What to Expect on Safari – First-Time UK Traveller Guide

Complete guide for first-time UK safari travellers. Learn about daily routines, game drives, accommodation, meals, and what makes a safari experience special.

Your Safari Experience

A safari is an immersive wildlife experience that takes you into the heart of Africa's wilderness. Unlike a typical holiday, safari days are structured around wildlife viewing, with early starts and early evenings to maximize opportunities to see animals during their most active periods.

You'll spend your days in open 4x4 vehicles searching for wildlife, learning about the ecosystem from expert guides, and experiencing the African bush in all its beauty. Evenings are for relaxation, excellent food, and sharing stories of the day's sightings.

While every safari is different, there are common elements you can expect: comfortable accommodation, excellent food, knowledgeable guides, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. The experience is both adventurous and comfortable, offering the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation.

Typical Daily Routine

5:30-6:00 AM

Wake-up call

Early start to maximize wildlife viewing during the best times of day.

6:00-6:30 AM

Light breakfast

Quick breakfast with coffee, tea, and light snacks before the game drive.

6:30-10:30 AM

Morning game drive

3-4 hour game drive when animals are most active. Best time for big cat sightings.

10:30 AM-3:30 PM

Brunch & free time

Return to lodge for brunch, then relax by the pool, read, or take a nap.

3:30-6:30 PM

Afternoon game drive

Another game drive with opportunities for different wildlife sightings.

6:30-7:30 PM

Sundowners

Drinks at sunset - a safari tradition with stunning views.

7:30 PM

Dinner

Three-course dinner, often served in beautiful settings with views.

What You'll Experience

Wildlife Encounters

Get remarkably close to Africa's iconic wildlife - lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, buffalo, and hundreds of other species. Witness natural behaviours, hunts, and interactions in their natural habitat.

Expert Guides

Learn from highly trained guides who share their knowledge about animals, birds, plants, and the ecosystem. Their expertise enhances every wildlife encounter.

Stunning Landscapes

Experience Africa's diverse landscapes - from endless plains to dense forests, from dramatic mountains to winding rivers. Each destination offers unique scenery.

Comfortable Accommodation

Stay in comfortable lodges or tented camps with excellent food, attentive service, and often stunning views. Despite being in the wilderness, you'll be well looked after.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a typical day on safari like?

A typical safari day starts early with a wake-up call (around 5:30-6:00 AM), followed by a light breakfast and morning game drive (6:30-10:30 AM). Return to the lodge for brunch, then free time to relax. Afternoon game drive (3:30-6:30 PM) followed by sundowners (drinks at sunset). Dinner is usually around 7:30 PM, with early bedtimes common. The schedule maximizes wildlife viewing during the best times of day.

How close will I get to wildlife?

On well-managed safaris, you can get remarkably close to wildlife - often within 10-20 meters - while remaining safe inside your vehicle. Animals are habituated to safari vehicles and typically ignore them. However, you must always stay inside the vehicle and follow your guide's instructions. Never attempt to approach animals on foot.

What are game drives like?

Game drives are conducted in open 4x4 vehicles with pop-up roofs, allowing you to stand for better viewing. Drives typically last 3-4 hours, with your guide searching for wildlife and sharing knowledge about animals, birds, and the ecosystem. You'll stop frequently for photo opportunities and to observe animal behaviour. Game drives are the primary activity on most safaris.

What is the accommodation like?

Safari accommodation ranges from comfortable mid-range lodges to ultra-luxury tented camps. Most offer en-suite bathrooms, comfortable beds, and excellent food. Many lodges have swimming pools, restaurants, and common areas. Despite being in the wilderness, accommodation is typically very comfortable and safe, with 24-hour security and trained staff.

What about meals on safari?

Meals are typically included in safari packages and are of high quality. Breakfast is usually light before morning drives, with a larger brunch upon return. Lunch is often a buffet, and dinner is typically a three-course meal. Many lodges can accommodate dietary requirements with advance notice. Meals are often served in beautiful settings with views over the wilderness.

Is safari safe for families?

Yes, safari is very safe for families when booked with reputable operators. All safari vehicles are designed for safety, guides are highly trained, and animals are habituated to vehicles. Children typically love safari experiences, and many lodges offer family-friendly activities. We recommend children be at least 6 years old for game drives, though some lodges accept younger children.

Related Pages