Big 5 Tag Archives

We get asked all the time, what is the best country to do safari in?  And the short answer is, it depends on what you want from your safari.  Countries like South Africa, Kenya, Botswana and Tanzania are all wonderful but do offer different experiences. Hello travel friends, it’s Shannon. I have just returned from a 14-day Read More…

Every time I visit Africa I experience more magic, more special moments and more surprises. The continent is so grand and diverse that you can visit time and again and never duplicate your experiences. My most recent trip to South Africa brought me much needed relaxation, an appreciation for slowing down, impressive wildlife sightings, rare Read More…

Some of the best safaris in Africa include Sabi Sands Game Reserve in South Africa, the Great Migration in East Africa, and the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Each of these destinations is bound to blow you away. But it all depends on what you want to see and do! Find inspiration with these recommendations from Read More…

With so much to see and do, South Africa is perfect for your first trip to Africa! South Africa safari tours offer unbelievable wildlife viewing and a full range of accommodations, from great value options to all-out luxury. Cape Town delights with its sunny climate, beautiful beaches, and cosmopolitan feel. Nearby are beautiful winelands and outdoor Read More…

I’ve decided I may have to give up traveling, as I recently returned from the greatest trip of my life, and I can’t imagine anything ever comparing. Okay, part of that is an exaggeration, but I did spend the last 2 weeks of March on my South Africa wedding/honeymoon, and it was absolutely magnificent! Our Read More…

I recently returned from my second trip to South Africa! It was also my second visit to the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, which borders the famous Kruger National Park. This time around, I did a green season safari, which means warmer weather, longer daylight, and lots and lots of babies! The lush greenery and Read More…

What is the best time to visit South Africa? South Africa is a beautiful destination to visit at any time of year! Generally speaking, we think the best time to visit South Africa is September and October, when the weather in Cape Town is good and the safari parks offer excellent wildlife viewing. Read on Read More…

One of the most rewarding things about going on safari is discovering a new favorite animal you’ve never heard of before. African wild dogs aren’t necessarily the first animal that comes to mind when you think of a wildlife safari; you’re more likely to picture elephants, giraffes, lions, and zebras. But after seeing these incredible Read More…

Hi, travel friends! I’m currently trying to readjust to normal life after nearly three incredible weeks in Africa. I visited Tanzania for the first time as part of a familiarization trip, and ended in the Winelands outside Cape Town, all to gather new experiences so I can be a better travel partner for you! Just Read More…

How do you choose the best safari lodge in Africa? There are hundreds upon hundreds to choose between, from tented camps to grandiose permanent lodges.  But the most important thing to think about with safaris is location! Your camp’s location will determine where you can go on game drives, the length of your safari excursions, Read More…

Heading on a trip to Africa? A wildlife safari is likely the most photographic trip you will take in your life. Whether the animals are drinking from a waterhole, stalking their prey, nursing young ones, or (my personal favorite) acting like house cats rolled over waiting for you to pet their bellies, there is a Read More…

Looking for the best safari lodges in Africa? Africa has hundreds of incredible safari lodges for every type of traveler. Below, find some of our favorites for families, romance, and adventure. Of course, these are just a handful of the options available! Our travel designers visit Africa regularly to experience these properties firsthand, and we Read More…

We encourage our clients to engage in elephant interactions that are safe, fun, and rewarding for both human and animal. Here are some of our personal recommendations.

South Africa is home to incredible wildlife! The animals you’ll find on safari have adapted to the bush in fascinating ways. On your game drives or walking safaris, your expert guide will help you spot some of the more elusive animals and tell you all about the wildlife of South Africa. You’ve probably heard of Africa’s Big Read More…

Most people going on an African wildlife safari want to see the Big 5 of Africa, but it’s a common misconception that the big animals are always the most exciting to see on safari. The ecosystems of Kenya and Tanzania are extremely complex. Every animal, from the largest elephant to the smallest insect, plays an important Read More…

See the most memorable experiences from my trip to Africa, including a walking safari with local guides and a safari via biplane!

Hi, all! I have just returned from my trip to Africa, where I was fortunate enough to participate in Classic Portfolio’s Sustainable Africa Mega Fam. I had a choice of 7 trips featuring 19 sustainable companies, 36 authentic experiences, 51 travel partners, and 6 countries. I chose to be part of the Zambia – A Read More…

In early October, I took my second trip to Africa, and my first safari in Kenya. I had already fallen in love with this amazing continent upon visiting South Africa and Victoria Falls in 2015, but seeing how unique Kenya was only strengthened that love. The landscape was so open (and dry) compared to Kruger, Read More…

Hi everyone, it’s Shannon and I have just returned from an 18-night trip to South Africa and Kenya! It is not a combination that many people do when traveling to Africa. But I have to say that the experiences were wildly different, so I thought I would give you some of my thoughts on the Read More…

The most iconic African wildlife is certainly the Big 5. If you’re heading on your first wildlife safari, you’re probably hoping to check these sightings off your bucket list. But what exactly does “Big 5” mean? They aren’t necessarily Africa’s largest animals or the most famous. The term “Big 5” is actually taken from hunting Read More…

With a new year upon us, I’ve been reflecting on all the amazing travel experiences I had in 2015. One of my highlights was a Chobe River water safari while staying at Ngoma Lodge in Chobe National Park. With just 8 private suites, the lodge is a luxurious way to experience this famed park. It Read More…