An African safari is the stuff of dreams. Truly, a “bucket list” item for most people.

 

But what exactly happens on safari?

 

Is it dangerous?  Will I get attacked?  Is it miserably hot and dusty?

 

Here are a few answers:

 

1.  Is it dangerous? Will I get attacked?

No, not unless you jump out of your safari vehicle and become “prey.” Animals are unfazed by safari vehicles and you’ll most definitely NOT be swimming in the river. During the night, you’ll be escorted from the dining tent to your sleeping tent by an armed watchman – just in case.

2.  What are the “Big Five” – and will I see them?

The Big Five are elephant, Cape buffalo, rhino, lion and leopard – which were the most difficult animals for big-game hunters to hunt on foot. For certain you’ll see four of the five … but the rhino could be elusive. And you’ll see countless other animal species.

3.  What will we do on safari?

Animals are most active around dawn and dusk. You’ll be awakened early and set off in your safari vehicle with a guide who is an expert spotter. Often you’ll sit for a long time silently observing, taking photos, watching through binoculars, etc. It’s a fascinating experience to see these creatures in their natural habitat. Later in the morning, you’ll return to camp for a hearty breakfast, a shower – maybe a nap, or hang out on the deck watching the hippos in the river, or edit your hundreds of photos from the morning.  Before you know it, all that fresh air has made you hungry for lunch. You’ll set off again in mid-afternoon to a different area to see more game.  At sunset, get out of your vehicle (in a safe location) to have a sundowner cocktail (Gin & Tonic is the classic) and marvel at the vista laid out before you. A fabulous dinner awaits back at the camp, with conversation and stories from the day … before retiring in your luxuriously comfortable tented accommodation, lulled to sleep by the roar of distant lions or by burping hippos in the river just below your tent!

4.  Is it just about the animals?

No, the local people are as extraordinary as the wildlife. The camp managers are often third or fourth generation Kenyans – with fascinating life stories. You’ll visit tribal villages to see how the Maasai or the Samburu people live in the bush. You’ll learn to throw a spear or shoot an arrow or build a mud hut! There will be opportunities to visit a community or a school and make a significant contribution of textbooks and sorely needed school supplies.

5.  Isn’t Africa a long, long way away?

Yup. No getting around it. But unless you want to settle for the San Diego Wild Animal Park, you cannot have a safari experience except in Africa. There is an award-winning airline that can get you there with a very convenient connection. Ask anybody who has been there if it’s worth the long-distance travel. Their answer will be an enthusiastic, “YES!”

6.  Is it miserably hot and dusty?

No – climate is perfect for your safari adventure. Both Meru and the Mara are at an elevation of between 5-7,000 ft. where temperatures are moderate. For September, the highest temperature on record is about 85, and lowest is about 50 degrees. It’s the dry season with lush vegetation.  Perfect weather!

7.  Why are safaris so expensive?

The good ones (like Alex Walker’s Serian) aren’t cheap. In part, because of the logistics of operating a small camp in such a remote setting. Everything must be flown in because there are no roads. You’ll fly between camps, too. Park fees can be as much as $100 per day to pay for rangers and conservation efforts. The good lodges limit the number of visitors to lessen the environmental impact. They may rent private land from the Maasai and/or share revenues with the local community. The food is fresh and delicious. Linens are high-quality and clean. You’ll have hot water for your bath or shower. Guides are top-notch and experienced. Safari vehicles are comfortable and uncrowded. It’s all-inclusive package … no nickel-and-diming. You’ll go during peak season – with great weather – to experience the Great Migration, one of earth’s most amazing natural spectacles. You’ll have a private experience with the elephant orphans at the world-famous Daphne Sheldrick Foundation. If you’re traveling with the WOW! Travel Club, you’re in good hands, and will enjoy “wow” surprises and delights throughout your journey.

Need I say more? Any questions?

There is still space available on the WOW! Travel Club Safari in late September!  Check out the details here . . .