6 Unique Experiences You Can Have on an African Safari

African safaris offer up experiences that are as diverse as the continent itself. While game drives are par for the course, you might want to expand on your wildlife action with a range of interesting activities. In this article we list six out of the ordinary experiences you can look forward to and where to find them.

1. Engage with Research Projects at Usangu Expedition Camp in Ruaha, Tanzania

Usangu Expedition Camp is neighbors with the Douglas Bell Eco Research Station. There, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the research work being done in the area.

Activities you can get involved with at the station include the placement of camera traps, the identification of predators against the research database, and lion tracking using telemetry, all of which contributes to important global research. 

2. Go Horse Riding in the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Botswana

Explore the massive and mysterious Makgadikgadi Salt Pans the way the earliest explorers, hunters, and missionaries did. Walk with the Bushmen who’ve made the desert their home and get an intimate look at the region’s habituated meerkat colony.

As you ride across the sun-scorched earth, you’ll be able to get up close and personal with herds of zebra and wildebeest. Your six-day trip combines three nights at Camp Kalahari with two nights of fly camping out in the pans. 

3. Walk with Rhinos in Samburu, Kenya

Saruni Rhino Lodge is located in the Sera Conservancy in the wild, undiscovered frontier of northern Kenya. This is where you’ll be able to take part in the first black rhino tracking experience in East Africa.

While herds of elephants also populate this enchanting landscape, the real thrill is the walking safaris with rhinos. There’s also the reward of knowing that you’re actively contributing to the survival of this amazing near-endangered species.

4. Float Above the Maasai Mara in a Hot Air Balloon in Kenya

Kick off this awesome adventure with coffee or tea served at your tent before taking an early morning drive out to the launch site. Watch the balloon fire up, then hop in the basket and be transported high above the plains of the Masai Mara.

Your bird’s eye view will give you a fresh perspective on this magical part of Africa as you float along effortlessly and spot the wildlife at sunrise. Touch down to a champagne breakfast in the bush, the perfect way to reflect on your aerial journey.

6 DAYS

Horse Riding Safari on the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

Botswana Makgadikgadi Pans

Price on Request

per person per tour

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4 DAYS

East Africa Beach Extension Zuri

Zanzibar

From $ 950 /USD

per person per tour

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5 DAYS

Affordable Victoria Falls Stay

Zimbabwe Victoria Falls

From $ 960 /USD

per person per tour

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5. Ride a Camel in Laikipia, Kenya

The traditional way to get around in the dry lands of northern Kenya, camel riding offers a truly immersive safari experience. Explore Loisaba’s immense wilderness and get the chance to approach wildlife in near silence as you marvel at the spectacular birdlife, both endemic and migratory.

6. Take to the Skies on a Helicopter Safari in Botswana

Take off right from your lodge then start your 30 minute safari flight over the sprawling and stunning wilderness of the Okavango Delta.

You’ll have your own headset to speak to the pilot, who can answer any questions you might have along the way. Gain a unique aerial perspective on the flora, fauna, and wildlife that surrounds Xigera and get the opportunity to take amazing wildlife or landscape shots.

Ready to plan your tailor-made safari?

Megan Warrington, Safari Travel Planner

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