A Typical Day On An African Safari: Here’s What To Expect
A day on safari is an unforgettable adventure, offering a deep connection with nature and wildlife.
While every safari lodge and camp may operate slightly differently, especially based on location and the time of year, the following provides a general overview of what you can expect on a typical day during an African safari.
Wake-Up Call and Morning Refreshments
On Safari, the days begin early, typically around 5-6 am. It might seem a little over the top, but the wildlife is most active before the intense daytime heat.
You’ll have a chance to have some refreshments, like coffee and biscuits, to help wake up before your morning game drive. How this is done will vary depending on the accommodation, but it’s a good idea to fuel up for the day ahead.
Morning Game Drive
Now it’s straight into one of the highlights of any safari, the morning game drive, which typically sets off around 6am.
You’ll climb aboard an open-air vehicle with your driver, and tracker, and set off into the bush to spot some wildlife!
Morning game drives usually last around 3 hours. From lions prowling in the early light to elephants gathering at waterholes, they offer some of the most magical wildlife experiences.
Breakfast
Once you get back from your morning game drive, you’ll probably have worked up an appetite – It’s time for a well-earned breakfast.
It’s my favourite meal on a safari, you can often expect a feast of cereals, fruits, and perhaps a full English breakfast.
Leisure Time
Some places offer optional activities after breakfast, such as a guided bush walk, where you can focus on the smaller details of the environment, or a visit to nearby villages for a taste of local culture.
With the midday heat, you’ll also need some time for relaxation. This is a chance to rest, read a book, or take a refreshing dip in the pool, if your accommodation has one. The pace slows down as the day warms up, and the wildlife rests too, so you won’t be missing much.
Lunch
Lunch is usually served around 12-1pm. Like breakfast, it’ll depend on your accommodation, but it’ll typically consist of a buffet of salads, meats, and delicious desserts, with something to suit all tastes and dietary needs.
Free Time and Afternoon Refreshments
The early afternoon is generally quiet, allowing you to enjoy more leisure time to relax, explore or simply enjoy the natural environment.
Before your next game drive, you’ll be treated to afternoon refreshments around 4pm. A selection of drinks and light snacks will give you the energy for the afternoon’s adventure.
Afternoon Game Drive
After your afternoon refreshment, it’s time for another exciting game drive. The late afternoon drive is another opportunity to see wildlife, often in a different light.
As the temperature begins to drop, the wildlife become more active again. You may encounter predators waking from their afternoon naps or catch sight of a leopard on the prowl.
Sundowner
A cherished safari tradition is the sundowner – a time to unwind and reflect on your safari day while the sun sets.
A pause in your game drive, accompanied by a variety of drinks and snacks that are served against the breathtaking scenic backdrop.
Dinner and Drinks
Upon returning to camp, you’ll typically have a chance to relax and enjoy a drink before dinner, around 7-8pm.
Dinner is normally a three-course affair, cooked fresh by the local chefs. Whether you’re dining in a mess tent or under the stars, the meals are always a highlight, and the staff are usually more than capable of catering to dietary requirements.
Night
In some places, you might have the chance to go on a third drive, after dinner, to spot nocturnal wildlife as night falls.
Your guide will use a spotlight to search for animals such as bushbabies, owls, and perhaps even an elusive leopard. The atmosphere is completely different from the day, and the chance to spot these shy creatures adds an extra thrill.
Otherwise, it’s time to sleep, ready for another early start.
