A complete guide to
African safaris
A safari is not just a vacation; it's a chance to fully immerse yourself in some of the most untouched and remote corners of the planet. Each of our camps is set within vast, privately protected areas, offering an exclusive experience where wildlife encounters are uniquely yours.
A journey through time: The evolution of safaris
Types of Safari
Discover Earth's Ultimate, Untamed Places
Each safari with Wilderness is a unique gateway to nature in its rawest form. Our diverse safari options immerse you in Africa's extraordinary environments - whether tracking wildlife up close, capturing the perfect shot, or engaging with local culture. Led by our expert guides, these journeys promise authentic encounters in Earth's most iconic wild destinations.
Game drives
A quintessential safari experience, morning and evening drives bring you close to Africa’s iconic wildlife. Sightings are unpredictable and that’s what makes a game drive so exciting. Look out for tracks, listen for alarm calls and be on the alert for nearby predators. There’s so much to see, and being the first to spot something brings a whole new level of satisfaction to your day.
Game Drives
Walking safaris
Step out of the vehicle and into the wild, tracking animals on foot and discovering the wild's hidden details. Walk along ancient paths, focus on the intricacies of the bush and learn more about the insects, birds, trees and bees with one of our knowledgeable guides. When you do encounter a towering giraffe or a curious zebra, it’s bound to be an experience you’ll remember forever.
Guided Walking Safaris
Photographic safaris
Guided by professional wildlife photographers, these safaris reveal Africa's most extraordinary moments. From a lioness' stealthy hunt to a malachite sunbird's vibrant flight, capture intimate wildlife scenes. Photograph from underground hides, witness dramatic chases, and marvel at star-filled Namibian desert nights.
Photography
Boat & canoe safaris
Drift through the Okavango Delta or on the Zambezi River, watching hippos, crocs, and birds. Watch and listen for these special moments on a boating safari, in search of aquatic wonders in the wild. Spy rare birds in the reeds, antelope and predators slaking their thirst, herds of elephant crossing a channel - up close, in the wilderness, on an unforgettable boating safari.
Boat Safari
Birding safaris
Birding with a knowledgeable Wilderness guide is spectacular across all our regions, with 930 different species for twitchers to tick. With exclusive access to some 6 million acres (2.3 million hectares) across Africa's most remote and wild areas, you’ll find incredible bird sightings and diversity. You may even tick a lifer or two.
Birding
Gorilla trekking
Venture into Rwanda's mist-shrouded Volcanoes National Park for the ultimate wildlife encounter. Gorilla trekking offers an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime journey to meet endangered mountain gorillas in their pristine forest home. Experience a profound connection with one of our closest relatives, transforming your understanding of the natural world.
Gorilla Trekking
Fly-in safaris
We maximise your safari by flying you between remote lodges by bush plane. From above, witness the landscape's raw beauty - a pristine, filter-free world that reveals nature's delicate balance. This bird's-eye view will inspire the storyteller in you, capturing the Earth's untouched magnificence.
Helicopter SafariGame drives
Game drives
A quintessential safari experience, morning and evening drives bring you close to Africa’s iconic wildlife. Sightings are unpredictable and that’s what makes a game drive so exciting. Look out for tracks, listen for alarm calls and be on the alert for nearby predators. There’s so much to see, and being the first to spot something brings a whole new level of satisfaction to your day.
Game DrivesWalking safaris
Walking safaris
Step out of the vehicle and into the wild, tracking animals on foot and discovering the wild's hidden details. Walk along ancient paths, focus on the intricacies of the bush and learn more about the insects, birds, trees and bees with one of our knowledgeable guides. When you do encounter a towering giraffe or a curious zebra, it’s bound to be an experience you’ll remember forever.
Guided Walking SafarisPhotographic safaris
Photographic safaris
Guided by professional wildlife photographers, these safaris reveal Africa's most extraordinary moments. From a lioness' stealthy hunt to a malachite sunbird's vibrant flight, capture intimate wildlife scenes. Photograph from underground hides, witness dramatic chases, and marvel at star-filled Namibian desert nights.
PhotographyBoat & canoe safaris
Boat & canoe safaris
Drift through the Okavango Delta or on the Zambezi River, watching hippos, crocs, and birds. Watch and listen for these special moments on a boating safari, in search of aquatic wonders in the wild. Spy rare birds in the reeds, antelope and predators slaking their thirst, herds of elephant crossing a channel - up close, in the wilderness, on an unforgettable boating safari.
Boat SafariBirding safaris
Birding safaris
Birding with a knowledgeable Wilderness guide is spectacular across all our regions, with 930 different species for twitchers to tick. With exclusive access to some 6 million acres (2.3 million hectares) across Africa's most remote and wild areas, you’ll find incredible bird sightings and diversity. You may even tick a lifer or two.
BirdingGorilla trekking
Gorilla trekking
Venture into Rwanda's mist-shrouded Volcanoes National Park for the ultimate wildlife encounter. Gorilla trekking offers an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime journey to meet endangered mountain gorillas in their pristine forest home. Experience a profound connection with one of our closest relatives, transforming your understanding of the natural world.
Gorilla TrekkingFly-in safaris
Fly-in safaris
We maximise your safari by flying you between remote lodges by bush plane. From above, witness the landscape's raw beauty - a pristine, filter-free world that reveals nature's delicate balance. This bird's-eye view will inspire the storyteller in you, capturing the Earth's untouched magnificence.
Helicopter SafariWhy choose a safari over other adventures?
Planning your safari
Begin your journey to Earth's ultimate, untamed places with expert guidance from Wilderness. From selecting the perfect destinations to understanding what to pack, our Travel Designers ensure every detail of your safari is thoughtfully planned. With over 40 years of experience, we'll help you craft the perfect wild adventure tailored to your dreams.
When to go
The best time for a safari is typically May to October when drier conditions make wildlife easier to spot as animals congregate around water sources. For value seekers, the wetter summer months offer lush green landscapes, newborn animals, predator action and opportunities for birdwatching and boat safaris, albiet in denser vegetation.
The best time to go on safari
Where to go
Africa's safari destinations each offer distinct wonders: Namibia's dramatic dunes, and rhino tracking; Zimbabwe and Zambia's spectacular game viewing, and the Victoria Falls; Botswana's Okavango Delta with unique land and water safaris; Tanzania's Serengeti hosting the Great Migration; and Rwanda's misty forests, where mountain gorilla encounters await.
Africa
How long to stay
The ideal safari length starts at 5-7 days to truly appreciate the experience. For a more immersive adventure, especially when combining multiple destinations like Tanzania's Serengeti with Rwanda's gorilla trekking, allow at least 9 days. This ensures adequate time for travel between locations while fully experiencing Africa's breathtaking wilderness.
Journeys
Budgeting
A safari is more than a trip - it's an all-inclusive premium experience. With seamless logistics covering accommodation, meals, activities, and transfers, you'll explore pristine wilderness in unparalleled comfort. From gorilla trekking to hot air balloon rides, each extraordinary moment justifies the investment in a truly transformative journey.
Our Services
What to pack
When packing for safari, focus on versatile, neutral-colored clothing for layering: lightweight shirts, pants, and a rain jacket. Essential accessories include a sun hat, sunglasses, comfortable shoes, binoculars, and camera. Remember toiletries and medications, and respect luggage weight limits for internal flights. Consider supporting local communities through 'Pack for a Purpose'.
What to Pack for your Safari
Health and Safety
Consult your health professionals regarding essential vaccinations, necessary medications, and malaria prevention guidelines. While on safari, trust your expert guides, maintain safe distances from wildlife and adhere to protocols. Our Wilderness24 service provides 24/7 emergency support and medical assistance in remote locations, allowing you to fully enjoy your experience.
Wilderness24 celebrates 10 years of pioneering safetyWhen to go
When to go
The best time for a safari is typically May to October when drier conditions make wildlife easier to spot as animals congregate around water sources. For value seekers, the wetter summer months offer lush green landscapes, newborn animals, predator action and opportunities for birdwatching and boat safaris, albiet in denser vegetation.
The best time to go on safariWhere to go
Where to go
Africa's safari destinations each offer distinct wonders: Namibia's dramatic dunes, and rhino tracking; Zimbabwe and Zambia's spectacular game viewing, and the Victoria Falls; Botswana's Okavango Delta with unique land and water safaris; Tanzania's Serengeti hosting the Great Migration; and Rwanda's misty forests, where mountain gorilla encounters await.
AfricaHow long to stay
How long to stay
The ideal safari length starts at 5-7 days to truly appreciate the experience. For a more immersive adventure, especially when combining multiple destinations like Tanzania's Serengeti with Rwanda's gorilla trekking, allow at least 9 days. This ensures adequate time for travel between locations while fully experiencing Africa's breathtaking wilderness.
JourneysBudgeting
Budgeting
A safari is more than a trip - it's an all-inclusive premium experience. With seamless logistics covering accommodation, meals, activities, and transfers, you'll explore pristine wilderness in unparalleled comfort. From gorilla trekking to hot air balloon rides, each extraordinary moment justifies the investment in a truly transformative journey.
Our ServicesWhat to pack
What to pack
When packing for safari, focus on versatile, neutral-colored clothing for layering: lightweight shirts, pants, and a rain jacket. Essential accessories include a sun hat, sunglasses, comfortable shoes, binoculars, and camera. Remember toiletries and medications, and respect luggage weight limits for internal flights. Consider supporting local communities through 'Pack for a Purpose'.
What to Pack for your SafariHealth and Safety
Health and Safety
Consult your health professionals regarding essential vaccinations, necessary medications, and malaria prevention guidelines. While on safari, trust your expert guides, maintain safe distances from wildlife and adhere to protocols. Our Wilderness24 service provides 24/7 emergency support and medical assistance in remote locations, allowing you to fully enjoy your experience.
Wilderness24 celebrates 10 years of pioneering safety
Let us plan your next safari
When we say we’re there every step of the way, we mean it, literally. From planning the perfect circuit, to private inter-camp transfers on Wilderness Air, and easing you through Customs. We’re with you on the ground, at your side, 24-7, from start to finish. Ready to take the road less travelled? Contact our Travel Designers to plan an unforgettable journey.
Enquire nowWhat to expect day-to-day
Morning activity
Typically, your days on a safari holiday start early, waking up before dawn for your morning safari activity. At this time, predators are still active and wildlife sightings are at their best.
Brunch
After a few hours on a game drive or walking safari, you’ll return to camp or a surprise location for a hearty brunch, followed by siesta time, and the opportunity to relax.
Siesta
Take a dip in the pool, book a spa treatment, or unwind with a book at the hide as you wait to see who’ll come for a visit.
Wildlife activity
Another safari activity awaits as the air cools. Depending on the destination, this could be a boat safari or a serene mokoro excursion revealing the smaller wonders of the wild.
Sundowners
Toast the setting sun in a breathtaking location as you mark the transition to evening.
Night drive
On private concessions, once the sun has set it is time to make your way back to camp as the nocturnal animals emerge, allowing for a short night-time drive along the way.
After the sun goes down
Toast another fantastic day on safari alongside newfound friends with a fireside dinner in the boma or celebrate your romance with a meal under the stars.
Choosing your safari
Your safari is more than a trip - it's a personalised journey of discovery. Whether you're seeking a private family adventure, a romantic honeymoon, a milestone celebration, or an epic multi-destination experience, we craft safaris that transform how you see the world. Flexibility, luxury, and unforgettable moments await.
Private vs shared experiences
Private safaris provide exclusive use of vehicles and guides for your group, with flexible schedules tailored to your interests. At intimate destinations like Little Mombo, you can book the entire camp - perfect for multi-gen families or special celebrations. Alternatively, shared game drives create opportunities to meet fellow travellers from around the world.
Journey Inspiration
Family considerations
A safari with kids requires special planning. Children should be at least six years old and families should book private vehicles. Truly wild & remote camps like Mokete have a higher minimum age; others, for their walking safaris or mokoro excursions. For family safaris, we offer camps with adjoining suites and a programme specially designed to entertain your little ones.
Family Offering
Special occasions
Whether it’s a milestone birthday, anniversary, or a once-in-a-lifetime gathering, a safari makes for an unforgettable celebration. Our teams are also on hand to arrange unique, customised experiences that enhance your celebrations, from private dinners under the stars, to wild picnics, and vibrant boma evenings that make the experience extra special.
Journey Inspiration
Honeymoons
A safari honeymoon offers unparalleled romance: champagne sundowners as elephants browse nearby, private plunge pools overlooking the bush, and candlelit dinners under star-filled skies. Many Wilderness camps enhance the experience with safari spas and unforgettable star beds that let you drift off to the sounds of nature, creating magical memories for your new life together.
Couples Offering
Combining destinations
Consider combining destinations on your safari: Serengeti with Rwanda, Victoria Falls with Hwange National Park, or Linyanti with the Okavango Delta. With over 60 camps across 8 African countries, our Travel Designers craft seamless multi-destination itineraries, handling all logistics while offering touring options in iconic cities like Cape Town and Victoria Falls.
South AfricaPrivate vs shared experiences
Private vs shared experiences
Private safaris provide exclusive use of vehicles and guides for your group, with flexible schedules tailored to your interests. At intimate destinations like Little Mombo, you can book the entire camp - perfect for multi-gen families or special celebrations. Alternatively, shared game drives create opportunities to meet fellow travellers from around the world.
Journey InspirationFamily considerations
Family considerations
A safari with kids requires special planning. Children should be at least six years old and families should book private vehicles. Truly wild & remote camps like Mokete have a higher minimum age; others, for their walking safaris or mokoro excursions. For family safaris, we offer camps with adjoining suites and a programme specially designed to entertain your little ones.
Family OfferingSpecial occasions
Special occasions
Whether it’s a milestone birthday, anniversary, or a once-in-a-lifetime gathering, a safari makes for an unforgettable celebration. Our teams are also on hand to arrange unique, customised experiences that enhance your celebrations, from private dinners under the stars, to wild picnics, and vibrant boma evenings that make the experience extra special.
Journey InspirationHoneymoons
Honeymoons
A safari honeymoon offers unparalleled romance: champagne sundowners as elephants browse nearby, private plunge pools overlooking the bush, and candlelit dinners under star-filled skies. Many Wilderness camps enhance the experience with safari spas and unforgettable star beds that let you drift off to the sounds of nature, creating magical memories for your new life together.
Couples OfferingCombining destinations
Combining destinations
Consider combining destinations on your safari: Serengeti with Rwanda, Victoria Falls with Hwange National Park, or Linyanti with the Okavango Delta. With over 60 camps across 8 African countries, our Travel Designers craft seamless multi-destination itineraries, handling all logistics while offering touring options in iconic cities like Cape Town and Victoria Falls.
South AfricaConservation and Impact
When you travel with us, you become part of a visionary conservation movement that has helped protect Africa's wild places for over 40 years. Our pioneering model ensures that every safari contributes directly to preserving iconic species, supporting communities, and expanding Earth's diminishing wilderness.
The role of tourism in conservation
Tourism plays a crucial role in conservation by generating the funds needed to protect wildlife, restore ecosystems, and support local communities. Furthermore, responsible safari tourism helps safeguard vast wilderness areas, ensuring that the wildlife found here, and the fragile habitats, continue to thrive.
Impact
Our pioneering approach
Wilderness was a pioneer in conservation tourism 40 years ago, integrating luxury safaris with environmental and community initiatives. We partner with local communities, empowering them through education, employment, and sustainable programmes. Our safari camps drive positive change while offering extraordinary wildlife encounters that transcend traditional game drives.
Empower
Success stories
Wilderness exemplifies Africa's conservation success through our Educate, Empower & Protect Impact strategy. We inspire future conservation leaders, support community development through sustainable tourism, and implement anti-poaching and habitat restoration efforts to help preserve Africa's iconic wildlife and landscapes.
Trust Home
How visitors contribute
Choosing Wilderness means more than a safari - it's a direct investment in conservation. Your journey contributes to anti-poaching efforts, wildlife research, and habitat restoration while creating meaningful employment for local communities. Through the Wilderness Trust, you help expand and protect the world's most precious wild spaces.
Ways to contribute
Conservation safaris
Transform your safari into a conservation journey. Track desert-adapted black rhinos in Namibia, monitor leopards and lions in Rwanda's Akagera National Park. Take to the skies on helicopter surveys, spotting wildlife and contributing directly to critical conservation efforts. Every moment becomes a chance to make a real difference.
Protect
The future of conservation
The future of conservation lies with future generations. This is why our Children in the Wilderness (CITW) programme focuses on inspiring and educating young people to become environmental stewards. Through Eco-Clubs, scholarships and leadership programmes, CITW is empowering the next generation of conservationists, ensuring long-term protection of Africa’s wild spaces.
CITWThe role of tourism
The role of tourism in conservation
Tourism plays a crucial role in conservation by generating the funds needed to protect wildlife, restore ecosystems, and support local communities. Furthermore, responsible safari tourism helps safeguard vast wilderness areas, ensuring that the wildlife found here, and the fragile habitats, continue to thrive.
ImpactOur pioneering approach
Our pioneering approach
Wilderness was a pioneer in conservation tourism 40 years ago, integrating luxury safaris with environmental and community initiatives. We partner with local communities, empowering them through education, employment, and sustainable programmes. Our safari camps drive positive change while offering extraordinary wildlife encounters that transcend traditional game drives.
EmpowerSuccess stories
Success stories
Wilderness exemplifies Africa's conservation success through our Educate, Empower & Protect Impact strategy. We inspire future conservation leaders, support community development through sustainable tourism, and implement anti-poaching and habitat restoration efforts to help preserve Africa's iconic wildlife and landscapes.
Trust HomeHow visitors contribute
How visitors contribute
Choosing Wilderness means more than a safari - it's a direct investment in conservation. Your journey contributes to anti-poaching efforts, wildlife research, and habitat restoration while creating meaningful employment for local communities. Through the Wilderness Trust, you help expand and protect the world's most precious wild spaces.
Ways to contributeConservation Safaris
Conservation safaris
Transform your safari into a conservation journey. Track desert-adapted black rhinos in Namibia, monitor leopards and lions in Rwanda's Akagera National Park. Take to the skies on helicopter surveys, spotting wildlife and contributing directly to critical conservation efforts. Every moment becomes a chance to make a real difference.
ProtectThe future of conservation
The future of conservation
The future of conservation lies with future generations. This is why our Children in the Wilderness (CITW) programme focuses on inspiring and educating young people to become environmental stewards. Through Eco-Clubs, scholarships and leadership programmes, CITW is empowering the next generation of conservationists, ensuring long-term protection of Africa’s wild spaces.
CITW
Types of accommodation
Safari accommodations range from rustic tents to luxury lodges. Wilderness camps use natural materials like canvas and wood, creating immersive experiences with minimal environmental impact. Despite their light footprint, expect luxurious details from private pools to outdoor showers - all thoughtfully designed to bring you closer to nature.
Why Wilderness
It’s not our reputation as one of the first, or the largest, in the African safari and conservation tourism space that makes us Wilderness. It’s our determination to keep going. To keep protecting, exploring and expanding Earth’s wild places. Join us to discover the beating pulse of each one of our destinations, and experience your wildest safari dreams.
Let us take you thereExplore our camps
Mombo
Experience Wilderness Botswana’s flagship luxury safari camp – Mombo, in arguably Southern Africa’s finest wildlife area.
Explore Camp
Kulala Desert Lodge
Explore Sossusvlei and discover the unique desert-adapted creatures of the ancient Namib Desert from Kulala Desert Lodge.
Explore Camp
Jao
In the heart of the Okavango, set on a remote island, Jao invites you to discover an unsurpassed Delta wilderness experience.
Explore Camp
Bisate
Voted Africa’s #1 safari lodge, Bisate marries a life-list mountain gorilla adventure with sublime luxury in the rainforest.
Explore Camp
Desert Rhino Camp
A desert sanctuary. A refuge for rhinos. An escape for explorers. Immerse yourself in a place where everything has meaning.
Explore Camp
Toka Leya
Toka Leya offers front row seats to a daily wilderness spectacle from its serene setting on the banks of the Zambezi River.
Explore Camp
Linkwasha
Experience exceptional game viewing at elegant and contemporary Linkwasha, on the edge of Hwange’s famed Ngamo Plains.
Explore Camp
Vumbura Plains
Wilderness Vumbura Plains epitomises the ultimate Okavango Delta luxury safari, offering both land and water experiences.
Explore Camp
Busanga Bush Camp
Busanga Bush Camp offers a thrillingly remote and intimate safari in one of Zambia’s most productive wildlife areas.
Explore Camp
Ruckomechi
Thrilling land and river safari adventures await at Ruckomechi, on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River.
Explore CampGUEST EXPERIENCES
Testimonials from fellow safari-goers
Highly recommend Wilderness
"Nelson our travel agent put together the perfect honeymoon in Tanzania - which included a combination of safari and Zanzibar beach holiday. Communication and planning in the run up went well, he quickly understood what we were looking for and provided a clear, comprehensive quote, meeting all our desires for the trip. The trip itself went seamlessly and we enjoyed every stay and experience we had planned - even more than we could have imagined".
Miss D | UK
★★★★★
Our first safari
"My best friend and I planned our first Safari with Wilderness and we could not have had a better experience. From the first discussions about our trip to the final day in Zimbabwe, we experienced first class service and hospitality. Malcolm our agent helped us pick camps that suited our particular interests. He provided guidance with what to expect on the trip and what to bring which was great for novices. When we finally arrived in Zimbabwe every driver, guide, and staff member we met was outstanding. The game we saw each day was amazing and the lodgings were very comfortable. I have no complaints, just praises for this organization. I have recommended the group to many friends and family members and I look forward to booking travel with them again".
E Tate | USA
★★★★★
Chitabe - amazing stay
"We had an amazing stay at Chitabe end of March 2023 (2 nights). The wildlife density in the area is incredible - we had multiple leopard, cheetah and lion sightings and also saw a large pack of wild dogs. Our guide Phinley was very experienced and had a ton of knowledge - he did a fantastic job. The vegetation / landscape in the area is also great and very varied - from the open floodplains around camp, to the Gomoti plains area to the slightly more wooded areas (where we also had great sightings). Chitabe camp itself is also very beautiful, with a pretty pool and bar area and extremely attentive, warm camp staff. We felt very welcomed and everyone made sure that all expectations were exceeded".
N Vogel | Switzerland
★★★★★
Tailor-made
Your adventure awaits
No two Wilderness journeys are the same. Our team of Travel Designers, safari guides, managers and pilots are Africa’s ultimate experts, shaping every itinerary with their first-hand knowledge of our camps and wild spaces. Whether you seek thrilling adventure or serene immersion, we’ll craft a bespoke safari that reflects your every desire.
Talk to a travel designer today