Many first-timers have lots of questions as their safari draws near. We invite you to review the Trip Preparation tab for our Serengeti & Beyond: A Tanzania Safari. In the meantime, we want to share with you what a typical safari day looks like, bearing in mind that the structure of your day will vary by exact itinerary and lodging you are staying at. We also be sure to share some safari-specific tips that will make your adventure safe and comfortable:
A Typical Safari Day
With years of experience, Discovery Tours driver-guides have learned where animals tend to gather, though they can never guarantee consistent sightings. One thing is certain, though: the thrill of any African safari is in the search. It also helps that the parks of Tanzania are graced with some of the most sweeping and spectacular vistas on the planet.
Rise and Shine
Wildlife is most active in the early morning hours, so we’re sure to get
out and explore as soon as we can. On some mornings, we even squeeze in a game
drive before breakfast, then return to our camp or lodge for a satisfying meal.
Break for Lunch & Relaxing
During full-day game drives, your driver-guides prepare a picnic that you’ll enjoy out in the bush. There’s something truly special about savoring a meal while scanning the plains for elephants or giraffes in the distance. If we’re only out for the morning, we return to the camp or lodge for lunch. Often, we spend a few hours at camp to avoid the hottest part of the day—a great chance to do some journaling or relaxing between adventures.
Close the Day with a Drink
It’s a long-held safari tradition: sharing a drink in the bush with fellow adventurers at the close of a thrilling day. Our driver-guides know the best spots to break out the cooler and mix some drinks or uncork a bottle. After lingering over a drink or two, we return to the camp or lodge for the night.
Helpful Safari Tips
1. There’s no need to buy new clothes. Unless bright and vivid colors are the only hues that hang in your closet, you probably have what you need for safari. Wear earthen tones during game drives; and if color is a must for you, keep it muted. You will want these neutral colors that adapt to the changing temperatures throughout the day. Remember also to keep comfort in mind. Breathable, cozy outfits are an excellent choice for safari days.
2. Don’t fear the mosquito. The malaria mosquito is nocturnal. Even then, they don’t like moving air, so keep the ceiling fan blowing in your room. And remember that most bug-repellant clothing is not breathable, so use spray instead.
3. Repel the tsetse fly with your wardrobe. Navy blue and black attract the tsetse fly. Consider this when packing clothes and keep in mind earthen tones from tip #1.
4. We won’t be climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro but… the crater rim surrounding the Ngorongoro Crater lies at about 7,500 feet above sea level and might cause some discomfort if you’re sensitive to altitude changes. If you’re affected, then avoid over-exertion, drink plenty of water, and eat lightly.
5. Be a welcome guest, not a loud and smelly one. Remember that we are guests in the animals’ home. During safari, avoid making loud noises, eating, or other behavior that will distract the animals. And because animals’ senses of smell are so strong, leave your perfume and cologne at home.
6. Protect your skin. Tanzania is near the equator, so the sun is strong here year-round. Pack plenty of sunscreen and apply it liberally and often. One bad sunburn can ruin your whole trip and you do not want to be hurting during your trip to incredible Tanzania.
7. Take a break, and bring your humility. The savannas and forests of Africa do not have public bathrooms. When we stop for bathroom breaks, men retreat behind one shrub and women behind another. Be prepared.
8. Don’t over-vaccinate. Consult your doctor or travel clinic to make sure, but typically malaria and yellow fever shots are all you’ll need. See your doctor or travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your scheduled departure.
9. Bring cash for visas. Tanzania requires a visa for entry into the country. The cost is $100 U.S. cash. Though you may purchase it at the Kilimanjaro Airport upon your arrival, we strongly recommend you acquire it in advance. To pre-purchase a visa, contact the Embassy of Tanzania, 1232 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20037, telephone (202) 884-1080. More information can be found here: https://www.gate1travel.com/visas
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