What is a Safari? This is an Arabic word that means “Journey”. The idea of travel has probably crossed your mind on several occasions. And better still; an idea of taking a journey to explore Africa is awe to many. African Safari has a lot to offer to its visitors. Even though each one is going to have a different experience in while on Safari, I will still break down some of the amazing things you actually might see while on an African Safari.
- THE BIG FIVE
There is no way one can go on safari without hearing of the big five. They include the Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Elephant and Rhino. They are called the big five as they are the top animals that everyone hopes to see while on any Safari. Remember all these animals are completely wild. This will be a perfect opportunity to get up-close and personal with these beautiful creatures. You will be amazed at how close they actually can get. So get your cameras ready for an animal photo shoot of a lifetime!
- ROUGH EARTHY ROADS
Nicknamed “African Massage”, the roads on an Africa safari is quite rugged. Ensure you ride in an active 4×4 land cruisers with ample leg room over the bumpy terrain.
- A KILL
Although it might not be something everyone wants to see, this is the most dramatic spectacle one can see. It is more of survival of the fittest. The prey must outrun the predator or else it becomes a meal. To witness this make sure you follow the guides’ instructions as they have eagle eyes and can spot a kill or a potential kill. Stay still and minimize noise to experience this spectacle.
- A MOTHER GIVING BIRTH
This is one of the rare sights one can see while on safari. It simply is magical. Ensure to keep a distance as the mother is instinctively in a protective state of mind
January and February are the best time to witness wildebeest giving birth in Serengeti national park. Here thousands of wildebeest give birth each day
- THE GREAT MIGRATION
This is the greatest wonder in the world in terms of animal migration. You will see defiantly see the migration any time of the year depending on where you are. Over a million wildebeest, zebra, Gazelle and other antelopes make their way from Serengeti national park in Tanzania crossing over to Masai Mara game reserve in Kenya. A pure instinct for survival pushes the animals to cross over to the Kenyan side where there is plenty of food and water.
- A PRIDE OF LIONS TAKING A NAP
Lions are quite active very early in the morning and late in the evening when it is not too hot. You are likely to witness the pride stalking a prey, killing a prey or having a meal out of the kill. Lions spend most of their days sleeping. They can sleep between 16 to 20 hours a day. Be sure to look out for this sight under trees, bushes or simply on the open plains.
- A HERD OF ELEPHANTS
Elephants are majestic gentle giants. You are probably going to encounter these amazing creatures. Seeing one elephant in their natural habitat is amazing, but finding a heard of over 100 elephants in gone group is simply magical. Be on the lookout for such rare sights.
- FRIENDLY LOCALS
There is no way you will be on safari without encountering the locals. Africans are very welcoming and friendly. They will let you to experience their culture, food and if you are lucky you will have a session of music and dance.
In conclusion, it is important to keep in mind that some of the things stated above may not be seen as some animals like the leopard and the Rhino are quite elusive. So don’t beat yourself up. Remember you are coming to Africa to have fun. So carry your camera with enough back up battery and let nature take its course
