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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
• safari park
• safari suit

Dictionary Entries Near safari

Cite this entry.

“Safari.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/safari. Accessed 20 Apr. 2024.

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Definition 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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[ s uh - fahr -ee ]

• a journey or expedition, for hunting, exploration, or investigation, especially in eastern Africa.
• the hunters, guides, vehicles, equipment, etc., forming such an expedition.
• any long or adventurous journey or expedition.

verb (used without object)

• to go on a safari.

/ səˈfɑːrɪ /

• an overland journey or hunting expedition, esp in Africa
• any recreational journey or expedition
• the people, animals, etc, that go on the expedition

Discover More

Word history and origins.

Origin of safari 1

Example Sentences

If you want to see Saturn’s rings and distant galaxies, the Jackson-based nonprofit Wyoming Stargazing offers stargazing safaris.

Snorkelers can take a guided snorkel safari with Reef Magic Cruises and survey a coral stabilization project installed over a cyclone-damaged coral rubble field.

Recent gems include a $119,000 one bedroom, one bathroom apartment filled with large safari animal statues—including a giraffe peering into the shower.

One day, while the others were out on a safari, Ramani and I got talking.

She was fascinated by his stories about the safari he just took in South Africa.

One of the earliest ticker-tape parades was for Teddy Roosevelt when he returned from an African safari in 1910.

But he fell out of favour when it was revealed he had been on a big-game hunting safari.

A mere 800 travelers are allowed to visit the northern area of the park each year through safari tours, and prices are steep.

Would William support a hunting safari in Africa, whose supporters often make the very same arguments?

Earlier this month the two truly got away from it all when they went on an African safari with Eugenie and her boyfriend.

You start on safari to the railway as soon as possible, or sooner.

They set out on a leisurely return to the little safari, accompanied for a few miles by the soldierly Zulus.

A little after noon as they neared the safari they came upon a village which was in great excitement.

The next morning the safari filed out from the camp, the Masai greeting the inspanning with huge delight.

"Safari" is itself a Swahili word of Arabic origin, meaning an expedition and all that pertains to it.

Related Words

[ ak -s uh -lot-l ]

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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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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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Factsheet for safari, n., browse entry.

Definition of 'safari'

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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
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• 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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Davina Travels

What is Safari and how to do it right?

Safari travel is an adventurous form of tourism that entails exploring the countryside and seeing wildlife in its natural setting. In Swahili, the word “safari” means “journey” or “expedition.” Safari vacations have their roots in the nineteenth century when European explorers and hunters entered Africa in pursuit of rare creatures. With a focus on community development and conservation, safari travel has developed into a more responsible and sustainable kind of tourism in modern times.

1. The impact of safari tourism on local communities and economies

Safari travel is a unique experience that allows you to explore some of the world’s most beautiful natural settings while also being mindful of your impact on the environment and local communities.

It’s important to understand the impact of safari tourism on local communities and economies. Safari tourism can bring significant economic benefits to locals by creating jobs, generating income, and supporting small businesses. However, it can also have negative impacts such as increased pressure on natural resources, cultural erosion, and the exploitation of local labor.

To strike a balance between enjoying an unforgettable adventure and being mindful of your impact, it’s important to choose responsible safari operators who prioritize sustainability and support local communities. By doing so, you can help ensure that your safari travel experience has a positive impact on both the environment and local communities.

2. The role of tour operators

In promoting responsible and sustainable safari practices Choosing responsible safari operators who prioritize sustainability and support local communities is crucial for a truly meaningful and impactful safari experience. These operators not only provide an unforgettable adventure, but they also contribute to the conservation of wildlife and their habitats.

By supporting local communities, they help to create sustainable livelihoods and ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared fairly. The role of tour operators in promoting responsible and sustainable safari practices cannot be overstated. They have the power to educate travelers on the importance of conservation and responsible tourism practices, as well as implement them in their operations.

This includes reducing waste, conserving water, using renewable energy sources, and supporting local conservation initiatives. Ultimately, by choosing a responsible safari operator, you can have a transformative travel experience while making a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

3. Wildlife conservation efforts and the importance of supporting them through safari tourism.

When it comes to wildlife conservation efforts, there are a variety of ways that safari tourism can make a positive impact. By choosing a responsible safari operator, you can ensure that your trip is not contributing to the waste and pollution that can harm local ecosystems.

Additionally, conserving water is crucial in areas where it is scarce, and responsible operators will have systems in place to minimize their water usage. Using renewable energy sources like solar power can also help reduce the carbon footprint of safari operations.

Supporting local conservation initiatives through your tourism dollars can provide crucial funding for projects like anti-poaching efforts and habitat restoration. Ultimately, by choosing a responsible safari operator and supporting conservation efforts, you can have a transformative travel experience while making a positive impact on the environment and local communities.

4. A closer look at some of the most popular countries for safaris

We have Tanzania, Kenya , South Africa, etc. Restoration is a crucial component of sustainable tourism, especially in countries that rely on wildlife and natural resources for their economies.

Many safari operators have recognized the importance of conservation and have implemented practices to minimize their impact on the environment. For example, some lodges and camps use solar power, recycle waste, and source local products to reduce their carbon footprint. Additionally, many operators support conservation efforts by donating a portion of their profits to wildlife protection programs or partnering with local communities to promote sustainable livelihoods.

When choosing a safari operator, it’s important to do your research and select one that prioritizes responsible tourism practices. As for popular safari destinations like Tanzania, Kenya , and South Africa, these countries have made significant strides in conservation over the years. Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is home to the largest migration of mammals in the world, while Kenya’s Maasai Mara Reserve is renowned for its big cat sightings. South Africa offers a diverse range of wildlife experiences, from spotting the Big Five in action to

5. Personal experience

Here are my feelings after a safari trip to showcase the unique opportunities and memories that were made while traveling. South Africa is truly a wildlife lover’s paradise, with its reputation for big cat sightings being just the tip of the iceberg. Going on a safari trip here is an experience like no other, as you get to witness the majesty of animals such as elephants, rhinos, and buffalos up close. But it’s not just about seeing the Big Five in five; it’s about the personal experiences and memories that come with it. Imagine watching a pride of lions lazing in the sun or witnessing a herd of giraffes gracefully making their way across the savannah.

These are moments that will stay with you forever. And let’s not forget about the incredible lodges and campsites that offer luxurious accommodations and delicious cuisine amidst breathtaking natural surroundings. A safari trip to South Africa is truly an unforgettable adventure that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.

Now you know what Safari is and how to do it right! The main purpose is to keep enjoying it generation after generation. In order to have that we need to enjoy it responsibly.

4 thoughts on “What is Safari and how to do it right?”

A beautiful and informative article that is very well written. Through your words, and pictures you transposed to your readers the feeling of being there and more than that, wishing to live that Safari experience. Safari is something I always wanted to do. Unfortunately, the holiday scheduled for Namibia in 2020 was canceled for well-known reasons. But after reading your article, it will be again on the holiday bucket list.

However, it is appreciated that many safari operators have recognized the importance of conservation and implemented practices to minimize their impact on the environment, and are not driven only by the avid feeling of making money from it.

Thank you very much for the information, and keep up the good work.

yes, many of them are implementing some strategies to protect the animals, the environment, and local communities. Because that ensures us more years with all kinds of animals and to enjoy safaris!

I thoroughly enjoyed reading your article about “What is Safari and how to do it right”. The images you used are stunning and take the reader directly into a safari. I was impressed by your focus on conservation and choosing the right safari operator to ensure the various habitats are maintained. Taking a safari is definitely on my bucket list for the future. Thanks for sharing this great article. Jenni.

You are welcome! When you are ready for your safari trip let us know and we shall find the best option for you and on your budget!

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Where to go on safari 2024/25.

Everything you need to know to book a safari holiday

24 Mar 2020

26 mar 2024.

What is a safari?

The name safari derives from the Swahili word for a journey. Although in colonial times, safaris used to be associated with big game being hunted and shot, today, a safari typically includes game viewing and time spent in the wilderness or bush in locations such as Kenya or Tanzania .

Safaris have changed a lot and are now often closely associated with wildlife protection and conservation.

Whilst Africa is definitely the most famous place to head on safari with many people hoping to tick off the ‘ Big Five ’, it is by no means the only place to go on safari – you might go in search of tigers in India, or for leopards in Sri Lanka for instance. Looking for safari ideas? Check out our 26 favourite safari holidays.

When to go on safari

You’ll be pleased to know if you are planning a safari, that you aren’t limited to going at a particular time of year.

It depends on which country you are planning to visit and if there is a specific animal or wildlife spectacle you are hoping to see. Below is a brief overview but for more details check out our month by month guide on when to go on safari.

January – March

This is a perfect time to catch some winter sun and head to the southern regions of the Serengeti in Tanzania.

The Wildebeest Migration is concentrated in the southern regions and this is calving season when up to 10,000 wildebeest calves are born every day with big cat activity at a premium. It is also a good time to climb Kilimanjaro if you are looking to add this in.

These early months are also the best time of year for game viewing in Botswana’s Kalahari Desert and Makgadikgadi Plains with huge concentrations of zebra and flamingos.

March is a fantastic time to visit Kruger National Park in South Africa as it gives you the tail end of the summer, but without the crowds.

April – June

Victoria Falls , Zimbabwe is at its peak flow, giving a true demonstration of this magnificent and powerful force of nature.

Great wildlife viewing across South Africa and Zimbabwe as the cooler, dry winter season begins and thick vegetation begins to recede meaning better opportunities for seeing wildlife clearly.

July – September

This season is right at the height of the Great Wildebeest Migration, a phenomenon where millions of wildebeest migrate.

At this time of year, you can see them battle to cross the crocodile infested Mara river. The best place to witness this is in the Northern Serengeti or the Masai Mara .

Wildflowers (fynbos and daisy species) come into a glorious full bloom in South Africa’s Namaqualand region.

Humpback and southern wright wales can be seen off the coast of South Africa as the follow the Sardine Run. The humpback whales are migrating north towards the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to give birth.

October – December

October – Mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda. The weather is still good, and it is a little cheaper as outside of key season.

November - perfect for travelling to Zimbabwe for a more rustic safari to Hwange and Mana Pools National Parks.

It’s drier at this time of year which means a lot of the wildlife will be congregating towards water sources, meaning you’ll have a superb chance of seeing most of the key species.

Turtle nesting along the Indian Ocean coastline. Towards the end of the year, up and down the eastern coastline of southern Africa, turtles come to shore to nest and lay their eggs.

When you speak with your safari expert, they will be able to tell you where and when to go for you to have the best opportunity to see exactly what you wish.

Where to go on safari?

There are so many fantastic countries to visit for a safari that deciding where to go can be overwhelming.

To help you decide where is right for you, we’ve broken it down into our favourite classic safari destinations, destinations which have a lot more to offer than just safari and allow you to have a few days of safari but for it to not necessarily be the main feature of your trip and then those which are more specialist or adventure destinations.

Every trip we create is tailor-made, so if you are not sure where to go on safari, give us a ring and we will discuss the best option for you.

Classic safaris

One of the most popular safari destinations in Africa and with good reason. Kenya is home to the world-famous Masai Mara that is famous of the number of big cats it has and the opportunity to see the Big Five.

If you visit between July-September, you also have the chance to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration.

It is easy to combine the Masai Mara with either Samburu, Laikipia or Lewa which offer a different safari landscape and the chance to try a walking or riding safari. As well as an abundance of animals, many visitors enjoy the opportunity to visit a Masai village and see the Masai way of life.

Kenya makes for a great first-time safari destination as it offers comparably good value for money and is easy to combine with a few days on the beach at the end.

Kenya offers a very professional safari experience and there is a big range of accommodation from high end luxury, to more basic accommodation, and they are also well set up for family safaris.

Discover more about Kenya.

Tanzania is famous for its high concentration of game and the notorious northern circuit includes the Serengeti with its vast plains and the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater, as well as the opportunity to combine this with Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. This classic route can be combined with visit the less busy, and less visited wild Selous Reserve.

The majority of the Great Wildebeest Migration happens in Tanzania with the wildebeest moving in a circular movement across the Serengeti throughout the year. Visit in Jan-Feb to see the calving season and in July-September you can see the dramatic crossing of the Mara river.

Zanzibar, famed for its white sand beaches is part of Tanzania, making it the perfect beach stop for a few days’ relaxation at the end of your holiday.

Tanzania without doubt offers some of the best game viewing in Africa attracting both first-time and veteran safari goers.

View Tanzania safaris

For many the pinnacle of safari destinations and certainly an exclusive game-viewing experience.

The government is strict on the impact of tourism, focusing on providing a high quality, low impact experiences rather than allowing large number of visitors. This means that Botswana is often more expensive than some other safari destinations, but it also means you won’t be competing with lots of other vehicles for your game viewing.

Camps and lodges tend to be small and intimate with only a few rooms. Many are of the camps are high-end luxury and you can find some of the best guides in Africa here.

The Okavango Delta is home to one of the world’s largest wetlands and there are many private reserves you can stay in here. The area is prolific with wildlife and it is famous for its water-based safari activities with the opportunity for boating, canoeing and fishing.

In contrast to the watery Okavango Delta, it is worth also visiting the salty expanses of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans which is famous for the opportunity to get up close to Meerkats.

Botswana if you are looking for a pure safari experience with great variety.

Take a look at Botswana safaris

More than safari

South africa.

If you are looking to dip your toe in and try safari then South Africa is a fantastic choice for you, as it is easy to combine safari with a whole host of other activities from visiting Cape Town to wine tasting, driving along the Garden Route or visiting the Drakensberg mountains, South Africa allows safari to become a part of your trip rather than the main focus.

The best know place to undertake safari here is the Kruger National Park which gives you the opportunity to see the Big Five.

It is possible to self-drive here which can be very popular as it allows you to set your own timetable and it also brings the cost down making safari more affordable. The disadvantage is that you do not get the knowledge of a guide.

South Africa is also very popular for family safaris as there are areas that are malaria free.

Like Kenya and Tanzania, South Africa is very well set up for safari and there is a huge range of accommodation available from very luxury to more basic. The food throughout South Africa and wine available tends to be excellent.

Look at South Africa trips

Namibia is famed for its stunning scenery, it’s remote, arid deserts and it’s rugged skeleton coast. If you’re keen for adventure, like the idea of self-driving and going off the beaten track, Namibia is a great opportunity to explore one of the least densely populated countries on Earth.

Etosha National Park offers a great diversity of wildlife and you can see giraffe, lions, rhinos and elephants amongst the animals here. The Etosha Pan is a salt-crusted and dry lake that dominates the park. Due to the limited number of waterholes, you have a unique game-viewing opportunity as you watch many different mammals jostle for space.

Whilst safari is likely form part of your itinerary in Namibia, it can’t compete as a standalone safari destination and should be chosen because you also want to explore huge sand dunes and admire the varied landscape.

See Namibia adventures

Adventurous safaris

If you are looking for an adventure and to truly disconnect then you can’t go wrong with Zimbabwe.

The world-famous Hwange National Park is one of the best places in Africa to see huge herds of elephants as well as to see Africa’s wild dogs. It is also home to the Big Five.

Mana Pools National Park which runs alongside the Zambezi river is probably one of the best places to experience a walking safari. It is the only park in Africa where visitors can go walking without a guide (although we would never recommend this).

The iconic Victoria Falls which are only a couple of hours drive from Hwange National Park make the perfect end to a visit to Zimbabwe.

Victoria Falls are one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls and are double the height of Niagara Falls. The most inspiring time to see them is when they are in peak flow which is usually between February and July.

Get adventurous in Zimbabwe

Gorilla Trekking

If you want to go Gorilla trekking to see the rare mountain gorillas and get face to face with an amazing Silverback male, then you’ll want to visit Uganda or Rwanda.

The main reason visitors flock here is to go gorilla trekking which works on a first-come permit basis that needs to be booked serval months in advance.

Whilst both are fantastic destinations, our top choice would be Rwanda for the quality of accommodation and ease with which you can combine it with another safari destination such as Kenya or Tanzania if you also want to see the Big Five.

Rwanda is a landlocked, compact country that is affectionately called the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills’. Its tropical climate means it is green all year round and whilst it is still known for the genocide, it is now a very peaceful country and one of the safest counties in Africa. Visiting the mountain gorillas is a true once in a lifetime and very memorable experience.

Check out Rwanda.

Outside Africa

Whilst the word safari might conjure up images of the vast plains of Africa, and it certainly is the top place to go on a traditional safari, if you are looking for Tiger you might want to consider visiting India and Sri Lanka offers some excellent opportunities to see leopards.

Both destinations have far more to offer than just a safari experience so are best combined with other elements too.

If you are looking to see a Bengal tiger in its natural habitat then we’d definitely recommend including a tier safari in India. There are few places in the world that these endangered animals can be seen and India is one of them.

Bandhavgarh National Park in Central India has the highest density of Bengal tigers and will provide you with a real India jungle experience.

An alternative popular choice is Ranthambore National Park which is located in the Rajasthan region making it an easy add on if you are doing a Golden Triangle trip. Whilst there are fewer Bengal Tigers here, there is still a good chance of seeing one.

Discover more about India.

If you’re looking for variety then look no further than Sri Lanka – safari, temples, tea plantations, rain forest, beaches and delicious food, Sri Lanka has it all.

Whilst not a standalone safari destination, it is definitely worth incorporating into your trip as Sri Lanka has 26 national parks. Whilst you will see elephants throughout Sri Lanka, most people undertake a safari here in the hope of spotting an elusive leopard.

The most popular place to go on safari in Sri Lanka is Yala National Park which is the second largest park and only six hours from Colombo.

It has the highest sighting of leopards in Sri Lanka and some stats even show that Yala might have the highest density of leopards here in the world.

See Sri Lanka trip ideas.

What are the Big Five?

One of the most popular things to see on safari and often requested by our clients, you might be surprised to learn that the term ‘big five’ derives from the colonial period when a safari involved hunting.

The term ‘Big Five’ was originally in reference to the five animals that were considered most dangerous and most difficult to hunt – there were lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo.

As these were considered the most dangerous and challenging animals to hunt in the African bush, it was considered a feat by trophy hunters to bring them home.

Today's safari focuses on seeing and watching animals in their natural habitat rather than on hunting them, but many safaris goes still want to tick off the Big Five which are decreasing in number.

Of the big five, the two most challenging to see are often the Rhino and the Leopard.

There are two species of Rhino – white and black, although confusingly this has nothing to do with their colouring. Due to poaching for their horn’s populations have massively decreased and black rhino have been labelled as critically endangered making sighting of these much rarer.

Leopards are notoriously shy and very well camouflaged with their spots. They are solitary animals, hunting alone and often at night which makes them difficult to find. When they are spotted, it is often up a tree with their prey which they lug up with them.

What is a typical day on safari like?

A typical day on safari will often start as dawn begins to break, where you’ll be roused with a warming drink before heading out on a game drive to go in search of the local wildlife.

The reason for such an early start is have the best opportunity to find active predators such as lions and leopards before they settle down to take shade from the heat of the day. Other animals are also more active at this time of day and with the beautiful golden light that comes with the new day, it makes for the perfect light for photography.

Early morning game drives usually last around three hours and you’ll either be back in your safari lodge or camp in time for breakfast, or you’ll be treated to a picnic breakfast served to you in the midst of the African wilderness.

During the heat of the day, you will usually have time to relax around your lodge, taking full advantage of the opportunity to unwind, disconnect from the busy world and take time to slow down and appreciate your surroundings. Many also use this as an opportunity for a quick nap after the early start!

Depending where you’re staying, your safari lodge may provide activities to keep you entertained during the middle of the day such as cultural trips to local villages or educational visits to understand how wildlife protection programs run in the local area.

For more information, learn more about family safari holidays

Before the sun starts to set, there will be opportunity to head out for a second game drive of the day. If you were lucky enough to find a pride of lions during a morning game drive, it’s unlikely they will have moved far during the course of the day so your local guide will take the opportunity to relocate the slumbering cats before they start to rouse and become active allowing you to spend more valuable time with these magnificent animals.

A safari isn’t just about the predators and Big Five, there’s a myriad of fascinating species to encounter. Africa is home to tremendous diversity, mammals, reptiles, birds, insects and plant species – the more you ask your local guide, the more animated they will become, sharing their passion and knowledge of the bush with you.

As the sun begins to set, you might be treated to a ‘sun-downer’ – the African tradition of finding a fantastic view, having a cold drink in your hand, watching a glorious sunset in the company of good friends and sharing great conversation.

After the sun has set and you’ve finished your gin and tonic, it’s time to head back to camp where dinner will be ready waiting for you. You’ll be astounded at what the lodge chefs can create considering the remote location of the lodge.

Depending on your safari camp, you’ll either can enjoy private dining or mingling with like minded adventurers to swap safari stories around informal tables. Some properties also offer bush dinners where by you’ll be whisked off to a location in the bush where a fire will already have been lit, a small bar and tables will have been prepared where you can enjoy a delicious dinner by candle light with the sounds of the bush surrounding you.

The early starts mean people tend to head to bed early, but before you, make sure you check out the stars - your remote location means light pollution will be at an absolute minimal so it will be a great time to do a little star-gazing or to sit around the fire sharing the day’s adventures before retiring to the comfort of your bed and falling to sleep with the sounds of the African bush surrounding you.

No two days on safari are the same, once you’ve experienced the thrill of seeing the immense size of your first wild elephant or hearing the soul reverberating roar of a lion you’ll soon be hooked and longing to return for yet another adventure.

How long should I go on safari for?

The length of your safari can differ greatly depending on your experience and interest levels.

If you’re thinking of going on safari for the first time, a four-day safari can be a great introduction to dip your toe in the water.

If you’ve already been bitten by the safari bug, longer journeys into the wilds of Africa for a week or two, often staying at multiple lodges and reserves, would give you the opportunity to try a range of safari activities and exposure to diverse wildlife and landscapes.

What is safari accommodation like?

The options available are staggering from high end luxury to more basic camping.

Safari lodges tend to be smaller and more intimate than hotels but are usually as a permanent construction and built from wood or stone, often with thatched roofs.

Bedrooms are likely to have ensuite bathrooms with running hot water and some might even have baths. They often have plenty of added extras similar to those you might get in a hotel such as a spa, swimming pools and even tennis courts or gyms.

Some lodges will have a fence around to prevent larger wild animals from entering and others will be unfenced requiring you to talk with security to go to a restaurant at night.

If you are a little bit nervous about sleeping in the bush or want a more pampered experience, this is the option for you.

Tented safari camps

A tented safari camp is very different from a tent you’d put up in your garden here and can be very luxurious. Many will transport you back in time with magnificent four poster beds, wicker chairs and beautiful rugs.

These are tents that are large enough to walk around in and often have wooden floors. Inside you’ll find a proper bed, electricity is likely solar powered, and many will have an ensuite bathroom with a bucket shower and toilet. Most tented safari camps will have a central tent that acts as a dining room and bar, and some even have swimming pools.

A tented safari camp allows you to sleep in luxury whilst hearing the sounds of the bush and in the morning seeing the footprints of the animals that have been through your camp in the night.

Seasonal Camps or Mobile Tented Camps

These are canvas tented camps that are set up for a specific event such as to see the migration. They will generally remain up for a few months and might be moved to follow that event.

These camps will still have comfortable furnishing such as beds and sofas, as well as bucket showers and flushing loos, and often a dining tent. It’s not high-end luxury, but perfectly comfortable and fantastic for wildlife viewing!

Mobile Walking Camps

These are set up for a night or two, often as part of a walking safari. Whilst these camps offer simpler accommodation, they also give you the chance to really experience the African wilderness. You’ll normally still get a proper bed, but meals might take place around a campfire and it is more likely to be camp chairs than a sofa.

With mobile safaris accessing the more remote areas, you can get a feeling of being truly in the wilderness and disconnected from the hustle and bustle of modern-day life.

Fly camping

Fly camping is all about stripping it back to basics. Eat around a campfire and then sleep under a mosquito net staring up at the stars in the middle of the African bush. It is a truly magical and different experience. Don’t worry, they’ll be security with you and often bucket showers available.

Some hotels even offer luxury ‘star beds’ where you can sleep in the comfort of a treehouse.

What types of safari are there?

The word safari literally translates as ‘to travel’ or ‘a journey’, so it is no surprise that the different types of safari are often based around how you travel. In one safari holiday you can often try many different types of safari.

Guided safaris

These are the most popular safari option and is often the image that comes to mind when someone thinks of a safari. A safari guide will take you out on game drives in a 4x4. These game drives usually happen early morning or late afternoon to maximise the chances of seeing animal activity.

Guided safaris can either be in a shared vehicle with others or taken privately depending on your budget. The advantage of a guided safari is that your guide will know the best locations to find animals, and will be able to tell you about their behaviour, as well as about the local vegetation.

Having a guide is a fantastic way to learn about the local culture as well as about the animals. Being on a guided safari also means that you are not focused on doing the driving yourself so you can relax and enjoy animal spotting.

An excellent way to travel through a country at your own pace, exploring points of interest and going to your own schedule, plus a brilliant way to make safari more affordable.

There is debate whether this is a good idea to self-drive when exploring game reserves as people may be inexperienced when it comes to how to handle any wildlife encounters that they come across and of course you’ll potentially miss out on getting a guide’s valuable knowledge. But as an option to follow your own schedule and path when travelling through a country, this can be an excellent alternative to flying.

A good destination to do a self-drive safari would be South Africa and head to game reserves such as the world-famous Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe Imfolozi, which is the second oldest game reserve in the world and stronghold for critically endangered rhino.

Walking safaris

Walking safaris are a fantastic way to experience the African wilderness – they allow for an appreciation of a lot of details which may be missed during a game drive.

On a walking safari your guide will teach you about the local fauna, you will look at the various animal tracks and signs to identify who has already taken your path. You will be amazed by how many animals you can see on foot and how your senses become heighted.

Walking safaris can vary from a couple of hours to stretching out over a period of a few days which are referred to as Wilderness Trails. Walking safaris occur under the supervision of a walking guide who should also be carrying a gun for protection (although very rarely used).

An experience is more focused on encountering nature in a more holistic way – meaning you will probably not have as much as a close encounter as you would in a vehicle-based safari.

Riding safaris

These are usually conducted on horse-back (although some lodges in Kenya also offer camel-back safaris) and give a very unique opportunity to experience African wildlife as it enables participants to get closer to some game.

For example, on horseback, you can get very close to giraffes as the giraffe sees the horse rather than the person sat atop of it – animals have a natural instinctive fear of humans and will normally be extremely cautious if they sense people.

A moderate level of proficiency is often needed to take part in a riding safari but depending on the region, wildlife and availability of horse temperament, even beginner riders may have the opportunity to take part. The cost of a riding safari, as with wilderness trails will depend on the length of the safari.

Some riding activities are offered as an alternative to vehicle based safaris for an afternoon and others can last a couple of days, with participants camping in the wilderness overnight at tented accommodation which has been set up by camp staff who will prepare ahead for the arrival of guests.

Canoeing safaris

If you are an adventurous safari goes, a canoeing safari offer a unique opportunity to see wildlife enjoying its everyday life. As you glide, near silently down the rivers in a canoe you can watch elephant and buffalo drinking on the banks of the river and navigate around hippos and crocodiles. It allows you to watch the African wildlife much more undisturbed than you would in a car.

The best spots for a canoeing safari is without question the Zambezi River.

Hot-air balloon safaris

A bucket list for many to travel over the African planes at sunrise in a hot air balloon. A hot air balloon safari gives you a unique viewing point to watch animals interacting on the ground whilst enjoying birds eye views.

What is the difference between a National Park and a Private Conservancy?

National Parks

The National Parks and National reserves are maintained by the government. They are often areas that are viewed as outstanding natural areas or in need of protection. The government are responsible for maintaining the roads, controlling poaching, set the visiting house and managing security within the parks.

Visitors to the park must follow the set opening hours which means that you cannot for instance do night game drives and you must stay on the roads. This is beneficial for self-drive safaris as you are following generally well-maintained roads with other cars, but it also means that if you see an animal off the road you cannot get closer to it. National Parks tend to be busier than private conservancies and you can even find yourself in ‘traffic jams’ or potentially with 20 other vehicles jostling to see a lion.

Private Conservancies or private reserves

Private conservancies are privately managed and often have a large focus on conservation. Private conservancies offer a more exclusive safari experience as only the lodges within that conservancy are allowed in it, meaning that you can escape the crowds and get a more intimate wildlife viewing experience.

As private conservancies are managed privately, they set their own rules whilst still prioritising the ecology and wildlife. This can mean going ‘off-road’ for special sightings and following predators on the hunt as they cruise through the bush.

Most conservancies will have rules around the maximum number of vehicles allowed near the animals at any one time so that the animals will not get stressed and disappear. This means you will not be sat with lots of other vehicles and are likely to get a better view of the animals, but it also might mean you have to patiently wait your turn if there are already vehicles there.

Many conservancies also allow night drives or walking safaris which are often are not allowed in the National Parks.

Some conservancies have had huge success in conservation and have managed to dramatically reduce poaching and increase the numbers of endangered species. For example, Lewa in Kenya has had a lot of success increasing Rhino numbers.

One disadvantage of a conservancy is that if you are looking to self-drive this will not be allowed.

How much does safari cost?

The location, time of year, duration, activities and level of accommodation will all affect the cost of a safari. Safaris can range hugely in price but here are some things to consider:

• The more privacy and exclusivity you want, the more of a premium you are likely to pay. This goes both for the park you are staying and if you are sharing a vehicle.
• Organizing a trip, yourself doesn’t necessarily save you money. At Far & Wild, we make our money because we have a special trade rate with our suppliers not because we charge you more or for our time. Our price promise means you never pay more than booking direct.
• If you are looking to reduce costs consider going out of season – it is the same animals that are grazing on the plains, you might just have slightly more unpredictable weather. If you are going with a guide they will still know where to find the animals.
• Countries with favourable exchange rates often work out cheaper – for instance South Africa currently offers great value.
• How you travel between destinations will affect your costs – for instance it can be cheaper to go by land rather than on a small safari plane.
• Self-drive can be a good way to reduce the cost of safari
• Group trips are a good way to make a safari more affordable - perhaps get a group of friends together and think about what you’d all like to see and make something you will all enjoy.

Below are a few trip ideas to give you an idea on pricing:

Great Value Safari & Beach

For a safari and beach break that allows you to relax and unwind away from the masses look no further.

11 nights from £2,450pp (excluding international flights)

Spend one night in Nairobi to recover from your flight, you'll then fly to the Mara North in a small plane, where you'll stay in the beautiful Saruni Mara Camp. A remote camp off the beaten track in the Mara North Conservancy, perfect for relaxing whilst having an unforgettable wildlife experience.

After three nights on safari, fly to the beach for a seven night stay in the family run Diani Blue Guesthouse. Positioned right on the pristine Diani beach, this small, boutique resort is the perfect beach escape.

View Kenya safari and beach escape.

Active Botswana with Victoria Falls

Perfect for safari goers who want to stretch their legs - walk with the Zu’ bushmen, see the Meerkats and canoe in morkoros through the Okavango Delta. Finish at the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls.

11 days from £4,947pp (excluding international flights)

Begin your trip by flying into the Makgadikgadi Pans national park for a 3 nights in Camp Kalahari. This semi-arid desert environment has an incredible diversity of wildlife including the famous Meerkats. From here fly to Khwai, one of the best game viewing areas Africa has to offer and stay in the gorgeous Khwai Tented Camp.

As well as walking and canoeing, here you can see wild dog, lion and leopard, as well as many elephant. To finish of you trip fly north west to Victoria falls in Zimbabwe for 3 nights at Victoria Fall Hotel.

See Botswana active safari itinerary

Luxury Kruger and Mauritius

Combine two of Africa's most iconic experiences - the amazing wildlife of the Sabi Sand and idyllic beaches of Benguerra Island, all in complete luxury.

11 days from £8,345pp including all flights and helicopter transfer.

Spend four nightsin the world-renowned Sabi Sand Wildtuin, one of the best game viewing areas in all of Africa, staying at the gorgeous Chitwa Chitwa lodge. Enjoy the amazing game viewing opportunities with the chance to see the Big Five and of course, time to relax in your stunning lodge.

Once your safari is over you will be transferred to the gorgeous Benguerra Island, a paradise of soft beaches, warm seas and gentle breezes. Here you can truly relax in the comfort of your villa and private pool, stroll along the beach and swim in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean or enjoy the range of amazing activities on offer from the lodge.

See Luxury Kruger and Mozambique trip.

Is travelling to Africa safe?

The answer is generally yes, it is. As with anywhere in the world, you need to take certain precautions but travelling to the vast majority of Africa is safe. If you are booking with a tour operator, they will follow FCO advice and only arrange trips to areas that are safe.

One piece of advice we would always give is to make sure you are up to date with the relevant inoculations and when you do travel, always make sure that you have the appropriate medication and in good supply as these could be very difficult to get hold of once you are out of the major towns and cities.

Can I talk to a safari expert?

Of course! You can do all the reading the world, but nothing compares to talking to an expert whose been on multiple safaris themselves or worked as a safari guide,

Far & Wild specialise in safaris - we create tailor-made experiences to give you the opportunity to make your dream journeys come to life. Our specialists have in-depth and intimate knowledge of destinations throughout Africa and the Indian sub-continent.

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Have a look at our original holiday experiences and then contact us with your brief, or call 01768 603 715

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Definition of safari noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

• on safari to be/go on safari
• open season

Want to learn more?

Find out which words work together and produce more natural-sounding English with the Oxford Collocations Dictionary app. Try it for free as part of the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary app.

Where to start when booking your first safari

For first-timers, starting to plan a safari may feel overwhelming, because of the sheer amount of choice. The biggest destinations in terms of infrastructure, variety of parks, breadth of lodges and big-five habitats, are South Africa , Kenya , Tanzania , Namibia , Botswana , Zimbabwe and Zambia . Before interrogating an operator, or going down a Google rabbit hole, it can be helpful to start with vision-boarding the basics.

Is it a classic Big Five East African safari you’re seeking (‘big five’ refers to the term coined by hunters to describe lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and buffalo)? Or something wilder and more undefinable? Ask yourself what you are seeking from the trip, and how you want to feel. Write down the wish list and get as specific as possible. Is it important to have the best guides in Africa and to sate your thirst for knowledge? Or is the focus sumptuous lodges and a soft landing, as much as wildlife? Will the safari be combined with Robinson Crusoe-style beach-time, or an epicurean road trip? Or is the dream to drill down into the different habitats of a single country, with a camp in each region? Do you crave the bloody drama of the great migration that passes through the Serengeti and Mara ecosystems every July and August ? Or is the answer a long chopper ride far away from CB radios and mobile reception, in a pop-up tent with a private guide? Is your ideal of wilderness the brutal expanse of the Kalahari? Or is the ideal landscape a watery delta, deep jungle, dense bush or grassy savannah?

How to book your first safari adventure

Now take it to a specialist operator . The Africa safari crew’s bread and butter is matching travellers’ nebulous desires with a concrete plan on the open grassy plains and acacia woodlands of the Masai Mara, amid the high drama of Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, in the oldest desert on the planet, Namibia’s Sossusvlei – or somewhere else way off the radar.  When it comes to safari, the expertise, knowledge and know-how of the specialists comes into its own. They know the granular details of animal migrations in various countries, the right seasonal information that will change the footprint of a trip, and can lead guests off the beaten track for a more remote, adventurous, or exclusive experience.

Major travel planners in the field include the likes of Journeys by Design, Aardvark Safaris, Africa Travel Centre, Green Safaris and Yellow Zebra Safaris. Expert Africa and The Explorations Company. They can advise with great expertise on lesser-known areas or parks to avoid the crowds, and may suggest game-rich countries that are less obvious – such as Zambia and Malawi, or even Congo, Gabon, Angola or Chad. They can tap into walking, horseback and bush-biking options, or air safaris, and know how to access the less iconic migrations – zebra crossings through Botswana’s Linyanti and Savute regions; or pink flocks of flamingos floating over Tanzania’s salt lakes. Major lodge operators (often booked by the operators listed further up) include Great Plains, African Bush Camps, Wilderness, andBeyond, Natural Selection, Ultimate Safaris, and Asilia Africa, representing some of the top echelon of lodge owners and operators.

Sustainability and conservation

Fortunately, the safari field is populated with largely excellent, responsible operators and impressive lodge owners committed to sustainable travel and cultural integrity, and extending their conservation footprint to guard against poaching and the effects of climate change – the likes of Expert Africa, Aardvark Safaris, The Explorations Company and Journeys By Design. Most of the major lodge players have extensive conservation foundations and philanthropic wings to their businesses. But a good way to check on the ethics of lodges and operators is by requesting published reports on their work and sustainability policies to gauge their meaningful engagement in local culture, livelihood and community.

Where to stay

Safari options tend to be built lodges (bonafide buildings of stone, timber, or  concrete structures) or tented camps under canvas. There is also the possibility of mobile tented camps , or even pop-up tents on walking safaris led by private guides and trackers. In the past decade or so, some of the most glamorous camps have added exclusive-use villas serviced by private chefs, dedicated guides and vehicles. Multi-generational groups, privacy-hungry families and celebrities hiding from paparazzi tend to snap these up.

What happens on a safari day?

On a regular safari, days in the bush follow a predictable schedule. Expect to be awakened at the crack of dawn with a wake-up call and caffeine, before heading into the bush with a guide in an open-air game vehicle (probably wrapped in a warm blanket with a hot water bottle for warmth). In the early morning, the air is still cool and the big cats are heading home from a busy night on the prowl.

Breakfast or lunch is served out in the bush, or back at camp after the morning game drive. Then afternoons are for resting, massages, reading, or walking safari excursions, community visits or other cultural immersions, before heading out again in the late afternoon. Hot-air ballooning takes place at dawn or dusk and would take the place of the evening game drive .

Lily Bonesso

Mary Lussiana

Sophie Heawood

Monica Mendal

By late afternoon, the predators are waking up from their afternoon snooze, ready for action anew. There’s usually a sundowner at a beauty spot before the game vehicles return just before dark, in time for pre-dinner drinks and dinner. If it’s a private reserve and nocturnal game drives are permitted (which is prohibited in national parks), then a late-afternoon drive may morph into a night-time one, in search of more elusive night-time creatures such as leopards. Dinners can be private or communal, sometimes including a gathering or a celebration in a boma enclosure. There might be a fireside chat or a spot of astronomy. There may also be the possibility of bush or tree house sleep-outs, or star beds for galaxy-gazing. Whilst the days and nights are structured, each drive, day, moment and season is different – and that’s the beauty of safari.

The lowdown on safari guides

Being a top-notch safari guide is a life-long vocation of honed skill. These are the people who bring the experience alive with their lived knowledge and understanding of the ecosystem, its wildlife and the landscapes. The best lodges and ground handlers run ranger schools and training programmes across the continent that are second to none. Some of the top lodges host visiting experts and conservationists for even more magic.

Other practical tips

• When picking a safari lodge , think about how remote it is, and if other lodges are close by. Private reserves on the edge of parks tend to be more intimate, as there’s the chance to go off-road during the day (and night), instead of sticking to a pre-ordained track.

• Having a private vehicle is ideal and in terms of wildlife viewing, for some, it’s more important than the lodge, as it means being free to decide which sightings to prioritise.

• Think hard when it comes to getting from A to B. That perceived romantic road transfer might just be a nine-hour spine-shuddering journey from hell.

• Check what the baggage allowance is and choose a suitcase accordingly: if travelling in a small plane such as a Cessna, luggage will have to be rationalised, possibly to between 12-15kgs.

• A safari (unless it’s a biking, riding or walking safari ) is not about exercise: there’s a lot of sitting around. Those who get restless when not able to do cardio should choose a lodge with a small gym or yoga on offer. One can’t go running off into the bush, and guests are accompanied by guides (Masai in parts of Kenya and Tanzania) back to the tent at night.

Taking pictures

Now is the moment to crack out that single-lens-reflex camera gathering dust in the wardrobe, and perhaps a 300mm lens, beanbag or monopod (easier to fiddle with in a game vehicle). Consider the season of the country as this will affect photography prospects. Zambia in the rain, for example, is green, lush, and beautiful, but the nellies like to hide in the undergrowth. In October , everything is the colour of mud and sludge, but the wildlife viewing is premium. Just pointing and shooting with an iPhone will produce incredible images and reels.

Can I take my children on safari?

Bringing children on safari imbues in them a sense of grand adventure and an understanding of the natural world and the importance of protecting it. There are generally no hard and fast rules, but most lodges welcome children from about the age of six, though families may be expected to have a private vehicle. To simplify travelling with younger children , it may be easier to pick a malaria-free destination (to avoid having to medicate them), from Madikwe Reserve in South Africa to Etosha National Park in Namibia (but check the  NHS’s Fit For Travel web pages to check the malaria maps of each country). Ideally, choose a lodge with a kids' programme. Most of the major lodge players take children into account. Wilderness’ programmes, for example, are designed for ages 6 to 12 and include walking safaris, star identification, treasure hunts, football games, basket weaving, helping in the kitchen and drumming lessons. Fifth-generation family-operated Cottar’s 1920s Camp in Kenya’s Masai Mara, one of only nine accredited Global Ecosphere Retreats, recently developed a special Budding Conservationist experience for kids to join the female conservation rangers on their daily patrolling, identify vulture nests, join a Masai warrior “school” and visit a local primary. &Beyond has launched WildChild Eco-Guide Challenge Itineraries for teenagers (14-18 years) along with their parents, including trips to Botswana, Mozambique and South Africa . Stubborn Mule creates worldwide family-led adventures, including off-radar safari adventures from gorilla trekking in Rwanda to fly camping in the wilds of Northern Kenya. Whichever journey you choose, encourage the children to keep a diary for posterity.

A tipping point

As a rough guide, up to 10-15 per cent of the total cost of the safari should be budgeted for tips. The guide is generally tipped US$15-20 per person per day, which can also be handed directly to the guide at the end of the trip. Although voluntary, it’s routine to tip and lodge staff, from cooks to cleaners. This can be added to the bill at the end; lodges then distribute it to all staff members. Pre-check if the bill excludes alcohol, or includes tips, to avoid surprises or confusion.

Immunisations and medicines 

Some African destinations require yellow fever, typhoid or hepatitis A and B jabs. Malaria is a risk in some countries, but as this is a shifting scenario, it’s best to check the  NHS’s Fit For Travel web pages for the malaria maps of each country. A one-size-fits-all approach to a country is rarely needed. Refer to our safari packing list to find out more about what to pack and for tips from safari old hands.

Visa requirements

For current and up-to-date information about visas refer to the  government’s foreign travel advice pages .

Safari Terms and Phrases: 22 Important Words Related to Safari

When going on an African Safari guides will use certain safari terms and phrases. To help you feel more prepared for your trip I’ve compiled this list of all the words related to safari you’ll need to know.

African Safari Terms and Phrases and Words Related to Safari

Table of Contents

A bean bag is used to stabilize a camera while taking photos or videos in the safari vehicle. Some safari guides will have them available in the truck for your use and other will not. If you are going with an outfitter that does not have them, I recommend getting the Grizzly Camera Bean Bag .

The Big Five

The safari term , “Big Five” is an old hunting term to name the five most difficult and most dangerous animals to hunt. It is less used for hunting and more so for safari goers. Learn more about what animals make up the big five in my blog post.

Pin this safari terms and words related to safari post for Later

Words Related to Safari: The Bush

A sparely populated area usually where safari animals can be found. This can include both wooded areas, grass land, and scrub bushes.

Bush Breakfast

A full breakfast had while out in the bush on safari. Safari guides set up a table and chairs to sit and enjoy. Food can consist of, but is not limited to: eggs, sausage, yogurt, granola, cereal, fruit, nuts, homemade bread, and fruit juices.

Conservancy

A privately maintained area to manage and preserve wildlife and the environment.

Deep Tissue Massage

This is a play on words for when your safari vehicle goes over a bumpy area. Many safari guides will jokingly call this a deep tissue massage.

Read More: Ultimate Safari Packing List

Safari terms, diurnal animals.

Diurnal is a safari term for animals that are most active during the day. A few examples of diurnal animals are giraffes, zebras, hippos, and monkeys.

Safari Terms: Game Drive

A game drive is when you go out in the safari vehicle to view the African animals in the bush. Game Drives usually happen in the mornings and evenings as that is when majority of the animals are active.

The Great Migration

Taking place in the ecosystems of the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya , the Great Migration is the largest animal migration in the world. Happening annually, over 2 million animals including wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle migrate in search of water.

More Safari Terms and Words Related to Safari

Mark my territory.

When you go to the bathroom out in the bush.

National Park

A National Park is a natural protected area run by the state. When inside a National Park visitors are not allowed to go hunting or fishing. There are usually stricter rules to follow as well. Nairobi National Park is the most unique park in Africa as it is located right next to a major city, Nairobi, Kenya .

Safari Terms: Night Drive

A Night Drive is similar to a Game Drive except it is done after the sun goes down. It is the perfect of the opportunity to see nocturnal animals.

Words Related to Safari: Nocturnal Animal

Nocturnal is the term used for animals that are most active at night. A few examples of nocturnal animals are Aardvarks, Bushbabies, Civets, and Honey Badgers.

A Ranger is a guard that protects parks, reserves, and conservancies. They’re responsible for protecting both the land and animals. For example, the Rangers at Ol Pejeta Conservancy are charged with protecting the endangered animals, specifically the last 2 Northern White Rhinos in the world.

Even More Safari Terms and Words Related to Safari

The Savannah is grassy plain with scattered trees and bushes. This ecosystem has only two seasons a wet and a dry season.

Safari Terms: Self-Drive Safari

A safari in which you drive yourself around to view the animals. Not all conservancies, reserves, or parks allow self-drive safaris, so plan accordingly.

Tse Tse Fly

A small fly that is attracted to dark colors like black and dark blue. When it comes to what to pack for an African safari avoid dark colors to help keep the tse tse flies away.

A sunset drink is usually had while on an evening Game Drive accompanied by a light snack.

Tented Camp

A semi-permanent camp usually consisting of safari tents, a lounge, food tent, and sometimes a pool.

Words Related to Safari: Territory

The area in which an animal frequents and raises it’s young. Lions and Leopards are 2 examples of territorial animals.

A porridge made of maize or cassava, that comes from the manioc plant. It is served with fish, meat or vegetables. You’ll most likely try this is you’re traveling in East African countries such as Tanzania.

Words Related to Safari: Walking Safari

A Walking Safari is a Safari on foot where a guide takes a small group of people around the Bush usually pointing out the flora and fauna difficult to see from a safari vehicle. The guide is armed for safety purposed.

Do you know any other safari terms and words related to safari? If I missed any let me know what they are in the comments.

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10 guidelines for sustainable safaris.

• March 19, 2021

• Sustainable safaris for a better tomorrow

When we think about sustainability, we tend to think of how we can protect and conserve the environment. While this isn’t completely off track, I like to think of sustainable safaris as a form of tourism that not only satisfies the wildlife and nature lover travellers, but a form of tourism that considers what I refer to as the SEE (social, environmental and economical) approach in safari tourism.

In this article

10 guidelines to make your safaris sustainable.

• Implementing the SEE approach
• Top 5 sustainable safari operators in Kenya

Traditional safaris would never be considered a complete safari, unless you went out in the wild and got to experience the thrill of the jungle by going on game drives. The traveller who spotted most wildlife was considered to have had the most fulfilling safari. The main activity was to see wildlife with your own eyes. Safaris therefore became a “see” type of safari, where spotting wildlife was the key element of the whole experience.

This is the approach that I simply like to refer to as the SEE approach in safari tourism. It’s an approach that instead of just ticking off how much wildlife you see, you tick on the impact of that safari, in terms of:

• S ocial aspects
• E nvironmental aspects
• E conomical aspects

The SEE approach is a simplified way of remembering to develop safari itineraries that not only consider the physical ‘see’ while on safari but consider the complete picture.

Implement the following 10 guidelines as policy in your safaris. Also advocate for responsible practices so you can positively contribute to sustainable safaris.

Sustainable safari guidelines

• Respect the local culture
• Don’t use single-use plastic
• Educate your travellers
• Be aware of what you bring and leave
• Avoid unethical animal interaction
• Follow and obey the rules and regulations
• Purchase souvenirs from locals
• Do not trade or buy anything that is listed as endangered
• Involve your supply chain and all stakeholders
• Communicate sustainability as the better option

1. Respect the local culture

Often tour operators build safari itineraries and forget that it’s not only about the natural attractions such as wildlife parks, but also the local people. Be respectful of the culture at all times and remember authenticity drives cultural tourism. Visit a local market, have dinner with a local community , or explore a local village in the area of the wildlife park.

2. Don’t use single-use plastic

Most Kenyan wildlife parks have banned the use of single-use plastic water bottles. As a tour operator, it’s still important to advise travellers to bring their own reusable bottle for their trip. During safaris, you’ll have picnics in the wild and want to reduce your (plastic) trash. Don’t use single-use plastic cutlery or wrapping but invest in reusable, quality materials.

3. Educate your travellers

Travellers often want to capture every moment and feature in the destination. In wanting to do that, they might forget that locals might not appreciate it and get offended. It’s your responsibility as tour operator to advise and educate them well before the safari starts. Make it clear they should seek permission first, before capturing a moment with a local.

4. Be aware of what you bring and leave

The ideal scenario would be for travellers to only leave footprints and nothing more. Sadly, we sometimes overlook the very simple details. We forget that responsible waste management is not optional, but mandatory. This advocacy must come from you, as you create the safari itinerary and bear responsibility for safeguarding the destination.

5. Avoid unethical animal interaction

As a tour operator, you should not under any circumstances promote unethical animal interaction . Simply don’t include them in your itineraries. These may include safaris with animals in captivity or slavery or where touching or even feeding wild animals is allowed. Remember, these animals belong in the wild and their own natural habitat.

6. Follow and obey the rules and regulations

For every trip you offer, travellers must obey the rules and regulations of wildlife parks. If the rules state you must keep at least 25 meters away from the wild animal, make sure your guides inform the travellers. It’s the responsibility of the tour operator to ensure travellers know what’s accepted and what’s not. They also need to be aware of the consequences and implementations of breaking those regulations. Safety first.

7. Purchase souvenirs from locals

One of the best ways to make sure the third E (economic) of the SEE approach is included, is to involve all stakeholders. Let them also gain economically through tourism. Tour operators should involve locals in the value chain by promoting local souvenirs to their travellers. This way, you are not only just involving them in the social aspect, but also empowering and stimulating economic growth.

8. Do not trade or buy anything that is listed as endangered

A common mistake is that tour operators promote local souvenir purchase but forget to mention there are certain goods that are illegal to purchase. Remember that even though you are advocating for economic development for locals, you can’t turn a blind eye to the ills of society. Illegal trade occurs from selling of animal parts such as ivory or marine life. It’s the responsibility of tour operators to make sure that these practices do not occur.

9. Involve your supply chain and all stakeholders

To develop a sustainable safari successfully, it’s important to engage your supply chain. Making sure that from start to end, sustainability is at the core. This means that accommodations , transport and excursions must have green practices and principles. As a sustainable tour operator, you want to encourage your supply chain to have similar values. This allows you to offer a sustainable, in sync product to your traveller. Consider working with suppliers that have recognised green labels as they offer third party check assurance.

10. Communicate sustainability as the better option

How else will the public know? A sustainable communication strategy is vital for every business. The messages on your website , the messages on your social media pages, your marketing material. It all needs to speak responsible tourism. Nowadays travellers are conscious buyers, meaning tour operators must be conscious sellers to meet their needs. Share best practices within your supply chain and pursue to continuously improve. Think about the impact of your safari for those that are visiting, as well as those who live in the destination.

Implementing the SEE approach for sustainable safaris

Tour operators need to envision how their business is influenced and impacted by the SEE approach; socially, environmentally and economically. If your mission is to fulfil the travellers desire to see the wild and nature, then use the SEE to objectively analyse how your safari impacts local stakeholders to balance SEE. Use above 10 guidelines as the bare minimum to build and develop your sustainable safaris.

Angela’s Top 5 sustainable safari operators in Kenya

In my work as sustainable tourism professional in East Africa, I work with many tour operators. Over the years, I have come across hundreds of tour operators who practice good tourism right. Below businesses are my top 5 of the most sustainable safari operators in Kenya. They all achieved Certified level by Travelife for Tour Operators and have noteworthy visions. To inspire you, I’ve highlighted some of their projects.

Top 5 sustainable safari operators

• Let’s Go Travel Uniglobe
• Gamewatchers Safaris
• Eco Adventures
• African Quest
• Sunworld Safaris

1. Let’s Go Travel Uniglobe

One of the missions of Let’s Go Travel Uniglobe as a tourism enterprise, is to contribute towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals . Menstrual hygiene is mentioned in Sustainable Development Goal 6: Achieve access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all. Therefore, Let’s Go Travel Uniglobe has started the Keep her in School Initiative.

It aims to ensure that no girl misses classes due to missing essential sanitary towels. The company has been providing sanitary towels to 5 schools in the Nanyuki area for girls from class six to eight in primary school. Over the past 4 years, a clear trend was noticed where girls performed better compared to the boys. They also help by facilitating health talks with the girls which is provided by a professional. All with the aim to provide the students with knowledge and skills to help them stay healthy.

2. Gamewatchers Safaris

The main goal of Gamewatchers Safaris is to develop sustainable ecotourism projects that benefit the local communities and thereby to give their guests a rewarding experience. Therefore, Gamewatchers Safaris works closely with communities living alongside the Amboseli National Park and the Masai Mara wildlife reserve. To help them gain benefits from conserving wildlife species and the indigenous habitat.

Local communities are able to earn an income from eco-tourism from monthly rental payments for setting aside areas of their land as wildlife conservancies. Gamewatchers Safaris also gives priority to family members of the local community for all job opportunities in the conservancies and the small camps set up in the conservancies. In their view, the key to conserving Kenya’s spectacular flora and fauna outside the parks is to engage the local communities and to provide tangible benefits from eco-tourism.

3. Eco Adventures

One of the projects Eco Adventures focuses on, is the provision of solar lanterns to local villages. When students return home from boarding school, their homes don’t provide the same access to light. The hours of darkness makes it difficult for them to study. To provide light, the use of kerosene lamps is common. However, the use of these lamps has caused both respiratory and eyesight health problems for the students.

For over 7 years, Eco Adventures provides solar lanterns to provide valuable extra hours of light and better health and safety for the students. All lamps are sourced locally to support both the local economy and the global campaign for sustainable energy sources. Every year, all the new sponsor students are presented with a lantern and additional lanterns are also gifted to students who have shown leadership and support to their fellow students throughout the year.

4. African Quest

One of the beliefs of African Quest Safaris is to be a benefit to the local communities in the destinations where they operate. In 2006, they started to support and build one of the only girl school in one of the villages in Sekenani. They have continued their support and even expanded by adding more classrooms. Thereby, they also supported a water provision project by installing pipes and water tanks for storage and supply of water to the village and school.

Internally, African Quest Safaris stopped the use of single-use plastic in 2017 prior to the official government ban. They no longer provide mineral water to their clients in plastic bottles and actively ask their clients to bring their own reusable water bottle. In their safari vehicles, they supply clients with purified water through large water gallons.

5. Sunworld Safaris

In April 2020, Sunworld Safaris founded the Community Wildlife Fund when Covid hit the world. Since then, they have supported local communities surrounding the parks and reserves in different ways. They donated the necessary food that was needed due to the lack of income to sustain communities and to prevent poaching. After donating to 3.500 families, they realised the urgent need to show local youth the value of their very own wildlife.

“We can only protect what we love and what we come to love!”

The best way to teach children to protect local wildlife is to take them out on game drives and show them “Jeannie’s Bush Cinema”. This is a mobile cinema that is carried across the country to villages and poor communities surrounding the parks. The cinema showcase wildlife movies and speak to the villagers on Human Wildlife Conflicts. The interest is great, and it makes locals more sensitive and aware to understanding wildlife and its behavior.

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Thank you for educating me Angela. SEE instead of see is the way for sustainable tourism.

Thanks Lilian, it is easily relatable and a way to ensure that we are offering value in our safaris, impact beyond sales.

SEE is surely the way to go for the future of sustainable tourism. Which safari operators would you recommend for sustainable tourism in Tanzania. I welcome to see first- hand what we are doing at Lerang’wa Nature Conservancy.

Angela Njehia

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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.

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502 Bad Gateway Error: What It Is and How to Fix It

This error is usually caused by two different internet servers that are having trouble communicating

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What Does a 502 Bad Gateway Error Look Like?

What causes a 502 bad gateway error, how to fix a 502 bad gateway error.

• Frequently Asked Questions

The 502 Bad Gateway error is an HTTP status code that means that one server on the internet received an invalid response from another server. These errors are completely independent of your particular setup, meaning that you could see one in any browser, on any operating system, and on any device.

The 502 Bad Gateway error displays inside the internet browser window, just like web pages do.

Each website can customize the 502 Bad Gateway. While it's fairly uncommon, different web servers do describe this error differently .

Below are some common ways you might see it:

• 502 Bad Gateway
• 502 Service Temporarily Overloaded
• Temporary Error (502)
• 502 Proxy Error
• 502 Server Error: The server encountered a temporary error and could not complete your request
• 502. That's an error
• Bad Gateway: The proxy server received an invalid response from an upstream server
• HTTP Error 502 - Bad Gateway

A Bad Gateway error received in Windows Update generates a 0x80244021 error code or the message WU_E_PT_HTTP_STATUS_BAD_GATEWAY.

When Google services, like Google Search or Gmail, are experiencing a 502 Bad Gateway, they often show Server Error , or sometimes just 502 , on the screen.

Bad Gateway errors are often caused by issues between online servers that you have no control over. However, sometimes, there is no real issue but your browser thinks there's one thanks to a problem with your browser, an issue with your home networking equipment, or some other in-your-control reason.

Microsoft IIS web servers often give more information about the cause of a particular 502 Bad Gateway error by adding an extra digit after the 502 , as in HTTP Error 502.3 - Web server received an invalid response while acting as a gateway or proxy , which means Bad Gateway: Forwarder Connection Error (ARR) .

An HTTP Error 502.1 - Bad Gateway error refers to a CGI application timeout problem and is better to troubleshoot as a 504 Gateway Timeout issue.

The 502 Bad Gateway error is often a network error between servers on the internet, meaning the problem wouldn't be with your computer or internet connection.

However, since it is possible that there's something wrong on your end, here are some fixes to try:

Try loading the URL again by pressing F5 or Ctrl+R ( Command+R on a Mac) on your keyboard, or by selecting the refresh/reload button.

While the 502 Bad Gateway error is usually indicating a networking error outside of your control, it could be extremely temporary. Trying the page again will often be successful.

Start a new browser session by closing all open browser windows and then opening a new one. Then try opening the web page again.

It's possible that the 502 error you received was due to an issue on your computer that occurred sometime during this use of your browser. A simple restart of the browser program itself could solve the problem.

Clear your browser's cache . Outdated or corrupted files that are being stored by your browser could be causing 502 Bad Gateway issues.

Removing those cached files and trying the page again will solve the problem if this is the cause.

Delete your browser's cookies . For similar reasons as mentioned above with cached files, clearing stored cookies could fix a 502 error.

If you'd rather not clear all of your cookies, you could first try removing only those cookies related to the site you're getting the 502 error on. It's best to remove them all but it won't hurt to try the clearly applicable one(s) first.

Start your browser in Safe Mode: We have instructions for Firefox , Chrome , or Edge . Running a browser in Safe Mode means to run it with default settings and without add-ons or extensions, including toolbars.

If the 502 error no longer appears when running your browser in Safe Mode, you know that some browser extension or setting is the cause of the problem. Return your browser settings to default and/or selectively disable browser extensions to find the root cause and permanently fix the problem.

A browser's Safe Mode is similar in idea to the Safe Mode in Windows but it's not the same thing. You do not need to start Windows in Safe Mode to run any browser in its particular "Safe Mode."

Try another browser. Popular browsers include Firefox, Chrome, Edge, Opera, and Safari.

If an alternative browser doesn't produce a 502 Bad Gateway error, you now know that your original browser is the source of the problem. Assuming you've followed the above troubleshooting advice, now would be the time to reinstall your browser and see if that corrects the problem.

Restart your computer . Some temporary issues with your computer and how it's connecting to your network could be causing 502 errors, especially if you're seeing the error on more than one website. In these cases, a restart would help.

Restart your networking equipment . Issues with your modem, router, switches , or other networking devices could be causing 502 Bad Gateway or other 502 errors. A simple restart of these devices could help.

The order you turn off these devices isn't particularly important, but be sure to turn them back on from the outside in . Check out that link above for more detailed help on restarting your equipment if you need it.

Change your DNS servers , either on your router or on your computer or device. Some Bad Gateway errors are caused by temporary issues with DNS servers.

Unless you've previously changed them, the DNS servers you have configured right now are probably the ones automatically assigned by your ISP. Fortunately, a number of other DNS servers are available for your use that you can choose from.

Contacting the website directly might also be a good idea. Chances are, assuming they're at fault, the website administrators are already working on correcting the cause of the 502 Bad Gateway error, but feel free to let them know about it.

Most websites have social networking accounts they use to help support their services. Some even have telephone and email contacts.

If you suspect a website is down for everyone, especially a popular one, checking X (formerly Twitter for chatter about the outage is often very helpful. The best way to do this is to search for #websitedown on X, as in #cnndown or #instagramdown. There are other ways to see if a website is down if social media isn't helpful.

Contact your internet service provider. If your browser, computer, and network are all working and the website reports that the page or site is working for them, the 502 Bad Gateway issue could be caused by a network issue that your ISP is responsible for.

See How to Talk to Tech Support for tips on talking to your ISP about this problem.

Come back later. At this point in your troubleshooting, the 502 Bad Gateway error message is almost certainly an issue with either your ISP or with the website's network—one of the two parties might have even confirmed that for you if you contacted them directly. Either way, you're not the only one seeing the 502 error and so you'll need to wait until the problem is solved for you.

To fix a 404 Page Not Found error , try reloading the web page and ensure you typed the correct URL. You may have the wrong URL, so try searching for the site from a search engine. You can also try clearing your browser's cache and changing the DNS servers, but if it's the website's problem, there's nothing you can do.

There isn't much you can do to fix a 500 internal server error ; the problem usually appears when there's an issue with the page or site's programming. However, you can try reloading the page, clearing your browser's cache, deleting browser cookies, or returning to the website later.

There isn't much you can do to fix a 403 Forbidden error because it typically stems from the site's development and design. To see if the problem is on your end, try checking for URL errors and clearing your browser's cache and cookies. See if the site is working for others; if so, contact the webmaster.

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