Because not all safaris are created equal, finding the right one means the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one. Which is where we come in, guns blazing, whips-a-cracking, khaki clad and gorgeous. Right? Yeah, well, you get the idea. We're here for a reason, and that reason is to help you choose the best safari for you and match you with the perfect destinations, camps, lodges and experiences. It's an art, and one we're very good at. So here's the Zafaris list of safari options distilled down to a few paragraphs. For the full version, you'll just have to speak to us in person. 

1. The classic

First up - the classic "we've got it all covered" safari... When you think of safari, chances are you're imagining classic game drive experience, wind in your hair, all decked out in khaki... And maybe a gentle guided bush walk, meandering through relatively tame savannah, your guide picking out interesting stuff as you mosy along.

This is the iconic safari that many people picture - easy, stress-free and accompanied by a guide with a wealth of knowledge, combined with the thrill of spotting Africa's most famous wildlife species in their natural habitat. If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’ve stepped into a wildlife documentary, this is your chance.

Game drives are all about exploring different terrains, from savannahs to dense woodlands, and getting up close to the big game - lions, elephants, giraffes, and buffalo. But don't think the adventure stops with the Big Five. The beauty of being on four wheels is that you get to explore an entire ecosystem, spotting everything from tiny mammals and colourful birds to elusive predators. 

Walking in the bush is a completely different kettle of fish, but on a classic safari it's not hard graft - and suitable for guests of all ages and fitness levels. Usually combined with a drive, it's the chance to discover the smaller stuff for an hour or so, strolling gently through the wildneress. It’s perfect for first-timers who want the full safari experience without the drudge of a backpack and hiking boots.

So, if you're in it for the quintessential safari experience and the chance to get up close to all kinds of wildlife and get a taste for walking, the classic safari is your ticket to the African wilderness.

2. Walk on the wild side

Of course, if a more focused walking safari is what you're looking for, then no sweat, we've got you covered. A bit more intensive than just a casual stroll that interrupts a game drive, walking safaris allow you to connect with nature in a way that game drives simply can’t match. With a professional guide leading the way, you'll learn to identify animal tracks, listen for sounds, and explore the bush in a deeper, more intimate way and for longer periods of time.

This is your chance to step off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the wild, feeling the earth beneath your feet and the breeze in your hair. Don’t worry - walking safaris are typically conducted in safe areas, and your guide will be armed for your protection. But still, the thrill of being on foot with nothing but the sounds of the bush around you is an experience that will stay with you forever.

Walking safaris are a great choice for those who love adventure and don’t mind the idea of a little sweat and dust. They also work well if you're more interested in the finer details of the ecosystem, like learning about plant life and animal behaviour. There are a host of camps that offer walks instead of game drives, and depending on where they are, you'll need slightly higher fitness levels. In the case of multiple day trails, you'll need to be able to walk for hours at a time. Chat to us to get the lowdown.

3. Far from the madding crowds

For those who want to escape the crowds and truly disconnect, then head for private concessions for a genuine, undisturbed connection with the wilderness. Usually located in areas within or adjacent to national parks and game reserves, they allow for more exclusive, flexible and personalised safari experiences, giving you the freedom to explore without the pressure of numerous vehicles swarming over the same sightings. 

But private concessions aren’t about exclusivity for exclusivity’s sake. They're about being able to curate your experience. You’re not necessarily bound by the usual schedules or large groups, frequently allow for off-roading to view certain sightings at close quarters and if you prefer to stay in one spot for a bit longer to observe that leopard lounging in a tree, no one’s rushing you. 

You also get to stay in intimate, luxurious camps that don’t overwhelm the natural environment but rather blend into it, offering a different level of service that's more experience orientated and designed to make your experience feel personal and deeply connected to the land around you.

If you’re after a safari experience that’s as close to the essence of Africa as possible, free from the distractions of over-crowded reserves and filled with opportunities for genuine immersion, a safari in a private concession is worth considering. 

4. Go private

Closely related are privately guided safaris. Private safaris are the height of luxury and exclusivity, with luxury camps and lodges offering impeccable service, gourmet dining, and even private guides to ensure your every need is met. If you’re looking for total privacy and want to enjoy the wilderness in the most comfortable and elegant way possible, a private concession safari might be just the ticket.

The beauty of private safaris is that you can enjoy tailor-made experiences. Want to skip the game drive and head out on foot for a few hours? No problem. Fancy a bush breakfast in the middle of nowhere? Done. These experiences give you full control over your schedule, allowing you to be the master of your own, perfect African adventure.

A privately guided safari is your chance to take control of your adventure and experience the African wilderness on your own terms. Forget crowded vehicles and fixed schedules – with your own guide, you have the flexibility to design every part of your safari. From choosing how long you spend at each sighting to enjoying off-the-beaten-path adventures, this is your opportunity to truly explore at your own pace.

Private guides are experts who tailor the experience to match your interests. Whether you want to dive into the thrill of tracking or take your time soaking in the landscape, they’ll adjust the pace to suit you. You’ll spend as long as you like with a lion sighting or enjoy spontaneous bush breakfasts – it’s your safari, so you decide when and where to go.

With a privately guided safari, you’re also in for some personalised perks. From sneaking off-road to hidden spots in the bush to arranging a private dinner under the stars, your guide ensures the experience is everything you want it to be. They help you spot the subtle details that most miss, turning the safari into an immersive exploration of Africa’s raw beauty.

5. Bring the rug rats

Got kids? No problem. A safari is one of those rare experiences that’s equally amazing for kids and adults. Many lodges and camps offer family-friendly safaris, complete with child-friendly game drives and special activities like junior ranger programs. These safaris allow kids to learn about wildlife, conservation, and the environment in a fun and engaging way.

Family safaris are typically designed to be educational and entertaining, with a focus on connecting young travellers with nature. Don’t expect to be sitting around in silence. Instead, be ready for a more relaxed pace, with lots of breaks and fun activities to keep the little ones engaged. From tracking animals to learning about indigenous plants, family safaris are an unforgettable way to introduce the next generation to the beauty of the wild.

If you're thinking of bringing the whole family, a family-friendly safari is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to bond, explore the bush, and create memories that will last a lifetime. And let’s not forget - the kids will never stop talking about that time they spotted a herd of elephants!

6. Bush and beach

If you're torn between a safari and a beach holiday, then listen-up - it's possible to have both. You you can seamlessly blend your time on safari with a few days of sun, sea, and sand in places like Zanzibar, Mauritius, or the Seychelles. A few days of wildlife adventures can be followed by a relaxing beach holiday, giving you the best of both worlds.

Safari and beach combos are perfect for those looking to balance the excitement of game drives with the serenity of the ocean. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a pristine beach or snorkelling in crystal-clear waters after your safari, this combination offers the ultimate indulgence in relaxation and adventure. You’ll leave feeling both rejuvenated and completely exhilarated by the raw beauty of Africa.

Now that you know the safari options, it’s time to decide which one speaks to you. Whether you’re after luxury, adventure, or a family-friendly escape, there’s a safari option for every kind of traveller. So, what’s stopping you? The African wilderness is waiting for you to make memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Now then. Pick up the phone, WhatsApp us or email us. And let's get the ball rolling on the perfect safari!

Text: Sharon Gilbert-Rivett