5 Unique Safari Experiences for Seasoned Safari-Goers

One trip to Africa simply isn’t enough. Once you’ve travelled across the seemingly endless savannah in an open safari vehicle, had all of your senses revitalised by the sights, smells, and sounds of the wilderness around you, and spotted mesmerising wildlife, from elephants to lions, you’ll forever have a yearning to return and discover the countless other wonders the continent holds. For your next African safari, here are five unique safari experiences to consider.

1. Go on a Sleep-Out

While the luxury safari lodges and camps in parks and reserves are spectacular with their first-class amenities, there’s nothing quite like spending a night under the stars in a remote location. Due to the low-to-no light pollution levels, you’ll be able to see stars in all their glory!

During a sleep-out experience, you’ll sleep outside and be fully immersed in nature. Be lulled to dreamland by the sounds of the African bush. A fantastic one to consider is Desert & Delta’s Tsodilo Hills Sleep-Out Camp in Botswana, an offering that sees travellers experience a truly immersive adventure featuring two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

2. Have a Cultural Experience

A fascinating aspect of Africa is the indigenous cultures. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to spend time with local tribes during a cultural tour! In Namibia, the ancient ways of the Himba tribe have remained mostly untouched for centuries. They’re recognised for their striking red ochre body paint and exquisite hairstyles. During a safari in Namibia, you’re able to spend time with these people to learn more about their culture and history.

3. Do Walking Safaris

You’ve probably been on plenty of game drives, but have you ever been on a walking safari? This involves walking the African plains to spot wildlife with professional guides. Unlike game drives, walking lets you see not just the big animals but also the smaller details like the insects, birds, and plants that complete the ecosystem.

You don’t need to be very fit to join in, as you won’t be climbing mountains but just taking leisurely walks on mostly flat paths. Your guide will walk with you, explaining all the interesting things you see and hear.

Famed conservationist Norman Carr began this activity in South Luangwa in Zambia. Zambia walking safaris are still done in this national park and are incredibly exciting – the floodplains and waterways draw in an array of wildlife, including hyenas, giraffes, and elephants. This five-day South Luangwa safari includes day and night game drives as well as walking safaris to come closer to nature and the animals that call it home.

4. Go on a Horseback Riding Safari

Traversing the bush while on horseback can bring you closer to wildlife. This is because wild animals tend to be less disturbed by the presence of horses compared to vehicles or people on foot. This experience is for expert riders who are able to spend several days on horseback and can break into a gallop when the occasion arises.

Through this experience, you’ll see a wide variety of landscapes, including open savannahs, forests, hills, and marshlands; you’ll also be going at a pace that allows for true appreciation of the surroundings you find yourself in. A horseback safari is safe, as you’re riding with an expert guide who ensures the safety and wellbeing of guests while sharing their knowledge of the wildlife, local ecosystems, and conservation efforts.

Botswana horseback safaris can take you through the Okavango Delta, a World Heritage Site home to many sought-after bird species as well as the Big Five, various antelope species, hippos, and crocodiles. This seven-day adventure includes spending nights in a specialised horseback safari camp as well as a few nights at a luxury camp.

5. Opt for Remote Locations and Unique Animal Sightings

If you’re a seasoned safari-goer, chances are you’ve already ticked the Big Five off your list. Now it’s time to travel off the beaten track and visit areas with a low density of camps and opportunities for endangered animal sightings.

One such place is the Kalahari in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia, with Tswalu standing out for its conservation efforts and accommodation offerings. The Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is home to the largest population of free-roaming Temminck’s ground pangolins in the country.

Pangolins are the most trafficked animals in the world, and Africa’s population is classified as “vulnerable,” with the numbers decreasing. Tswalu’s conservation efforts focus on research into the ecology and behaviour of these animals. Guests can join researchers on night drives to track and observe pangolins in their natural habitat.

At Tswalu, exclusivity and privacy are of utmost importance. Tarkuni Homestead – perfect for a multi-generational safari – features a private chef, secluded verandahs, a sundowner fire pit, and a plunge pool. Besides seeing pangolins, other activities on offer include horseback riding, sleep-outs, and birdwatching.

So, are you ready to embark on a safari adventure that will take you off well-trodden paths? From sleeping under the stars in the African bush to tracking endangered pangolins across the Kalahari, these unique safari experiences will rekindle your passion for travel in Africa and create memories that will last a lifetime. Start planning your next adventure today and rediscover the magic of Africa!