What is a typical day on safari like, and what can I expect from a night safari?
When planning your East African safari, understanding the typical daily schedule and what to expect from a night safari can enhance your experience.
At lodges within national parks, the day usually begins with a morning game drive from 6 am to about 8:30 am, followed by breakfast at the lodge. The second drive starts at 4 pm and ends by 6 pm when the park closes. In between, you can enjoy the lodge’s facilities. Lunch is at noon, tea at 3:30 pm, and dinner at 8 pm.
Camps in conservancies, such as the Porini Cheetah Camp, offer a different schedule:
– 5:30 am: Bed tea/coffee in the tent
– 6:00 am: Extended morning drive with a picnic breakfast in the bush
– 11:30 am – 12:00 pm: Return from the drive
– 1:00 pm: Lunch
– 3:45 pm: Tea/Coffee/Cake in the lounge
– 4:00 pm: Evening drive with sundowners in the bush
– 7:00 pm – 7:30 pm: Return to camp for drinks around the campfire
– 8:00 pm: Dinner
– 9:00 pm – 10:00 pm: Short night drive with a red spotlight
Night safaris offer a chance to see nocturnal animals like genets, porcupines, bush babies, and aardvarks, which are rarely seen during the day. Camps may also offer guided walks on request.
Choosing the right safari accommodation and understanding the safari essentials can make your East African safari truly unforgettable.
