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Definition of safari

Examples of safari in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'safari.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Swahili, journey, from Arabic safarī of a journey

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing safari

• safari jacket
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Cite this entry.

“Safari.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/safari. Accessed 26 Apr. 2024.

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Definition of 'safari'

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safari noun

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What does the noun safari mean?

There are four meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun safari . See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

How common is the noun safari ?

How is the noun safari pronounced, british english, u.s. english, where does the noun safari come from.

Earliest known use

The earliest known use of the noun safari is in the 1860s.

OED's earliest evidence for safari is from 1860, in a paper by Richard Burton, explorer and author.

safari is a borrowing from Swahili.

Etymons: Swahili safari .

Nearby entries

• sadware, n. 1683–
• sadza, n. 1899–
• sae, n. Old English–
• S.A.E., n. 1924–
• S.A.E., n. 1939–
• saeta, n. 1898–
• saeter, n. 1799–
• sae-tree, n. 1880–
• saeva indignatio, n. 1796–
• Safaitic, adj. 1887–
• safari, n. 1860–
• safari, v. 1908–
• safari ant, n. 1910–
• safari bed, n. 1936–
• safari camp, n. 1912–
• safari jacket, n. 1938–
• safari lodge, n. 1953–
• safari look, n. 1956–
• safari park, n. 1969–
• safari ranch, n. 1960–
• safari suit, n. 1935–

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Meaning & use

Pronunciation, compounds & derived words, entry history for safari, n..

safari, n. was revised in September 2011.

safari, n. was last modified in July 2023.

oed.com is a living text, updated every three months. Modifications may include:

• further revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
• new senses, phrases, and quotations.

Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into safari, n. in July 2023.

Earlier versions of this entry were published in:

A Supplement to the New English Dictionary (1933)

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OED Second Edition (1989)

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Carnegie Museum of Natural History

One of the Four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh

The Meaning of Safari

Watching a gorgeous sunset over the South African terrain, I’ve never felt more connected to my life’s calling of conserving wild animals and wild places. I was half-way around the world, experiencing nature in a way that I never had before. This experience has shaped the very core of who I am, what I believe in and what I fight for.

The meaning of the word ‘safari’ has changed over the last few hundred years. The term ‘safari’ originally referenced large scale game hunts, with participants often hunted Africa’s ‘big five,’ which includes the lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo. These animals were on the verge of extinction by the late 1700s. Through the decades, the term has taken on new meaning. Today’s safaris focus on observing, photographing, or recording wildlife in its natural state. Safaris provide us a chance to appreciate and experience our wild spaces it in a completely different way.

In 2011, poachers attacked three rhinos at the Aquila Reserve, two of whom succumbed to their gruesome injuries. Rhino poachers seek illegal body parts, like rhino horns, to sell to the highest bidder. Poachers are only interested in adult animals with large horns, often leaving juvenile rhinos to die without a care giving parent. In response to the 2011 attack, Saving Private Rhino was born. This non-profit organization has grown over the years to be a vital resource for the rhinos of South Africa. Saving Private Rhino provides many critical resources including telephone support; rhino ‘ carer’ dispatches to reserves; transportation of orphaned rhinos to orphanages; training on orphan care; and reconstructive surgery performed by a veterinarian–all free of charge. This 24-hour service is offered to reserves in South Africa. Saving Private Rhino has also launched its first training course designed to train rangers in anti-poaching tactics with a goal of having two trained rangers working at every reserve.

But my experiences went far beyond just viewing nature. My idea of a ‘safari’ had changed forever. Aquila isn‘t just a space where you can observe wildlife; it’s a place where an entire community is working together towards a sustainable future, providing the resources and education needed to protect and conserve local wildlife. It reminds me that we all have power with our choices. And we can use our power to support organizations that contribute to sustainability, conservation and community advancement.

In Swahili, safari merely means, ‘journey.’ I visited Aquila in 2017, but a new chapter of my journey had just begun.

Leslie Wilson is the On-Site Program Manager and Veterinary Technician for Carnegie Museum of Natural History. Museum employees are encouraged to write about their experiences so they can be shared on the blog. Leslie wrote this blog specifically for our Super Science Saturday: Stuffed Animal Safari program.

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What is a safari.

When we think of safaris, we often picture vast open savannahs, majestic wild animals, and rugged four-wheel drive vehicles. But what exactly is a safari?

The word “safari” is derived from the Swahili word “safar,” which means journey or travel. Originally used by hunters, a safari now refers to a guided trip or expedition to observe and appreciate wildlife in their natural habitats. Safaris can take many forms, from walking safaris to hot air balloon safaris, and can be tailored to suit a variety of interests and budgets. 

This blog post shares each of the different safaris available to wildlife lovers, in order to help you understand exactly what a safari is and the type that works best for you.

One of the most popular types of safari is the game drive safari. This involves travelling through a wildlife reserve or national park in a specially adapted vehicle, typically a four-wheel drive. These vehicles are designed to provide maximum visibility for passengers and can accommodate a range of group sizes. Game drives are led by experienced guides who are trained to spot wildlife and provide interesting facts and information about the animals and their behaviours.

Game drives are a quintessential part of a safari experience, offering an exciting and immersive way to explore the wilderness and witness wildlife up close. Riding in a specially designed safari vehicle with an experienced guide, participants can venture into national parks, game reserves, or other remote areas to search for a diverse array of wildlife. Game drives offer the opportunity to encounter iconic species like lions, elephants, giraffes, and more, in their natural habitats. 

With keen eyes and deep knowledge of the area, guides can track and interpret animal behaviour, providing fascinating insights into the natural world. Game drives also offer the chance to witness the breathtaking beauty of the landscape, from sweeping savannahs to lush forests, and capture stunning photographs of the wild scenery. The thrill of the chase, the anticipation of a wildlife sighting, and the raw connection with nature make game drives an exhilarating and unforgettable safari experience.

Walking Safari

Walking safaris offer an unparalleled opportunity to intimately explore and connect with the natural world. Instead of observing wildlife from a vehicle, walking safaris allow travellers to step into the wild and experience the sights, sounds, and scents of the wilderness up close. Led by experienced and knowledgeable guides, walkers can learn about the intricacies of the ecosystem, from identifying animal tracks and signs to understanding the complex relationships between different species. 

These safaris typically take place in smaller groups and are led by a guide who is well-versed in the local flora and fauna. Walking safaris can be tailored to suit different fitness levels, and participants can expect to encounter a variety of wildlife, from insects and birds to larger mammals such as elephants and lions.

Walking safaris also provide a deeper cultural immersion, as participants can interact with local communities and gain insights into their way of life. With every step, walkers can encounter unexpected moments of wonder, from spotting a hidden bird’s nest to encountering a herd of elephants at a waterhole. Walking safaris offer a truly authentic and immersive experience, allowing travellers to appreciate the beauty and diversity of nature in a more intimate and mindful way.

Hot Air Balloon Safari

For those looking for a truly unique experience, a hot air balloon safari may be just the thing. These safaris offer a bird’s-eye view of the landscape and wildlife below, providing a different perspective than a ground-based safari.

Hot air balloon safaris are typically conducted early in the morning when the air is calm and the wildlife is most active. As the balloon gently glides through the sky, adventurers can marvel at panoramic views of vast savannahs, rolling hills, or serene landscapes below. The elevated vantage point provides an unparalleled opportunity to capture breathtaking aerial photographs and witness the beauty of the wilderness from a completely different angle. The serene and peaceful experience of floating in a hot air balloon allows for a tranquil and immersive encounter with nature, devoid of the noise and disturbance of vehicles. 

Wildlife sightings from the balloon are often unexpected and awe-inspiring, with the chance to spot animals from a distance without disturbing their natural behaviour. Hot air balloon safaris provide an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of soaring through the sky with the unparalleled beauty of the natural world, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Photography Safari

Photography safaris offer a thrilling and immersive experience for nature and wildlife enthusiasts who want to capture the beauty of the natural world through their lenses. Embarking on a photography safari allows photographers to venture into stunning landscapes and remote wilderness areas, where they can capture unique and awe-inspiring shots of wildlife, landscapes, and cultural elements. With the guidance of expert wildlife guides and professional photographers, participants can learn valuable photography techniques, such as composition, lighting, and wildlife behaviour, to enhance their skills and capture stunning images. 

Photography safaris also provide opportunities to observe and photograph rare and elusive species in their natural habitats, creating unforgettable memories and remarkable photographs. Whether it’s tracking lions on the African savannah, photographing polar bears in the Arctic, or capturing the vibrant colours of a tropical rainforest, a photography safari is an extraordinary adventure that combines the thrill of wildlife encounters with the art of photography.

Boat Safari

Boat safaris offer a unique and immersive way to explore the diverse ecosystems and wildlife of rivers, lakes, and waterways. Cruising on a boat allows participants to access remote and untouched areas that may not be reachable by land, providing a different perspective and vantage point for wildlife viewing.

Boats make it possible to spot a wide range of wildlife, such as crocodiles, hippos, water birds, and even elephants and other animals that come to the water’s edge to drink. Guides with specialised knowledge about the local flora and fauna can provide insights and interesting facts about the ecosystem and its inhabitants. The tranquil rhythm of the boat and the serene surroundings create a calming and peaceful experience, perfect for enjoying the beauty of nature and capturing stunning photographs.

Whether it’s gliding through the winding channels of the Okavango Delta, exploring the mighty Amazon River, or cruising along the serene backwaters of Kerala, boat safaris offer a unique and unforgettable adventure for wildlife and nature enthusiasts alike.

No matter what type of safari you choose, it’s important to remember that these experiences are about more than just seeing animals. They are an opportunity to connect with nature, appreciate the beauty and diversity of our planet, and learn about the importance of conservation and sustainability.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time adventurer, a safari is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Anna is the founder of Really Wildlife. She's a 30-something lover of wildlife travel, vegetables and listening to the Lion King soundtrack on full blast.

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What’s a safari and what is a wildlife safari in Africa like nowadays?

Posted by Landia Davies on May 06 2022 in OLD African Safaris & Tours Enquire Now!

Of course, you've heard about African safaris and seen photos of celebs looking glamorous on safari in Africa. But, what is a safari really? And what is a wildlife safari in Africa like for the regular 21st-century traveller?

Here, we'll tell you all about African safaris and explain what a wildlife safari in Africa is like for most travellers nowadays. By the end of this post, you'll know what to expect on a wildlife safari in Africa today. 

What is a safari?

A safari is a journey.

In the broadest sense, to go on safari is simply  to travel . More specifically, a safari is a journey that involves going into nature to watch wild animals.

The roots of the word safari  are Arabic (and later Swahili), but the modern concept of a safari originated in Africa. Today safari is synonymous with Africa.

Can you only safari in Africa or can you go on safari outside of Africa?

Yes, safari is an African thing. Although you can go on a safari-style trip in places outside of Africa, safaris are essentially African. 

Africa is the home of the safari. This is where the classical idea of the wildlife safari was born and evolved. The safari is firmly rooted in Africa.

That said, you can go on 'safari' in Australia, India, Canada, the United States, and other countries. Of course, there are wilderness areas where you can see wild animals, all over the world. But, none of the wild places outside of Africa are quintessential safari territory. Elsewhere you find wildlife expeditions or wildlife tours (safari-style trips).

You can take trips into the wilderness anywhere, but you can only truly go on safari in Africa. 

What is a safari in Africa, then?

A safari is the most famous and sought-after type of holiday in Africa. Going on safari is widely considered the ultimate 'thing to do' in Africa. Usually, a safari in Africa implies a wildlife safari. 

In essence, an African safari is any journey into the wilderness to observe free-roaming wildlife.

This traditional definition of a safari in Africa has expanded over time, however. Nowadays any trip in Africa where you spend some time in nature looking at free-roaming animals can be called a safari. 

In summary, a safari is a journey (or expedition) to look at wild animals, especially in East Africa and southern Africa. 

A safari in Africa is not...

A wildlife safari in Africa is not a trip reserved for khaki-clad bushwhackers and experienced game rangers or scientists. You don't have to be an outdoorsman like Bear Grylls to love your time on safari. Just about anyone can thoroughly enjoy an African safari in the travel style that suits them best.

A safari is not the same as a tour of a wildlife sanctuary or animal rescue centre. Even in Africa, visits to wildlife havens or shelters are not safaris.

A trip to an African zoo is not a safari. A wine tasting tour in the Cape Winelands is not a safari. A township tour? No. A trip to meet the Omo Valley tribes in Ethiopia? Technically, not a safari. A road trip in Namibia? Also, strictly speaking not a safari - unless you visit a game park with wildlife, like Etosha.

An African safari is still different from a city holiday, beach vacation, historical tour, or cultural trip in Africa.

In Africa, a holiday only becomes a safari when you add an element of wildlife watching in nature. Be it game viewing by 4x4 safari vehicle, boat, canoe, small plane, or on foot, to name a few. Based on this broader definition of safari, boat trips and marine tours are often classed as 'ocean safaris'. 

First, let's take a look at the traditional African safari and how it has evolved...

What does the word safari mean? (the origins of safari)

The word 'safari' originates from the Arabic word 'safara' which means 'a journey'. The Arabic word was later adopted by the Swahili of East Africa and adapted to become the Swahili word 'safariya' which means 'journey' or 'kusafiri' which means 'to travel'.

The English word 'safari' originates from the late 19th century. The word 'safari' was introduced into the English language as a foreign language word in 1858 and later adopted as an English word. It is said that the word 'safari' was introduced into the English language in 1860 by the legendary British explorer, Sir Richard Francis Burton. Then, in 1890 the English word 'safari' was added to dictionaries according to the  Online Etymology Dictionary .

Today, traditional dictionary definitions of 'safari' still often include a component of hunting:

"...an expedition to observe or hunt animals in their natural habitat, especially in East Africa." and "A trip into any undeveloped area to see, photograph or hunt wild animals in their own environment."

Forget the old concept of a wildlife safari as a hunting trip - that outdated usage is history! 

Safari now refers to an adventure or expedition into the wilds of Africa - with no hunting involved. African safari travel typically provides revenue for local conservation projects and game parks, helping to protect habitats and wildlife, rather than taking them out. African safaris also play an important role in creating awareness about wildlife conservation, as well as benefiting local communities. 

A more modern definition of safari is, simply:

A safari (/səˈfɑːri/; from Swahili safari 'journey') is an overland journey to observe wild animals, especially in eastern or southern Africa. (Wikipedia) 

The history of African safaris

The modern concept of the safari can be traced back to the early colonial era in Africa, from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. With the arrival of the first European explorers and colonizers came the first safari-style expeditions. Some of them aimed at exploring new territories, many for the express purpose of hunting animals.

On these early European-led expeditions, big game (large animals) were hunted and arduously lugged overland by a small army of local tribespeople.

Later, US President Teddy Roosevelt popularized the concept in the United States, when he embarked on a safari of enormous proportions , ostensibly with the aim of filling the Smithsonian Institute with African specimens. Some 11,400 Animals fell to the party's rifles, of which 512 were 'big game' - elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, hippos, and rhinos, including six white rhinos - rare even at that time.

Fast-forward to today and you will find that hunting is no longer part of most safaris in Africa. Thankfully the primitive pastime of hunting is largely something of the past. It is not the norm anymore and the vast majority of Africa has long moved on from this colonial-era practice.

Note:  African Budget Safaris absolutely does not promote or sell hunting safaris, nor do we endorse hunting for sport. If you are contemplating a hunting safari, please consider opting for a wildlife-viewing safari instead.

The modern wildlife safari, making a difference in Africa

These days, most people have left the negative hunting connotations of safari travel behind. The outdated ideas of African safaris as hunting trips have largely been replaced by more modern concepts of wildlife safaris. The norm for a safari in Africa is now a socially and environmentally responsible form of travel. 

Nowadays going on safari in Africa means taking an adventurous holiday and having a positive impact at the same time. Wildlife safaris now play a key role in sustaining African economies and protecting wildlife populations. So taking a safari holiday helps make a meaningful difference.

African safaris have become holiday trips that actually benefit the wildlife of Africa. As opposed to hunting wild animals, visitors get to encounter them and help protect them. Most safari tour companies and lodges either actively support (or run) conservation projects, or help generate tourism revenue which contributes to managing wildlife projects and game reserves in Africa.

Eco-safaris & eco-friendly safari travel in Africa

As environmental awareness has grown worldwide, African safaris have become more eco-friendly. Many safari lodges and tour companies have become more environmentally friendly in response to the sustainability challenges we face today.

Finding an eco-safari lodge or a low-impact safari in Africa is easier than ever before. Even the camps and safaris that aren't marketed as being 'green' or eco-friendly often are, in at least some important respects. The camps and lodges located in wilderness areas or national parks, for instance, are typically designed to have minimal impact on the environment and be as self-sufficient as possible due to their remote locations, national laws, and park regulations. 

For eco-friendly safaris that reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to environmental sustainability, talk to us.

• More about eco-safaris in Going Green on Safari  and  Spectacular Eco-Conscious Safari Spots

Socially responsible safari travel in Africa

The modern African safari is a socially responsible journey. Not as an exception but as the norm. Not only does safari travel contribute massively to African economies and provide jobs, but it also helps improve social conditions. 

Local communities across Africa benefit from sustainable tourism through social initiatives created and/or supported by safari organizations - from tour companies and lodges to activity providers, and game reserves. Safari travel also helps sustain small businesses and entrepreneurs selling goods (like local food, crafts, and curios) or providing services (such as guiding and entertainment).

Some safari companies directly support social upliftment projects and provide opportunities to interact with the local people. Others support local communities through the lodges, game reserves, and other companies they use.

• More about socially sustainable safaris in  Responsible Safari: how to travel ethically

Safari travel's critical role in social and economic development

Africa's travel and tourism sector (of which the safari industry is an integral part) "employed more than 24 million people in 2019" based on World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) reports.

In particular, Africa's wildlife tourism industry, " usually generates $29 billion a year and employs 3.6 million people"  according to Bloomberg (2020).

The safari industry generates some $12.4 billion in annual revenues for South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania Uganda and Zambia - Africa’s top wildlife tourist destinations. (Reuters, 2020)

South Africa (which has the second-largest tourism industry in Africa) "relies on the tourism industry to indirectly contribute up to 9.1% of the country’s total employment – 1.5 million people – and 7% of its GDP" (Investment Monitor, 2021).

It is clear that safari travel plays a critical role in social and economic development in Africa. Not only through social upliftment and outreach programs but by producing substantial revenue and employment.

"During the past two decades, the hospitality industry has become vital to many African economies. In 2019 it accounted for approximately 7% of Africa’s overall GDP and contributed $169bn to its economy... according to the International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank". (Investment Monitor, 2021)

In short, safari tourism "helps governments justify protecting wildlife habitat,” and “creates revenue for state wildlife authorities, generates foreign-exchange earnings, diversifies and strengthens local economies.” (Bloomberg 2020).

What African Safaris are all about these days

Today African safaris are holiday trips primarily aimed at watching and photographing wildlife in the bush, for fun.

Safari travel in contemporary Africa still implies game viewing and time in wilderness areas (game reserves, wildlife conservancies, and national parks). A traditional African safari is still focused on seeing African wildlife, but safaris are definitely not limited to game viewing.

In addition to game viewing and wildlife tracking, African safaris nowadays are about:

• the experience of being out in the bush (wilderness)
• exploring scenic places and natural wonders
• encountering the local cultures of Africa (old and new)
• visiting historical attractions and sightseeing
• volunteering and supporting good causes
• participating in adventure and outdoor activities ( adventure travel )

Once you're in the wilderness the safari truly begins. You'll spend most of your time enjoying untamed nature at the camps and watching animals in the wild.

Different kinds of safari trips offer a variety of ways to explore the wilderness and look for wildlife and birds. You can choose to explore by riverboat or canoe, on foot or by mountain bike, on horseback (even camelback) or quad-bike. The possibilities are endless with so many specialist safaris to choose from in Africa.

Big 5 Safaris in Africa, explained

The term 'Big Five' was originally coined by big-game hunters to refer to the most dangerous animals to hunt in Africa in the late 1800s.

Today, however, the Big 5 of Africa are the top animals that tourists want to see on wildlife safaris. The iconic African animals of the Big 5 are lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos.

Out of the Big 5 safari animals, only the buffalo is not threatened or endangered. Encountering the Big 5 African animals is now (usually) about the joy of observing them in their natural environment, learning about them, and taking photographs of them. A Big 5 safari is merely a wildlife safari that is focused on seeing and photographing the Big 5 animals of Africa in the wild.

What is a safari now? (in a nutshell)

The African safari has earned a new reputation. By large, the safari has evolved into a socially and environmentally responsible (often beneficial) style of travel in Africa.

Contemporary safaris encompass much more than the unforgettable experience of game viewing and staying in the bush. The 21st-century African safari combines wildlife encounters with a variety of fascinating and exciting travel adventures - from city stays and cultural interactions to beach getaways.

To plan your African safari adventures now, talk to one of our friendly travel experts .

Budget African Safaris to the best travel destinations

Southern africa safari & travel highlights:.

• Botswana Safari  - Chobe Park, Okavango Delta, Moremi, Kalahari & Makgadikgadi
• Namibia Safari  - Etosha Park, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Fish River Canyon & Windhoek
• South Africa Safari  - Kruger Park, Cape Town, Garden Route, Addo Elephant Park & KwaZulu-Natal 
• Zimbabwe Safari  - Hwange Park, Victoria Falls, Matobo National Park & Great Zimbabwe Ruins
• Zambia Safari  - Victoria Falls, South Luangwa Park, Kafue National Park & Livingstone

East African Safari & Travel Highlights:

• Tanzania Safari  - Serengeti Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Kilimanjaro, Lake Manyara, Selous Reserve & Zanzibar Islands
• Kenya Safari  - Masai Mara, Amboseli Park, Lake Nakuru, Samburu Reserve, Tsavo National Park & Lake Naivasha
• Uganda Safari  - Bwindi National Park, Kibale Park, Murchison Falls, Jinja & Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Madagascar Tours  - Nosy Be Island, Andasibe Park, Montagne d'Ambre National Park & Masoala Peninsula
• Malawi Safari  - Lake Malawi, Dzalanyama Forest, Liwonde Park & Nyika National Park

Too many African Safari options? Get in touch with us for up-to-date advice from one of our African safaris experts

“If there were one more thing I could do, it would be to go on safari once again.” - Karen Blixen (Author of “Out of Africa”)

[Article updated in May 2022]

If you liked this post, these trips cover similar ground…

• South Africa Walking Safari to Kruger & Zululand
• 8 Day Uganda Gorilla Safari from Kampala (Lodge Overland Tour)
• 9 Day Budget Masai Mara & Serengeti Safari - Tanzania & Kenya
• 3 Day Kruger Safari & Private Reserves Camping Tour
• Best of South Africa Safari Tour - Johannesburg to Cape Town

About the Author

Landia davies content manager & sculptor.

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Home / What is a Safari? Everything you need to know

What is a Safari? Everything you need to know

Many tourists who are not familiar with africa ask the question – what is a safari .

A SAFARI is an exciting and adventurous way of seeing the ‘real Africa’ because it enables you to view a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. As a result, going on a safari gives you an authentic experience of Africa.

Safaris can involve walking through the wilderness, driving in 4×4 vehicles or by flying in light air craft. The purpose of a safari tour is to allow you to get intimate with the landscape and scenery.

While overland tours are mostly challenging, you need to be young at heart and open-minded to get the best out of an overland safari trip. All safari vehicles are custom-built to travel to remote parts of Africa often on long, bumpy roads, while allowing you to view wildlife from a safe distance in comfort.

Why go on a Safari?

• Slow down and get in touch with the earth
• Experience wildlife in their natural environment
• Engage with local cultures and learn about their traditions
• Take part in adventurous outdoor activities

The accommodation on safaris vary depending on your trip. Anything from basic two man tents through to tented camps and luxury lodges with en suite bathrooms. Certainly there is something to suit everyone!

What types of Safari Trips can you go on?

The term SAFARI is a type of experience where you have the opportunity to observe and photograph wildlife. An African safari in an overland truck is an adventure with lots of sightseeing and activities. Specialist forms of safaris cater for a variety of needs and budgets.

Some examples include migratory safaris, birding, medical safaris, hiking, culinary, family, horse back and photographic safaris. A safari tour can range is length from a couple of days to longer overland trips . While the longer safari tours traverse over numerous countries and include 1-2 months of travel.

Let travellers Konrad and Brooke tell you all about an Overland Tour in Africa:

What is a Camping Overland Safari Trip?

A camping overland safari is for travelers who want a hands-on experience of Mother Nature. Either setting up your campsite or helping build a campfire whilst surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and scenery. During an African camping safari you will stay in large dome canvas tents which are spacious enough for two adults and your luggage.

Most camping safaris include a sleeping mat and you only need to bring your own sleeping bag, pillow and towel. The African campsites are basic and comfortable. Most have warm showers and flushing ablutions, while others may have natural ablutions.

What are Accommodated or Comfort Overland Safari Trip?

Accommodated safaris are designed for travelers who prefer extra comforts. Most importantly, it is comfort without the price tag! Our accommodated safaris make use of a combination of lodges, hostels, bungalows, chalets, permanent safari camps, hotels and traditional huts.

Our properties are ideally located at each destination for an authentic experience with incredible views. The standard of the properties varies along the trip. While Southern Africa properties are much more established than the East Africa accommodation. They vary from basic comfortable accommodation to breathtaking properties.

What is a Lodge Safari Tour?

Lodge safaris allow travelers to access wildlife over a shorter period of time. Therefore the lodges are located close to the wildlife and allow you more comfort. Most lodges can be accessed by air or by land transfers thus allowing you to maximize your time and experience. Also the quality of lodges vary for budgets and level of comfort.

What is a Mobile Tented Safari Tour?

Mobile tented Safaris  are designed to allow for less impact on the environment. Tents are set up for your accommodation and then dismantled when you leave to ensure only footprints are left behind. Guides will drive the support vehicles ahead of the travelers and set up the camp.  As a result the entire camp is all set up before your arrival.

By the time you arrive all you have to do is unpack, sit back relax and wait for dinner to be served. You will sleep on stretcher beds with a sleeping bag and a pillow provided. Bucket showers are provided with heated water for you to freshen up.

R 163,450

Cape Town to Nairobi Tour (Comfort) (42 Days)

R 102,355

+ Local Payment USD 1185 (Jan - June) - USD 1365 (Jul - Dec)

East Africa Migration Safari – 15 Days

R 42,285

11 Day Botswana Adventure Semi Camping Tour

Luxury tented camps.

Some of the camps are luxury camps which are spacious tents with beds and crisp good quality linen. Resident chefs will prepare all your meals and there is a designated guide to organise and maintain the campsite.

There are a few permanent tented camps which are erected seasonally in wildlife-dense areas for the best game viewing experience. Once the season is over these tents are dismantled and moved to another area for optimum game viewing.

What is a typical day on a Safari Trip?

Early mornings are frequent so that you can enjoy a hot beverage and a light breakfast before heading out on a game drive. The mornings can be crisp and cold while refreshing, with the reward of watching nature awaken.

The morning game drives can be between 2 to 3 hours long. Allowing you plenty of time to explore the area before returning to the campsite for lunch or enjoying a picnic in the bush. You might go on another game drive in the afternoon or take part in an activity such as canoeing, birdwatching or white water rafting.

Dinner will be prepared for you to sit back, relax and chat to your fellow companions over sundowners while a crackling fire is ready to keep the chill off. Early nights are usually encouraged so that you wake up refreshed and ready for a another adventurous safari.

When is the best time to go on a Safari Tour?

The Winter months of June to October offer the best game viewing throughout East and Southern Africa. The best wildlife viewing is when the herds of game graze on the dry Savannah during the day. Whilst watering holes and riverbeds are the main attraction at sunset.

Winter is also the best time to see and experience the wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara Game Reserve. The migration is definitely one of Africa’s greatest phenomena and well worth the trip.

It is ideal for a beach vacation on the East coast of Africa with moderate daily temperatures. Naturally these conditions are perfect to soak up the sun.

In the Summer months of November to March  the bush transforms with lush green vegetation. The African sky offers up a dramatic backdrop of dark thunderstorm clouds. It is therefore the ideal playing field for energetic young grazers, with intensified predator action. Also the most popular season for birding enthusiasts with big flocks of migratory birds returning south.

Get a feel for what a Overland Safari in Africa is like from Cape Town to Victoria Falls:

Nonsense – Africa from Little Bear Films on Vimeo . Filmed while travelling on Cape to Vic Falls Tour

Is East Africa Safari or Southern Africa Safari better?

The big question when people consider a safari holiday in Africa is where is a safari tour possible and how to choose between East Africa and Southern Africa .

Southern Africa includes the countries of South Africa , Botswana , Zambia, Zimbabwe , Namibia , Malawi and Mozambique.  While  East Africa  includes the countries of Kenya , Tanzania , Uganda and Rwanda. These are the two main regions for safari holidays in Africa. Each region offers different landscapes, wildlife experiences and attractions.

Therefore lets dive into the pros and cons of a safari in each region to help you decide on your African safari tour .

East Africa Safari

The East African Landscape

When people think of images of an African safari, they usually have scenes from an East African safari in mind. Countless nature documentaries are set on the vast savanna of Kenya and Tanzania.  These two countries boast postcard-perfect landscapes of rolling savanna dotted with acacia trees and are home to the wildebeest migration . The annual migration of millions of animals that takes place between the Masai Mara and the Serengeti . This is truly one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on Earth.

Both East Africa tours and Southern Africa tours have the Big Five wildlife and an amazing diversity of other animals. However East Africa has a higher concentration of game than in Southern Africa. Wildlife are also easier to spot on the open savanna plains. Due to East African national parks not being fenced the wildlife move freely in their migratory patterns.

Here’s a taste of an African Safari in the Ngorongoro Crater of Tanzania:

The East African Wildlife Safari

While Kenya and Tanzania are the top countries in East Africa Wildlife Safari tours, Uganda and Rwanda have their own attractions as they are known for wild mountain gorillas. Along with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and Rwanda are the only places where you can see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Tracking mountain gorillas is thrilling and hugely rewarding. Undoubtedly a bucket-list wildlife experience to try and tick off your ever growing list. The experience of coming face to face with a huge silver-back gorilla   is truly unforgettable! You can also go chimpanzee tracking in Uganda and Rwanda, which doesn’t get you as close as you do to the gorillas, but it’s still an amazing wildlife encounter.

Another main attraction of a safari tour in East Africa is a hike up Africa’s highest mountain in Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro . Tanzania and Kenya have beautiful coastlines and idyllic islands for some relaxing beach time, snorkelling and diving.

A few downsides of east African safaris are the number of vehicles at sightings in the popular parks, such as the Masai Mara and the Serengeti . With no limit to the number of cars, you will likely be sharing the view with 10 other vehicles.

Ready to plan an East Africa tour? 

R 75,100

13 Day East Africa Game Parks and Zanzibar Safari

Southern africa safari.

The Southern African Landscape

While Southern Africa doesn’t have the same concentration of wildlife as East Africa, it offers greater diversity of landscapes. Southern Africa highlights include the vast wetland of the Okavango Delta in Botswana  as well as the beautiful Kalahari Desert in Botswana and South Africa.  In addition, the tallest sand dunes in the world in the Namib Desert in Namibia and Africa’s largest waterfall,  Victoria Falls , which straddles Zambia and Zimbabwe.

No forgetting  Mozambique ’s long and beautiful coastline with its beautiful palm lined archipelagos. Mozambique safaris are popular for their picturesque scenery and rich cultural experiences.

With incredibly varied landscapes and climates,  South Africa is the most popular safari destination in southern Africa for good reason. Not forgetting an amazing Big Five safari holiday visiting the country’s flagship park, Kruger National Park  allows you to experience a wide diversity in a short time. Certainly South Africa offers so much from city sightseeing in beautiful Cape Town to a beach holiday on the Garden Route. Mountaineering in the Drakensberg or wine tasting in the Cape Winelands are also popular attractions.

The Southern African Wildlife

Apart from Etosha National Park in Namibia , many of the national parks and reserves in Southern Africa have dense bushveld unlike in East Africa, making game viewing a little bit more challenging. An advantage is you can often get much closer to the wildlife in Southern Africa. Therefore you’ll get to see those elephants or lions up close.

Private reserves or concessions in Southern Africa have strict rules about how many vehicles can be at a viewing. This means that you get more of an intimate experience at a sighting than you might do in East Africa.

If you’re looking for a malaria-free safari destination then east Africa is unfortunately not an option. Africa’s only malaria-free safaris are in South Africa and Namibia (here is our list of the best malaria-free safaris in southern Africa ).

Inspired to go on a Safari Tour in Southern Africa? 

R 105,200

Cape To Cape Southern Explorer Overland (41 Days)

R 78,900

Southern Africa Adventure (25 Days)

R 80,700 R 68,595

Cape Town to Victoria Falls Tour (Comfort) *Most Booked Trip*

If you can’t possibly choose between East Africa and Southern Africa for a safari tour then explore both regions on one of our long overlanding tours ?

Our 55 day Nairobi to Cape Town overlanding tour starts in Kenya and takes you through Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia before coming to an end in Cape Town, South Africa. Along the way you will visit most of the best national parks and reserves in both East and Southern Africa.

Some of the best Safari tours travelling to Africa:

• Cape Town Tours
• Johannesburg Tours
• Nairobi Tours
• Victoria Falls Tours
• Zanzibar Tours
• Swakopmund Tours
• Garden Route Tours
• Southern Africa Tours

Our Top Safari Game Reserves:

• Kruger Park Safaris
• Etosha Safaris
• Chobe Safaris
• Okavango Delta Safaris
• Serengeti Safaris
• Masai Mara Safaris
• Ngorongoro Crater Safaris
• Moremi Safaris

Choose Safari tours by Country:

• Namibia Safaris
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• Mozambique Safaris
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• Tanzania Safaris
• Malawi Safaris
• Lesotho Safaris

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Meaning of safari – Learner’s Dictionary

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(Definition of safari from the Cambridge Learner's Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)

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of or relating to birds

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What Is Safari?

What you need to know about Apple's web browser

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• Benefits of Safari
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Safari Alternatives

Safari web browser is the default for the iPhone , iPad, and macOS , first released by Apple in 2003 and briefly offered on Windows from 2007 to 2012. The popularity of the Safari browser exploded with the iPhone and the iPad, and currently has about a  54% market share of mobile browser usage  in the United States.

In most ways, Safari is like any other popular browser. Users can browse websites, bookmark favorites, and open multiple sites in tabs. Built using the WebKit engine, Safari was one of the first web browsers to support the new  HTML 5  standard. It was also one of the first browsers to have support for Adobe Flash turned off by default, with the mobile versions of Safari having never supported Flash .

Safari on Mac OS is currently on version 11.1, which includes an upgrade to Intelligent Tracking Prevention. This feature helps prevent a specific website from tracking pages browsed on other websites, a process called 'cross-site tracking. Safari on iOS shares its version with the iOS version, which is currently on 12.1.

What Makes Safari Stand out From Other Web Browsers?

While you might have trouble spotting the differences between Google Chrome, Apple's Safari, or Microsoft Edge at first glance, the Safari browser has some key features that help separate it from the pack, including the ability to format articles for easier reading.

• iCloud Tab Browsing . This feature automatically syncs open tabs across devices with the same  iCloud  account. You can view a list of all tabs open on your MacBook while using Safari on the iPhone or iPad. It's similar to Chrome's bookmark sharing but doesn't require logging in. 
• Sharing . The Safari app has a built-in share button that enables users to quickly share a website through messaging, email, or social media. The coolest feature is the ability to share a site directly with another nearby iPhone, iPad, or Mac using AirDrop. 
• Reader View . Safari can detect articles and present them in a format that strips out navigation and advertisement in favor of a more readable view. This view is especially great for websites that load new windows as you scroll or become unreadable on an iPhone or iPad because of navigation.
• Energy Efficient . While iMacs are great desktop computers, Apple is primarily a laptop and mobile device provider. Safari proves this by being extremely energy efficient, buying you precious minutes, and sometimes even hours of extra use compared to Chrome, Firefox, and other popular browsers.

What Are Safari's Deficits?

The Safari web browser has a lot going for it, especially for those who are rooted in the Apple ecosystem and own a Mac along with an iPhone or iPad. However, it's not all roses and butterflies:

• Limited Plugin Support.  Safari supports Extension, but the plugins available for Safari lag behind those available for Chrome.
• Exclusive to Apple . While it's possible to run Safari on Linux and it was briefly supported on Windows, Safari is primarily a web browser made to run on Apple hardware. You can't run it on Android smartphones or tablets, and you should avoid the Windows version because Apple no longer supports it with critical security updates.
• No Tab Icons . Favicons are essentially icons for websites. And while browsers like Google Chrome use these icons in tabs to help differentiate browser tabs and help the user pick out the one they want, Safari doesn't include them on tabs.

While Safari is the default browser for iOS and Mac, users can download a wide range of browsers on either platform. The Mac supports Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Vivaldi, and many other web browsers, while iPhone and iPad users can download Chrome, Firefox, Opera, and even Microsoft Edge.

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Safari: A Beginner’s Guide for iPhone or iPad Users

Safari can be intimidating to learn when you first start using it, but this guide will help you get used to it.

On Apple devices, the default web browser is called Safari. It shares a lot of similar features to other common browsers, like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. But if you’re new to using Safari, you may feel a little lost because the interface is slightly different to the others.

So, here’s a beginner’s guide on how to use the Safari app to browse the web on your iPhone or iPad.

How to Search for Content in the Safari App

As with all web browsers, you’ll need to first enable your iPhone’s mobile data or connect to a Wi-Fi network to access the internet.

Then, to search in Safari, simply type a term, phrase, or URL into the Smart Search bar at the bottom of the screen and tap Go on your keyboard. The Smart Search bar is a combination of the address bar and search bar. As you type, you’ll see search suggestions based on your keyword as well as results from your bookmarks and browsing history.

How to Navigate a Webpage in Safari

Once you obtain your search results, you tap on a link you’re interested in. Now let’s look at how you can navigate the webpage once it’s loaded.

How to Jump Back to the Top of Webpage

After swiping to scroll down a long article, you may want to go back up to access the website’s menu. To instantly jump back to the top of the webpage, just tap the topmost edge of your screen.

How to Go Backward (or Forward) a Webpage

After tapping on a link, perhaps the webpage isn’t quite something you’re looking for. To go back to your search results, swipe from left to right from the edge of your screen.

To go forward on a webpage, swipe from right to left instead.

Related: Essential Safari iOS Tips & Tricks for iPhone Users

How to Reveal the Safari Address Bar

Your Safari address bar is automatically hidden away when you’re scrolling down a webpage. To bring it back, tap the bottom edge of the screen that shows the website’s main URL.

How to Work With Multiple Tabs in the Safari App

Having multiple tabs opened in Safari can help you to compare information between webpages and search for new content without having to close your current webpage. Here’s how to work with multiple tabs in Safari on your iPhone or iPad.

How to Open a New Tab

To open a new tab, select the Tabs icon in the bottom-right corner, which looks like two overlapping squares. Then tap the Plus (+) to open a new tab.

How to Switch Between Tabs

Again, hit the Tabs icon. You’ll see a gallery of all your opened tabs in Safari. Select a tab to visit the webpage you want.

Since the release of iOS 15, Apple introduced a new feature in Safari: tab groups. Many of us are probably guilty of having way too many opened tabs. Therefore, organizing tabs into groups makes them more manageable. Learn more about how to use tab groups in Safari on your iPhone .

How to Open a Link in a New Background Tab

When you read long articles, you’ll likely come across a link or two within the content that sparks your interest. To avoid disrupting your reading process, you can make Safari open the link in the background, in a new tab. To do so:

• Go to the Settings app.
• Select Safari .
• Scroll down and tap Open Links .
• Choose In Background .

Next time you want to open a link, long-press it. Then, select Open in Background . When you want to visit that link, select Tabs to view all your opened tabs and choose the loaded webpage.

Saving and Sharing Webpages in Safari

The internet gives you access to a whole new world of information. Save a webpage to refer to it later, or share it with your family and friends.

How to Bookmark a Safari Webpage

To bookmark a webpage to read later, tap the Share icon in the middle of the bottom of the screen (it looks like an arrow coming out of a square) and select Add Bookmark . Type in a bookmark name.

To access your bookmarked webpage later, tap the Bookmark icon (an opened book) and browse through your bookmarks, reading list, and history to find what you’re looking for.

Besides the bookmark option, you’ll also notice that you can add a webpage to your favorites or reading list. Marking a webpage as a favorite will make it show up on your Safari home page. It’s useful if you visit the website often.

To learn more about reading lists, you can visit our guide on the differences between a bookmark and a reading list .

How to Share a Link From the Safari App

Stumble upon an interesting DIY project? A promising recipe you’d like to share with your family? You don’t have to bookmark and remind yourself to show the webpage to them later. You can share the link directly from the Safari app.

Tap the Share icon. You can then select the receiver’s name from the horizontal list of recent contacts, or choose your preferred communication app to send the Safari link to them.

Erasing Your Digital Footprint in Safari

If you’re an aspiring crime writer, having a friend notice your crime-filled search history when they peer over your shoulder is inevitably awkward. Hence, there are some things we’d prefer to keep private and erase all traces of once we exit a web browser.

Safari has a few features to help you with this.

How to Close a Tab

If you don’t close your tabs, old webpages will just auto-load again the moment you head into Safari. Having too many opened tabs affects your browsing speed as well.

Closing a tab is simple. You just need to tap the Tabs icon and then tap the Close (x) button in the corner of the tab.

How to Browse Privately in Safari

Similar to Google Chrome’s Incognito Mode, Safari has a feature called Private Browsing Mode. Your autofill information and browser history won’t be saved when you use this function. Here’s how to use it:

• First, tap the Tabs icon.
• Select the center Tabs button with an arrow next to it.
• Choose Private .
• To open a new private tab, tap the Plus (+) button.

Whenever you’re in doubt about whether you’re in Private Browsing Mode, just check the Smart Search Bar. It will be dark grey instead of white when you’re browsing privately.

How to Clear Your Safari Browsing History

If you forgot to use Private Browsing while searching for confidential information, don’t worry. You can still clear your history in Safari. Just follow these steps:

• Tap the Bookmarks icon.
• Select History (the clock icon).
• Tap Clear .
• Choose the time length from which you want Safari to clear your history.

Use the Safari App to Surf the Internet on Your iPhone

The Safari app has all the features you need for a seamless browsing experience. Once you’re familiar with these basic functions, you can check out and download Safari extensions from the App Store to enjoy more helpful features while surfing the internet on your iPhone or iPad.