SAFARI WISDOM: “No matter how long the night, the day is sure to come.” ~ African Proverb
6 am
Rise and shine.
Start the day with the smell of fresh coffee or tea served in your tent. To get some of the best game viewings of the day, an early start is needed to beat the heat of the sun. This is the time that the big cats are the most active and can provide some of the most dramatic photography, thanks to the beautiful lighting. Although it might be tempting to stay in bed and wait until the afternoon to explore, I promise you this is a game drive you don’t want to miss!
6:30 – 7 am
Morning Game Drive.
Climb aboard your safari vehicle with your expert guide to go on the hunt for cats and other game. It can be chilly in the mornings and you may need to bundle up, but make sure you pack layers you can peel off as the temperature heats up with the sunrise. If you have any specific interests, inform your guide at the start of your game drive. However, they’ll typically plan their route based on recent local sightings, so all you need to do is sit back and relax as you embark on your safari adventure.
The drive will last a few hours, depending on your sightings, and if you opt for a bush breakfast, you’ll likely head back to camp around noon with some thrilling stories to share at lunchtime.
8:30 – 9:30 am:
Breakfast in the Bush.
You’ll have the option to pack a breakfast & enjoy another cup of coffee and your morning meal in the bush.
1:00 pm: Lunch in Camp
Time to return to the lodge for a well-earned lunch in camp. Often served in a communal setting with your host, this is a fantastic time to share your sightings with other guests, plan your free time and enjoy plenty of food and drink, freshly prepared by your chef. If you need a little bite between meals, snacks can always be found.
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm:
Free Time!
This is the hottest part of the day, and a wonderful time to read a book, take a dip in the pool (if your camp has one) or enjoy a siesta. If you prefer to get active, your lodge or camp will have a range of exciting facilities and activities to fill your time.
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Evening Game Drive
Venture out a game drive once again as the sun sets. The cooler evening temperature means that animals are more active and less likely to be hiding in the bushes for some shade.
As the sun makes its stunning exit, your guide will stop at a viewpoint and bring out a cool box filled with your preferred drinks for a sundowner, a toast to the sun after a spectacular day on safari. This is a traditional end to any safari day and the chosen locations have a spellbinding atmosphere.
Note: Some locations offer thrilling night game drives, and these will leave later than 4:00 pm.
You can still incorporate sundowners into your game drive, or enjoy them at the camp before venturing out.
8:00 pm:
Dinner & Evening Drinks.
Upon returning to camp, enjoy a tasty meal before settling under the stars around the fire with a drink in hand. It’s tempting to stay up late in this beautiful location, but don’t forget a 6:00 am wake-up comes calling the next morning, so ensure you get a restful night of sleep in preparation for tomorrow’s adventure.
10:30 pm:
Sweet Dreams of Africa!
