Behind the Scenes Series: Which safari is right for you?
Get the inside track on how to take your wish-list safari adventure to the next level with expert knowledge from our Head of Product for Africa, Kathy Vigolo.
Whether you’re an avid animal-spotter or simply want to tick safari off your wish-list, it’s often the smaller details that can make the biggest difference when out in the bush. Few people around our team know this better than our expert product manager, Kathy, and we recently sat down for a chat to help you find out which safari is right for you.
From running through the spectacular sights you can enjoy across different times of year to dispelling some common misconceptions, Kathy covers everything you need to know.
1. If you had to pick your favourite safari destination, which one would it be?
I love many safari destinations, as each one offers something completely unique, but Botswana is my weak spot! It’s dominated by wildlife and offers a real immersive experience in nature, particularly in areas such as the Okavango Delta. We offer Chobe National Park, which is an exquisite choice, particularly for first timers in Africa. Here, you can enjoy land safaris across the savannah, spot a great number of animals, and experience a totally different animal kingdom on our river safaris as well. It’s simply astonishing!
2. Are safaris better at certain times of year, and if so, could you give us any pointers for the best time to visit?
It depends on what you are interested in. In places like South Africa, the dry season (April to October) offers better animal viewing, simply because the grass is shorter, the vegetation is drier, and it’s therefore easier to spot animals in the distance. During the wet season (November to March), your safari will take place across lush landscapes, which are also excellent for birdwatching instead. The animals will still be there, but they’ll be harder to spot through the leaves. Since there’s also an abundance of water, the animals tend not to congregate around watering holes as much as they do in the dry season. A great perk to the wet season, however, is getting to see the newborn animals taking their first steps in the bush.
3. Do any of the lodges you’ve stayed at stand out, and what made them so memorable?
The lodges we use in Hwange National Park, Ivory Lodge and Sable Lodge, are my favourites. They’re incredibly eco-friendly and still offer a vibrant aesthetic and all the modern comforts you’d expect. They are also intimate and family-run, so you can really feel at home there. Both lodges are based within a private concession of the Hwange National Park, so you can spot animals from the top deck as you sip a cup of tea, or a glass of wine!
4. Safaris tend to be a bit more expensive – how do you ensure customers get their money’s worth when putting together safari products?
Someone once wrote, ‘Once you have been, Africa changes you forever’…for the best, I would add! There are a number of reasons why safaris are more expensive – it’s often to do with the logistics involved and the lodges’ commitment to respect nature and operate in a sustainable way. Each lodge is either affiliated with a private reserve or offers entrances to nearby national parks. These entrances are quite expensive, but proceeds are often reinvested to protect the local wildlife through anti-poaching and conservation projects.
5. Do you feel like there’s a minimum activity level for each safari, and are certain destinations better suited to people who maybe aren’t as mobile?
Safaris in general are quite relaxed as you spend a lot of time in the safari vehicle. To get into the safari vehicle is the only barrier, but most lodges will offer a little step on the platform to easily access the vehicle. As long as you’re able to do a few steps, you should be fine. There is also the front seat next to the driver, which has easier access, and your guides will often be happy to help you in.
6. There’s a bit of a misconception that safari accommodations are quite basic and remote. How do they measure up in your experience?
Such a misconception, particularly with the choice of lodges and tented camps we offer! Each property offers amazing comfort and a great deal of luxury (some more than others), but you’ll always have a completely functional, cosy and enjoyable accommodation. They can be quite remote, but they all offer easy access to the local private reserves and national parks.
Personally, I think tented accommodation is the best way to really enjoy a safari. Not only is it more environmentally friendly, but it really allows you to fully immerse in nature in the safest way possible. You’ll still enjoy amazing facilities, amenities, en-suite bathrooms, comfortable beds and private outdoor mini patios. They’re also more private, exclusive, authentic, and nature friendly.
7. What’s one suitcase essential you always make sure to pack?
Light material long sleeves and long trousers in natural colours. I find it the safest way to prevent insect bites. Of course, things like a hat and sunscreen are a must! I would also add that soft luggage will really make the difference on a safari as it is a lot easier to fit into the vehicles and to carry around.
8. Some people might be apprehensive about the food they can eat while on safari. What would you say to them?
Expect the most exquisite meals, served with love and creativity, too! You might be served some things you haven’t tried before, but each plate will be nothing short of any other good meal in a city restaurant!
9. Are there any spots that you’ve been to that you’d definitely want to experience again?
The Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. We offer it in two of my favourite tours: Under African Skies and Ultimate Safari.
10. Finally, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to first-time safari goers?
Just sit back in your vehicle and enjoy – nature is kinder to those who patiently wait! Every day will be a different surprise, and you’ll come back wanting to book another holiday to Africa!
Witness the world’s most exciting wildlife with Newmarket Holidays
If you’re looking for your next wish-list adventure, why not reconnect with the wild natural world on an African safari? If you’re interested in taking a break in the bushveld or simply want some more information on our award-winning holidays, our friendly holiday planners are eager to help. For our full range of wish-list itineraries, visit our dedicated safari page or browse all escorted tours to Africa.
