Africa is so vast and varied that even the same wilderness can feel entirely different depending on how you experience it. I still remember gazing up at the wrinkles of an elephant towering over me, blinking slowly with those long lashes as we drifted past on a boat. And, of course, getting full-body goosebumps when a lion stared right into my soul as it walked past our game drive vehicle. Whether you're tracking wildlife from an open 4x4, following footprints on a walking safari, gliding through the Okavango Delta in a mokoro, or watching herds move across the plains from a hot-air balloon, the way you experience the bush changes with every setting. Here's where to experience Africa's wildlife from land, water, and sky.
We Like The Big 5, And We Cannot Lie
The Big 5 – lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo – are among Africa's most recognisable wildlife species. For many travellers, encountering these animals in their natural habitat is at the heart of a safari experience. But how you encounter them can be just as memorable. As the World's Most Awarded Safari Company, we know a thing or two about Big 5 safaris – and how to perfectly position you for these distinct encounters.
Where to See The Big 5 from Land
The classic African safari begins in an open 4x4 game drive vehicle, heading into the bush in search of wildlife. Most safari lodges offer twice-daily game drives: one in the early morning and another in the late afternoon, when many animals are most active. Along the way, you'll pause for a coffee in the bush or a sundowner as the day draws to a close, both of which are highlights in their own right.
If you stay at certain luxury lodges, like those in private game reserves, you can also enjoy night game drives. This means you venture out after dark – a personal favourite of mine. It feels as though you're peeking into another world, as nocturnal creatures emerge and familiar landscapes take on an entirely different character.
Greater Kruger, South Africa
One of Africa's best-known Big 5 safari destinations, the Greater Kruger region in South Africa offers an exceptional combination of wildlife, landscapes, and luxury accommodation. The area includes the vast Kruger National Park and neighbouring private reserves, where wildlife moves freely across unfenced boundaries.
Game drives offer opportunities to encounter all five species, although sightings are never guaranteed. Private concessions can also offer a more exclusive experience, with fewer vehicles at sightings and, in many cases, guided night drives.
Get Even Closer to the Ground on a Walking Safari
Walking safaris give you the chance to explore the African bush on foot. Yes, just you and your hiking boots, following your guide in single file as a whole new world opens up. These are among my favourite safari memories, and I've done quite a few! It never gets old, as you notice all the tiny details and connections you might've missed otherwise.
Walking free through the bush makes you feel immensely powerful yet extremely vulnerable at the same time, a delightful juxtaposition of emotions.
South Luangwa, Zambia
South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is widely regarded as the birthplace of the modern walking safari. Accompanied by an experienced guide and armed scout, you'll navigate the Luangwa Valley's sandy paths, interpreting fresh tracks and bird calls. Encounters here happen at eye level, whether observing elephants moving through the woodland or hippos retreating from the warming riverbanks.
Seeing The Big 5 from Water
Drifting along a riverbank shifts the perspective entirely. Positioned lower than traditional motorboats, water-based safaris allow for quiet, unobtrusive approaches to wildlife drinking at the water's edge.
The Okavango Delta, Botswana
The Okavango Delta is a network of waterways, islands, and floodplains, best explored on a mokoro safari. A mokoro is a traditional dugout canoe, now often made from fibreglass, which is gently propelled through shallow channels by a skilled poler.
Sitting low on the water, you'll drift past reeds and water lilies, keeping an eye out for frogs, birds, and wildlife along the banks. Elephants, hippos, and other animals are often spotted around the waterways, although sightings depend on water levels, location, and season.
Chobe River, Botswana
The Chobe River is particularly famous for its large elephant populations. During the dry season, herds gather along the river to drink and cool off, making boat cruises an excellent way to observe them from the water.
For wildlife photographers, photo safaris here include specially adapted photographic boats that offer a more stable platform and better positioning for capturing the action.
The Zambezi River, Zambia and Zimbabwe
The Zambezi River flows through Zimbabwe and Zambia, passing over the magnificent Victoria Falls before continuing its journey east towards the Indian Ocean. Its riverbanks, islands, and channels offer plenty of opportunities to experience the wilderness from the water.
Depending on where you're staying, you can enjoy sunset cruises, canoeing excursions, and guided boat safaris.
And Now: Experiencing The Big 5 From The Sky
Take your safari to new heights (literally) by going on a hot air balloon ride. While not designed for ticking off individual species, drifting above the savannah reveals the sheer scale of the landscape, winding rivers, and the movement of massive herds.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
A sunrise flight over Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is one of East Africa's most iconic experiences, and showcases the region's sweeping grasslands and acacia woodlands. It also offers a prime vantage point for observing the Great Wildebeest Migration, allowing you to comprehend the true volume of the herds as they follow seasonal grazing routes. The timing and location of the herds change throughout the year, so expert advice is essential when planning your trip.
Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Drifting over the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya at dawn highlights its rolling plains and winding rivers. While the Mara supports dense big cat populations, the aerial view is best utilised to witness the seasonal influx of wildebeest and zebra, alongside resident elephants and giraffes.
Experience Africa from Every Perspective
A safari doesn't have to be experienced in just one way. Combining game drives, walking safaris, water-based adventures, and a hot air balloon ride can add depth and variety to your journey.
The first step? Reach out to our Travel Experts to design a multi-perspective itinerary tailored to your travel style.
