big game safari

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Your African adventure starts here. Limpopo Big Game Safaris is your home to affordable hunting in Africa. Contact Limpopo Big Game Safaris today and start your journey to the "Dark Continent of Africa" 

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Welcome to Limpopo Big Game Safaris Limpopo Big Game Safaris is your home to affordable hunting in Africa

Limpopo Big Game Safari's headquarters is situated in the Limpopo Province of South Africa.

We are proud to offer you the best in trophy hunting, service, and conservation.

Everyone at Limpopo Big Game Safaris is ready to help make your time with us memorable.

 90 % guest return rate

Whether it’s the Big Game that calls you to Africa, or the vast variety of plains game species.

Limpopo big game safaris offers tailor made hunting adventures in south africa, botswana, mozambique, namibia, zambia and zimbabwe., we offer all of the big 5 - 28 species of plains game - the tiny ten as well as 14 nocturnal species  in a variety of habitat stretching across southern africa .

Limpopo Big Game Safari works on a theory of sustainable Game utilization, our areas all follow this in practice which enables us to take excellent record book trophies year after year

The diversity of African game is overwhelming. 

There is a distinct reason why dangerous game are known as dangerous.

The reason is simply because Elephant, Rhino, Lion, Leopard, Cape buffalo, Crocodiles and Hippos are dangerous. All seven of these animals have killed humans since the start of time and will continue to do so until the end of time.

Your guide on a Dangerous Game hunt will be specially trained and licensed to guide you on a dangerous game hunt.

By law it is illegal for a Professional hunter with restrictions to his license to guide these hunts.

With more than 47 species of game animals to hunt in various locations all over Southern Africa  spanning over 4,5 million acres total we are in the unique position to offer you the adventure of a lifetime.

At Limpopo Big Game Safaris, we go to great lengths and leave no stone un-turned, imprinting a memorable and adventurous journey.

When the sun sets in Africa a whole new world comes alive.

This is when all the night critters emerge from their dens. These are all critters that you would usually never see on Safari unless you specifically target them. 

Limpopo Big Game Safaris specializes in hunting all these nocturnal critters.

These are specialty night time hunts for those exclusive species that are hard to find. 

Limpopo Big Game Safaris specializes in night time hunting for all the small cats, bush pig, brown hyena, spotted hyena, honey badger and more!

This is the perfect hunt for the collector that wants to take all or some of these small African trophies. 

Just like the well-known Big 5, Africa is also home to the Tiny Ten. These are the ten smallest antelope species found in Southern Africa. Most of these animals are very small.  The largest antelope in the group weighs less than fifty pounds.  The most hunted amongst them is the Common Duiker and Steenbok. There are three different species of Duiker, namely Blue Duiker, Grey Duiker and Red Duiker.  For the more seasoned hunter to Africa, the Tiny ten proved more challenging that hunting the Big 5. Many hunters have spent more time collecting the Tiny ten than any of the larger game species found on the African continent.  

At Limpopo Big Game Safaris, we go to great lengths and leave no stone un-turned, imprinting a memorable and adventurous journey. Africa is home to a wide diversity of wildlife, Fauna and Flora and waking up in Africa to the distinctive scent of savanna and bush, hunting incredible game species in the most amazing surroundings is something any enthusiast hunter should experience.   

During your hunting safari you will be guided by professional hunter and outfitter bossie mostert, our staff are all handpicked from the very best there is.  our professional hunters are carefully selected to ensure the best skills and knowledge to guide groups and extra hunters. limpopo big game safaris offer a variety of hunting options like, rifle hunting or bow hunting for dangerous game, plains game, tiny 10, as well as small predator hunts. for our non-hunting companions, we offer trips to the world renowned kruger national park, predator parks and for those who seek an adrenaline rush we offer zip-lining, horse back riding and tiger fishing..

Follow Limpopo Big Game Safaris on social medi a 

Start planning your 2024 hunting Safari in Africa contact Limpopo Big Game Safaris now.

Choose Limpopo Big Game Safaris for your next African adventure 

Lets go hunting enter site here   

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10 Most Famous Big Game Safari Destinations

Many tourist and wildlife guides that discuss African safaris often use the term Big Five Game to describe the animals that can be seen. Big Five actually refers to the five most difficult animals in Africa to hunt on foot and was coined by game hunters but is now used by safari tour operators.

The collection consists of the lion, the African elephant, the Cape Buffalo, the leopard and the rhino. This list features the best places in Africa to see the “Big Five” offering an abundant wildlife and a great safari experience.

10. Moremi Game Reserve

Located in Botswana, Moremi Game Reserve covers almost a third of the entire Okavango Delta – a diverse habitat where the desert and delta meet, comprising forests, lagoons, floodplains, pans and woodlands.

The delta contains the full spectrum of game and birdlife including lions, cheetahs, hippos and crocodiles. Moremi is best visited during the dry season, from July to October, when seasonal pans dry up and the wildlife concentrates around the water.

9. Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park is one of Africa’s finest havens for wildlife and is home to vast herds of elephants, buffalos, zebras and has a very large concentration of giraffes. This big game safari destination is located in western Zimbabwe on the main road between Bulawayo and the world famous Victoria Falls. The best time to visit the park is after Mugabe has stepped down from power.

8. South Luangwa National Park

Located in the eastern Zambia, South Luangwa National Park is centered around the Luangwa River which supports abundant crocodiles and hippos. The park is probably best known for its walking safaris where you actually walk through the bush on foot and track animals with the help of a guide. The best time for a big game safari inside the park is during the dry season from April to October.

7. Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park is one of the most popular safari attractions in Kenya . This small park is situated at the foot of the highest free-standing mountain in the world, Mount Kilimanjaro located in Tanzania. The snow-capped peak provides a stunning backdrop to one of Kenya’s most spectacular displays of wildlife. The park also offers the visitor the opportunity to meet the Masai people.

6. Etosha National Park

Located in Namibia , the Etosha National Park is centered around a vast salt pan. The pan itself is usually dry and only fills with water briefly in the summer, but is enough to stimulate the growth of a blue-green algae which lures thousands of flamingos.

Most of the wildlife, including herds of zebra, wildebeest and antelope, can be seen around the waterholes that border the pan. Etosha is served by three well established rest camps and offers a great self-drive safari experience.

5. Kruger National Park

The Kruger National Park is the largest and most famous big game reserve in South Africa. The park boasts more species of mammals than any other African game reserve which includes the Big Five, cheetahs, giraffes and more.

Unlike most other safari parks, Kruger is a self-drive destination with an excellent infrastructure and many places to stay inside the park, from tented camps to luxury lodges.

4. Chobe National Park

The Chobe National Park is located in the north-west of Botswana and offers some of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa. The park is probably best known for its large population of elephants, 50,000 elephants today. They are most visible during the dry season between May and September when they congregate around the water sources, especially the Chobe river.

3. Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation area in Tanzania contains an old volcano that has collapsed and formed a crater. The steep sides of the crater have become a natural enclosure for a wide variety of wild animals. It is also presently one of the most likely areas in Africa to see the endangered Black Rhino.

2. Masai Mara National Reserve

The Masai Mara National Reserve is Kenya’s most popular game park. Each year the park is visited by thousands of tourists who come here to watch the exceptional population of game and the annual migration of zebra and wildebeest. The “Great Migration” takes place every year from July to October when millions of wildebeest and zebra migrate from the Serengeti in Tanzania.

1. Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park is one the best-known big game safari destinations in Africa, famous for its annual wildlife migration of over one million wildebeest and 200,000 zebra. The park lies in a high plateau between the Ngorongoro highlands in northern Tanzania and the Masai Mara Reserve, in neighboring Kenya.

One of the best times to visit the park is in May when the grass becomes dry and exhausted and the wildebeest and zebra start to mass in huge armies offering a spectacular wildlife show.

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Reader interactions.

September 18, 2016 at 6:20 am

I’m surprised you didn’t mention any from Uganda. Uganda has some of the best wildlife parks and an abundance of wildlife including gorillas, lions, elephants, hippos etc. Mountains, tropical forests, biggest variety of birds in the world, largest fresh water lake in Africa & home of the river Nile. Of course plus the fact that Uganda probably has the best climate in the world. The weather is always so bright, beautiful & sunny.

May 10, 2014 at 8:42 pm

I visited the Masai Mara National Reserve twice. This is one of the best natural wildlife habitats in the world. During peak season (July – September) it is very likely that one might view all the wildlife species endemic to Africa within a 3 day safari.

October 9, 2012 at 6:27 am

I just came back from Yale National Park in Sri Lanka. It was my first Safari experience there, but I enjoyed it a lot. There is a huge variety of animals from elephants to leopards there and we were lucky to see a leopard having a nap at the lake! 🙂 I can’t wait to go to Serengeti National Park. Beautiful photos by the way 😉

September 15, 2009 at 1:47 am

And all are African safari venues. Many countries have safaris, india, china, but Africa I think has the most famous safaris!

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Book your adrenalin filled, big game hunting expedition across six game-rich countries in southern & central Africa

We offer big 5 hunting in the wildest parts of africa, where the hunter has unlimited access to game-rich areas that produce quality big game trophies., explore our hunting regions, africa is home to all the dangerous and big game species.

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• Waldeck Reserve

Kalahari Oryx

Rietvaley Reserve

• Nyati Reserve

• Ngamo Sikumi

Kalahari Camp

• Karamoja-North

Aswa Lolim Ranches

• Kafu River Basin

• Pemba Beach Lodge

• Litule Camp

• Kambako Camp

Our skilled and capable PH’s, trackers and support staff will bring you to within close proximity of these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat, giving a unique edge to our hunts without ever compromising safety.

Proximity ensures success, making each hunt an exhilarating experience.

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Big Game Hunting in Tanzania

Huge wilderness areas, abundant with a vast variety of game

Tanzania is traditionally renowned for its exceptional hunting and excellent trophy quality. This country is home to the largest concentration of heavy maned Lion left in Africa, a very healthy Leopard population, vast herds of Buffalo as well as incomparably large varieties of plains game, including Roan antelope, Sable antelope, Eland, Greater Kudu and Sitatunga. Gerenuk, Lesser Kudu and Oryx occur throughout the semi-arid North East and Masai Bushbuck, Red Duiker, Mountain Reedbuck and Suni can be found in suitable high altitude habitat.

Three quarters of Tanzania's land mass is wilderness, most of which is National Park, Game Reserve or Hunting Area. The Wilderness (and the Wildlife it contains) is not fenced. The animals know no boundaries - they move freely in and out of various hunting areas.

Tanzania is a beautiful and varied country with the finest wildlife habitat remaining in Africa today with large wilderness areas of abundant game. The country and terrain vary enormously, from semi-desert in the North East, to open plains and thorn bush in the North; swamps in the North West; to Miombo woodland throughout the country. This unusual diversity creates ideal habitat for a wide variety of wildlife species.

Hunting Areas

A Robin Hurt Big Game Hunting Safari ensures that you get the maximum hunting experience in our carefully managed hunting concessions found throughout Tanzania.

General Information

Tanzania is a malarial area and precautions must be taken. RHS recommend that you check with your doctor or local health authority for details of health regulations and immunization requirements.

Hunting Regulations

Clients shall only be permitted to hunt those animals for which their permit is issued (subject to quota availability). By Tanzania Law only hunting clients are permitted to hunt.

The Classic African Safari Experience

The safari tradition originated in East Africa. Tanzania is a land of distinctions that still evokes this spirit of adventure that first attracted famous hunters, such as Roosevelt and Hemingway to Africa. It offers some of the largest hunting areas in Africa where the game is free to roam in true wilderness.

Our safari camps are incredibly comfortable and luxurious, while still retaining the charm and atmosphere of sleeping under canvas. Telling stories and sipping whiskey around the campfire at the end of a long adventurous day’s hunt, is still a huge part of a traditional Tanzanian hunting adventure with Robin Hurt Safaris.

You will not share your camp with any other guests. There are refrigerators, both in your camps and in your vehicles. All tents are roomy, insect-proof and secure. Your sleeping tent has an attached bathroom with flushing loos, running water and a verandah. Beds are large (7' long) with comfortable mattresses.

Your vehicles are all four-wheel drive Toyota Land Cruisers equipped with winches, gun racks, tools, spares, radios, fridges and first aid bags. There is a radio network between vehicles, between camps and from camps to the RHS base in Arusha.

“Since 2010 I have been on five safaris with Robin Hurt Team.  If you are looking for adventure, freedom, traditional and fair-chase hunting in Africa, pretty much as it was 50 years ago, look no further than Robin Hurt Safaris.”

Aldo Rech, South Africa

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10 Most Famous Big Game Safari Destinations

Updated on: December 4, 2023

When it comes to African safaris, tourist and wildlife guides often mention the “Big Five Game” to talk about the animals you can encounter. Originally, this term was coined by game hunters to identify the five most challenging animals to hunt on foot.

However, nowadays it has been embraced by safari tour operators to highlight the top wildlife attractions. The Big Five includes the lion, African elephant, Cape Buffalo, leopard, and rhino.

If you’re seeking a remarkable safari experience with abundant wildlife, make sure to explore the destinations renowned for their encounters with the magnificent “Big Five”.

10. Masai Mara National Reserve

The Masai Mara National Reserve holds the distinction of being Kenya’s most sought-after game park, attracting numerous tourists annually.

They flock to this remarkable destination to witness not only the abundant wildlife but also the awe-inspiring spectacle of the zebra and wildebeest migration.

Known as the “Great Migration,” this remarkable event occurs between July and October, when millions of these majestic creatures journey from Tanzania’s Serengeti plains.

9. Moremi Game Reserve

Moremi Game Reserve, situated in Botswana, spans across nearly a third of the magnificent Okavango Delta, a rich ecosystem where the arid desert and vibrant delta blend seamlessly.

This captivating landscape comprises an array of stunning features including forests, lagoons, floodplains, pans, and woodlands.

Within this natural wonderland, one can encounter a diverse collection of wildlife and bird species, ranging from majestic lions and swift cheetahs to mighty hippos and formidable crocodiles.

To witness the most splendid displays of nature, it is advisable to visit Moremi during the dry season, which embraces the months from July to October.

During this time, temporary pans dry out, causing wildlife to flock and concentrate around the remaining water sources, creating unforgettable viewing opportunities.

8. Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park truly stands out as a remarkable sanctuary for wildlife in Africa. It harbors immense populations of elephants, buffalos, zebras, and notably boasts an impressive gathering of majestic giraffes.

Positioned along Zimbabwe’s western region, this destination for extraordinary safari experiences resides on the main road connecting Bulawayo to the renowned Victoria Falls.

For an optimal visit, it is advisable to plan your trip after Mugabe has relinquished power, ensuring a more enjoyable and tranquil experience.

7. Ngorongoro Conservation Area

In Tanzania, you can find the Ngorongoro Conservation area, which houses a fascinating geological feature – an ancient volcano that has crumbled and created a magnificent crater.

This crater’s steep walls act as a natural barrier, creating a sanctuary for a diverse range of magnificent wild animals. Remarkably, it is currently considered one of Africa’s prime locations to catch a glimpse of the highly endangered Black Rhino.

6. Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park, located in northern Tanzania and bordering the Masai Mara Reserve in Kenya, is renowned as a remarkable destination for exciting big game safaris.

It particularly stands out for its annual wildlife migration, where more than one million wildebeest and 200,000 zebras traverse the park’s expansive terrain.

May proves to be an exceptional time to explore this park, as the grasses turn dry and weary, prompting the wildebeest and zebras to gather in tremendous numbers.

The sight of these magnificent creatures coming together creates a breathtaking spectacle and a true marvel of the natural world.

5. Chobe National Park

The Chobe National Park is situated in the northwest region of Botswana and boasts an abundant array of wildlife, making it one of Africa’s most exceptional wildlife destinations.

Its notable claim to fame lies in its staggering elephant population, currently estimated at 50,000 strong.

These majestic creatures are most prominently seen during the dry season, spanning from May to September, as they gather around the various water sources, primarily the renowned Chobe river.

4. Kruger National Park

The Kruger National Park stands as South Africa’s most renowned and expansive big game reserve. It proudly houses a remarkable variety of mammal species, surpassing all other African reserves.

Within its vast borders, visitors can marvel at iconic creatures like the Big Five, cheetahs, and giraffes, among countless others.

Distinguishing itself from typical safari parks, Kruger offers a unique self-drive experience, supported by exceptional infrastructure and an abundance of lodging options ranging from cozy tented camps to lavish lodges, all conveniently nestled within the park.

3. South Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa National Park, situated in eastern Zambia, is a remarkable haven that revolves around the magnificent Luangwa River. This river provides a thriving habitat for a plethora of crocodiles and hippos, adding to the park’s allure.

One of the park’s most renowned features is its walking safaris, allowing visitors to intimately explore the bush by foot while expert guides aid in tracking animals.

For an unforgettable big game safari experience, it is highly recommended to plan a visit between April and October, during the dry season.

2. Amboseli National Park

Amboseli National Park, located in Kenya, is widely renowned as a top destination for safari adventures. Nestled at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest freestanding mountain globally, the park boasts a breathtaking setting with its snow-capped summit.

This picturesque landscape serves as a magnificent backdrop for observing Kenya’s diverse wildlife in all its glory. Furthermore, the park presents a unique chance to immerse oneself in the vibrant culture of the Masai people.

1. Etosha National Park

The Etosha National Park, situated in Namibia, is renowned for its expansive salt pan. Although the pan is typically dry, it temporarily transforms into a haven for a vibrant blue-green algae during the summer, attracting flocks of flamingos.

Along the edges of the pan, waterholes serve as gathering spots for various animals, such as zebra, wildebeest, and antelope. To enhance the safari experience, Etosha provides three reputable rest camps that enable visitors to embark on an exciting self-driven adventure.

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6 Big Game Safari Parks in the US

See the big five without making the big trip. by kristi marcelle, top family attractions.

Is an African safari on your bucket list but not in your budget? Across the country, safari parks are attracting visitors that want to see the Big Five without making the big trip. Here are six parks where you can take a jeep safari tour, zip-line over elephants, or wake to the lions’ roar from the comfort of your luxury tent—and none require a passport or a second mortgage.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park: Escondido, CA

Theme park meets safari at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park , where educational shows, safaris and activities await. The newest adventure, Flightline Safari, is a 470-foot zip line that soars 160 feet above rhinos and other animals. Wildly popular “Roar & Snore” sleepover safaris including guided hikes, campfires, and meals are scheduled throughout the year.

( MORE: Find a parent-recommended, kid-friendly hotel in San Diego.)

Lion Country Safari: West Palm Beach, FL

This pioneering drive-through safari in West Palm Beach has been entertaining generations of Floridians and vacationers since 1967. Amusement park rides, boat cruises, water play splash zones, mini-golf and camel rides are the newest additions to the 900-animal park. If you’re looking for a rustic place to stay, The Travel Channel named the adjacent KOA campground one of the top five places to pitch a tent (and not get eaten by lions).

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center: Glenrose, TX

If hand-feeding a giraffe is on your bucket list, purchase a bag of animal feed and head out on the 9.5-mile scenic wildlife drive-through safari or take a guided tour. This non-profit conservation center, located an hour outside of Dallas , specializes in breeding programs for endangered animals. The center offers a variety of safaris, camps and even a nighttime murder mystery tour. Because, you never know, maybe the giraffe did it in the conservatory with the wrench.

( MORE: Find more kid-friendly attractions around Dallas.)

The Wilds: Cumberland, OH

Ninety miles east of Columbus , this non-profit conservation park sits on 10,000 acres of reclaimed mine land. The Zipline Safari takes you soaring on ten zip lines above more than 350 animals, or you can giddy-up on a horseback safari. The park is open May-October; family and adult camps are offered during summer.

Safari West: Santa Rosa, CA

Who knew that you could find lions and tigers and wildebeests—oh my!—smack in the middle of California Wine Country? Just an hour from San Francisco, the 600-acre Safari West preserve is home to over 600 animals. Cruise through the “Sonoma Serengeti” in an open-air jeep with a coveted roof-top seat that thrills little adventurers, then stay the night glamping in a luxury tent with bunk beds for the kids and on-site wine tastings for the adults.

Wild Animal Safari: Pine Mountain, GA

At this drive-through safari a 90-minute drive from Atlanta , you can take a safari bus tour, rent a zebra van or drive your own vehicle through the 250-acre park with over 650 animals.

Kristi Marcelle, a California-based freelance writer , contributed this to www.MiniTime.com.

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Planning a family vacation with kids? Looking for travel ideas for your next family getaway? MiniTime is different from other travel websites in that it’s 100 percent dedicated to helping parents plan vacations with kids that are better, cheaper, and less stressful. You’ll find reviews of kid-friendly hotels and attractions written by parents that travel with kids, so you will always find the best recommendations for your family on where to go and what to do with kids on vacation. MiniTime also features the best expert advice about how to plan affordable and fun family vacations with kids, with a community of parents dedicated to sharing their own family vacation experiences so that you can find the best family getaway ideas for your own family. Whether you’re planning a road trip, city break, adventure trip, or resort getaway with kids, MiniTime can help you save time and money when planning a family trip. Looking for vacation ideas? Ask us. We just got back.

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Botswana Big Game Safari

11 nights • $15,410 - $33,690 per person, get up close with the big five.

This thrilling big game safari across Botswana takes in Mashatu with its subterranean elephant hide, the Okavango and Linyanti for non-stop animal encounters, and the mighty Zambezi River tumbling over the widest curtain of water in the world at Victoria Falls.

DESTINATIONS

In our travelers' words.

The Peacock Family

Multi-Generational Safari

"Our youngest, Emily is almost 7. And mom and dad are in their late 70's. And the rest of us fall somewhere in between - and I can tell you we ALL just had the best time! It's tricky to have a plan that appeals to everyone. The thought of our daily adventure was so exciting, that no one minded the early morning wake-ups - not even the teenagers! They were often the first ones on the jeep - as they couldn't wait to start the drive each day."

The Ousterhout Family

Family Safari

"My father-in-law had always wanted to go to Africa, and invited us all to go with him to celebrate his 80th birthday. We went with no expectations, and the trip was beyond anything we could have imagined. In each camp we were exhilarated to be so unbelievably close to animals. Our guides really turned the safari into an educational experience for the girls with in-depth discussions on not just the wildlife, but also history, culture, and the relationship between tourism and the environment. It was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime trip – but we hope to return."

Tamar Sherer & Chris Cooper

Active Safari

"This was our fourth trip to Africa, and by far the best. We keep going back because we love the whole experience: the people, the wildlife, their behavior, the environment, the accommodations, the music, everything. We chose Bushtracks for this custom adventure with two goals: to see the migration and to see the gorillas. Experiencing the migration was like witnessing a miracle in process. Could it get any better? Yes - the gorilla treks were the most exhausting thing we've ever done, but worth every exhilarating ache. Amazing!"

At the end of the day our travelers are most qualified to describe the African safari experience, and they certainly say it best.

$15,410 - $33,690 per person

This sample itinerary displays an estimated price range illustrating the variation that seasonality and the level of accommodations, classic to premier, can make on the price. the properties presented are representative of the many accommodation options available. once provisional space is held at selected accommodations for exact travel dates, a trip planner will prepare an actual quote for all itinerary services., or call one of our expert coordinators directly at 1.800.995.8689.

DESTINATION

Destination, country, placeholder content --- “vivienne’s africa” is all about each sunrise bringing adventure. vivienne has lived in africa all her life and as an avid traveler has traversed 30 countries on the african continent and visited 65 countries worldwide. over 20 years, vivienne has led more than 100 bushtracks trips and is at home managing aviation charters and complex expedition logistics. as an artist, photographer and cyclist, she shares her passion for adventure and hopes to inspire all who travel with her to embrace africa., accommodation, hotel title, johannesburg, south africa, known as joburg, jozi, or egoli ' the city of gold '; johannesburg serves as the main international airport when arriving in southern africa. spending a night here at the beginning or end of your safari is common, and as south africa's economic capital, there are plenty of upmarket hotels. while here, do a tour of soweto, where mandela and tutu both lived..

ACCOMMODATION SAMPLE

A johannesburg stopover in this 5-star hotel epitomizes elegant luxury at its best. enjoy the terrace garden and outdoor pool with city skyline, champagne bar and fitness club. it’s linked to a stylish shopping mall for retail therapy., mashatu game reserve, botswana, farmlands in the far east of botswana consolidated to become mashatu, a privately owned game reserves with the largest elephant population on private land. you're almost guaranteed to see leopard and lion, and possibly cheetah. specialties include exciting horseback safaris, mountain biking, guided bush walks and night drives, with tswana rangers and trackers showing guests some exhilarating game viewing..

Mashatu Tent Camp

If you want sedate and sedentary this is not the camp for you it’s for adventurous families who want to mountain bike, horseback ride and walk amongst big game, like elephant herds 200-strong and a high number of predators, okavango delta, botswana, the allure of the okavango is its range of habitats, turned into a magical water wonderland by annual floodwaters. this swirl of green on saturated kalahari sand can be seen from space, and creates an idyllic environment for animals. incomparable game-viewing options vary from boat, mokoro canoe, 4x4, on foot and an aerial overview from the light aircraft to your lodge..

Kwando Splash Camp

Named ‘splash’ after the water crossings required to get to camp, with a labyrinth of permanent water channels and seasonal flood plains. simple yet stylish rooms, the main lodge, pool and fire pit all overlook the pan, which attracts game year-round., linyanti wildlife reserve, botswana, all the private game reserves between chobe national park and the okavango delta are blessed with water, either from river, lagoons or marshes. water is life, so there is plenty of wildlife. let your senses come alive here, noticing the aroma of sage bush crushed underfoot, the iridescent feathers of plum-colored starlings, and the deep primal resonance of lions roaring..

Linyanti Ebony

Gain different perspectives of linyanti river, its lagoons and marshes, on boating, fishing and mokoro excursions, guided walks and game drives. linyanti ebony is the perfect camp for a family or small group to book the place just for themselves..

BEGIN YOUR ADVENTURE

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For more information on booking a safari expedition, contact one of our specialists today and let us help you plan your dream adventure.

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Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

The mighty zambezi plummets some 350 feet, in the widest unbroken curtain of falling water in the world. known as mosi-oa-tunya ‘the smoke that thunders’, this powerful spectacle is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and a unesco world heritage site. it beckons adventurers for white water rafting, bungee jumping and the exhilarating helicopter ‘flight of angels’..

Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel

In between scrumptious meals on the terrace, massages, cooling off in the swimming pool and special kids’ activities, you can visit victoria falls (7.5 miles away) and do game drives, walks, rhino tracking and horseback safaris in this privately-owned reserve..

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Manes & Plains: Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti

Easy extensions, plan your trip, explore big cat country in tanzania's serengeti and the majesty of the ngorongoro crater.

This Tanzania big game luxury safari itinerary unfolds in two iconic destinations renowned for their density of year-round big game.

Spot the Big Five and endangered black rhino in the Ngorongoro Crater before moving on to the Serengeti. Escape the crowds by staying in a secluded area known for cheetah conservation research and lion activity, then head north to follow wildlife along the heralded Mara River. If you visit during the right season, you may witness the Great Migration, lauded as one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on Earth.

Manes & Plains: Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti : 10 days/9 nights

Arrival Kilimanjaro Airport, road transfer to Arusha, Arusha Coffee Lodge .

DAYS 2 & 3:

Drive to Kataru, Gibbs Farm

DAYS 4, 5 & 6:

Fly to the Eastern Serengeti, Namiri Plains Camp

DAYS 7, 8, & 9:

Fly to the Northern Serengeti, Serengeti Bushtops

Return to Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight home

Cheetah passing by in the Serengeti

Bush walk at Namiri Plains

Relax after a great day on safari

Spend a day on game drives in the Ngorongoro Crater

Lions looking over the Serengeti plains

Serengeti Bushtops

Pool with a view at Serengeti Bushtops

Manes & Plains: Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti trip highlights

• This 10-day fly-in Tanzania big game safari starts with a night at Arusha Coffee Lodge, a working coffee plantation. Settle in after a long journey and enjoy a cup of the estate's specialty brew to jumpstart the day.
• Take a scenic drive along the Maasai Steppe to Lake Manyara , searching for tree-climbing lions and flamingos dotting the lake shores. Stay in a spacious cottage at  Gibbs Farm in the northern highlands and spend a full day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Ngorongoro Crater . The diversity of big game found here includes zebra, wildebeest, lion, gazelle, hippo, and elephant, as well as the endangered black rhino.
• Fly to Namiri Plains, set in a secluded part of the eastern Serengeti (you’re well over an hour away from your nearest neighbor) with an exceptional population of big cats, including lion and leopard. The camp frequently hosts cheetah researchers, and you can learn more about these magnificent animals over dinner.
• Lastly, fly to the eco-conscious and luxurious Serengeti Bushtops in the northern Serengeti. Explore the open plains on foot or on game drives, and you may witness the Great Migration depending on the time of year you visit. Travel outside of peak season and you’ll have the region nearly entirely to yourself.
• Fly back to Kilimanjaro International Airport.

$13,500 - $18,600 per person sharing in 2024

Manes & Plains on a map

Arusha Coffee Lodge

Gibb's Farm

Namiri Plains

Continue your private luxury Africa safari with a stop in Kenya 's Maasai Mara , gorilla trekking  in  Uganda  or  Rwanda . Or, head to the beach on  Zanzibar  or the  Seychelles  for some relaxation.

Sunset game drive in the Mara

Baby Gorilla in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

View of Volcanoes National Park

Dhow fishing in Zanzibar

Explore other itineraries

Classic Migration Safari, by Private Vehicle

Private vehicles in prime migration areas across Tanzania and Kenya

Tanzania's Remote and Wild South

Escape the crowds on Tanzania’s southern circuit

Kenya: Safari in Style

Private Conservancies, Ultraluxe Lodges, Superlative Wildlife

Ready to start planning your own incredible adventure? We make the process stress-free and enjoyable.

Nature Travel Africa

Small Group and Private African Safaris

Classic Big Game Safari

South Africa boasts 22,000 different higher plant species (9% of all the known species on Earth), 297 species of mammals (including Africa’s famed Big Five), a bird count of at least 858 species, 447 species of reptile and 132 species of amphibians. Furthermore the country has excellent tourism infrastructure, a generally temperate climate and some of the best game reserves in all of Africa.

This 10 day safari has been carefully put together to offer you the best chance to see all the classic big game species of Africa, along with superb scenery, incredible birds, fantastic cuisine, excellent accommodation and much more. Let’s go on safari! Get more detail on what to expect: Go to full itinerary

Tour info: Safari starts in Johannesburg and ends in Durban Duration: 10 days/9 nights Type of accommodation: Comfortable / Mid-range Next Group departure date: To be confirmed Private small group, customized safaris can be booked on request

Top Mammals: Lion Leopard African Buffalo White and Black Rhinoceros African Elephant African Wild Dog Cheetah

Top Birds: White-backed Vulture Lappet-faced Vulture White-headed Vulture Martial Eagle Tawny Eagle Kori Bustard Narina Trogon Gorgeous Bushshrike Olive Bushshrike Knysna Turaco Purple-crested Turaco

Optional Activities: • Night game drive in Kruger National Park • Mountain biking or horse riding in Mlilwane *Please enquire about these optional activities before the safari departs. We can book these activities for you.

Keep in mind that all our tours can be customised according to your specific requirements.

Talk to us at [email protected] for more information about this or any other Africa Safari.

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8 Day Rhino Walking Safari- This unique walking safari needs to be on your bucket list.  Trek Rhinos on foot in beautiful Northwestern Namibia.

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• Vic Falls Marathon & Zimbabwe
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• Hwange & Mana Pools
• Videos from Africa
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Big Game - Yala by Eco Team

Yala National Park, 91400 Yala, Sri Lanka – Great location - show map

Cleanliness

Value for money

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This camping site is in a good position.Afternoon walk and afternoon tea are free so far, especially afternoon walk is worth to go for,I saw a lot of monkeys and birds,because we just walked beside the fence of Yala National Park. The dinner is delicious,including a bowl of soup ,roast chicken and sea fish, dessert,of course it’s not free.In the night, I saw some of the fireflies.when I waked up,I heard different birds singing.It’s very nice. You can take a hot shower in the tent.but the water is salty.

This tour was great. We stayed one night and did an afternoon safari and morning safari before leaving. The staff was excellent, tent was great, food was good and the safari exceeded expectations. we were lucky to see 3 leopards on the morning safari and many elephants.

What an amazing place!! The tents were super comfortable and the whole experience was just great

- The staff were superb! - The tent was comfortable and in good size! - the morning ginger biscuits were nice!

The service was incredible. They helped us really from pickup till check out. The food was fine and the location was so awesome that it gave us the ultimate camping experience.

Big Game made my stay incredibly unique. I love how close it is to Yala Safari Park, the ambience if staying in a tent, how peaceful it is to hear the nature’s singing. The generosity and kindness of the staff, Avinka was great on explaining and giving a night walk tour around the camp at night. The bbq dinner at the camp under the stars and moon was also a perfect experience. 🙏🏻 thank you.

great location, very near to the park entrance. the facilities were nicely thoughts and tents were spacious enough and surprisingly comfortable. we’ve had a very good sleep and followed advice of many about mosquitos so were not bothered at all by it. there is even hot water for a shower. the food was delicious and the staff were very helpful. the bone fire was a great idea, especially with kids. the night tour with the naturalist was great, original and super fun!

The staff is super attentive and one can clearly feel that they want their guests to have the best experience.; Everyone is working very hard. The safari was great and easy. Quiet breakfast in a beautiful environment and dinner under the stars. Completely recommended!

Unbelievable experience! The tents were clean and comfortable. The safari and trek was also really impressive! The candlelight dinner around a campfire was also a lovely touch. Would highly recommend

Staff was very helpful and friendly. Nature walks were informative.

Big Game - Yala by Eco Team Reserve now

Lock in a great price for Big Game - Yala by Eco Team – rated 8.2 by recent guests!

Enter dates to get started.

Big Game - Yala by Eco Team is located on the edge of Yala National Parks, a 20-minute drive from the Katagamuwa park entrance. Surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes in a mini nature reserve, it provides spacious fan cooled tents with a private bathroom. Barbecue dinner is provided around a campfire. Free WiFi is available in the public areas of the property. Family tents are provided based on requirement. All tents are fitted with comfortable beds, mattresses and pillows. Free drinking water will be provided. All bathrooms are equipped with a Hot & Cold shower. Big Game - Yala by Eco Team is 162 mi from Colombo and 193 mi from Bandaranaike International Airport. Safaris, airport transfers and laundry services can be arranged at an extra charge. Safari included package is also available to book.

Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 8.8 for a two-person trip.

Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

• Family rooms
• Free parking
• Airport shuttle
• Non-smoking rooms

Property Highlights

Top Location: Highly rated by recent guests (8.8)

Free Private Parking Available On Site

Saved to 2733 lists

Availability

Select dates to see this property's availability and prices

Property practices

Categories:, see what guests loved the most:.

Managed by Eco Team (Pvt) Ltd

Company info

Property info

Neighborhood info

Language Spoken

Restaurants 1 Restaurant On Site

• Open for Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner
• Dietary options Halal • Vegetarian • Vegan • Gluten-free • Dairy-free

Amenities of Big Game - Yala by Eco Team Great facilities! Review score, 8.2

• Toilet paper
• Bathtub or shower
• Private Bathroom
• Free toiletries
• Garden view
• Outdoor fireplace
• Outdoor furniture
• Outdoor dining area
• BBQ facilities
• Cleaning products
• Socket near the bed
• Cooking class
• Tour or class about local culture
• Walking tours
• Sitting area
• Kids' meals
• Special diet meals (on request)
• Invoice provided
• 24-hour front desk
• Outdoor play equipment for kids
• Board games/Puzzles
• Daily housekeeping
• Fire extinguishers
• 24-hour security
• Shuttle service Additional charge
• Designated smoking area
• Smoke-free property
• Wake-up service
• Private entrance
• Packed lunches
• Airport shuttle Additional charge
• Entire unit located on ground floor

See availability House rules

From 12:30 PM

Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card at check-in

Until 10:30 AM

Cancellation/ prepayment

Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodations type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check what conditions apply to your preferred room.

Children & Beds

Child policies

Children of all ages are welcome.

Children 12 and above will be charged as adults at this property.

To see correct prices and occupancy info, add the number and ages of children in your group to your search.

Crib and extra bed policies

The number of cribs allowed depends on the option you choose. Check your selected option for more info.

There are no extra beds available at this property.

All cribs are subject to availability.

No age restriction

There's no age requirement for check-in

Accepted payment methods

Cash Big Game - Yala by Eco Team accepts these cards and reserves the right to temporarily hold an amount prior to arrival.

Smoking is not allowed.

Pets are not allowed.

The fine print Must-know information for guests at this property

Please note that the property does not provide accommodations for the driver. However, accommodations can be arranged close by if the request is raised soon after the booking. Kindly contact the property for more details.

Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.

Please inform Big Game - Yala by Eco Team of your expected arrival time in advance. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly using the contact details in your confirmation.

FAQs about Big Game - Yala by Eco Team

What is there to do at big game - yala by eco team, does big game - yala by eco team have a restaurant on site, how much does it cost to stay at big game - yala by eco team.

The prices at Big Game - Yala by Eco Team may vary depending on your stay (e.g. dates, hotel's policy etc.). To see prices, enter your dates.

Is Big Game - Yala by Eco Team popular with families?

Yes, Big Game - Yala by Eco Team is popular with guests booking family stays.

What are the check-in and check-out times at Big Game - Yala by Eco Team?

Check-in at Big Game - Yala by Eco Team is from 12:30 PM, and check-out is until 10:30 AM.

How far is Big Game - Yala by Eco Team from the center of Yala?

Big Game - Yala by Eco Team is 9.9 miles from the center of Yala. All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.

The Best of Yala

• Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara
• Kataragama Temple
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Popular Areas

• Ranminitenna Tele Cinema Village

Most Popular Cities

• Tissamaharama

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JP Big Game Safaris

Mozambique | South Africa

Email: [email protected] | [email protected] (usa), welcome to jp big game safaris, come and experience with us the wonders of africa.

THE QUALITY

OUR PASSION

THE EXPERIENCE

Jp big game safaris.

Africa !! Known as the last frontier or Dark Continent. All names that promise great adventures and a era long gone by.

Let J P Big Game Safaris take you on a African journey and help you relive Africa the way it was. We will take you to places that was wondered by the old African legends of yester year where you will experience the epic of a true traditional classic safari.

Come and experience with us the wonders of Africa. Great sunsets, great people and a great experience is what we promise you will enjoy !

Your Gateway to a True African Experience.

The ultimate safari experience awaits.

+27 82 824 4158

[email protected], african big game safaris.

African Big Game Safaris offers over 52 species to hunt in South Africa. We have hunting properties located in the Eastern Cape, Kalahari, and the Limpopo region. We also have our own free-roaming area in the Niassa Province Mozambique. Whatever you want to hunt and where you want to hunt it we can make it happen!

Eastern Cape

The Eastern Cape offers great diversity when it comes to hunting. There is a wide variety of terrain that can be hunted from high mountains and Karoo plains to coastal thickets.

Our Mozambique area is located in the Niassa province of Northern Mozambique. The hunting area is 220,000 Acres and this is a 100% free roaming unfenced area.

The Kalahari is a semi-dry, arid area in South Africa and Botswana which covers over 350 000 spare miles. The terrain is made up of savannah plains and acacia outcrops which host large populations of game.

The Limpopo province is famous for its abundance of game and outstanding trophies which have been taken in the region. As Frederik Selous suggested it may just be the best place to be on safari.

African Big Game Safaris strives to deliver an experience that is in a class of its own. Our professional team will go through all efforts to make your time in Africa unique and not just another hunting safari. African Big Game Safaris is devoted to delivering some of the best trophies available in Africa. We pride ourselves by offering fair chase hunting and cater for first-time hunters through to the experienced dangerous game addicts! The African Big Game Safaris team boasts over 45 years of hunting experience, collectively we have taken over 320 Cape Buffalo and 270 Lion.  We ensure peace of mind when choosing a hunting destination and will assist you every step of the way to make your dream hunt a reality!

Copyright 2021 © African Big Game Safaris.    Designed by WSV Marketing

Lion Hunting, Buffalo Hunting, hunting Tanzania, Tanzania hunting, big game hunting, no fence, Free range

THE TRADITIONAL SPIRIT OF THE TRUE AFRICAN SAFARI.  

Conservation, management and utilization .

Wild Side of Australia

If you are looking for a real hunt, if you are looking for wild places, untouched by human hands, then you have found the right place. This will be an adventure. 

Join me on a hunt in Australia’s remotest territories for the mighty Water Buffalo, where I have been hunting as a professional for over 40 years.

I look forward to seeing you in the bush.

The Finest Hunting Experience

Our team of expert guides will lead you on a thrilling journey into some of the most remote parts of Australia. With years of experience, we guarantee a safe and successful hunt every time. Book your trip today and experience the thrill of the hunt.

Experience the Thrill of Big Game Hunting

Simon has been passionate about the art of hunting big game for over 30 years. With a deep understanding of the terrain and the animals we pursue, Australian Big Game Safaris offers a unique and thrilling way to explore the Australian Outback. Discover the thrill of big game hunting with us today!

A Unique Adventure

'I was at Wildlife Images yesterday and all of the Australian Trophies were already there!!  They were in excellent condition. I have never seen trophies arrive in such good shape. Australian Big Game Safaris are the best!! I would like to thank everyone involved for their hard work and dedicated efforts to deliver these valuable trophies.'

Steve laskey .

WHAT CLIENTS SAY

'Well we made back home Sunday little tired from the flights. I wanted to let you know that our hunt with Simon was one of our best trips if not the best one. He was great with Penny with shooting her buffalo being that she hasn't shot guns all that much. She can't stop talking about her time there. Also Allie and Penny got along really well. Simon kept me laughing the whole time. I got to say this was exactly what we were wanting to experience. We will love to come back and do it again. Next time we will stay in  Sydney for one day and extend time with Simon - that's how much we liked the outback.'

Bill and penny phillips , 'just a quick note to say thanks for the fabulous hunt that liam and i had with you guys. the organisation was superb, the animals were abundant and the trophy quality outstanding. the camps were great and your camp staff peter and margaret really went the extra mile. simon, you are a hunter's hunter. this all made for a truly authentic aussie hunt experience. ', shane quinn, alpine adventures, new zealand , 'the buffalo hunt with simon was, without a doubt, the hunt of a lifetime. the quality of the trophy bull was better than i ever expected & simon worked extremely hard to make sure everything in camp was as perfect as he & his staff could make it. while we were in the bush hunting, simon did everything in his power to make sure we found the best bulls possible to take & was as excited as i was when we would make a stalk and harvest a bull. i've hunted both africa & australia, and learned that if you're looking for a remote hunt for big game, australia & simon kyle-little, is about as good as it gets. plus, while not hunting, simon & his staff wanted the clients to see all they could, get plenty of great food & drink, take plenty of pictures. i want to take my son & hunt with him again ', frank and joyce beller , ‘a hunt with simon kyle-little was something that friends told me would be a lifetime experience. they weren’t wrong. from the skill of his guiding, to the care he took with the trophy, to the company around the campfire and his knowledge of the aboriginal community everything was first class. during those quiet moments of reflection after taking a great ancient buff i was thankful that my friends had guided me to the right guide for me. i will be back.’, simon warbrick-smith .

Contact Us : [email protected]

I went on a budget and a luxury safari in Africa. Here's how they compare — and the one thing you really need to look for when booking.

Posted: March 14, 2024 | Last updated: March 14, 2024

• I have been on two glamping safari trips in Africa on two very different budgets.
• My all-inclusive stay was great but my cheaper glamping experience was fine, too. 
• Private game reserves are actually the most important thing to splurge on, not accommodations. 

I've been on two African safari trips . Both involved glamping but on completely different budgets.

My first more affordable trip, a lodge in South Africa with separate safari excursions, cost me about $1,100. My second, an all-inclusive lodge in Tanzania, cost me about $4,000 after a 50% off deal.

Here's how the two compare and what I think you should look for before you plan an African safari .

My affordable safari experience was at Jackalberry Ridge, where some tents cost $80 a night.

The first time I went on a safari, I went to Kruger National Park in South Africa. I didn't book a tour package, instead opting to stay at affordable lodging and book safari day trips to the park.

I stayed five nights near Kruger and one night in Johannesburg before my flight home. I spent around $1,100 for lodging, safari tours, a rental car, and food (not including flights).

After landing in Johannesburg, I rented a car ($130 for five days) to drive to my lodging in Marloth Park, a town bordering the edge of Kruger National Park.

I was staying at Jackalberry Ridge , a self-catering accommodation with no on-site restaurant, no room service, and limited housekeeping.

The one-bedroom tents at Jackalberry Ridge go for as low as $80 a night, and two-bedroom tents go for $135.

When I checked in late, there was no one at the reception desk — just an envelope with my name on it containing my keys and a map.

My main tent felt pretty spacious, with a king bed and a living-room area.

I had booked a two-bedroom unit (two tents), but my friend couldn't come at the last minute. Since I couldn't change the reservation, I still stayed in the two-bedroom unit and my friend paid her share.

The campsite came with a small pool to dip in, but it was covered as the weather was pretty cold.

Each unit had a private bathroom and kitchen in a building separate from the tents, so I needed to leave my tent to use the bathroom at night.

The bathroom was standard, with a tub, shower, and toilet.

This is glamping, so I had access to running water and a flushing toilet. I had hot water, but I found it went from scalding hot to cold in a few seconds.

I ended up taking quick showers and just washing my hair with cold water, which wasn't ideal since it was a little chilly in the morning.

It's also worth noting that Jackalberry Ridge was renovated recently, so the issue I had with hot water may have been fixed now.

I also had access to a kitchen in the same building as the bathroom.

The kitchen was well-equipped with things like pots, a microwave, and a sink, so I could cook meals or heat up leftovers.

I signed up for a couple of day safaris and did one at night.

Although I had a rental car and could've done a self-drive safari around Kruger, I didn't trust myself to spot animals while focusing on the roads.

Instead, I signed up for a couple of day safaris and one night safari. The safari tour prices often don't include the park entrance fee (about $25 per person per day), which I paid when I got to the entrance.

My three safari trips and park fees came to around $280.

I got to see zebras, giraffes, and more.

I saw a lot on the safari, including zebras, impalas, kudus, and giraffes. I saw lions and a leopard, although only from afar with binoculars. I even got a glimpse of the elusive rhinoceros.

I also spent one day taking another popular day trip in the area, the Panorama Route. This scenic road goes past Lisbon Falls and the beautiful Blyde River Canyon. The guided tour was $110.

As far as my very first safari trip goes, it was great. I got to see the Big Five , even though some of them were pretty far away.

For my next safari trip, I leveled up.

I saw a Travelzoo deal for an all-inclusive safari at Taasa Lodge , a five-star luxury safari in Tanzania.

The deal was $6,000 for two people for a whole week — the lodge is usually $12,950 for two for seven nights. It was still a splurge, but I'd be saving more than 50% on a bucket-list experience.

The package came with seven nights of lodging, two safari activities a day, three daily meals, and drinks.

Still, we spent more than the original advertised price. There are obligatory "daily government park fees" and "daily concession fees" that added about $893 per person to our bill.

We also had to take a regional flight to get to Taasa, which was more expensive than my rental car in South Africa.

To redeem the Travelzoo deal, we had to complete our booking through a specific travel agency.

We ended up opting for an all-inclusive add-on package which includes the $893 fees above, domestic airfares from Arusha to Taasa (which would already cost around $600), and our agency arranging our Tanzanian tourist visa and airport transfers. The add-on also included extra activities at the resort (more on that later).

Overall, we paid $1,715 per person on top of the $3,000 each for the lodge stay.

I hadn't anticipated paying so many extras, but it was nice to have someone take care of the logistics of getting to the resort.

My tent was luxurious and equipped with a comfortable king bed and a large living room.

When I arrived at the lodge, the staff greeted me with a glass of juice and a wet towel to refresh myself.

My tent was quite spacious. I especially liked that it had a desk and plenty of outlets I could use to charge my electronics. Our bathroom was behind our bed, and I was glad it was inside the tent this time.

We also got a butler who kept track of our schedules and made sure we had what we needed.

The bathroom felt spacious, with two sinks and a shower.

The shower's hot water was great and we had double sinks we could get ready at.

Another perk of the lodge is that we could have staff do our laundry every day, which meant we could pack less clothing.

There's a main lodge with a communal living room, dining area, and bar.

We got breakfast at the buffet in the main lodge unless we were going on a morning safari.

Most people ate dinner in the dining room, but we could've requested to have food brought to our tent.

We also passed a small pool next to the main lodge.

The pool was on the small side, but certainly had great views.

I didn't end up using it as my afternoons were filled with safari, and the mornings and evenings were chilly.

On the mornings with an early safari, we had a simple breakfast next to our Land Cruiser.

Safari breakfasts consisted of hard-boiled eggs, yogurt, doughnuts, bacon and sausage, fruits, and orange juice. Staff also made French-press coffee, which we could spike with cream liqueur.

Our Land Cruiser had a cooler of beers and sodas in the back, too.

At the private game reserve, we got pretty close to wildlife.

Taasa is located inside a private game reserve, which means staff can pretty much drive anywhere within it. This was a huge leg up from my day trips in Kruger National Park on my last safari.

Inside national parks like Kruger or Serengeti, you're only allowed to drive on designated roads for safety reasons (both for the tourists and the animals).

But in a private reserve, guides can drive offroad. Plus, the guides communicate with each other when they find something special.

We saw a bunch of animals in the private reserve and Serengeti.

We also left the reserve to spend a couple of days going into Serengeti National Park, as there were things you could only find there instead of within the private reserve.

For example, I'd planned my trip to take place during the Great Migration, and I wanted to see wildebeests crossing the Mara River.

We also went to Serengeti to find rhinoceros and hippopotamus.

Every dinner at the resort consisted of three courses: soup, an entrée, and a dessert.

The main course was usually some type of Western food, and there was always a vegetarian option.

It would've been nice to be offered more typical Tanzanian dishes, though. For me, part of the fun of traveling is learning about different countries' cuisines.

I also had access to an open bar in the main lodge. Staff could make simple cocktails, and there was lots of beer and wine. The drinks were all included with the price of the stay (except for fancy Champagnes and select wines).

One morning, we had a special breakfast on the plains.

On one day of the trip, we had a special bush breakfast. It was one of the extra activities we got with that special add-on package.

Instead of our usual safari breakfast, we had freshly prepared omelets in the wild.

We also got another special treat in the bush that morning — a toilet!

When you're offroading looking for wild animals, you can end up pretty far from a proper toilet.

On most safari days, the car stops (when guides think it's safe), and people go behind the car to do their business.

This was the only time we had this portable toilet while out on a safari. On my budget safari day trips at Kruger, we'd have to wait until we reached a rest-stop facility.

Again, we spent a lot of time watching lions.

After breakfast, we were back in safari mode.

We found a family of lions, and as we were in the private reserve, we were able to stay and watch the cubs play for quite a while.

At Kruger, when lions are spotted, traffic starts backing up on the road as all the safari cruisers stop to look, so you can't stay too long.

Here, we knew no one else would be coming.

On a different morning, our guide got a tip that another car had found a leopard sleeping.

The communication between guides in the private reserve paid off when one spotted a sleeping leopard.

When our group arrived, the leopard was napping on the tree next to his catch. Eventually, it came down, and we got a better look.

Our trip ended with a great happy hour and outdoor dinner.

Other activities that were part of our add-on package included a visit to a Maasai village in Kenya and a special happy hour and barbecue dinner.

And, for our journey home, the travel agency took care of everything, including transfers, until we boarded our international flight.

My big takeaway is that it's really worth paying to be inside a private reserve.

In my opinion, the difference between these two safari trips that's the most worth paying for is being in a private reserve.

After all, the main reason I fly to Africa is for the safari, not the glamping.

I much preferred my lodging at Taasa, mostly because of the bathroom. But if I hadn't had the 50% off deal, I'm not sure the full price would've been worth it.

Still, it was a wonderful experience, and if I had more money, I may feel differently. Even so, the budget glamping was pretty comfortable and just fine for a week.

But again, as far as the safari experience goes, the private reserve is hard to beat. Being able to go offroading and get closer to the animals is quite the experience.

And if luxurious lodges are out of the question, private reserves can also be visited more affordably. Some lodges inside private reserves, like Shindzela or Rhino River Lodge, can cost around $250 per person per night.

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Elephant attack during safari kills 80-year-old American tourist in Zambia

April 3, 2024, 3:20 PM

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(LUSAKA, Zambia) — An elderly American tourist was killed after an “aggressive” bull elephant attacked a vehicle during a game drive in Zambia, the safari operator said.

The incident took place Saturday morning at Kafue National Park in Zambia, a Lusaka police spokesperson confirmed to ABC News.

“An aggressive bull elephant charged the vehicle carrying six guests and a guide who were on a game drive from Lufupa Camp,” Wilderness, the company operating the safari, said in a statement to ABC News Wednesday.

The 80-year-old woman was injured during the “unexpected” incident and transferred to a hospital in South Africa, where she later died, according to Wilderness. Four other people received treatment for minor injuries after the incident, the company said.

“The six guests were on the game drive when the vehicle was unexpectedly charged by the bull elephant,” Keith Vincent, Wilderness’ chief executive officer, said in the statement, adding, that the safari guide’s vehicle was “blocked” by the terrain at the time of the attack.

“Our guides are all extremely well trained and experienced, but sadly in this instance the terrain and vegetation was such that the guide’s route became blocked and he could not move the vehicle out of harm’s way quickly enough,” Vincent said.

Following the attack, Kafue National Park management was immediately called to assist and a helicopter was dispatched to the scene, according to Vincent. Local police, Zambia’s Department of National Parks & Wildlife and other authorities are involved in the investigation, he said.

Wilderness is cooperating with the investigation, Vincent said.

“This is a tragic event and we extend our deepest condolences to the family of the guest who died,” he said in the statement. “We are also, naturally, supporting those guests and the guide involved in this distressing incident.”

The elderly woman’s remains will be repatriated to her family in the U.S. with support from local Zambian authorities and the U.S. Embassy in Lusaka, according to the statement.

Last month, a similar bull elephant attack took place in Pilanesberg National Park, South Africa.

Videos of the March 18 incident show a bull elephant lifting a 22-seat safari truck up several times with his trunk before letting it drop. There were no deaths reported in that incident.

Hendry Blom, a bystander who caught the incident on camera, told ABC News: “We were definitely scared, especially for the people in the truck because we thought they might die.”

ABC News’ Victoria Beaule contributed to this report.

Copyright © 2024, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.

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