If a luxury safari trip is on your radar, you might have an idea of what to expect from your once in a lifetime holiday. For anyone who has dreamed of an African safari, we’re assuming it includes sleeping under a starry sky in a classy canvas tent, listening to the sounds of big cats on the prowl and watching the sunrise on the horizon with elephants walking by.
If you are looking for the perfect wildlife vacation this year, these high end African safari holidays will make your dreams come true.
Namibia
Namibia is a country of variety, friendly people and some of the most mesmerizing landscapes to be found in the world. However, it’s the luxury lodges, located in remote and beautiful locations that allow nature lovers to explore the different geological zones from the Namib desert to the Etosha pan, entirely on their own terms.
Namibia is all about acres and acres of desert and the wildlife which has cleverly adapted to it. To avoid the crowds, it is recommended to stay in an upscale resort in Etosha for excellent game viewing here as well as in the Caprivi Strip. Guests have the option of going on a night safari, track desert rhinos and elephants or go fishing in the Caprivi river.
Kenya
As the birthplace of all safaris, Kenya is one of the most prized wildlife destinations in Africa. The avid naturalist is spoilt for choice with options such as helping collar a lion, taking a scenic helicopter ride to Lake Turkana or venture on a mobile safari to uncharted wild spots of Masai Mara. Adventurists can also learn the local traditions by spending time in a Samburu Boma.
This beach and bush excursion is like seeing two different countries at the same time.Your luxury Kenyan safari can either be covered by 4×4 or on horseback, as you stay in some of the most exclusive lodges under the backdrop of Mount Kenya and Mount Kilimanjaro.
Hot air balloon safari
Africa has all kinds of safaris to suit the needs of every traveler. Regardless of what you’re looking for, the sole aim is to provide the ultimate wildlife experience in some of the most unforgettable locations and a hot air balloon safari is a unique way to experience Africa’s jungle.
Travelers will hover, silently, over big game herds—something that cannot be experience by any other type of air transport. The experience begins at sunrise, the time when wildlife is really on the move and right before the heat of the day sets in. After a few hours watching over Africa, the extraordinary safari experience ends perfectly with a fabulous brunch spread served on the savannah and is complimented by a glass of champagne for the perfect toast to a perfect day.
Fly-in safaris
If you have no qualms about flying in light single propeller planes and landing on runways topped with dirt, then a fly-in safari is one of the most fastest and amazing ways to see the wildlife of Africa. Not only do you save on time by moving from one location to another super quickly, you enjoy an aerial view of the wonderful landscape spread out below you. As you soar the skies, the pilot cum guide provides you with important information like the surrounding mountain names, rivers flowing below, country borders and a general description of the vast open spaces you fly over. A fly-in safari, truly adds to the thrill and excitement of an authentic African wildlife experience.
African photo safari
Wildlife lovers have been so captivated by the beauty of the African landscape that their quest to have a visual record through the camera lens has created a healthy rivalry among professional photographers from everywhere on the planet. On a special tailor made photo safari to Africa, expert local photo guides are on hand to predict the ultimate animal scene, either from a vehicle or a boat which has been especially built to provide a front row view to every member of the group. These may include pop-up roofs, swivel chairs and camera stands for greater stability. The package is designed for like minded persons staying in photo friendly accommodation, complete with multiple charging stations and a dedicated media centre with all facilities.
Rwanda gorilla trekking private tour
This private safari gives one an opportunity to witness one of the most incredible wildlife spectacles – mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park in their habitat. After your arrival in Kigali, you will be escorted through the scenic countryside of Rwanda to your luxurious lodge bordering the park. There are ten gorilla groups inside the park, which are visited every day by a limited number of persons, making the process of getting a permit pretty chaotic. Your private safari will however ensure you get two permits to get close to the gorillas. Apart from the mountain gorillas, a group of rare species of golden monkeys can also be tracked. The park also happens to be a paradise for birders with several rift endemics to be found here. This once in a lifetime experience will not only be memorable because of the close encounters with the gorillas, but also for the majestic views of the Virunga volcanoes.
Sabi Sands Game Reserve
This 63,000 hectare private Sabi Sands Game Reserve, is well known throughout the world for offering some of the very best of the African bush. This South African resort sets an extremely high standard of service and culinary standard, that cannot be found anywhere in Kruger National Park. This is the destination luxury travelers dream of for an authentic wildlife experience. The game drives are spectacular, with sightings of the Big five recorded — some barely a short distance away from the vehicle. In case you do not wish to leave your classy pad-although we highly recommend a venture out into the wild—you can take a dip in your private plunge pool and watch the sunset over the edge of the water of the nearby dam.
Safari in Swahili means ‘journey’ and an African safari is a thrill to the senses and often offer life changing experiences. As you sip your gin and tonic by the campfire, it is hard not to be moved by the untamed beauty of Africa. Before getting there, you have to plan a luxury safari, but sometimes it can be a daunting task, especially with the choices out there. We hope this guide redefines the meaning of luxury, simply by allowing you to lose yourself in the unspoiled nature of Africa and its majestic beasts. Happy booking.
