I recently returned back from one of the best trips of my life – an African safari adventure where I hosted a group of amazing clients around South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana.
Having been on a safari before in Kenya at Masai Mara National Reserve, I thought I knew what to expect—but every safari is a completely unique experience, and this one was no exception. From thrilling wildlife encounters to cozy lodge evenings, every moment felt like a scene from a nature documentary. Our group had the opportunity to explore a private game reserve near Kruger, see Victoria Falls, and see so many animals at Chobe National Park—each destination offering its own breathtaking beauty and unforgettable wildlife moments. And let’s be honest—each game drive felt straight out of The Lion King, and we most definitely played the soundtrack throughout the trip! If you’re thinking about going on a safari, here’s a little taste of what you might expect based on my adventure.
Game Drives: The Heart of the Safari Experience
Safaris revolve around morning and afternoon game drives, and let me tell you—there’s nothing quite like that first drive of the day. We visited in the summer, so the weather was a mix of sunny and cloudy skies, with some rain here and there. But we were well-prepared with fleece-lined ponchos and a covered Land Rover, so we stayed dry (for the most part) and comfortable.
- Morning Drives: I’ll admit, waking up at 5:00 AM isn’t exactly my idea of fun, but once you step outside and feel that crisp morning air, it’s completely worth it. By 5:30 AM, we were off, watching the sunrise and spotting wildlife just as the bush was waking up.
- Afternoon Drives: The second drive of the day, usually around 4:00 PM, was equally exciting. As the sun began to set, animals became more active, and we had some of our best sightings during this time. Game drives typically lasted around three hours, but the duration really depended on what we saw. Some drives were planned for the entire day, including a boat ride in Chobe and even a night safari after dinner.
- Wildlife Sightings: No two game drives were the same. One day we witnessed leopards mating, another day we followed a family of elephants splashing around in the water. We walked right up to a group of cheetahs, spotted a family of rhinos, and even caught sight of hippos out of the water—a rare and incredible experience. Seeing lions stalking their prey right and a herd of buffalo running alongside us? Absolutely unreal.
Lodge Life: The Perfect Balance of Comfort and Adventure
After an eventful game drive, coming back to the lodge felt like stepping into a little oasis. The accommodations were stunning, and depending on where you stay, meals might be buffet-style or plated. Either way, the food was always delicious, and there was something so special about gathering around the table, swapping stories about the day’s sightings.
One of my favorite experiences was the Boma Dinner—an outdoor feast under the African sky, complete with grilled meats, local dishes, and plenty of drinks. However, not all lodges offer a Boma dinner, so it depends on your accommodation and what they provide.
Wildlife Encounters at the Lodge
One of the coolest (and slightly nerve-wracking) things about staying at a safari lodge is that wildlife is literally right outside your door. We had a family of warthogs casually strolling by during lunch and even had to be walked to our rooms at night because leopards were known to wander through the property. Talk about a real-life adventure!
Final Thoughts: Expect the Unexpected
The beauty of a safari is that you never know what’s going to happen next. One moment you’re seeing giraffes hanging around trees, and the next, lions pop up alongside you looking for their next meal. It’s unpredictable, it’s exhilarating, and it’s unlike anything I’ve ever experienced before.
If you’re even slightly considering going on a safari—do it. Be ready for early mornings, breathtaking landscapes, and moments that will stay with you forever.
I’d love to help you plan your own unforgettable safari adventure! Reach out, and let’s make this dream a reality.
