Africa

Why Is Zambia the True Home of the Walking Safari?

Zambia is the birthplace of the walking safari, and the country retains an intimate, unhurried approach to wildlife exploration that sets it apart. Exclusive tented camps immerse guests in the wilderness, while the South Luangwa Valley delivers some of the finest predator sightings and African wild dog encounters on the continent. Along its southern border, the mighty Zambezi flows towards its breathtaking climax — the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world.

Why Is Kenya the Home of the Original African Wildlife Safari?

The very word ‘safari’ was born of the KiSwahili word for ‘journey’ — and Kenya is still, quite deservedly, the continent’s most iconic destination. One-tenth of all land in Kenya is designated as national parks and reserves, the most famous being the Maasai Mara, which plays host to the annual Great Migration of thousands of wildebeest and zebra.

What Makes Madagascar’s African Wildlife Safaris Like No Other?

Madagascar’s African wildlife safaris showcase some of the most peculiar life forms on the planet. The wild national parks teem with dancing lemurs, aye-ayes, fossas (a cat-like predator), rare birds, colourful chameleons, frogs, lizards, butterflies and a host of weird and wonderful insects and plants — a staggering 80% of which are found only on this island.

What Can You Experience on an African Wildlife Safari in Malawi?

Malawi boasts undiscovered scenery, wildlife strongholds and adventurous activities to rival any of its neighbouring, and better-known, African wildlife safari destinations. The Great Rift Valley has gouged an immense chasm down the eastern flank which now, brimming with crystal-clear water, forms Africa’s third-largest lake: Lake Malawi.

How Does Morocco Fit Into an African Wildlife Safari Journey?

Morocco is a country of captivating contrasts, shaped by a Berber and Moorish culture that has changed little over hundreds of years. The fascinating coastal town of Essaouira, with its blue-washed medina and Atlantic winds, offers a gateway to a world far removed from the familiar. Further inland, the ancient towns of the desert interior stand weathered by the sands of the Sahara — timeless, evocative, and unlike anywhere else in Africa.

Why Is Mozambique the Perfect End to an African Wildlife Safari?

Mozambique delivers one of Africa’s most compelling bush-to-beach combinations. Endless swathes of white sand sweep along its extraordinary coastline, and the Quirimbas Archipelago offers a remote paradise of azure waters, mangrove forests and community-based conservation projects. Away from the coast, Gorongosa National Park is a rising star of African conservation — a vast, rewarding wilderness that gives Mozambique a genuine claim as an ultimate safari destination in its own right.
Begin your journey now. Take advantage of our highly personalised advice, inspiration and experience to plan the African wildlife safari of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions About African Wildlife Safaris

What is the Best Time of Year to Go on an African Wildlife Safari?

The best time varies by destination, but the dry season — generally May to October across much of sub-Saharan Africa — is widely considered optimal for African wildlife safaris. However, this reputation also makes it the busiest time of year. Shoulder seasons are often more beneficial, taking advantage of amiable climate and fewer travellers, but the green season should also not be discounted. In short, almost any time of year offers superb safari opportunities, each with its own unique benefits. We will ensure that, whenever you may travel, your itinerary takes you to the best destination for a truly rewarding safari.

How Do I Choose Between African Wildlife Safari Destinations?

The right destination depends on what you want to see and how you want to travel. Botswana suits those seeking exclusive, low-impact luxury; Kenya and Tanzania are ideal for first-time safari-goers wanting iconic Big Five encounters; Mozambique appeals to those seeking a stunning bush-to-beach experience. The Classic Safari Company’s team will expertly match you to the destination that best suits your interests.

What is the Big Five on an African Wildlife Safari?

The Big Five refers to the lion, leopard, elephant, Cape buffalo and black rhinoceros — originally coined by big-game hunters to describe the five most dangerous animals to hunt on foot. Today the term is used to describe the five most sought-after species on an African wildlife safari, and spotting all five remains a thrilling milestone for many travellers.

Are African Wildlife Safaris Suitable for Families with Children?

Many African wildlife safari destinations and lodges warmly welcome families, with dedicated junior ranger programmes, child-friendly game drives and safe, enclosed environments. Age restrictions vary by lodge and activity, and our team will ensure every aspect of your itinerary is appropriate and enriching for younger travellers and adult safari-goers alike.

How Long Should an African Wildlife Safari Be?

Most travellers find that a minimum of seven to ten days allows enough time to settle into the rhythm of a safari and experience meaningful game viewing. Two weeks or more is ideal for combining multiple destinations — for example, pairing a Botswana wildlife safari with Zambia’s walking safaris and Zambezi River experiences.

Is it Safe to Go on an African Wildlife Safari?

The Classic Safari Company meticulously monitors conditions across all our destinations. Africa is a wild and rugged continent, but this should not discourage you, rather, it should inspire you to seek out what few others are fortunate enough to witness. With our expert research and the diligent attention of the operators we select, you can be assured that your safari will be perfectly safe, even in the most remote of wilderness destinations.

Glossary of African Wildlife Safari Terms

• The Big Five — Lion, leopard, elephant, Cape buffalo and black rhinoceros. Originally a hunting term, it is now defines the five most iconic animals encountered on an African wildlife safari.
• Game Drive — An excursion, typically in an open four-wheel drive vehicle, into the bush or savannah to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Game drives usually take place at dawn and dusk when animals are most active and the day is at its coolest, and are the cornerstone of most African wildlife safaris.
• The Great Migration — The annual movement of approximately two million wildebeest, zebra and gazelle across the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya. Widely regarded as one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth and a highlight of any East African wildlife safari.
• Walking Safari – a guided bush walk led by an armed and experienced ranger, offering a more intimate and ground-level experience of the African bush than a vehicle-based game drive.
• Sundowners — A beloved safari ritual: drinks enjoyed in the bush at dusk as the sun sets over the African landscape. Sundowners typically follow the afternoon game drive and are often served at a scenic vantage point in the wilderness.
• Tented Camp vs Safari Lodge — Tented camps offer a more immersive, intimate experience in the heart of the bush, with canvas walls that bring guests closer to the sights and sounds of the African night. Safari lodges are permanent structures that typically offer greater comfort and facilities. Both can be luxurious; the choice often comes down to atmosphere and personal preference.
• Night Drive — A game drive conducted after dark using spotlights to locate nocturnal wildlife. Night drives reveal a different side of the African bush, with opportunities to encounter leopards, civets, bushbabies, genets and other elusive creatures rarely seen during daylight hours.