A Typical Day on Safari in Africa: What to Expect

The unique experience of being on Safari in Africa is unlike any other holiday. Exclusive lodges and luxury camps all follow a general format and routine, interspersing your meals and relaxation time with gripping game drives and animal sightings. Each day becomes a unique experience.

Your dream holiday requirements will be met whether it means going on an informative walking safari or enjoying lively game drives. A safari naturally requires some flexibility when there are young children involved. Together with our long-standing relationships with our suppliers, Mahlatini will make your safari the holiday of a lifetime.

EARLY SAFARI WAKE-UP CALL

Nothing is more spectacular than an African dawn. As the sun starts to creep over the horizon, you will hear the gentle call of your butler or safari guide, waking you for your first adventure of the day.

Wake up calls are usually between 5:00am and 5:30am. You are often given tea or coffee before embarking on what is sure to be an epic adventure. Once ready, there will be light snacks available. Be sure to grab something, as it might be a few hours before you get back to the lodge for a hearty breakfast.

MORNING SAFARI GAME DRIVE

Crisp, cool morning game drives are when you're more likely to have memorable sightings, as animals take advantage of the cooler temperatures before the sun has fully risen.

Predators are returning from their night-hunt and diurnal animals gather at watering holes and forage for food. During your game drive, you will likely stop in a scenic location for a hot drink and a light snack before continuing on with your Mahlatini adventure.

A BOUNTIFUL SAFARI BUSH BRUNCH

Late morning brunch will either be back at the lodge, or—weather permitting—you may be surprised with a bush-breakfast. Your safari brunch is usually your first cooked meal of the day, offering you a range of cold and hot foods.

LUNCH AND MIDDAY DOWN-TIME AT THE LODGE

Spending down-time at your luxury safari lodge or camp and being able to watch animals from your deck chair adds to this wonderful experience.

You can also choose to take a dip in your private plunge pool, nap, have a spa treatment, head to the gym, or delve into the library. Whatever you choose to do with your down-time on safari is totally up to you. Time can also be set aside for a light lunch.

AFTERNOON HIGH TEA EXPERIENCE

A typical day on safari usually involves high tea. Each lodge and safari camp have their own unique way of serving tea, with signature sweet and savoury treats to suit all palates.

Tea is a safari tradition, dating back to the hay-day of safari in the 1920's when tea-time was a quintessential afternoon activity and remains a highlight of the day.

SUNSET SAFARI GAME DRIVE

As the sun moves lower in the sky, shadows lengthen, the temperature drops, and the animals become more active again. It’s time to set off on the sundowner game drive.

With the evening drawing in, the landscape takes on a completely different atmosphere and the nocturnal creatures stir. As the sun sets, your ranger will pick the perfect spot for your evening sundowner: a drink of your choosing, and some snacks, like pinwheels, biltong and nuts, in typical safari fashion.

Did you know? As the British empire expanded into Africa, the popularity of Gin and Tonic spread with it. First drunk to ward off mosquitos, it soon became a daily occurrence and thus the social ritual of the sundowner was born.

DINNER AND WINDING DOWN

Dinner is usually determined by your safari activities and game viewing. If you are at a spectacular sighting, like the nocturnal leopard, lions hunting, or a pangolin emerging from its burrow, then dinner will just have to wait!

Once back at the lodge, you will have time to freshen up before your lodge manager guides you to the perfect location for the evening meal, inside or outside.

After-dinner drinks around the campfire, under the stars, is when stories abound and new friends are made. These gatherings have been known to continue into the early hours. It’s your Mahlatini experience and if your bed is calling, you can rest assured it will be comfy, warm, and welcoming. You will certainly wake up fresh and invigorated, ready to face another day in Africa!

ARE YOU READY FOR YOUR LUXURY SAFARI HOLIDAY?

Perhaps you’ve been wanting to do a trip with the family, or your spouse, or even a solo experience—whatever your dreams, allow us at Mahlatini to make them come true. Browse our trip planner or contact our Travel Experts to start planning your luxury safari holiday!

FAQS

• Are safari holidays family-friendly? Yes. Children of all ages are welcome, but some lodges and activities aren’t suitable for little ones under 6 years old. Our experts will guide you to the best family-friendly safari options.
• What’s the best time of year to go on an African safari? The dry season (May–October) is the most popular for game viewing, especially in Southern Africa. For East Africa, the Great Migration peaks between July and September.
• What should I wear on safari in Africa? Neutral, breathable clothing works best, especially for early morning and evening game drives when it can get chilly. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a light jacket are essential. Find out more in our blog on what to wear on safari.