Eight Socially Distant Safari Experiences

Wilderness Safaris is excited to share a selection of safari experiences that are well-suited to travellers looking for space, privacy, exclusivity and possibly most important of all – an unforgettable adventure.

1. Take a walk on the wild side
Depending on the destination, a nature or bush walk is a great way to stretch the legs while taking in the scenic beauty and wildlife of the area. Guests visiting Bisate in Rwanda can enjoy a nature trail on the beautiful forested hillside surrounding the lodge. There are a number of hikes in this area where guests can see gorillas in Volcanoes National Park or explore a few of the other well-known trails. For the fit and adventurous, the hike to the summit of Bisoke is also worth a visit. Wilderness Safaris' camps in Botswana and Zimbabwe offer walks in the company of an armed guide – an opportunity to fully appreciate the minutiae of the bush, from the hard-working dung beetle to majestic trees, the spoor of animals and the scent of the plants. Guests can enjoy a variety of nature walks from camps in Namibia and explore the area on foot, whether walking to the top of the iconic Big Daddy dune at Little Kulala or discovering the lunar-like terrain of Damaraland Camp.

2. Take to the water
A large number of Wilderness Safaris' camps, particularly in Botswana, offer water-based adventures from traditional mokoro rides along the crystal-clear channels of the Okavango to boat rides and catch-and-release fishing. Magashi Camp in Rwanda's Akagera National Park is situated on the banks of the beautiful Lake Rwanyakazinga, where guests will enjoy time out on the waters – a wonderful and relaxing way to view water birds and many other aquatic animals. There's something incredibly calming about being on the water – especially when you're in a prime wilderness area like Zimbabwe's Mana Pools National Park. Boating and canoe rides are offered at both Chikwenya and Ruckomechi along the Zambezi River. Choose between an early morning or evening boat or canoe ride – or opt to do both.The perennial Kunene River along Serra Cafema is a soothing sight in the heart of the desert. Boat rides (water levels permitting) provide guests the opportunity to venture along this lush riverine oasis. The knowledgeable guide will point out crocodiles lazing on the banks and myriad water birds as you cruise through this enchanting and somewhat surreal landscape.

3. Sleep Under African Stars
At a selection of Wilderness Safaris camps in Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe offer guests the opportunity to sleep out at one of the Star Beds. Listen to the many sounds of the night, a jackal's cry in the distance or the gentle rumbling of elephants. Be soothed to sleep by the sounds you hear, before waking to see what wildlife may be visiting nearby.
   Experience the Star Bed at DumaTau Camp offering guests a luxurious and exciting sleep-out adventure in the heart of the Linyanti, but also exclusive front-row seat to the spectacular Zibadianja Lagoon and the diversity of wildlife that congregates there. The Star Bed at Linkwasha Camp, Zimbabwe, overlooks the beautiful and productive Scott's Pan where animals will come to drink from, allowing guests to get closer to nature.

4. Hide out in the wild
There's something wonderful about being hidden out of sight while animals like elephant go about their day, splashing in the waters and drinking, completely oblivious to your presence. The hides are the ideal place to set up for an afternoon, a secret spot to watch the comings and goings of wildlife. Be prepared with bird books, a camera and binoculars.

5. Hot Air Ballooning – the Ride of a Lifetime
At Little Kulala and Kulala Desert Lodge, the two camps situated in the dramatic Kulala Wilderness Reserve, guests can enjoy a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the ancient dunes of Sossusvlei. The lucky ones may even catch sight of an oryx walking along the dunes.Take to the skies in style and soar effortlessly over the rich ecosystem of the Okavango Delta. Hot air balloon rides can be arranged for guests at Vumbura Plains and Little Vumbura – an opportunity to scan the serpentine channels of the Delta while looking carefully for wildlife both on land and water. Gaze upon hundreds of wildebeest as they canter across vast open plains or watch pods of hippo, grunting and snorting in the waters below. This wildlife-rich experience offers a bird's-eye view over untouched wilderness at Wilderness Safaris' camps in Zambia. The thrilling adventure ends with a champagne breakfast, surrounded by 360-degree views of pristine grassland, dotted with impressive herds of puku and lechwe.

6. Explore the Bush on a Game Drive in a Private Vehicle
Private game viewers are a fantastic way to ensure that guests have their own vehicle to experience the bush at leisure. A private vehicle also comes with a private guide offering a wealth of knowledge. A keen photographer will have space and time to get the best angle with no time constraints. Enjoy watching a lion feed or admire a large breeding herd of elephants as they quietly pass by.

7. Bike in the Nambi Desert
Hop on one of the electric fat bikes at Kulala Desert Lodge, a fun way to explore the area's spectacular plains. Keep an eye out for wildlife and other interesting creatures often missed on drives.

8. A romantic dinner for two
Indulge in a dinner for two on the deck of the tented suite, listening out for the sounds of the night – a jackal's cry or the familiar whoop of a hyaena. Dinner is served while the ambience of a balmy safari night is enjoyed complete with star-studded skies and the soft glow of candlelight.
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