is a socially responsible journey. Not as an exception but as the norm. Not only does safari travel contribute massively to African economies and provide jobs, but it also helps improve social conditions. 

Local communities across Africa benefit from sustainable tourism through social initiatives created and/or supported by safari organizations - from tour companies and lodges to activity providers, and game reserves. Safari travel also helps sustain small businesses and entrepreneurs selling goods (like local food, crafts, and curios) or providing services (such as guiding and entertainment).

Some safari companies directly support social upliftment projects and provide opportunities to interact with the local people. Others support local communities through the lodges, game reserves, and other companies they use.

• More about socially sustainable safaris in  Responsible Safari: how to travel ethically

Safari travel's critical role in social and economic development

Africa's travel and tourism sector (of which the safari industry is an integral part) "employed more than 24 million people in 2019" based on World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) reports.

In particular, Africa's wildlife tourism industry, " usually generates $29 billion a year and employs 3.6 million people"  according to Bloomberg (2020).

The safari industry generates some $12.4 billion in annual revenues for South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania Uganda and Zambia - Africa’s top wildlife tourist destinations. (Reuters, 2020)

South Africa (which has the second-largest tourism industry in Africa) "relies on the tourism industry to indirectly contribute up to 9.1% of the country’s total employment – 1.5 million people – and 7% of its GDP" (Investment Monitor, 2021).

It is clear that safari travel plays a critical role in social and economic development in Africa. Not only through social upliftment and outreach programs but by producing substantial revenue and employment.

"During the past two decades, the hospitality industry has become vital to many African economies. In 2019 it accounted for approximately 7% of Africa’s overall GDP and contributed $169bn to its economy... according to the International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank". (Investment Monitor, 2021)

In short, safari tourism "helps governments justify protecting wildlife habitat,” and “creates revenue for state wildlife authorities, generates foreign-exchange earnings, diversifies and strengthens local economies.” (Bloomberg 2020).

What African Safaris are all about these days

Today African safaris are holiday trips primarily aimed at watching and photographing wildlife in the bush, for fun.

Safari travel in contemporary Africa still implies game viewing and time in wilderness areas (game reserves, wildlife conservancies, and national parks). A traditional African safari is still focused on seeing African wildlife, but safaris are definitely not limited to game viewing.

In addition to game viewing and wildlife tracking, African safaris nowadays are about:

• the experience of being out in the bush (wilderness)
• exploring scenic places and natural wonders
• encountering the local cultures of Africa (old and new)
• visiting historical attractions and sightseeing
• volunteering and supporting good causes
• participating in adventure and outdoor activities ( adventure travel )

Once you're in the wilderness the safari truly begins. You'll spend most of your time enjoying untamed nature at the camps and watching animals in the wild.

Different kinds of safari trips offer a variety of ways to explore the wilderness and look for wildlife and birds. You can choose to explore by riverboat or canoe, on foot or by mountain bike, on horseback (even camelback) or quad-bike. The possibilities are endless with so many specialist safaris to choose from in Africa.

Big 5 Safaris in Africa, explained

The term 'Big Five' was originally coined by big-game hunters to refer to the most dangerous animals to hunt in Africa in the late 1800s.

Today, however, the Big 5 of Africa are the top animals that tourists want to see on wildlife safaris. The iconic African animals of the Big 5 are lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos.

Out of the Big 5 safari animals, only the buffalo is not threatened or endangered. Encountering the Big 5 African animals is now (usually) about the joy of observing them in their natural environment, learning about them, and taking photographs of them. A Big 5 safari is merely a wildlife safari that is focused on seeing and photographing the Big 5 animals of Africa in the wild.

What is a safari now? (in a nutshell)

The African safari has earned a new reputation. By large, the safari has evolved into a socially and environmentally responsible (often beneficial) style of travel in Africa.

Contemporary safaris encompass much more than the unforgettable experience of game viewing and staying in the bush. The 21st-century African safari combines wildlife encounters with a variety of fascinating and exciting travel adventures - from city stays and cultural interactions to beach getaways.

To plan your African safari adventures now, talk to one of our friendly travel experts .

Budget African Safaris to the best travel destinations

Southern africa safari & travel highlights:.

• Botswana Safari  - Chobe Park, Okavango Delta, Moremi, Kalahari & Makgadikgadi
• Namibia Safari  - Etosha Park, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Fish River Canyon & Windhoek
• South Africa Safari  - Kruger Park, Cape Town, Garden Route, Addo Elephant Park & KwaZulu-Natal 
• Zimbabwe Safari  - Hwange Park, Victoria Falls, Matobo National Park & Great Zimbabwe Ruins
• Zambia Safari  - Victoria Falls, South Luangwa Park, Kafue National Park & Livingstone

East African Safari & Travel Highlights:

• Tanzania Safari  - Serengeti Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Kilimanjaro, Lake Manyara, Selous Reserve & Zanzibar Islands
• Kenya Safari  - Masai Mara, Amboseli Park, Lake Nakuru, Samburu Reserve, Tsavo National Park & Lake Naivasha
• Uganda Safari  - Bwindi National Park, Kibale Park, Murchison Falls, Jinja & Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Madagascar Tours  - Nosy Be Island, Andasibe Park, Montagne d'Ambre National Park & Masoala Peninsula
• Malawi Safari  - Lake Malawi, Dzalanyama Forest, Liwonde Park & Nyika National Park

Too many African Safari options? Get in touch with us for up-to-date advice from one of our African safaris experts

“If there were one more thing I could do, it would be to go on safari once again.” - Karen Blixen (Author of “Out of Africa”)

[Article updated in May 2022]

Landia Davies Content Manager & Sculptor

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• Tips For Jungle Safari For An Adventure-Laden Trip Into The Wild

A jungle safari is one of the most coveted experiences to sight wild animals, birds, and exotic flora in a natural habitat. But there are certain rules and tips for jungle safari that one needs to keep in mind before and during the safari tour to ensure it’s an enjoyable and safe experience. While traversing in a jungle is fun and adventurous, it can turn into a disaster if not planned and executed properly .

Whether you are going on your tenth safari or first, preparing for it beforehand cannot be taken lightly. Right from booking well in time, packing the right safari luggage, wearing proper clothes, preparing for the unexpected, to maintaining one’s safety and welfare inside the park, everything needs to be spick and span for a memorable time inside the jungle. Thus, we have compiled for you some essential safari tips that will let you have the most fabulous time inside the world’s biodiversity hotspots teeming with exotic flora, fauna, and avifauna.

Find Below The Best Tips For Jungle Safari

Leave your worldly pleasures and flashy gadgets back home and experience the magic of being one with nature. The more time you spend in the midst of the world’s most primitive parts, the more connected you’ll feel with your inner self. All you need to do is make sure you respect the given rules of the jungle and follow the mentioned hacks for a better safari experience.

1. Planning & Research

The best tips for jungle safari would be to do proper research about the forest reserve you’re visiting and plan your trip accordingly. A well-planned jungle safari in India and abroad can help you have the best safari experience as well as cut down on unnecessary costs.

Know About The Safari Reserve

Do a proper research about the place you wish to explore through your safari tour – everything from the distance, area, best time to visit, type of flora and fauna you’ll encounter, to the rules and regulations set down by the respective forest authorities. One should be well aware of what the place holds, not only to enjoy a great safari experience but also to determine what to carry.

Set Down A Budget

From the transport you’re using to get to the location, to services like a guide, safari vehicle (jeep, canter, elephant, trek), safari duration, entrance fee, food, and accommodation, you will be required to pay for a lot of things, especially during India safari tours. So set down a limit to your expenditures. At the same time, try and be flexible with your expenditures as the cost may fluctuate.

Plan Your Safari In Dry Season

Must Read: Best Safari In South Africa: Adrenaline Pumping Experiences In The Wildest Corner Of The World

It is always advised to plan your safari in the dry season as the heat during this time forces the animals to lurk around waterholes more often. Other than that, there is hardly any vegetation around water holes which ultimately exposes the fauna and enhances the chance to spot them. Besides, many wildlife sanctuaries and reserves remain closed for tourists during the monsoon season since the chances of landslides and marshy terrains increases during this time.

Be Open To Staying Primitive

Too addicted to your tech? A jungle safari and camping is probably not a good idea for you then! One can only enjoy a jungle safari when they allow themselves to blend in with nature, disconnecting from the outside world, and forgetting about the worries of life and work. A safari trip takes you deep into the heart of nature, amid everything serene and secluded, so that you might be able to get a taste of how peaceful life was before urbanization and industrialization set in.

Be Prepared For Temperature Fluctuations

While the afternoons would squeeze the last drop of sweat out of you, the evenings might freeze you to death. It is always a good idea to keep a constant check on the temperature variations and predictions about the reserve area you’re visiting and prepare yourself likewise. Thanks to Google, it is ever so easy to stay up to date on such information so that you may not have to suffer nasty surprises on your trip into the wild.

Pre-Book Your Safari And Accommodation

Suggested Read: Things You Ought To Know Before Traveling #PackingHacksIncluded

Most African safari tips would tell you to pre-book safaris so as to avoid last minute hassles of waiting outside the ticket counter in long queues. If you’ve pre-planned your vacay, then booking your safari in advance is the best idea. Indian wildlife reserves and nature parks too offer online booking facilities these days to spare visitors the trouble of standing in long queues before slow ticket counters.

Bookings start way before the onset of summer. With limited safari tours per day in a limited number of vehicles per wildlife sanctuary, your chance of taking your family on that much-awaited safari tour will grow lesser with every delay. So make sure you book well in time to reserve yourself and your loved ones a seat on the vehicle of your choice and a room in the best hotel, lodge, or eco stay in the area.

Opt For Guided Organised Safari Tours

If you’re a pro at wildlife safaris, you can surely opt for a private tour. But then there’s no way you can know more than the (government authorized) forest guides who spend half their life inside the jungle you’re visiting. They are well equipped with the who, what, when, why, and how of every animal and bird in that jungle so that they’ll get you to the right place at the right time well before the beast has even graced the spot with his presence. All it takes them is a glance at that footprint to tell you which animal had crossed your path, and how long ago!

Book A Dawn Or Dusk Safari

Image Source

Suggested Read: 18 Places You Need To Visit For The Best Wildlife Experience in India

The animals and birds are most active at this time, which is why most tips for jungle safari would tell you to book a dawn or dusk safari, or a full day safari beginning at dawn and ending at dusk. Don’t forget to leave very early in the morning for a dawn safari so as to avoid waiting at the entrance gates for things like permit checks.

2. What To Carry

Image Source Packing right is essential for a jungle safari in India and anywhere overseas. If you’re wondering what to take on safari, here are the things that we’d suggest:

• Electronics: A charged camera, extra batteries, extra memory cards, binoculars (ideal – 8X40 or 10X50)
• Sun Protection: A sunscreen lotion, sunshades, a wide brimmed hat, scarf (for dust)
• Personal Safety: Antiseptic cream, insect repellent cream, medication (if allergic to dust or certain flora type), antiviral hand wash, first aid kit, flashlight
• Important Documents: ID proof, tickets, booking confirmation (scanned beforehand)
• Food: Packed snacks like glucose biscuits, energy bars food (only to be eaten during break time), sufficient water
• Clothes: Thin layers (since the weather can be unpredictable)
• Some handy cash

Now, here are some things that ought NOT be in your safari luggage:

• A radio or any other musical item
• Perfume, deodorant, or any other kind of body fragrance
• Unwrapped, pungent food items

3. Dressing Up

Suggested Read: Kruger National Park In South Africa Is Your Ultimate Date With The Wild

You may be a fashionista back home, but here, you have to dress up according to the norms of the jungle. Following are some basic things you need to keep in mind while dressing up for your safari. Abiding by these tips for jungle safari will ensure your safety and that of others.

• Wear comfortable, airy t-shirts, convertible cargo pants (preferably waterproof), fleece jackets
• Wear colours like Greens, Browns, Olives, and Khakis to blend in. Some African safari clothing tips tell visitors to avoid loud colours & bold prints
• Pick cloth material that is lightweight and breathable, like cotton
• Dress in layers to avoid plant allergies and beat the changing weather
• Avoid wearing flashy things like jewelry
• Cover your arms and legs. Sleeveless tops & capris won’t protect against insect bites
• Wear strong, comfortable, and covered sports shoes (or sneakers) with socks
• Mask your face to protect from the dust
• Wear a hat or a cap to keep the heat away

A jungle safari will surely take you on a joyride amid the wild and let you get up and close with nature. Though filled with exotic flora and fauna, a jungle can be dangerous if one isn’t cautious. It is imperative to stay safe as one wrong move can turn your ‘fun’ into a disaster. Any general safari advice will always include the below mentioned safety tips.

Follow these DOs and DON’Ts of jungle safari in India and abroad for an enjoyable and safe time inside the jungle.

DOs Of Jungle Safari

• Familiarise yourself with the park’s rules and regulations beforehand and make sure you follow them when inside the park
• Follow the safari guide’s instructions at all times like your life depends on it (and it does!)
• Maintain silence during the safari
• Drive slowly and cautiously to avoid hitting animals as they might appear suddenly
• Maintain a safe distance from the animals
• You must follow the park timings
• Allow the animals to cross first while driving through the forest
• Honour safari timings. Reach on time and leave on time
• Keep the camera flash off
• Bring a flexible camera cover to protect it against the dirt and dust
• Empty your bowels and bladders before you set off on the safari or wait for the toilet break

DON’Ts Of Jungle Safari

• Speak loudly or play music inside the park reserve
• Use your mobile phone as much as possible
• Drink or smoke in the forest
• Leave combustibles in the car
• Offer eatables to birds and animals
• Tease, disturb, or hit animals
• Eat at any time other than the allotted break time
• Litter around
• Get off your vehicle unless asked to
• Wear bright and exposing clothes
• Wear deodorants and perfumes
• Bring infants or children with dust and fur allergies
• Enter restricted and prohibited areas

Suggested Read: 10 Packing & Luggage Hacks For The Smart Traveler

The forest may be a tourist attraction for you, but it’s the home of the wild animals and birds you find inside it. They rule it, not you! If you expect your guests to respect the rules and regulations of your house, then you also need to follow the norms of the jungle where you are the guests. There can’t be better tips for jungle safari to make one understand the importance of abiding by the guidelines set down by wildlife sanctuaries across the world.

5. Wildlife Spotting

You’ve planned your trip well, you have all you need for your safari by your side, and you are also following the forest rules. But, alas, you still haven’t been able to spot a single wild animal or bird. Where then, did you go wrong?

There are certain factors you need to consider before embarking on a jungle safari so that you have the maximum chance of spotting the beast of the jungle that you came all the way to see. The following tips for jungle safari will help you while you’re planning and executing your safari ride so that you can make the most of your visit to the jungle.

• Read about the animals and birds in the park to know where you are most likely to spot them on your tour
• As established, visit the jungle in the dry season. During summers, most of the animals can be found lurking near the water holes, exposed owing to the less amount of vegetation at these spots
• Start the safari at dawn and end it by dusk as most of the animals can be found outside their shelters during this time. Reptiles and crocodiles can be spotted during midday
• Stay longer at the hotspots, like canals, river banks, lakes, ponds, etc
• Pick a good guide. Safari guides always stay in contact with each other, so if one spots the highlight animal of the park, it will be communicated to the others and everyone will get a chance to witness it
• Make use of your binoculars (or your camera’s zoom lens). They can help you identify animals hiding in the bushes
• Familiarise yourself with the sounds of different birds if you’re into bird watching and photography
• Be still and maintain silence while observing or photographing fauna, especially birds

In the end, let’s wrap up with a very important safari advice – respect wildlife and do your bit to conserve nature .

Further Read: 15 Best Wildlife Resorts In India For A Thrilling Experience

We hope these tips for jungle safari will help you have an adventure of a lifetime when you traverse deep into the mighty jungle. Follow these guidelines to make the most of your trip and also stay safe at the same time. Know of any more safari tips? Let us know in the comments below.

Kanika Saxena

Kanika has 4 years of experience in writing blogs and marketing content for travel. And when she’s not writing, she’s either exploring new terrains in a different corner of the world, or out in the city freezing urban scenarios in her camera.

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10 Reasons Why Jungle Safari in India is a Must-Do Adventure!

by Forsyth | May 23, 2023

As an avid adventurer, I have always been drawn to the beauty of nature. And nothing beats the thrill of a jungle safari adventure in India! There’s something awe-inspiring about being in the midst of the wild, surrounded by the beauty of nature, and spotting exotic animals in their natural habitat. In this article, I am going to share 10 reasons why jungle safari in India is a must-do adventure.

Introduction to Jungle Safari Adventure in India

Here’s why jungle safari in India is a must-do adventure. India is a land of diverse flora and fauna, and jungle safaris are an excellent way to explore this rich biodiversity. The country boasts of over 400 wildlife sanctuaries and 80 national parks, which are home to a variety of animals, birds, and reptiles. Whether you’re a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, a jungle safari in India is the perfect way to explore the wilderness.

Biodiversity in Indian Jungles

India is blessed with an incredible variety of flora and fauna, and its jungles are home to some of the rarest and most exotic species of animals and birds. From the majestic Bengal tiger to the elusive leopard, from the Indian rhinoceros to the Asiatic elephant, from the Indian giant squirrel to the Nilgiri tahr, Indian jungles offer a unique and unforgettable experience for wildlife lovers. The country’s diverse landscape, ranging from the Himalayas to the deserts of Rajasthan, provides a wide range of habitats for its wildlife. Each region has its unique biodiversity, and a jungle safari in India is an excellent way to explore this rich diversity.

Wildlife Sightings in Indian Jungles

One of the most exciting aspects of a jungle safari in India is the opportunity to spot some of the rarest and most exotic species of wildlife. The thrill of spotting a tiger or a leopard in the wild is unmatched! Apart from these big cats, Indian jungles are home to a variety of other animals, including elephants, rhinoceros, deer, wild boars, langurs, macaques, and many more. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the variety of birds found in Indian jungles. From the majestic peacock to the colourful kingfisher, from the beautiful hornbill to the rare vulture, Indian jungles are a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Best Time to Go on a Jungle Safari in India

The best time to go on a jungle safari in India depends on the region you plan to visit. The winter months (November to February) are the best time to visit most of the national parks in North India, while the summer months (March to June) are ideal for exploring the parks in Central and South India. The monsoon season (July to September) is not the best time for a jungle safari as most parks are closed during this period. However, the monsoon season is an excellent time to visit some of the parks in Northeast India, where the rainfall is less intense.

Different Types of Jungle Safaris in India

There are different types of jungle safaris available in India, ranging from jeep safaris and elephant safaris to walking safaris and canoe safaris. Jeep safaris are the most popular and allow visitors to explore the parks in comfort. Elephant safaris provide a unique and unforgettable experience as visitors ride on the back of an elephant and explore the jungle. Walking safaris are ideal for those who want to explore the jungle on foot and get up close and personal with nature. Canoe safaris are perfect for exploring the wetlands and water bodies in the parks.

Jungle Safari Experience in Popular National Parks

India has some of the best national parks in the world, and each park offers a unique jungle safari experience. Some of the popular national parks for jungle safaris in India are:

• Satpura National Park
• Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh
• Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh
• Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand
• Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan

Safety Measures to Follow During a Jungle Safari Adventure

While a jungle safari is an exciting and thrilling experience, it is essential to follow safety guidelines to ensure your safety and the safety of the animals. Some of the safety measures to follow during a jungle safari are:

• Always listen to your guide’s instructions and follow them
• Do not get too close to the animals
• Do not litter in the park
• Do not make loud noises or use flash photography
• Do not step out of the vehicle or the designated area

Tips for a Successful Jungle Safari Adventure

To make the most of your jungle safari adventure in India, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes
• Carry a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent
• Carry a good camera with a zoom lens
• Be patient and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife
• Respect the animals and their habitat

Benefits of Jungle Safari Adventure

Apart from the thrill of spotting exotic wildlife and exploring the wilderness, a jungle safari adventure in India has several other benefits. It allows you to connect with nature, de-stress, and rejuvenate your mind and body. It is also an excellent opportunity to learn about the biodiversity of the region, the conservation efforts being made, and the significance of wildlife in our ecosystem.

Conclusion – Why Jungle Safari in India is a Must-Do Adventure!

In conclusion, why jungle safari in India is a must-do adventure for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, and adventure. It is an excellent way to explore the rich biodiversity of the country, spot exotic animals in their natural habitat, and connect with nature. So, book your adventure now at Forsyth Lodge , and experience the thrill of a lifetime!

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Jungle Animals

An in-depth look at 13  iconic jungle species from around the globe.

Jungle animals are some of the most diverse and numerous of any habit on the planet. Before we look at some iconic jungle species it’s worth taking a moment to understand exactly what we mean by the term ‘jungle’.

What exactly is a jungle?

Nearly everyone has an idea about how they’d define the biome, and usage of the term ‘jungle’ has evolved significantly over the past fifty or so years.

Prior to the 1970s, all tropical forests were generically referred to as jungle, whether they were rainforests, cloud forests, or mangroves. Since then the terms ‘tropical forest’ and ‘rainforest’ have more or less completely replaced the term ‘jungle’ to describe humid tropical forests.

These days ‘jungle’ is used to describe the ground level of densely forested tropical areas where there is tangled vegetation and underbrush. Plants such as shrubs, grasses, vines, and moss thrive in jungles, which makes it very difficult for humans to penetrate on foot without cutting a path through.

Put simply, a jungle is a forested area that combines warm temperatures with dense, ground-level vegetation.

Is there a difference between a jungle and a rainforest?

Rainforests and jungles are similar in many ways – they are both warm, tropical forest habitats filled with thick vegetation – but there are also some key differences.

Jungles don’t have as much skyscraping vegetation, so unlike rainforests don’t have a thick canopy. In a rainforest the canopy block sunlight reaching the forest floor, so restricts vegetation growing on the forest floor, and holds in the moisture and humidity.

Because jungles have a much sparser canopy they are drier and lighter than rainforests and have much more vegetation growing at ground level.

13 Iconic jungle animals

Like rainforests, jungles tend to be areas unhampered by humans, so can provide one of the most exhilarating places (if difficult) places to spot wild animals in their natural habitat. Here’s our pick of 13 of the most iconic jungle animals:

One horned rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis)

Found: india and nepal.

one horned rhino

Whilst Africa’s  rhinos are beasts to be extremely wary of, north-east India is home to the relatively approachable one-horned rhino. The expansive flat grasslands of Kaziranga National Park is fringed with jungle   has a population of over 1,600 Indian one-horned rhinos, comprising over two-thirds of the world’s total.

The extra twist with rhino-spotting in Kaziranga is the option of an elephant-back ride around the park, which allows you to get within a couple of meters of the very relaxed rhinos.

Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica)

Found: india.

asiatic lion

Today’s Asiatic lion exists only in India’s Gir National Park and the surrounding areas. The habitat in the park is dry scrub land and open deciduous forest, which could certainly be described as jungle. There are around 300 Asiatic lions in Gir National Park and perhaps only 500 left in the whole world.

Sloth bear (Melursus ursinus)

Found: indian sub-continent.

A sloth bear in grassland

Sloth bears live in a range of dry and moist forests across the Indian subcontinent, seeking out trees, boulders, and shrubs to provide shelter. They are omnivorous but tend to stick to a diet of ants, termites, and fruits. Not yet endangered, sloth bears are listed by IUCN as vulnerable due to habitat loss.

Elephant (Loxodonta)

Found: west and central africa and south asia.

African forest elephant on the edge of the jungle

Whilst African elephants thought of as being found out in the open on the African savannas, there is a second elephant species in Africa known as the African forest elephant. As with their Asian elephant cousins, African forest elephants are significantly smaller than African savanna elephants, to allow them to move with suprising ease through the dense jungles and rainforests of West Africa and the Congo Basin.

African forest elephants and Asian elephants have similar diets of fruits, seeds, and young leaves, and a more varied diet than the African savanna elephant due to the richness of their habitat. They are considered vital to their respective jungle environments as distributors of seeds, as they spend their days foraging.

Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris)

A Bengal tiger lounging in the jungle shade

Bengal tigers are native to India and Nepal. These stunning cats are the most common tiger, accounting for around half the world’s tiger population.  Bengal tigers are found predominantly in subtropical and elevated forests across the subcontinent, as well as thriving in the Sundarbans mango region on the India/Bangladesh border.

Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes)

Found: west and central africa.

Mother carrying baby chimpanzee on back

These great apes are found in a number of habitats across Central and West Africa. Chimpanzees actually have the widest range of all great apes, living in tropical rainforests and grasslands, as well as being jungle-dwelling animals.

Sharing around 99% of their genes with humans, these animals are our closest living relatives, and quite possibly the smartest animals on Earth other than Man.

Three-toed sloth ( Bradypodidae bradypus )

Found: central and south america.

3 toed sloth hanging in the rainforest canopy

Sloths have an incredibly low metabolic rate and need only a few leaves and twigs for nutrition, along with a very slow digestive system leading to their sluggish pace. In combination, the sloth’s anatomical structure differs from other mammals in having very long arms with very short shoulder -blades, which allows them a large reach without the effort of too much movement, and adds to their languid style of movement.

The three-toed sloth is, in fact, the slowest mammal in the world , moving at the hair raising speed of up to 2.4 meters per minute on the ground. When they’re up in their favored rainforest canopy they’re able to pick up their speed to around a 4.6 meters per minute.

Jaguar (Panthera onca)

A stunning jaguar walks towards the camera

Jaguars are found in South and Central America, preferring wet lowland habitats, swampy savannas, and tropical rain forests. They are known to almost anything they can catch, including deer, crocodiles, snakes, monkeys, deer, sloths, tapirs, turtles, eggs,  frogs and toads , and fish. The jaguar has the strongest bite of all the cat family – with a bite-force 1.4M kg per m² its bite is twice as strong as a lion’s.

Learn more about jaguars.   How are jaguars different from leopards?

Gorilla (Gorilla)

A western lowland gorilla gives the camera the eye

Although the most numerous of all gorilla subspecies, the western lowland gorilla (pictured) is still an endangered species . They inhabit the remote, dense tropical rainforests of Angola, Gabon, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Equatorial Guinea.

Their remote and secluded habitats make it difficult to accurately estimate their numbers, but conservationists put the total population at almost 100,000 . This number is known to be decreasing, however, with the animals threatened by poaching, disease, climate change, habitat degradation, and destruction.

Okapi (Okapia johnstoni)

Found: democratic republic of the congo.

An okapi’s head and hindquarters

Despite having zebra-like markings the rare and unusual looking okapi is actually a member of the giraffe family. Their striking striped hindquarters camouflaged them and help them disappear into the forest.

Living in the dense tropical rainforests of Central Africa they use their long, sticky, giraffe-like tongues to graze on leaves, ferns, grasses, and fruit.

Black howler monkey (Alouatta caraya)

Found: south america.

Black howler monkey

The black howler monkey is so named because of the loud howl it makes when marking its territory. Their call has been described as a strong wind blowing through a tunnel, and can be heard up to 3 kilometers away, carrying across the jungle vegetation.

Sulawesi bear cuscus (Ailurops ursinus)

Found: indonesia.

Sulawesi bear cuscus

The Sulawesi bear cuscus is actually an arboreal marsupial rather than a bear but is so named for it’s dark, thick bear-like fur. As with most marsupials newborns are underdeveloped and carried in a pouch on the mothers’ belly until they can navigate the Indonesian jungle themselves.

Siamang (Symphalangus syndactylus)

Found: south east asia.

Siamang chilling in the canopy

Growing up to 1.5meters long siamangs are the largest species of gibbons in the world. They have long, shaggy black hair and a mostly hairless face, and are known for their loud whooping call made using an inflatable throat pouch. As with black howler monkeys, these calls are used to mark territorial boundaries between groups.

What did you think of these iconic jungle animals? Have you had the opportunity to see any of these creatures in the wild? Let us know in the comments section below!

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