African Safari Vacations plus much more
Wherever animals are found in large numbers, it is exciting to see them in their natural habitat. For the most part, this means travelling to parts of the world that are conducive to their survival. The most popular game-viewing safaris are to be found in Africa but not exclusively but an African safari is a good place to start your game-viewing experience.
The word safari is a Swahili word meaning journey when the indigenous natives would go hunting to provide themselves with food, hides etc. Today a safari is not to harm but to view animals and in this eco-friendly way, it has a positive impact on and benefits local communities through employment for local people as guides, lodge employees etc.
About African Safaris
Your African safari typically includes several game drives with an experienced driver/guide plus sometimes, a tracker. Usually, there are 3 types of game drives which take place in the morning, afternoon and nighttime. The morning game drive is usually taken early before the sun gets too hot. The afternoon game drive is usually taken later in the day for the same reason. On a night drive, the dark brings out the nocturnal animals and the predators which are on the prowl looking for their next meal.
What are walking Safaris?
Another style of game viewing is a walking safari. This can be undertaken as an alternative to one of your regular vehicle game drives. Nothing brings you closer to an African adventure quite like this. You walk with an experienced guide who will show you which animals are or have been in the vicinity by studying their tracks and footprints.
What are fly-in Safaris?
You might want to consider a fly-in African safari. These are popular, especially in Kenya and Tanzania. You avoid long road transfers by simply landing on a private airstrip from the nearest major airport and your game viewing is immediately underway.
In East Africa, the game drives will be within a reasonable range from the lodge or camp in the game park in which you decide to stay. It is highly recommended that to maximize your African safari, you visit other game parks to view a selection of different animals and terrains. In Southern Africa, you can experience maximum enjoyment by deciding to stay at one location. It is known for its luxury accommodations sometimes with its own landing strip and territory. However, there is a mutual arrangement between lodges allowing safari vehicles to roam freely throughout each other’s territory. Wherever you decide to go, your game viewing is pretty certain to be in a small vehicle with open sides and possibly an open top. You will usually share it with several other safari-going participants. The average size of a safari vehicle can vary but the ideal is anywhere from 6 to 10 passenger vehicles. The professionalism and experience of the guides are very significant as they need to be able to “deliver the goods” as it were, to lead you to some thrilling game encounters.
In Africa, there are 1100 different species of animals and 2600 different bird species. Of course, these numbers are not found in any one specific game park but you will experience a satisfying number during any Africa safari vacation. Incidentally, Africa has the fastest, largest and strangest animals anywhere in the world. This also includes, sadly, a number of endangered species.
What are the Big Five?
Everyone has heard about the Big Five (lion, leopard, African buffalo, elephant and black rhinoceros). These can be seen in either East or Southern Africa. It is a fact that there are more lions in Kenya and Tanzania than anywhere else but they are still in abundance elsewhere. Botswana is home to approximately 80% of Southern Africa’s elephant population and huge herds are a common sight. Rwanda and Uganda are primarily known for their gorilla and chimpanzee populations and nothing beats a trek in these countries to come close to these primates. A major attraction on an African safari could be the Great Migration seen in Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya. The two-game reserves are adjoined and literally, hundreds of thousands of animals travel twice a year, one north to south around October and one south to north around July, in search of food and water. You might be fortunate to experience a rare sighting of a lion or a leopard sitting in a tree either asleep or just relaxing. You might want to try wildlife viewing on the back of an elephant. This can be done in both Botswana and Zimbabwe. Or perhaps you might like to enjoy a cruise safari on board a boat down the river in Botswana getting reasonably close to hippos and crocodiles. If you are a “birder”, there are literally thousands of different exotic species of birds in just about any of Goway’s African Safari destinations. One amazing sight is the vast number of flamingos which congregate in Lake Nakuru National Park in Kenya totalling over 1 million.
Any time is a good time to view animals. However, when considering an African safari, the weather might be a factor but not a hindrance. In East Africa, October and April are considered the wet seasons and are, for the most part, the off-season prices but the animals are still very much in evidence. In Southern Africa, it is rainy generally between November and March but again, not a major factor while viewing wildlife.
Most African safaris include accommodation in lodges be they basic or luxurious. However, there is also the ability to have tented accommodation. This is not your Boy Scout or family outing tent vacation. You don’t rough it as you get all the luxuries of a room with a comfortable bed and a complete bathroom more often than not. This is a totally different experience as you are virtually out there in the bush listening to the thrilling sound of animals in the African night.
Goway’s African safaris cover all the major countries offering excellent game viewing. These include East Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Malawi and Uganda and in Southern Africa, South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Safaris Worldwide
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Classic Tanzania 9 Days: Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro & The Serengeti
FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Tanzania is renowned for its magnificent wildlife, scenery, and first-class African safari experiences. Spend time visiting famous sites like Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 8,509
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Small Group Touring
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Essential Victoria Falls & Hwange
FIRST CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Witness one of the greatest natural attractions in Africa, and one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. Experience Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife reserve with a stay in an award-winning intimate tented camp located in the heart of all the action.- Duration:
- 7 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 5,433
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Namibia Highlights: Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Damaraland & More
MODERATE | SMALL GROUP: Discover the main highlights in Namibia, from the awe-inspiring seas of sand of the Namib desert, the cultures and impressive landscapes of Damaraland and the variety and amounts of wildlife. This tour showcases the significant highlights of the country. This safari is ideal as an introduction or as a once only visit.- Duration:
- 10 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,402
- Trip Type:
- Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
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Tanzania Escapade: Ngorongoro & The Serengeti
MODERATE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Experience two of Tanzania’s and the world’s greatest game parks, Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park with their abundance of fascinating wildlife. Also have a visit to the Olduvai Gorge with its amazing archaeological finds.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 4,670
- Trip Type:
- Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Transkalahari Adventure: Cape Town, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, Sossusvlei & More
MODERATE | SMALL GROUP: From exploring the towering sand dunes in Namibia to floating along the stunning waterways of the Okavango Delta, this trip combines the best of Southern Africa as you make your way through South Africa, Namibia and Botswana before ending in Zimbabwe.- Duration:
- 20 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 7,899
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Small Group Touring
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Signature Madikwe & Kruger Safari: Madikwe, Johannesburg & The Sabi Sands
DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Explore two of the best game reserves in South Africa, as well as Johannesburg. Start in Madikwe Hills Game Reserve, where you’ll head on game drives along the northern border. Next, explore the history of apartheid and liberation in Johannesburg. End your journey in The Sabi Sands Game Reserve for more game drives in a beautiful environment.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 12,974
- Trip Type:
- Luxury and Beyond, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Adventures in Nature: Cape Town & Karongwe Game Reserve
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Venture through South Africa as a family to have unforgettable wildlife encounters. This family vacation takes you from Cape Town to Greater Kruger to see South Africa’s famous animals like lions and cheetahs, and incorporates kids programs for stress-free family travel.- Duration:
- 7 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 2,120
- Trip Type:
- Family Vacations, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Luxurious Cape & Kalahari: Cape Town & Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve
DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: This deluxe itinerary features two iconic destinations. Cape Grace melds the modern comforts of a luxury hotel with traditional Cape heritage and culture. Tswalu is South Africa's largest private game reserve. This malaria-free landscape is home to over 80 game species including the Desert Black Rhino and black-maned Kalahari lions.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 15,356
- Trip Type:
- Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Sun, Sand & Safari: Thanda Private Game Reserve & White Pearl Resort
DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: A wonderful combination of time spent at a game reserve in South Africa combined with a stay at a beautiful resort hotel situated on the attractive coast of Mozambique. Enjoy wildlife safaris and then go swimming, snorkeling and/or scuba diving or just relax.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ On Request
- Trip Type:
- Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Cape & Safari Dynasty: Madikwe Game Reserve & Cape Town
FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: This South Africa vacation emphasizes the natural beauty of this incredibly diverse country, from African safari opportunities in the northwest, to the unrivaled environments and wildlife of the Western Cape.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 4,774
- Trip Type:
- Family Vacations, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Bisate Lodge, Rwanda: Stays of Distinction
DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Venture into the jungles of Volcanoes National Park to see Mountain Gorilla families up close and personal on this Rwanda vacation. When you're not trekking through the jungle, you'll stay at the exclusive and luxurious Bisate Lodge, which sits on the edge of an eroded volcano and offers incredible views of the mountain range.- Duration:
- 3 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 11,061
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Sultans to Safari
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore Dubai and Kenya for the perfect combination of city and safari. Spend 3 nights in Dubai, just enough time to explore this futuristic city and enjoy a desert safari. Then connect to Kenya for 4 nights in the Masai Mara, with daily game drives in search of the Big Five.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 6,126
- Trip Type:
- Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Singita Kwitonda Rwanda: Stays of Distinction
DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Drive through Rwanda, one of the most picturesque countries in Africa, to Volcanoes National Park. This area made famous by Dian Fossey, is home to the world's last surviving mountain gorilla population. After your trek, return to your luxury accommodations for a well-deserved rest.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 16,040
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Luxury India Tiger Safari
DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Embark on an extraordinary wildlife expedition through two of India’s most renowned national parks. After exploring Delhi’s key attractions, connect to Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks for game drives in search of tigers and other rare endemic Indian wildlife, from leopards to sloth bears.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,689
- Trip Type:
- Bucket List Travel Ideas, Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Romance & Honeymoon, Safaris Worldwide
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The Best of Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls, Hwange, Lake Kariba & More
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Embark on an exhilarating African adventure exploring Zimbabwe's natural wonders on this 10-day Africa vacation! Witness the awe-inspiring grandeur of Victoria Falls, encounter majestic wildlife at Hwange National Park, relax amidst Lake Kariba's serene beauty, and experience thrilling safaris in the untamed wilderness of Mana Pools. A journey brimming with nature's marvels awaits.- Duration:
- 10 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 14,329
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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One&Only Nyungwe House, Rwanda: Stays of Distinction
DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Head to the verdant landscapes of Rwanda and the edges of Nyungwe Forest on this safari vacation. Staying at the luxurious One&Only Nyungwe House, you’ll enjoy premium accommodations and world-class service as you learn about Rwandan history and trek through the jungle in search of chimpanzees.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 8,665
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Luxury and Beyond, Safaris Worldwide, Stays of Distinction, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Cape, Wine and Safari: Cape Town, Stellenbosch & Kruger
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: This 12 day South Africa trip will have you experiencing both the Western Cape and the thrill of an African Safari. Beginning in Cape Town, you’ll have plenty of time to take in not only the beautiful Mother City, but also its surrounds with your 5 nights stay. Next up, its off to the Winelands. Enjoy a private food and beverage tour through the streets of Stellenbosch as well as wine tasting of course. Lastly, its off to Karongwe Game Reserve for your exciting African Safari as you search out all the animals that call this area home.- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 3,854
- Trip Type:
- Safaris Worldwide, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Kenya and Qatar Interlude
FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Pair one of the stars of East Africa with a rising star on the Arabian Peninsula. In Kenya, you’ll explore the city of Kisumu and a surrounding preserve on the shores of Lake Victoria. Next up is the legendary Masai Mara for several days of safari game drives in search of lions, elephants, and cheetahs. The adventure ends in Doha, the Qatari capital.- Duration:
- 10 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,999
- Trip Type:
- Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide
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Elephant Hills Nature Safari
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Elephant Hills is Thailand's first luxury tented jungle camp, located in Khao Sok National Park in Southern Thailand. Instead of riding these magnificent animals, guests get to feed, wash, learn about, and interact with them, in addition to exploring the surrounding rivers, lakes, and rainforest.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 1,058
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Family Vacations, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Highlights of Doha and The Desert
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Explore the city and desert on this trip to Qatar. Start in Doha, where you'll explore Souq Waqif and tour the futuristic city lit up at night. Then connect to Regency Sealine Camp outside the city for a two-night desert safari, with luxury tent accommodations and adventure activities on the dunes.- Duration:
- 6 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ On Request
- Trip Type:
- Safaris Worldwide, Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Southern Africa Odyssey
FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Embark on a soul-stirring journey through Southern Africa. Connecting from Cape Town’s cosmopolitan charm to Makalali’s wild majesty to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, this elevated small group journey promises an unforgettable immersion into Southern Africa’s diverse landscapes and captivating wonders.- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,279
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
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Africa On Foot: Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: A true wildlife experience in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve combining walking and vehicle safaris through Big Five territory in one of the largest privately owned game reserves in South Africa.- Duration:
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,574
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Single Friendly
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Giraffe Manor and Safari
DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: This 8-day African safari vacation begins at the iconic Giraffe Manor before venturing into some of Kenya's best National Parks. Make your way from Nairobi to Samburu and the Masai Mara, immersing yourself in Kenya's diverse history, culture, and unique natural settings you won't find anywhere else.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 17,769
- Trip Type:
- Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Hakuna Matata Amazon Jungle Lodge
Tena is the ideal destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts, Hakuna Matata Lodge is perfectly settled in 150 hectare’s of private land only 3 hours away from Quito. Built on the shores of the crystal-clear Inchillaqui River, Hakuna Matata Lodge is a haven beautifully set among the Andes and the Amazon.- Duration:
- 3-4 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 1,226
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Family Vacations, Safaris Worldwide
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Highlights of Nepal: Kathmandu, Chitwan National Park & Pokhara
FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Embark on a captivating journey through Nepal, starting in the vibrant capital of Kathmandu, where ancient temples and cultural wonders await exploration. Continue to the exotic Chitwan National Park for a thrilling wildlife adventure. Head to the picturesque city of Pokhara, nestled against the Annapurna range, to absorb the reflections of majestic mountains amidst breathtaking landscapes.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 3,839
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Private Experiences, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas