What Is a Safari? Your Ultimate Guide to Wildlife Adventures

What is a safari? If you’ve ever pictured yourself riding across the golden savannas of Africa with elephants on one side, lions on the other, and a sundowner cocktail waiting back at your luxury lodge, then you’re in the right place. Safaris aren’t just vacations; they’re transformative journeys where the wild becomes personal.

Whether you’re an armchair traveler dreaming big or someone ready to book the trip of a lifetime, let’s break down the meaning, history, and magic of safaris, plus how to plan one that matches your style.

Where the Word Comes From – A Journey Called “Safari”

The word “safari” has roots as fascinating as the trips themselves. It comes from the Swahili word safari, which itself comes from the Arabic safar, meaning “journey.” The term first popped up in English around 1859, when European explorers and hunters were heading into East Africa for expeditions. Back then, a safari was less about cameras and more about rifles. Hunting lions and elephants was the main goal, and it often involved long, grueling treks with teams of porters carrying supplies.

Fast-forward to today, and the safari meaning has completely evolved. Now, instead of chasing trophies, people travel to witness wildlife in its natural habitat, photograph breathtaking landscapes, and support conservation. The modern safari is about awe, respect, and preservation. You can still feel the spirit of adventure from those early journeys, but it’s framed by luxury, comfort, and ethical travel.

What Today’s Safari Really Is – More Than Just a Trip

So, what is a safari in modern terms? At its simplest, it’s an overland journey focused on observing and enjoying wildlife. Most safaris happen in Africa—think Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Botswana—but the concept has spread globally.

Unlike a city tour or a quick day trip, a safari usually lasts several days. You’ll head out on early morning and late afternoon game drives, with plenty of time to rest, dine, and soak in the atmosphere between excursions. It’s a deep dive into a wild environment, not a quick glance.

And let’s be clear: visiting a zoo or taking a vineyard tour? Not a safari. If you’re not waking up to lions roaring in the distance or tracking elephants across the plains, you’re not on safari... you’re just on a nice day out.

Why Africa Is Safari Central – But Not the Only Option

Africa is the iconic home of the safari for good reason. The continent holds legendary wildlife reserves like the Serengeti, Kruger National Park, and the Okavango Delta. These places are where you’ll find the famous “Big Five”: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos.

But Africa doesn’t own the word completely. India offers tiger safaris in Ranthambore and Kanha. Australia’s outback has its own rugged safari adventures, and even South America has eco-safaris in the Amazon.

Still, Africa remains the ultimate destination because of its sheer scale and diversity. Picture endless plains with wildebeest migrations, intimate tented camps with gourmet meals, and skies so starry you’ll swear the Milky Way was hung just for you.

Types of Safaris – Choose Your Adventure

Classic Game Drive Safaris

The most popular safari type. You’ll sit in a 4×4 vehicle (often open-air) while guides take you through reserves to spot animals. Perfect for first-timers and those who want a comfortable yet adventurous experience.

Walking Safaris

For the bold at heart. Led by expert rangers, these safaris put you on foot in the bush. You won’t walk into lions, don’t worry... guides keep it safe. But you’ll feel the earth differently when you’re eye-to-eye with antelope instead of viewing from a vehicle.

Boat and Canoe Safaris

Think hippos, crocodiles, and elephants coming to the water’s edge at sunset. Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Zambia’s Zambezi River are famous for these serene yet thrilling experiences.

Balloon Safaris

Want goosebumps? Float silently over the Serengeti at sunrise while herds of wildebeest move below. It’s one of the most luxurious safari add-ons and a photographer’s dream.

Photographic, Birding, and Specialist Safaris

If you’ve got a passion, there’s a safari for it. From dedicated bird-watching trips to horseback rides across the savanna or gourmet food-themed itineraries, specialist safaris create unique layers of experience.

Self-Drive and Luxury Lodge Safaris

Some travelers love the independence of self-driving through places like Kruger. Others want ultra-luxury lodges where every detail is curated: infinity pools overlooking watering holes, spa treatments, and five-star dining under the stars.

A Day in the Life on Safari – What to Expect

A safari has its own rhythm. Early mornings are magic, with predators still active from the night. You’ll head out around dawn, wrapped in a blanket with coffee in hand, while the world wakes up. After a few hours, you’ll return for breakfast and rest.

Midday is downtime: read, nap, or dip into the pool. In the afternoon, it’s back out for another game drive. As the sun sets, you’ll stop for a “sundowner” (yes, cocktails in the bush are a thing). Evenings bring dinner around the fire, storytelling, and stargazing.

Safari vs. Tour – Clearing Up the Confusion

Here’s where people get confused: all safaris are tours, but not all tours are safaris. A “tour” could mean anything from sightseeing in Paris to wine tasting in Napa. A safari is specialized. It’s all about immersion in wildlife and landscapes over multiple days.

Tours tend to move fast, covering cities and sights. Safaris slow you down. They let you settle into the rhythm of the wild. Costs also differ: safaris usually run higher due to conservation fees, private reserves, and luxury lodges. But the payoff? A once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Ethics, Conservation and Your Role

Modern safaris are about more than wildlife viewing, they’re a lifeline for both animals and the people who live alongside them. Safari tourism helps fund national parks, wildlife protection units, and community initiatives. In Kenya alone, nearly 90% of tourism revenue is tied to safaris, and much of that supports anti-poaching patrols and habitat restoration.

But the ripple effect goes beyond conservation. Local communities benefit directly through jobs as guides, trackers, lodge staff, and artisans. Some of our travel partners, such as Abercrombie and Kent, also partner with schools, healthcare clinics, and water projects. For example, in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, a portion of guest fees helps fund education scholarships for local children.

When you choose a responsible operator, you’re not just booking a holiday—you’re contributing to the survival of endangered species and empowering communities to thrive.

Practical Safari Planning Tips



• Packing essentials: neutral-colored clothes, wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, binoculars, camera gear, and layers (mornings are chilly).
• Timing: Best seasons vary. East Africa’s wildebeest migration peaks between July and October. Southern Africa’s dry season (May–October) is prime for game viewing.
• Health and safety: Some regions recommend malaria prevention. Check vaccinations before you travel. Always keep limbs inside the vehicle!
• Budgeting: Expect anything from $3,000 per person for a mid-range safari to $15,000+ for ultra-luxury options, depending on length, lodge, and location.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safaris

What is a safari?

A safari is an extended journey, usually in Africa, focused on observing wildlife in its natural habitat. It involves game drives, guided experiences, and often luxury stays in camps or lodges.

Can I go on safari outside Africa?

Yes! India offers tiger safaris, Sri Lanka has leopards, and Australia’s outback offers safari-style trips. Still, Africa remains the classic choice.

How many game drives per day?

Most lodges include two: one at sunrise and one in the late afternoon. Some luxury operators add night drives for nocturnal wildlife.

What animals can I expect to see?

In Africa, expect lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, leopards, hippos, and countless bird species. Sightings vary by region and season.

Are safaris safe?

Yes—when done with professional guides. Lodges and operators follow strict safety standards. The key is respecting wildlife and never wandering off on your own.

How much does a safari cost?

It ranges widely. Budget travelers might spend $3,000–$5,000, while luxury safaris easily reach $10,000–$20,000+ per person depending on the destination and level of exclusivity.

My Final Thoughts

A safari is more than a trip. It’s a journey into the heart of the wild, a chance to reconnect with nature, and, let’s be honest, a chance to live your luxury travel dreams in style.

Whether you picture yourself sipping champagne on a hot air balloon or photographing lions from a private 4×4, the safari experience is unforgettable.

If you’re dreaming of planning your own safari, I’d love to guide you. Reach out and schedule a consult and we can plan your perfect adventure.

And join my Prestige Traveler’s Circle group on Facebook where we share luxury travel insights, exclusive access, tailored recommendations and behind-the-scenes tips for making your adventures extraordinary.

Because life is too short for ordinary vacations... and the wild is calling.