Travelling with family is fun. It not only allows you to bond but also creates life-long memories. However, the best way to get the most out of your family safaris is to ensure you plan adequately, in a timely fashion.
To help point you in the right direction, here are top tips for planning an African safari that will be perfect for you and your loved ones.
Get in touch with a safari guide
Travelling to Africa is a great experience. Venturing in the wild is even better. However, if you want to experience nature at its best, you’ll need a guide who is incredibly knowledgeable about the places you are planning to visit. Note that, although destinations like Serengeti, Masai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater, Okavango and so on are known for their scenic views and the famous Big Five, you will only encounter this wildlife if you get the timing right. Again, remember, these guides deal with so many different guests all through the months and years. It’s best to try to connect with them at a personal level to break any ice. When the guide is relaxed and comfortable, they will always give you their best.
Be open-minded
The animals have a mind of their own, so, they may not go as you had planned. Since you cannot always control everything that’s happening, you may want to control how you feel about it. For instance, you don’t have to sulk when a thunderstorm hits and you can’t go on a game drive. Instead, you can choose to enjoy the experience.
Spend more time outdoors
With the kids and all, it’s easy to want to lie down and relax a little but don’t – at least not during the day. You will have enough time to rest when you go back home. When you are in the safari, be as curious as a kid. Ask about the flowers, trees, animals, insects and so on. Take pictures of anything and everything. Try out different foods. Interact with the locals. With the guidance of your guide, you’ll soon realise the incredible depth of safari experience.
Carry the essentials
Don’t forget to pack a pair of good binoculars for all family members – you will need them to scan for animals. Imagine the feeling of discovering an animal before the guide does. With binoculars, you will also be able to see the details on animals that you wouldn’t see with your naked eyes.
Drop the camera
Yes, you are to photograph anything and everything, but that doesn’t mean you should view your entire safari through a lens. In as much as your camera will help you capture all moments, you also want to experience the wilderness without any barrier. So, from time to time, allow yourself to get lost in the moment, without the camera.
Don’t compare
This is easier said than done, especially when you start imagining that other people had a “better day” than yours. So, instead of comparing your day to other people’s day, appreciate your experience. No one else will see what you saw in the same way, because that’s your gift. Don’t allow anyone to take that away from you.
