Walking Safaris

An African safari is an amazing experience. To see amazing creatures like the African lion, elephants, leopard, rhino, and other animals in the wild amidst beautiful natural scenery is a wonderful experience. Even if you have read and watched a video or been told what to expect, there is nothing like experiencing the sights and sounds and people for yourself. Your first visit to Africa is something you will always remember.

The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania was set up in 1952. It is home to the best-untamed life exhibition on earth – the immense relocation of wildebeest and zebra. The inhabitant populace of lion, cheetah, elephant, giraffe, and winged animals is likewise great.

Some people want a more interactive experience. They love to hike or raft. They love the game drives and being close to wildlife in the safari cruiser but wish they could be outside and go on a “walkabout”. That’s where walking safaris come in. Walking safaris allow you “to feel closer to nature,” said one safari expert. You feel “closer to Africa in a way. You see (animal) tracks, things like that. It’s kind of exciting.”

Serengeti National Park

While you won’t see as many animals because you don’t cover as much distance on foot as in a vehicle, there are other benefits besides being closer to the elements. “You learn more about the fauna,” she said. “You interact more with your guide. You don’t know what to expect. We saw a lot of birds in the Botswana delta. Impala, warthogs, giraffes at a distance. Botswana-there are islands you walk (on).”Walking safaris are more common in Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe than the other safari destinations. Most people combine vehicle game drives with some walking safaris mixed in, so they are getting the best of both worlds. South Luangwa National Park in Zambia and Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe are both known for their walking safaris.

Physical safety is the most common concern for potential walking safari participants. Is it truly safe to walk in the same area where elephants, hippo or other animals are known to visit? “You always have to be cautious with wildlife,” she said. “The guides were really nice. They stayed in front of us, one in back.” If you want to make your African safari a little more adventurous, ask your safari expert if the lodge offers walking safaris. Make sure to take comfortable shoes, and always listen to your guides’ instructions.

Serengeti National Park

Are you planning a trip to Botswana and want to learn more about some walking safaris? Going to Victoria Falls and interested in adding a trip to South Luangwa or Hwange National Park with a walking safari and or game drives?