A Day on Safari: From Sunrise to Sunset and Beyond!

I’m often asked, “What is a day like on safari?” To be honest, there’s nothing quite like it; in short, absolutely magical. Here’s a rundown of a typical day and a few tidbits to help you prepare. 

*Please note that times may vary depending on the time of year and location. The tips below are based on my travels to South Africa in late June (winter). If you travel during summer, you will have earlier wake-up times so that you begin before the heat of the day.

6am-ish: Wake-up greeting 

You’ll get a friendly knock on your door or a call (if your room has a phone). We used our alarm, but I appreciated the option to disconnect from technology and fully immerse in the wilderness experience. Tip: If you need more time to get ready, you can request an earlier wake-up time.

6:15am: A warm drink and quick snacks

In the central area, awaiting you will be a warm cup of your choice: coffee or tea, along with a few bites to get your day started. It is not a full breakfast; that’s still to come. Tip: You’ll eat a lot while on safari, so don’t feel the need to have a full belly to start your morning; there will be plenty more to follow!

6:30am: Into the wild (often 2-4 hours, but it depends on the camp and sightings) 

As the sun is rising, you’ll begin your morning drive in search of all the wonderful things the area has to offer. Some camps will stop for a scenic coffee break toward the end of your drive. Tip: Pack a lot of layers, including a warm jacket and hat. It’s cold in the early morning, and you’ll be in an open, moving 4×4 vehicle. The wind makes it especially chilly! Thankfully, they’ll have a hot water bottle and blanket for you as well. As the sun rises and the day warms up, you can start removing layers. Tip 2: If you drink alcohol, I recommend trying Amarula in your coffee. It’s a creamy South African liquor (although it’s available at many safari camps throughout Africa), and most people find it delicious.  

9:30am-ish: Breakfast and recharge

You’ll typically return to the camp or lodge for a delicious breakfast. Following breakfast, you’ll have a few hours to relax, go through photos, read a book, visit the spa (available at some lodges), etc. Tip: Enjoy some “me time”; it’s when the animals are resting, too!

1pm-ish: Lunch 

I say “ish” because most lodges are flexible with their dining arrangements. If you have a spa treatment or simply aren’t quite hungry yet, please check with the staff. Most properties can accommodate various dining times, though some do try to keep a more set schedule. Tip: Again, don’t feel obligated to eat a full meal. You might want a snack by the pool. The staff can accommodate many requests, just let them know what you’d prefer. 

3pm: Tea time 

Grab a beverage of choice and another delicious snack before your afternoon exploration. 

3:30pm: Afternoon drive (often 2-4 hours)

Once again, you’ll head out for a wildlife drive. This is when the animals start to wake up after their midday naps (avoiding the heat of the day) and become more active. Late in this drive, depending on sightings, some camps will take you to a scenic spot for a sundowner (a cocktail or drink of choice while watching the sunset). There’s something extra special about an African sunset; somehow, they just seem even more incredible! Some camps, typically located in private concessions, will also offer a night drive on the way back to the lodge. This is when you may be able to spot some of the less commonly seen nocturnal species. Tip: Bring an additional layer. Though it may be warm when you set off, as the sun sets, the temperature will begin to drop (sometimes quickly), and it can get chilly on your way back to camp. 

7pm-ish: Dinner under the stars (when the weather cooperates)

Many camps and lodges will try to have dinner under the stars if the weather is pleasant. And wow, are the stars incredible out in the bush! Enjoy a final delicious meal, at least for today. Tip: Don’t forget to save a little room for dessert. Tip 2: It’s been a long but wonderful day, but if you’re not too tired, I recommend taking some time to enjoy the fire (available at some camps). Again, the stars are brilliant, and you can meet and share stories with your fellow safari goers. 

Do you have additional questions about what it’s like to be on safari or about traveling in Africa? Please reach out. I’m always happy to talk travel! 

Amanda Jamieson
Luxury Travel Designer
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