Frequently Asked Questions
Going on Safari
Q: What can I expect on a Typical Day on Safari
A: There really is no such thing as a “typical” day on safari because each day holds a different adventure. However, when you are in the national parks of Southern and Eastern Africa it is common that you will get up early in the morning at about 6:00am and head out into the bush on your game viewing activity. Depending on where you are, you may have the option to take a game viewing excursion in a powerboat or canoe on the river or lake, a walk with your professional guide, or game viewing in your four-wheel-drive safari vehicle. It is not typically necessary to book activities in advance, except for special activities like hot air ballooning, and your hosts will be happy to accommodate you and be flexible.
You will typically be back in camp by 11:00am for brunch or lunch followed by an afternoon rest. Around 3:00pm you will have tea and rusks (local snack) before heading out into the African bush again in search of game. When the sun starts to get low on the horizon, you will stop briefly and enjoy sundowners (drinks) as you watch the beautiful African sunset.
On arrival back at your camp, you will have time for a shower before returning to the dining room for a delicious dinner. After coffee and a nightcap, you may return to your comfortable bed for a good night’s sleep.
Q: How many people are in a vehicle while game viewing?
A: All vehicles can take a maximum of 7 guests (the 7th seat possibly sitting next to the driver) but you will find each camps and lodge has a slight different format. The most important thing to know is that everyone has a window seat an no one sits in the middle giving you the best possible vantage point!
Q: What clothes do you need on safari?
A: Bushtracks will provide you a packing list for your safari as well as seasonal temperature and rainfall chart so you are prepared. While out on the vehicle, it is recommended you dress in neutral colored clothing so that you don’t scare the animals away. Otherwise, we recommend lightweight comfortable clothing that you can layer and add and remove as the temperature changes. Being on safari is a casual affair and know that there are daily laundry services offered throughout. Unless you are dining in a fancy hotel or luxury train, the dress code is relaxed and informal.
In Our Travelers' Words
The Peacock Family
Multi-Generational Safari
"Our youngest, Emily is almost 7. And mom and dad are in their late 70's. And the rest of us fall somewhere in between - and I can tell you we ALL just had the best time! It's tricky to have a plan that appeals to everyone. The thought of our daily adventure was so exciting, that no one minded the early morning wake-ups - not even the teenagers! They were often the first ones on the jeep - as they couldn't wait to start the drive each day."
The Ousterhout Family
Family Safari
"My father-in-law had always wanted to go to Africa, and invited us all to go with him to celebrate his 80th birthday. We went with no expectations, and the trip was beyond anything we could have imagined. In each camp we were exhilarated to be so unbelievably close to animals. Our guides really turned the safari into an educational experience for the girls with in-depth discussions on not just the wildlife, but also history, culture, and the relationship between tourism and the environment. It was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime trip – but we hope to return."
Tamar Sherer & Chris Cooper
Active Safari
"This was our fourth trip to Africa, and by far the best. We keep going back because we love the whole experience: the people, the wildlife, their behavior, the environment, the accommodations, the music, everything. We chose Bushtracks for this custom adventure with two goals: to see the migration and to see the gorillas. Experiencing the migration was like witnessing a miracle in process. Could it get any better? Yes - the gorilla treks were the most exhausting thing we've ever done, but worth every exhilarating ache. Amazing!"
At the end of the day our travelers are most qualified to describe the African safari experience, and they certainly say it best.