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A custom-built African safari vacation brings together close encounters with the Big Five, a pace built entirely around you, and stays in some of the continent's most carefully chosen luxury camps and lodges. At Mahlatini, every itinerary is shaped by our own experience of the properties and destinations we recommend, so wildlife, conservation, romance or family time can each take the lead depending on what matters most to you. Here are ten reasons a safari deserves serious consideration for your next trip.
1. Wildlife
An African safari puts you closer to wild animals in their natural habitat than almost any other kind of travel. Most safari goers want to spot the Big 5 - lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo. The vast majority of national parks across Africa feature the Big 5 animals, some of our favorite lodges to view the Big 5 are located in South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania and Botswana.
Not only can you view animals from a 4x4 game vehicle, but there are other unique wildlife viewing experiences from mokoro rides to hot air ballooning. Read our Unique Safari Tours blog to find out more.
2. Culture
A safari's finest moments often come from the people you meet along the way, not just the animals you see. Africa's rich cultural traditions often make a safari that much more special; from the vibrant and colorful Maasai to the beaming children waving at you as you pass through their villages. There are a number of projects and initiatives that enable visitors to become more involved in communities. It is best to chat with our specialists, who will be able to arrange ethical African cultural experiences.
3. Photography
Few destinations reward a camera the way an African safari does, not only can you capture the incredible wildlife, but the landscapes alone are worth the trip. From the sweeping plains of the Serengeti to the swampy wetlands and silver salt pans of Botswana, a safari in Africa provides you with the most amazing photo opportunities.
All safaris offer the chance to take great photographs, but certain camps and lodges offer specific photographic safari experiences. Certain safari properties can provide guests with professional photographic equipment to use, hides from which to capture authentic wildlife moments and specially trained guides who will help you capture the best photos possible. Read our blog on the Best Photographic Safari Destinations.
4. Conservation and Local Community Support
Most safari lodges and camps heavily support nature conservation and wildlife rehabilitation as well as creating jobs and income for local communities. When you go on a safari in a National Park, you will pay a park fee and conservation levy which is included in the total cost. This money goes towards the economic development and protection of the wildlife in that particular area. Many safari camps and lodges will also offer guests the opportunity to visit local communities and schools if they wish to do so.
5. Luxury Accommodation & Service
Mahlatini only books clients into 4- and 5-star properties we've personally visited and can vouch for. Some of the safari lodges you can stay at are ultra luxurious and even include your own personal butler to cater your every need.
6. Family-friendly
If you're looking for a great activity that offers fun for all, a safari can be one of the most rewarding family vacations you'll take. Safari lodges across Africa now offer dedicated kid's programs with bug hunting, animal tracking and many more educational activities, making a family safari as rewarding for kids as it is for parents. Your children will develop a love for nature and respect for other cultures without even knowing they are learning.
7. Romance
Private plunge pools, candlelit bush dinners and quiet, unhurried evenings make a safari a rare kind of romantic escape for a honeymoon or to celebrate an anniversary.
8. Gourmet Food
Safari camps take dining as seriously as game drives, with menus built around fresh, seasonal ingredients and dietary needs. From rusks (traditional biscuit) with your early morning coffee, eggs after your morning game drive, afternoon high-tea, sundowner snacks and dinner, you will never go hungry on a safari. Many camps and lodges Mahlatini work with are able to cater for specific dietary requirements and lifestyles such as vegan, kosher and halal.
9. Wellness
Limited WiFi and open skies make a safari one of the more genuine ways to switch off. What's more, some lodges offer yoga classes and spa treatments for a proper wellness break. If you would like to visit more remote locations where there is less interruption from the modern world, check out our off-the-grid safari locations.
10. Unique Experiences
Few trips offer the range of experiences a safari can. While a safari game drive is a unique experience in itself, you can also choose to add more unique experiences to your trip when you book with Mahlatini. A safari can be built around singular moments: sleeping beneath Namibia's stars, gliding through the Okavango Delta waterways onboard a traditional mokoro or even trekking gorillas in Uganda or Rwanda.
Safaris are perfect for couples, groups of friends, families, honeymooners or solo travelers. Whoever you choose to travel with and wherever you choose to travel to, your dedicated travel expert will offer you a completely unique, tailor-made safari experience that will stay in your heart forever.
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