A Day on Safari
wHAT TO EXPECT
Sunrise to Sunset, Dawn to Dusk
A day on safari is more than just a journey – it’s a symphony of sights, sounds and sensations in harmony with nature. From dawn’s golden hues to the smoky scent of a campfire, every moment awakens the senses. The rhythm of the day follows the natural order of the bush, blending thrilling wildlife encounters with peaceful interludes. Whether listening to distant lion calls at dusk or savouring a chilled sundowner as the sun melts into the horizon, each experience is designed to create lasting memories in the heart of the African wilderness.
The Magic of Dawn: First Light Adventures
5:30 am
Clear skies with a gentle morning mist
15°C / 59°F
Lilac-breasted rollers, bee-eaters, dik-diks, warthogs, lions
Safaris are usually an early morning activity, where the chill of the morning, together with your ‘Morning Call Tray’ makes the experience as pleasurable as possible! Don’t worry, there is always time for ‘Egyptian PT’ (a little nap) in the heat of the day! After a quick coffee at the camp, you’ll be aboard the safari wagon as close to 6:00 am as possible.
The evening comings and goings will be written in the dust, and your guide will use these pointers, along with their deep knowledge of the area, to find some of the magnificent wildlife that calls this place home.
Return to Sanctuary: Midday Respite
11:00 am
Bright sunshine, clear blue skies
28°C / 82°F
Elephants, lions, hippos, giraffes, gazelle, cheetahs
By mid-morning, the African sun will have climbed high, making it too hot to be out. The animals, having quenched their thirst, retreat to shade and become difficult to see and photograph in the dappled light. You’ll return to the lodge for breakfast or brunch, depending on the time and whether you enjoyed a cooked bush breakfast. These special meals are often arranged for memorable occasions or after hot-air ballooning. It’s a cherished tradition to toast with champagne after floating above the savanna in a hot-air balloon – a moment to celebrate the beauty you’ve witnessed from above.
Tranquil Interlude: The Art of Safari Leisure
13:00 pm
Hot and dry with occasional light breeze
32°C / 90°F
Crocodiles, vultures, buffalos, warthogs, vervet monkeys
If you had an early breakfast, lunchtime beckons with more delicious fare. Many of our guests smile about gaining a few pounds during their stay – our chefs take pride in creating memorable meals that nourish both body and spirit! After lunch, surrender to the rhythm of safari life. Perhaps a peaceful nap calls to you, or a few refreshing laps in the pool. Many travellers use this quiet time to edit morning photographs or delve deeper into understanding the fascinating behaviours of the animals they’ve encountered.
The Golden Hour: Evening Exploration
17:00 pm
Cooling down with scattered clouds for a dramatic sunset
24°C / 75°F
Elephants, lions, giraffes, impala, hippos, jackals
As the day cools, the bush awakens once more. Slowly, animals emerge to drink at waterholes, while lions that have wandered from their pride begin calling to find each other for another night of hunting. A treasured safari tradition awaits you: ‘sundowners’, drinks and snacks enjoyed at a scenic lookout as the day transforms into evening. Being close to the equator means sunsets happen quickly, so keep your camera ready for nature’s most spectacular light show.
In select areas, we can arrange special permits for night drives, allowing you to stay out after dark and use spotlights to discover the secretive nocturnal creatures as you make your way back to camp.
Fireside Tales: Evening Under the Stars
20:00 pm
Clear night sky with brilliant stars
18°C / 64°F
African civets, genets, aardvark, bushbabies, elephants, hyenas
The evenings gathered around the campfire offer perfect moments to connect with your guide and discuss plans for the coming day. For many of our guests, one of safari’s greatest joys is the freedom to set aside life’s usual responsibilities and trust in the expertise of your guide. Safari has its own natural, soothing rhythm that feels incredibly liberating, and, as many discover, completely addictive! Your biggest decision might simply be choosing between whiskey or gin for your sundowner while the rest of the experience unfolds with effortless wonder.