The word safari conjures up several images, from vast plains and huge herds of animals to Africa’s big cats tearing up prey. However, ‘safari’ is a general term for much more than that. Below you will see a list of the top 9 different safari variants, each unique and distinctive.
1. Safari with guide
The ultimate safari for people who have no experience travelling in Africa and for those who want to experience an exclusive and carefree safari experience. Most areas of the continent offer this opportunity, with expert guides making it even more special through their specialist knowledge. The ‘game drives’ take place day and night in the African game areas.
2. Mobile safari
Lose yourself in the heart of the African wilderness and experience what it must have felt like for the explorers of the past as you move from one location to another. Stay in tent camps that move with you as you move from place to place through the landscape, something completely different. A true spectacle for those who want to follow the annual wildebeest migration in Tanzania, accompanied by experienced staff.
3. Hiking safari
Crossing the African bush on foot is a unique sensation. Totally exposed to the area but safely protected by expert guides who will alert you to the easily to miss smaller wonders of the flora and fauna. Since 1950 the pioneer of all safaris, a form of safari with a characteristic traditional charm that contributes to the feeling of ‘going back to nature’.
4. Fly-in safari
For the best views and ultimate convenience and comfort. With a fly-in safari, you can fly from an international airport directly to your destination. With the light airplanes you can travel great distances with ease, ideal for visiting different lodges in different destinations. Experience the scenery below from a spectacular bird’s eye view.
5. Self drive safari
A perfect choice for self-employed travellers but also for families. Self drive safaris give you the freedom to decide when and where you go. You’ll see how long you stay. In general, these holidays are slightly less pricey. South Africa and Namibia lend themselves excellently to self drives. South Africa is especially great to independently track down the Big 5 (elephant, rhinoceros, lion, buffalo and leopard) for an ultimate sense of satisfaction.
6. River safari
Many different rivers flow through Africa. With this safari form you can enjoy this to the fullest. Sailing through the winding Okavango Delta, you’ll experience hippos, crocodiles and elephants. For a more adventurous experience, follow the Zambezi River with all its rapids and the world’s largest waterfall: the Victoria Falls…
7. ‘Primate’ safari
For a very different kind of safari, follow the fascinating monkeys in Uganda and Rwanda. Unlike the lowlands of South Africa,covered with thick tropical rainforest, these countries are home to the rare mountain gorilla, chimpanzee and various other species of primates. The highlight of these trips is without a doubt following mountain gorillas. You may have to spend hours trudging through the jungle to find them, but an intimate look into the lives of these very noble noble animals makes it more than worth it.
8. Horseriding safari
If you like horses and have a taste for African plains, then this is the perfect combination, soothing and exciting at the same time. Galloping through the beautiful landscapes, special guides lead you through the wilderness and share their expertise. Riding through Africa is incredibly emotional and possibly even more exciting than a game drive.
9. Hot air balloon safari
Probably the most romantic safari form. Soar high above the ground and float silently through the air to enjoy the beautiful view. Especially Kenya and Tanzania are beautiful countries for these safaris because of their open plains and lack of foliage which could hinder the view. Take a hot air balloon ride in the early morning and watch the sun rise over the most varied and spectacular scenery in the world.
