When you decide to embark on a safari in Africa, you may not realise just how many types of these exciting adventure tours there are to choose from. Perhaps you’ll decide on a traditional safari, which involves jumping onboard a rugged 4×4 and heading deep into the African savannah in search of some of the continent’s most magnificent wildlife. Maybe you will opt to view Africa from the air, taking in a bird’s eye view of the great plains below.
For a truly unique African experience, a walking safari is a perfect fit. As the name implies, walking safaris are exactly that – just you, your guide, and the open bushland to explore. Walking safaris were the original version of the expedition, undertaken far before powerful 4x4s were used to traverse the land.
This is perhaps what makes this type of safari all the more exciting, as you leave the comforts of the vehicle behind; there is nothing more exhilarating than coming face-to-face with a wild animal in their territory, on their terms – and it’s these encounters that really make you feel alive.
Walk the walk: What is the nature of a walking safari?
When you decide to embark on a safari in Africa, you may not realise just how many types of these exciting adventure tours there are to choose from. Perhaps you’ll decide on a traditional safari, which involves jumping onboard a rugged 4×4 and heading deep into the African savannah in search of some of the continent’s most magnificent wildlife. Maybe you will opt to view Africa from the air, taking in a bird’s eye view of the great plains below.
For a truly unique African experience, a walking safari is a perfect fit. As the name implies, walking safaris are exactly that – just you, your guide, and the open bushland to explore. Walking safaris were the original version of the expedition, undertaken far before powerful 4x4s were used to traverse the land.
This is perhaps what makes this type of safari all the more exciting, as you leave the comforts of the vehicle behind; there is nothing more exhilarating than coming face-to-face with a wild animal in their territory, on their terms – and it’s these encounters that really make you feel alive.
Walk the walk: What is the nature of a walking safari?
With Bench Africa, you can choose from one of several different walking safaris. Whichever one you pick, you can be sure that your senses will become sharper just as soon as you leave your vehicle behind, becoming more aware of every rustle, snap and splash. You’ll savour every exciting moment at the prospect of encountering Africa’s most iconic animals first-hand.
Walking safaris are all about getting close to nature, in the most natural way. On foot, you are not confined as to where you can go (as long as you heed the advice of your guide, of course). You are not hurried, nor hampered by strict time limits or equipment as you explore. In fact, all you’ll likely need on for your trek is your trusty camera, a pair of binoculars and perhaps some insect repellent.
A walking safari harks back to another time – when a guide’s skill and intuition helped them track and find the animals, with minimal equipment. How much closer to nature can you really get?
A wild choice of walks
Each of our walking safaris are led by a highly trained guide. The distances walked each day can vary from one place to another, and so can be tailored according to your fitness levels. If you’re of a very active and adventurous persuasion, there are walks that fit this category to a tee, perhaps involving a little tree-climbing or river wading. For example, climbing a tree can get you even closer to the wildlife in Kruger National Park, and river wading can often be the only way to get to your next destination – on this type of safari, at least.
Of course, there are easier, shorter walks to choose from, too. These involve flatter tracks and simple terrain for those looking for a leisurely trek, and they can even be combined with an accommodation package that lends you all the luxuries of a tented camp or lodge. After the excitement of your day, you’ll be looking forward to a hearty meal and a refreshing shower!
Take a look at the list below of Bench Africa’s tour packages that can incorporate a walking safari – which one will you go for?
Why choose Bench Africa for your African walking safari?
Because Bench’s intimate knowledge and experience of Africa is second to none, there is no other tour company that can rival us in getting into the heart of the real Africa. Many of our expert team have lived, travelled and explored in several African countries, which means that they have a unique understanding of this fascinating continent.
Additionally, we also have offices in several countries dotted across eastern and southern Africa, giving us even further insight into the local culture and awe-inspiring areas that you can check out. Be sure to get in touch with us today to find out how Bench Africa can organise a wild trip of your lifetime.