3. Safari hat
Believe it or not, the safari hat is one of the most important pieces of attire. Make sure it is comfortable and has a wide brim to keep the sun off your face; a waterproof hat is significant as it can be used in good or bad weather. There is no typical safari hat, and some, especially the ones we all think are the ultimate safari hat, the pith helmet; yes, I agree, they look great in wildlife photo shoots but are very uncomfortable.
4. Binoculars
Invest in a good pair of binoculars that can be used for safaris, birdwatching, etc. You don’t want to be out in the wild and miss the chance of seeing a rare wild dog out in the long grass because you’ve forgotten your binoculars.
5. Water bottle
This is, of course, another essential item that you don’t want to miss or leave behind. Being out in the sun can make you incredibly thirsty, and there is nowhere to stop and get water. A lightweight bottle is best as you will fill it with water, adding to all the essential goodies you need to carry in your backpack.
Where to go:
Now that you know what to take along, it's time to plan where to go. Africa has many beautiful safaris and is very convenient, close to other tourist destinations such as Cape Town and KwaZulu-Natal. Here are a few that could be of interest to you:
1. Thanda Safari
Thanda Safari, a private game reserve in KZN, is a luxurious award-winning safari lodge. Whether you want something extra special for a honeymoon or a family getaway, Thanda Safari will tick off all the boxes. This beautiful lodge has three properties, each boasting a unique design, personal charm, and ambiance. Thanda has nine luxurious bush suites, a tented camp with one grand deluxe tent, and fourteen smaller but oh-so-beautiful tents. No matter your choice, each allows you privacy, relaxation, and exclusivity to enjoy your unique safari experience. ‘Thanda’ in isiZulu means “love,” and once you have experienced the love of Thanda Safari, it will remain in your heart forever.
2. Botswana
Botswana is an African safari that is always remembered, even if it is more expensive than most. Botswana is known as the ‘gem’ of Africa, and with its natural beauty, it’s easy to understand why. Botswana boasts the largest inland delta in the world, the Okavango Delta. The Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve are the two most famous safari destinations. The Okavango Delta is blessed with a large number of wildlife, such as buffalo, elephant, crocodile, hippopotamus, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, rhinoceros, buffalo, wild dogs, and top of all, thousands of bird species.
3. Kenya (best for the Masai Mara migration)
Kenya is another popular safari destination known for its beautiful landscapes, abundant wildlife, and Mount Kenya, the second-highest mountain in Africa. Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya is known for the Great Mammal Migration, which usually takes place from July to October, making it the most popular time of the year for tourists wanting to experience herds of wildebeest crossing back and forth across the Mara River.