How To Prepare For Your First Safari
As a first-time safari-goer, it's natural to be brimming with questions and maybe even a little bit of anxiety about what to expect. But having just returned from my own first safari - I’m here to give you a comprehensive low-down on everything you need to know before you embark on your first safari adventure.
Pre-Travel Preparation
Preparation is key to any successful travel plan. This rings especially true for safaris which require a more specialized set of considerations. From clothing to medical precautions, there's a lot to think about. This is where working with a travel advisor comes is key- because you don’t want to end up in the bush unprepared.
Packing: Safaris demand practicality and comfort. We’ll send you a detailed packing list weeks prior to your departure that will cover clothing, gear, tech essentials, and medical supplies. Remember, laundry service is usually included at most safari lodges so you won’t need to pack an outfit for every day. Pro-tip: Pack a large scarf - they take up little space and can be worn in multiple ways, from a shawl to a bathing suit cover-up.
Medical: Ensure you're up to date with all required vaccinations. I consulted CDC guidelines before I left and also met with a travel nurse to ensure I was covered with the proper vaccinations and stocked up on anti-malaria and anti-nausea meds. Obviously, consider your personal health needs and pack necessary medication, along with a basic first-aid kit.
Documentation: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates and that you've secured any necessary visas.
What to Expect on Your First Safari
Accommodations can range from luxurious lodges, such as Royal Malewane in South Africa to tented camps like the Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp in Kenya. Each lodge and camp is going to have a different vibe and feel, and no two are alike, so it’s important to find the right fit for your first experience. I was able to stay in several different lodges and camps on my first safari, which gave me a variety of experiences, but even then, I have only just dipped my toe into what African safaris have to offer.
Game drives are at the heart of any safari experience, offering you a front-row seat to view the majestic wildlife of Africa. You’ll be up early (maybe as early as 4am depending on location and time of year) grab a snack and a morning coffee should you need it, and then set out for a good portion of the day. Regardless of how successful on the game drive you are - you’ll return for lunch and have a chance to unwind. You may even have the opportunity to go on an evening or night drive, or possibly a star gazing safari - there is always something to see in the bush. Between game drives, you may enjoy a swim, visit a local village, or unwind at the lodge.
Beyond the game drives, prepare for delightful surprises such as pop-up bush bars for sundowner cocktails, sunrise hot-air balloon rides offering panoramic views of the landscape, boat rides to secret meditation spots after an afternoon of fishing.
Dos and Don'ts
Do: Respect the wildlife. Remember, you are visiting their home.
Don't: Be loud or disruptive. This could scare off animals and ruin the experience for others.
Do: Listen to your guide. They are trained professionals who know the area and wildlife behaviors.
Don't: Be disappointed if you don't see certain animals. Every safari is unique!
Do: Pack in neutral and light colors. Avoid black and navy blue as they attract Tsetse flies in East Africa and can absorb heat, as well as bright colors that may distract wildlife.
Going on a safari is an experience that will stay with you long after you return home. It's more than just a vacation; it's an opportunity to connect with the majesty of nature, the richness of African cultures, and the wider global community. Whether you're moved by the sight of wild animals roaming free, touched by the warmth of the local communities, or inspired by the work of local charities, a safari offers perspective that enriches your life.
The excitement of planning, the thrill of the experience, and the memories made are all part of your safari journey. So are you ready to take the leap? Reach out to Acera Travel today. We make travel dreams come true, whether you're planning, going, or just dreaming (for now). Our experts are here to help craft your ideal African expedition, filled with unforgettable experiences and tailored to your interests. Let's turn those safari dreams into reality!