Image taken from Manyara Ranch Conservancy website (http://www.manyararanch.com/)

Imagine experiencing a trip to Africa that is built around exclusivity, pure wilderness, and complete luxury. Manyara Ranch Conservancy has the exact formula for the ultimate African safari vacation you’ve been looking for. With 35,000 acres of pristine wilderness and cultural enlightenment, it’s no wonder Manyara Ranch Conservancy has been referred to as the most exciting tourism project to come out of Tanzania.

Below is a 4-day sample itinerary of just a few things you can experience at Manyara Ranch Conservancy:

Day 1

After arriving at the Manyara Ranch Conservancy, enjoy an energizing lunch and experience an exceptional game drive where you’ll witness the Big Five as well as other mesmerizing animals such as the African wild dog, the zebra, and exotic bird species. After a day of excitement, relax with refreshing sundowners and a scrumptious bush dinner before a good night’s rest at the Manyara Ranch Tented Camp.

Image taken from Manyara Ranch Conservancy website (http://www.manyararanch.com/)

Day 2

Awake to the refreshing aromas of a bush breakfast and prepare yourself for an early morning game walk where you’ll venture though the bush to discover new and exciting creatures.

When you return from your adventurous walk, visit the local primary school and enjoy a Maasai cultural visit where you’ll have the unique opportunity to learn about the Maasai culture and lifestyle, directly from the locals. Because the neighboring Maasai communities own the Manyara Ranch, everyone who visits the Conservancy has a direct contribution to helping the Maasai sustain their ancient cultural heritage.

The day ends with a night game drive through the lively bush, followed by a traditional bush dinner.

Image taken from Manyara Ranch Conservancy website (http://www.manyararanch.com/)

Day 3

Delight in breakfast at the camp before you embark on a horseback safari through the sprawling plains of Tanzania and the local villages. With a plethora of wilderness beauty and wild game, the Manyara Conservancy is one of the best places in Tanzania to experience a horseback safari. These breathtaking safaris are led by professional equestrian guides and are offered in one-day tours and multiday safaris.

After your adventurous horseback safari, enjoy a private dinner beneath Tanzania’s velvety and star-sprinkled sky.

Image taken from Manyara Ranch Conservancy website (http://www.manyararanch.com/)

Day 4

After breakfast, embark on a drive to Lake Manyara National Park for a game drive where you’ll witness some of the most fascinating wildlife Tanzania has to offer.

You’ll then be transported to the luxurious Ngorongoro Crater Lodge where you will take pleasure in traditional Tanzanian cuisine before you retire to your lavish suite in the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge.

Day 5

Embark on one of the most unique tours of your trip, a thrilling full-day crater tour. On this tour, you’ll be able to walk through the Ngorongoro Crater and discover thousands of residential wild game within this spectacular World Heritage Site. From sightings of lions, elephants, wildebeests, gazelles, rhinos, and zebras, this once-volcanic site is the perfect way to end your adventurous stay with the Conservancy.

After your tour, enjoy relaxing sundowners before your dinner at the lodge, where you will stay until it’s time for your next adventure!

Discover more of what Manyara Ranch Conservancy has to offer by visiting their website.

If you’re looking for a unique honeymoon or don’t mind spending a substantial amount of money for something “extra special”, then you’ll most definitely enjoy what I’m about to unveil here! And even for those of you who don’t feel concerned by what I just said, remember it is never forbidden to DREAM! Besides, dreams do come true (if you firmly believe in them, no matter what)! So keep dreaming, and make sure you reach some of them…  ;).

Campi ya Kanzi

The camp of the hidden treasure!

Located in Kenya’s prime game area between Amboseli and Tsavo National Parks (Chyulu Hills), the camp provides a luxury tented experience for your exclusive private safari.

Highlights of Your Stay:

- Maasai-led walking safaris.

- Tembo house balcony overlooking the plains & Mt. Kilimanjaro!

- Conservation and ecotourism. Help the Maasai in preserving their wildlife and cultural heritage.

Visit: http://www.maasai.com/

Galdessa

Tsavo East National Park, Kenya.

Set on the southern banks of the Galana river, Galdessa Main Camp is partially concealed in a grove of doum palm trees.

Particularities:

- Splendid deck overlooking the river. Relax and enjoy the plentiful wildlife coming down for a late afternoon drink!

- Thatched and semi-tented bungalows with private veranda and en-suite bathroom.

- Activities include open vehicle game drives, walking safaris and bush breakfast/sundowner by the river.

Website: http://www.galdessa.com/

OL Donyo Wuas

Amboseli region, south-east Kenya.

20 bed luxury lodge set in a 275,000 acres of beautiful wild Africa! “Richard Bonham could well be the father of the bush guest house. He built Ol Donyo Wuas many years ago and it still sets the standard.” – John Hemingway, well-known writer about Africa.

What to Expect from Your Visit:

- “Tourist mini-bus-free” big 5 game area overlooking the spectacular Mt. Kilimanjaro.

- Private villa experience & lodge totally refurbished in 2008.

- All-inclusive tariff & largest array of activities in all of Africa. They include game drives, night drives, walks, horse safaris, mountain biking safaris, etc.

Find Them @: http://www.oldonyowuas.com/

Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania.

On the rim of the world-renowned “Heritage Site”, the Crater Lodge is architecturally one of the most unique and prestigious safari lodges in Africa. In fact, it is often considered as the “African Versailles”. A pure jewel!

Originality:

- Maasai mud-and-stick manyatta (homestead) style!

- Colonial style interior: silver, gold and ruby colours!

- Spectacular scenic view over the crater from above 2000 m.

Karibu Ngorongoro Crater Lodge: http://www.craterlodge.com/

Sand Rivers Selous

Selous, Tanzania.

The Sand Rivers Selous Lodge is part of the Selous Game Reserve ecosystem, Africa’s largest unspoilt gem! A must visit in one of the country’s reserves I love the most!

Why Go There?

- The lodge is along the Rufiji river bed, a stunning location on its own!

- Impeccable hosting, rare cottages (two sumptuous suites), and the perfect honeymoon nest known as the Rhino House!

- Activities to die for: the best boat cruises, walks, fly-camping, game drives, etc!

Hippo Point Private Estate & Wildlife Sanctuary

Lake Naivasha, Kenya.

Private luxury home in Kenya’s Rift Valley!

What to Expect from Hippo Point?

- 1930′s Elizabethan house completely restored in 1998.

- An ornithological paradise with over 520 recorded bird species in the Naivasha area + wild animals such as buffalo, giraffe and zebra wandering about the lush lawns.

- Health program, day safaris, walks and birdwatching.

Borana Lodge

Samangua Valley, Kenya.

Kenyan ranch set in the Laikipia region of Mount Kenya! Its name comes from the “Boran” cattle, a local breed raised to resist droughts and pests.

Interests:

- Rich wildlife, including over 3000 elephants and big cats like the lion, cheetah and leopard.

- Visit the ranch, and learn about the major difficulties faced by the owners as there is constant conflict between livestock and carnivores.

- Stay in the Laragai House, the private home of George and Lucilla Stephensen.

Home Page: http://www.borana.co.ke/

Richard’s Camp

Masai Mara, Kenya. Small, private & exclusive!

Experience Real Africa in one of the continent’s most remarkable and animal-rich of national parks: the Masai Mara!

Attractions:

- Individually decorated tents with en-suite bathroom & clean, solar system power.

- Escorted bush walks, day/night game drives, sundowners, picnic lunches & even balloon safaris (at an extra cost).

- Exquisite meals under starlit Kenyan skies!

Ready for It? Visit http://www.richardscamp.com/

Loisaba

Laikipia, Kenya.

“Revive your mind, rejuvenate your body and revitalise your soul!”

About Loisaba:

- The Cottage: Fully self contained luxury accommodation with own guide and custom game drive vehicle.

- The House: Exclusive, self-contained private house built on the edge of the escarpment.

- The Main Lodge: Spa, various activities (game drives, rafting, camel safaris, horse riding, walking…) & unique star beds (watch below)!

Klein’s Camp

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania.

“This private and remote camp offers guests the spirit of wild Africa – wooded hillsides, rolling grasslands and forested river banks all teeming with the rich wildlife of this natural sanctuary lie sprawled at your feet.”

Why Klein’s Camp?

- Awe-inspiring view of the Serengeti plains from the edge of the Kuka Hills.

- One of the only areas in the Serengeti where you can do night drives!

- In the path of the annual Great Wildebeest Migration.

A safari in the Serengeti is not just the best Tanzania has to offer. It is certainly also one of THE richest experiences Africa has to offer! In fact, when you say Africa safari it is the Serengeti that usually comes to mind. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most recognized names on the old continent!

The area has been the inspiration of creative types for centuries. Visiting writers (Ernest Hemingway of course), film makers (Hugo von Lawick, Alan Root…), painters, scientists and photographers, have been inspired by the lush landscapes and thrilling animal species that inhabit this unique region. Did you know there were two biosphere sites and two World Heritage sites established within the region? Quite fascinating!

When you take your African safari holidays in the Serengeti you will have the chance to witness over 70 different species of plains dwelling animals. In fact, most of the animals you can think of exist in this species rich region. All those beasts you always visited the zoo to see, roam wild in their natural habitat here in Serengeti National Park. Zebras, wildebeests, lions, cheetahs, and even “laughing” hyenas just to name but a few, can be sighted in abundance!

Ever heard of the Great Migration? No? Well then, be ready to experience probably the most mind-boggling gathering of wildebeests and zebras planet Earth has to offer, with close to 1,5 million wildebeests and approximately 250,000 zebras! The cycle happens between the vast plains of Serengeti and Maasai Mara further up north, where the ungulates journey in an endless quest for fresh pastures and water!

Find the intruders!

Pretty much any wild animal that you can think of is roaming the plains free and unobstructed by cages. Topi, Thomson’s Gazelle, Eland, Impala, African Buffalo, Grant’s Gazelle, Kongoni, Giraffe, Warthog, Waterbuck, Elephant…you name it!!! Serengeti simply has it all! Seeing these animals where they live and how they live will be an experience you will never forget or recreate anywhere in the world.

The birds of the Serengeti are amazing as well. You can expect to see Yellow-throated Sand grouse, Ostrich and even the agile Secretary bird, Kori bustard and Crowned plover. As you check out the seasonal rivers of the region you may want to stand back a bit as you are sure to encounter a crocodile or two along the banks of the Grumeti River, and they may be hungry! Not to mention that they are amongst the largest crocs found anywhere in Africa.

Ultimately, if you are looking for more than animals in the Serengeti, you will find a myriad of plant species. This region is one of the oldest ecosystems on earth. Everything you see around you in fauna and flora has not changed in millions of years. It’s mind boggling but it’s true. The uniqueness and beauty of the plains is expressed wonderfully through the plant life. The reason the ecosystem has not changed in so many millions of years is that the conditions have not changed. The climate and land structure is just as it was many millennia ago and that is a vision of unchanged beauty!

Breathtaking colours over the Serengeti plains!

Majestic View of Lake Manyara (GNU Free Licence)

Lake Manyara is probably most famous for the fact that the park was put aside for the preservation of elephant herds. In fact, the area is well known for its elephants and tree climbing lions. You heard me right!  Tree climbing lions make the region their home. No safari in Africa can be complete without seeing a lion or two!

There are also some other truly African animals that live in Manyara. For instance, you can expect to see vervet and blue monkeys (a species of guenon), Impala and Maasai giraffe. All of these species are now protected but years ago the region was a favorite of big game hunters. Ernest Hemingway was inspired by the vastness of game and verdant landscape and wrote the book The Green Hills of Africa based on the area.

If you are a bird personthen Manyara is definitely for you. For anyone who sets their safari holidays around looking for birds the park is an absolute paradise. There are more than 400 species of birds, more than most areas of Tanzania. You can expect to see all manner of waterfowl, migrants and, last but not least, the elegant flamingos! This is one of the best kept birding secrets in Tanzania and indeed all of Africa and should be a part of anyone’s safari travel vacation.

Flamingo ballet!

Manyara is undeniably a great place to see everything African. This Africa safari promises lounging lions hanging out in trees, elephants galore, monkeys, giraffes and Impalas, …and so much more! It’s like living your own National Geographic TV show! Except you will be the star, with some very wild co stars lol! Certainly a trip to this region of the continent will provide you with stories and adventures you will not soon forget or be able to recreate anywhere else in the world.

Fun, excitement and memories lie in wait for all! Enjoy!

If you are looking for a way out time, you may want to consider the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania for your next travel safari. And, by way out we really mean way out! Indeed, this region is one of the most remote areas in Africa, and as such has some of the most unspoiled terrain home to a serious amount of animal species. The unexplored bush is teeming with all manner of wildlife. The setting is a serene look into this untouched and vast area. You won’t find very many interior roads in the area so you can expect a truly African experience!

Selous here we come!

Because of the remoteness and unexplored area of Selous, walking around the reserve is allowed only with a park Ranger. Fortunately, that happens to be the best way to explore the area anyway! You can guarantee this will be a travel safari you won’t soon forget as this is one of the most pristine areas of Tanzania. You’re not going to see a lot of other visitors, at least human (lol), on this trip! On your walk you are going to see all kinds of plant life and experience all kinds of terrain. You will see dense swampland, huge grass plains, wetlands and forests all in their natural preserved beauty! Don’t expect too many close encounters with wildlife though. By the time they see you (or scent your presence, according to the wind…), they will usually run away almost immediately. This is especially true of the antelope species like the impala or eland. My advice is to wear neutral colours rather than bright flashy clothes that will scare them away.

Sounds interesting!

Selous is also best seen by boat (my favourite activity by a mile). There are all kinds of nooks and crannies to explore by boat and see all the amazing wild life the region has to offer. On your boat trips you will most likely view elephants bathing and wandering along the banks of the rivers, inlets hidden lagoons and swamps. The Rufiji River is also home to huge communities of hippos, and is literally infested with Nile crocodiles! So if you love some of those aquatic creatures make sure you take your camera, as there will be thousands of incredible photo shot opportunities!

Perfect camouflage!

You may also want to try your fishing skills throughout the river. This can be a fun and exciting way to pass the time in this diverse unspoiled refuge. The peacefulness and feeling of being so remote will take you over and is sure to prove to be one of your best safari holidays not just in Tanzania but in all of Africa! Like Tanzania it is a well kept secret and you will feel like you are the only ones to have visited in years.

Selous is a trip you won’t soon forget. Despite its remote location there are scheduled flights into the area and you can avail yourself of the many lodges available for safari travelers. There are so many things to see in this outstanding region and you will leave amazed and very satisfied. Without a doubt one of my best safari experiences ever! Go for it!

If you are planning on visiting Tanzania you must visit Mikumi, Ruaha and Tarangire to be sure your Africa safari trip is complete. A visit to these three regions will give you a great combined view of what Africa and Tanzania specifically have to offer. These are three very special national parks and offer a great cross section of animals, plant life and terrain that must be seen before you leave Africa. Each one is unique and will provide memories sure to last a lifetime.

Out of Mikumi, Ruaha and Tarangire, Mikumi National Park borders the Selous and shares in its abundance of wild life and plant life. It is often compared to the Serengeti for its supply of animals! You can see lions (and I mean plenty of them; never seen so many in one day) surveying their grassy plains looking for their next meal in the herds of zebra, antelopes, impalas and wildebeests that go careening across the fields. Let’s not forget the Mikumi elephant (also very common) you can see milling around.

Female impalas!

You will also see over 400 different species of exotic Africa birds virtually everywhere you look. The terrain is almost as diverse as the animal life with floodplains, rivers, mountains, and forests.

Of the three parks, Mikumi, Ruaha, and Tarangire, Ruaha is considered pristine and untouched and is only marginally smaller than the Serengeti. It is one of the largest conservancies in all of Africa and should definitely be a travel safari destination for anyone taking their safari holidays in Tanzania. All manner of game viewing can be seen in this area and in addition to all the wild life there are over 1500 different varieties of plant life. It is one of the richest areas for vegetation and animal life in the area. You should plan on seeing lions, elephant, giraffe, leopard, cheetah (if very lucky), bat eared fox and hyena throughout the park. My personal favourites though are the Roan and Sable antelopes, rare species that you are more likely to view here than anywhere else!

The most elegant Sable antelope!

Finally, after visiting Mikumi and Ruaha, Tarangire can complete your safari vacation and offers tree climbing lions and huge herds of buffalo and antelope. It is also where the largest herds of elephants can be seen, sometimes in numbers of 300 or more! Additionally, expect to encounter wildebeests and zebra from the Steppe during the dry season.

Where are all the others gone???

For bird lovers this region is a virtual paradise! You can see exotic birds including but not limited to ashy starlings, black collared lovebirds and rufous-tailed weavers. Visiting these parks can really make your Africa safari travel complete and very memorable for sure!

Ever heard of the Baobab tree? No? Well, be sure to know what it is once you come back from your Tarangire trip; these massive beauties are just all over the place!

Lately I received a couple of interesting emails, and thought I could share some of my answers on the matter! If it is a concern to some of you out there, it might indeed just be something worth mentioning!

In one of the mails in particular, a person stated he was looking for “THE BEST African safari destination/country, with both a friendly culture, reasonable prices, crystal clear water beaches, an interesting nightlife, and of course a country that is relatively safe to travel in“! That’s a lot of things to ask at once I know…

While there is no “perfect” destination with all of the above, there is certainly an ideal place that stands out in my mind!

If you’re looking for a combination of beaches and incredible animal wildlife, then I’d DEFINITELY consider Tanzania! Tanzania is by far my best pick!

Here’s why I think you should seriously consider it:

- It has a majestic mountain: Mt Kilimanjaro! The mountain’s name comes from the misuse of two Swahili words: Kilima (hill or little mountain), and Njaro (greatness, also used as white or shining). You can either climb it (if you’re a confirmed trekker), or just stare at it while taking amazing pictures with your family and friends!

Majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro (Creative Commons Image)!

- Stunning beaches: South Beach in Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Mafia Island (best for coral reefs), Pemba etc.

Paradisiac, isn't it?!

- THE BEST safari destinations: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Tarangire, Ruaha, Selous (my pick if you enjoy boat safaris), Mikumi (nice especially if you’re looking for a national park not too far from Dar; approximately 2-3 hours drive).

Ngorongoro Crater (Creative Commons Image)!

- If you can’t do all of the above in one trip, go only for the Northern circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro crater…), and maybe spend some time in Zanzibar (recommended) or Mafia island.

- Dar es Salaam also has a very nice Yacht Club, and the Slipway is great if you’d like to eat pizza, or just wander around the waterfront!

Sunset Over Dar's Yacht Club!

Pizza Time @ The Slipway!

- In terms of costs it is not the cheapest country, but you can most certainly find reasonable prices if you’re willing to camp, or don’t mind backpacking. There are also various companies that organize trips throughout Africa in huge trucks (overland trucks). Really cool if you’re young, and are looking for an experience like no other!

- People are very friendly in Tanzania, and the country is relatively safe. Of course, like in all major countries (and cities in particular), you need to keep an eye on your hand bag and personal belongings. Also make sure not to carry around expensive items when unnecessary!

Provided below are a few things to consider before enjoying the time of your life

1. What are you looking for?

What is it that you are truly looking for? Are you more of an animal freak (just like me) or a bird enthusiast? What would the purpose of your holiday be? To discover what mother nature has to offer, to relax around the pool, or to benefit from a magnificent sun downer cruise on Lake Kariba? Perhaps a combination of all of the above would suit you best…? Pick your wants, be specific…there are plenty of specialist safaris out there!

Once you’re clear on what your desires are, you can then choose the right destination! This is absolutely essential! Indeed, various locations will have different facilities and distinct things to offer! Some will not necessarily be in a rich wildlife area but might have other advantages like a stunning location, exciting activities, walking trails, etc… .

In other words, do your homework, pick up your bags and jump on a plane

2. Where to go

Africa is a huge continent with an unlimited amount of choice destination wise. While it is true that Western Africa has quite a few options available, the area I know best is concentrated in Eastern and Southern Africa, and is renowned for its abundant wildlife. It is an extraordinary heaven for outdoors adventure – perhaps THE best on Earth!

Here are some of the countries that I definitely recommend if you are in love with the bush:

- Tanzania.

- Kenya.

- South Africa.

- Zimbabwe.

- Zambia.

- Botswana.

- Namibia.

- Uganda.

My top 3: Tanzania in first, followed closely by Kenya and South Africa.

3. When to go

The best time of the year for safaris occurs during the dry season months. Indeed, in the rainy season water and food are plentiful. Animals tend to be more dispersed throughout the parks/game reserves. Also, grass is much longer in some areas, making it more difficult to spot them. In comparison, in the dry season permanent water holes attract a vast abundance of wildlife!

For East African countries such as Kenya and Tanzania, ideal times for game viewing include the periods of December to March, and from June to late September/early October. It is during the latest months of the year that one can experience the Great Annual Wildebeest Migration, where almost two million animals gather and move together across the plains of the Serengeti and Masai Mara National Parks! I’ve had the chance to watch it…it’s a once in a lifetime experience…absolutely breathtaking!

In Southern Africa, winter months from May to August, and hot spring months in September and October are most suitable! Temperatures are usually mild during the day, while a little cooler on early mornings and in the late afternoon.

4. Visa/Vaccinations

Most countries require a single-entry visa. I know that in Kenya it costs about $50. So make sure you visit local embassies, and please do a little research before leaving your country.

As far as vaccinations are concerned, requirements vary from country to country. If I were you I’d ask a doctor for adequate information. Here’s a list of some of the inoculations that are highly recommended:

• Yellow fever
• Diphtheria
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis A

Last thing: make sure you ALWAYS have your medical insurance policy to cover possible (yet very unlikely ) emergencies!

5. What to Take With You

I don’t know about you, but I just LOVE packing up for travel

Here’s my ‘take away’ list:

- A suitcase (ha ha very funny Michael).

- Your passport and certificate of vaccination (oops…almost forgot the plane tickets).

- A hat (a Rogue safari hat for the ultimate safari freak ), sunscreen lotion and a pair of sunglasses.

- Mosquito repellent (very important). In some cases, you may be required to take prescription medicine to prevent malaria (i.e. Malarone or Lariam).

- Good binoculars to spot the animals (I recommend 10*50 for best viewing).

- A camera of course (100-300 mm lens ideally; 35 mm for portraits, landscapes, etc.).

- A few jerseys (yes, even in Africa…early mornings and late evenings can be chilly, especially in Southern Africa).

- A torch to prevent lucky/unlucky encounters at night (or for pee emergencies lol).

- Books and Travel Guides. My personal favourites: Signs of the Wild by Clive Walker, The Safari Companion by Richard D. Estes, and Birds of Southern Africa by Sinclair, Hockey and Tarboton.

- A Swiss Army Knife (be careful not to carry it in your hand luggage). It can be very handy in the bush, as a bottle opener or to cut things (Mike…that’s what knives are made for).

VERY IMPORTANT: Oh yes, don’t forget your “eagle eyes” to spot what mother nature has to unveil to you, and your good mood as always ! And remember to stay silent…you may annoy or scare the animals away!

6. Choosing your Activities

Lodges/camps habitually have three main activities: game drives, walks and night drives (not everywhere though). Some may also propose sun downer cruises! Drives are 2-3 hours long (depending on the formula)! Early mornings and late afternoons are best as it is cooler, thus providing better conditions for optimal game viewing. Otherwise, animals tend to rest under a tree or hide in the thickets, away from the scorching sun! A good nap is usually the plan during that part of the day…or perhaps a plunge in the swimming pool?! Up to you really…

• Game drives:

Around Moremi Camp

In open jeeps or mini buses with a guide or ranger. Be willing to wake up bright early (around 5:30 am) and make sure you wear a jersey or a blanket!

My personal favourite is the night drive formula, where you get to see nocturnal animals such as the elusive leopard, African genets and civets, laughing hyenas, porcupines and way more!!! It’s really a cool experience, especially when they let you use the spotlight to scan through the night, looking for every sign or movement: a shiny eye, an unusual noise…detective work at its best!

• Walks:

On the Look-Out for Wild Animals

Also very interesting. An armed guide walks you through the bush to experience another side of nature. Here you get to learn about animal tracks, droppings, and both the fauna and flora (especially trees and their values) of the African savanna. While the wildlife experience might not be as productive in terms of animal sightings (they tend to run away as soon as they see you), the learning experience and birding side of things make it totally worth it! It just has to be done at least once in your life .

• Sun downer/Boat cruises:

Any Crocs?

Truly amazing for close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, or to have the opportunity to view animals that come down by the river to drink. Amazing photo shots to be taken, specifically with the rich aquatic bird life that thrives around the riverine area!

7. Tell your Guide what you’re Looking For

In most instances, professional guides will ask you what your main interests are before taking you on a drive or walk! If not make sure you tell them what you’re dying to find! Whether you’re going for The Big 5, a specific animal or bird species…they’ll be more than happy to fulfill your desires!

However, notice that national parks are not zoos – in other words, you never know in advance what you’re going to see! In my opinion, it’s the exciting part of safaris! Some days are prolific, while others are more disappointing! But often it is when you least expect it that you’re rewarded the most! Never get discouraged! Have faith and odds will eventually turn in your favour!

8. Where to Look for Animals

While there are no definite locations for specific animals, it is possible nevertheless to associate them with specific biomes. For instance grazers live in grasslands, browsers in Miombo woodlands and predators in open savannas. If you’re searching for kudu, you’re very unlikely going to find them in open regions. This type of antelope is principally found in bushy areas where food (mainly leaves) is plentiful for them. Similarly, giraffes love acacia territory, and leopards are more likely to be seen up in a tree or in rocky areas (koppies).

Got the idea? Wonderful

Hope you enjoyed my post! Feel free to leave comments and suggestions! The more feedback I get, the more I can satisfy your needs!

Take care and thanks for stopping by,

Michael