South Africa is a country with a considerable amount to offer the average tourist. With that said, there’s one activity that’s almost uniquely compelling: a Safari trip through some of the world’s most pristine outdoor locations. A trip here will allow you to view nature’s most incredible species in their natural habitats. But exactly how can you get the best from your South Africa trips?
Choosing the Right Safari Destination
To begin with, you’ll want to pick out the right safari destination. Among the best of them is the Kruger National Park, which covers almost two million hectares in the north, near the border with neighbouring Mozambique. Here, you’ll find an incredible diversity of wildlife, along with several private lodges from which you’ll be able to explore the surrounding wilderness.
On the other hand, there are private game reserves, like Sabi Sands, which will allow you a more intimate, personal experience. You’ll pay more, but you won’t have to compete with other tourists for the best views of the animals – and you’ll enjoy some of the best safari guides in the business.
Deciding When to Go
Timing your trip is crucial. If you visit at the wrong time of year, then you won’t get the chance to view certain species. Generally speaking, the dry months between June and September are best since the vegetation tends to be sparser, which makes the animals easier to see. Since water is scarcer, animals tend to flock to the limited water sources – which makes their behaviour more predictable. During summer (which is winter in the Northern Hemisphere, remember), the landscape is more lush, and you may get a chance to see newborn animals and all the unique behaviours that come with them – but you’re taking a bit more of a risk.
Selecting Accommodation: Lodges vs. Camps
On your safari adventure, you’ll be faced with a choice of two kinds of accommodation. There are luxury lodges which offer a hotel experience, with guided tours and world-class dining thrown in. If you want to get really close to the wilderness, on the other hand, you might consider a traditional campsite instead. The latter option tends to be more affordable, though you’ll sacrifice comfort. For some, this might be a desirable tradeoff.
Essential Packing Tips
Getting the most from your Safari adventure means, in many cases, packing a number of essential items. You’ll need clothing that you’ll feel comfortable in when you’re out all day. Avoid bright colours that might attract the attention of the animals themselves. Binoculars are a great investment, as they’ll allow you to see what you’re looking at, even when it’s a fair distance away!
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