ubon-safaris

Our guide to walking safaris in Southern Africa

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 07:31:49 GMT

Take a walk on the wild side with us!

Game drives are wonderful. Nobody's sugge sting otherwise, but they offer Africa with a degree of remove. On foot, that remove disappears entirely. You notice things you'd never see from a seat a metre or so off the ground: the delicate architecture of a spider's web strung between acacia thorns, the fresh spoor of a leopard pressed into soft riverbank mud, the particular silence that falls when an elephant is closer than you think. Your senses sharpen in a way that is almost startling. Colours seem brighter. Sounds carry further. You feel, in the most fundamental way, alive.

Walking safaris are also where the real expertise of a guide reveals itself. In a vehicle, a guide points and explains. On foot, they lead, interpret, protect and illuminate simultaneously. The best guides in Southern Africa are extraordinary people, deeply knowledgeable about ecology, animal behaviour, tracking and the fine art of reading the wind. Walking alongside one of them is an education that no classroom could replicate.

Zambia: the birthplace of the walking safari

If walking safaris have a spiritual home, it's Zambia. Norman Carr pioneered the concept in the Luangwa Valley in the 1950s, and the tradition has flourished here ever since. South Luangwa National Park remains one of the finest walking safari destinations on the continent, with a density of wildlife that makes every outing genuinely eventful.

The Lower Zambezi, where the great river sets the scene and elephant, buffalo and lion are daily companions, is equally compelling.

Zambia's walking culture runs deep, and the guides it produces are widely regarded as among the best in Africa. If you're new to walking safaris, there's nowhere better to begin.

Zimbabwe: the wild and the wonderful

Zimbabwe's Mana Pools National Park is in a category of its own. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it sits in the Zambezi Valley where ancient ebony and albida trees cast deep shade over floodplains alive with wildlife. What makes Mana Pools particularly special is the combination of riverine landscape, extraordinary elephant sightings and the raw, unfenced wildness of one of Africa's most memorable destinations.

On the other hand Hwange, Zimbabwe's largest national park, offers a contrasting experience: vast open pans, enormous elephant herds and the kind of landscapes that feel ancient and eternal. Walk them both if you don't want to choose!

Botswana: water, wilderness and wonder on foot

Walking in Botswana is a different experience from anywhere else, shaped by the extraordinary landscape of the Okavango Delta. Here, walking often means moving between islands of papyrus and palm, with the water-filtered light and the sounds of the delta creating an atmosphere that's entirely unique. The Linyanti and Selinda areas in northern Botswana offer some of the finest predator-focused walking in Southern Africa, where wild dog, lion and leopard share the stage with vast herds of elephant and buffalo.

Botswana's commitment to low-volume, high-value conservation means the walking experience here feels genuinely exclusive, unhurried and deeply immersive.

Namibia: walking at the edge of the earth

Namibia brings something completely different to the walking safari conversation. In Damaraland, the walks are as much about landscape and geology as they are about wildlife, though desert-adapted elephant, black rhino and gemsbok make regular appearances. The Namib Desert, the oldest in the world, offers guided walks of haunting beauty where the silence is so complete it becomes almost physical.

Walking near the Etosha periphery, in the private concessions that border the national park, combines the drama of one of Africa's great wildlife destinations with the intimacy and pace that only a walking safari can offer. Namibia suits the traveller who wants their safari to feel like genuine exploration.

South Africa: walking the Greater Kruger

The Rainbow Nation's contribution to the walking safari story is a rich one, and it's the Greater Kruger, that vast mosaic of private reserves and concessions bordering the Kruger National Park, where the walking experience truly comes into its own. Here, the absence of the fences and restrictions that govern the national park itself means guides have real freedom to move, to follow, to linger and to respond to whatever the bush presents.

The Sabi Sand, Timbavati, Klaserie and Thornybush reserves all offer outstanding walking, typically combined with the kind of luxury lodge and bush camp accommodation that makes returning from the bush each day a genuine pleasure in itself.

Walking inside the Kruger National Park itself is possible through the park's own Wilderness Trails, which are celebrated for good reason and much sought after. The demand for places, however, is considerable and availability can be frustratingly limited, particularly for travellers without the luxury of booking a year or more in advance.

A compelling alternative, and one worth knowing about, is Kruger Untamed's Tshokwane River Camp. This intimate seasonal camp, open from 1 May to 30 September each year, sits deep in the southern Kruger and offers guests guided walks into genuine wilderness, delivering much of what the Wilderness Trails promise but with greater accessibility and the added comfort of exceptional camp accommodation. If walking the heart of one of Africa's most iconic conservation areas has long been on your list, Tshokwane River Camp is a very fine way to make it happen.

What to expect and how to prepare

A walking safari is not a stroll. It demands a reasonable level of fitness, comfortable broken-in footwear, neutral-coloured clothing and a genuine willingness to move slowly and stay quiet. Most walks last between two and four hours, typically in the cooler early morning.

Groups are small, almost always no more than eight people, and the pace is set by the guide and by what the bush presents on any given day. Some days you'll cover several kilometres. Others, you'll spend 40 minutes watching a dung beetle with a focus you didn't know you possessed.

The golden rules are straightforward: follow your guide's instructions without question, stay together, move quietly and resist the urge to reach for your phone every thirty seconds. The rewards for that discipline are considerable.

Is a walking safari safe?

It's the question almost everyone wants to ask but few do, so let's answer it plainly. Yes, a walking safari is safe, provided it's done properly, with a qualified and experienced guide, in a reputable reserve or national park, and with due respect for the environment and the animals within it.

The guides who lead walking safaris in Southern Africa are among the most rigorously trained in the world, holding qualifications that require years of field experience, extensive theoretical knowledge and, in many cases, a firearms proficiency certification. They understand animal behaviour at a level that is genuinely impressive, and their ability to read a situation and respond calmly is what makes the experience both safe and extraordinary.

It's also worth understanding that the vast majority of African wildlife, when encountered on foot by a small, quiet, downwind group moving with purpose and guided by someone who knows what they're doing, will simply go about their business. Africa's animals are not waiting to cause trouble. The bush operates on its own logic, and a good guide understands that logic completely.

Sensible precautions are part of the experience rather than a burden on it. You'll be briefed thoroughly before every walk. You'll stay together, move quietly and follow your guide's instructions without hesitation. Those aren't onerous demands. They're the conditions that allow the magic to happen. Walking safaris have an exceptional safety record across the continent, and the operators and camps that Ubon Safari works with are chosen, in part, because their standards in this regard are unimpeachable.

Planning your walking safari with Ubon

A walking safari requires careful planning to get right. The season matters enormously: the dry winter months from May to October are generally best across Southern Africa, when vegetation is lower, water sources are concentrated and wildlife is easier to track. The destination needs to match your fitness level, your wildlife priorities and the kind of landscape that speaks to you most.

At Ubon Safari, Umang and Beena have the experience and the on-the-ground knowledge to design a walking safari that fits you perfectly, whether that's a dedicated walking itinerary in Zambia's Luangwa Valley or a several extraordinary walks woven into a broader Southern African journey.

If the idea of meeting Africa on foot has been sitting quietly in the back of your mind, now is the time to let it come forward. Get in touch for a conversation. It costs nothing, and it could lead somewhere extraordinary.

There is a moment, somewhere between the first cautious step into the bush and the realisation that you are utterly, gloriously present, when a walking safari stops being an activity and becomes something closer to a revelation... No engine noise, no vehicle between you and the world, just the crunch of dry earth underfoot, the warm weight of the African sun, and a guide who reads the landscape the way most of us read a page. If you've ever wondered what Africa feels like at ground level, a walking safari is your answer.

Going solo in Africa

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 07:08:46 GMT

Why travelling alone on safari might be the best decision you ever make!

There is something quietly radical about choosing to go alone. You answer to no one. You linger as long as you like at the waterhole. You take the early morning walk because you want to, not because a travel companion needs convincing. Africa, with its endless capacity to surprise and its extraordinary diversity of experience, rewards that kind of attention completely.

Solo travel in Africa is more popular than ever, and for good reason. The continent offers an almost unparalleled range of experiences for the independent-minded traveller, from the vast game-rich savannahs of East Africa to the remote waterways of the Okavango Delta, from the dramatic desert landscapes of Namibia to the turquoise stillness of the Seychelles. Whatever draws you, Africa has a version of it that will take your breath away.

East Africa: where the soul of safari lives

For many solo travellers, East Africa is where the story begins. Kenya and Tanzania together form one of the world's most iconic wildlife corridors, and experiencing it alone has a particular magic. On a game drive through the Masai Mara or across the vast Serengeti plains, you are already in a small group by the nature of the vehicle, which means solo travellers slot in seamlessly, often finding that the intimacy of a shared game drive with strangers becomes one of the highlights of the trip.

Conversations start over sundowners. Friendships form around campfires. Africa has a remarkable way of dissolving the distance between people.

Tanzania, too, deserves its moment. Beyond the Serengeti, there is the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheatre of wildlife so concentrated it feels almost cinematic. For those with a spirit of adventure and a head for heights, Kilimanjaro waits. And when the bush calls for balance, Zanzibar is just a short flight away: spice-scented, sea-lapped and entirely seductive. It is the ideal solo retreat after days in the wild.

Southern Africa: depth, drama and diversity

Southern Africa offers the solo traveller something different again. Botswana, one of Africa's great conservation success stories, is a destination that rewards quiet attention. The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's largest inland deltas, shifts with the seasons, and exploring it by mokoro or on foot with an expert guide is a deeply personal experience, one that feels especially powerful when you are there on your own terms.

Zimbabwe is a country that tends to exceed expectations. Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is quite simply astonishing, and it anchors a destination that also offers exceptional game viewing in Hwange National Park and the scenic grandeur of Mana Pools. Zambia, just across the Zambezi, is no less compelling, offering walking safaris of genuine depth and exclusivity.

Namibia stands apart from almost anywhere else on earth. Its landscapes, vast, elemental and eerily beautiful, have a particular hold on solo travellers. There is something about the silence of the Namib Desert, the oldest in the world, and the terracotta dunes of Sossusvlei that invites the kind of reflection that is only really possible when you are travelling alone.

Indian Ocean islands: the solo traveller's reward

Every great solo adventure deserves a soft landing, and Africa's Indian Ocean islands offer exactly that. The islands of the Seychelles, with their cathedral-like granite boulders and translucent water, are among the most beautiful places on the planet. Mauritius blends beach luxury with cultural richness. And Madagascar, strange, wonderful and unlike anywhere else on earth, is a destination in its own right: a place where the natural world went its own way millions of years ago, and shows no signs of apology for it.

These islands are not merely add-ons. For the solo traveller, they offer a chance to decompress, to swim in warm water, to eat well, to read, and to allow the experiences of the safari to settle properly. They are the perfect full stop to an extraordinary African journey.

The honest truth about solo travel costs

It would be dishonest not to address this. The single supplement, charged by most lodges and camps when a room is occupied by one person rather than two, is the one genuine consideration for solo travellers in Africa. It exists because the cost of running a camp does not halve simply because a room is occupied by one guest rather than two, and most properties charge accordingly.

That said, it need not be a deterrent. At Ubon Safari, we plan solo journeys with this in mind from the outset, ensuring that the experience you receive represents outstanding value and is priced transparently from the start. We also know which properties offer single-friendly rates at certain times of year, and we will always steer you wisely.

A word on safety

It's the question that sits quietly in the mind of almost every solo traveller considering Africa for the first time, and it deserves a straight answer. Africa is a vast and varied continent, and like any destination in the world, it rewards sensible, well-informed travel. The good news is that a properly planned safari, staying in reputable camps and lodges, travelling with trusted operators and guided by experts on the ground, is an inherently safe experience.

You are not navigating unfamiliar streets alone. You are in the hands of people who know their environment intimately, who are trained to keep you safe, and who take that responsibility seriously.

For solo travellers, and particularly for women travelling alone, choosing the right operator makes all the difference. At Ubon Safari, every element of your journey is vetted, from the guides who meet you at the airstrip to the camps where you sleep at night.

We maintain trusted relationships with properties across the continent, and we would never recommend anywhere we would not send a member of our own family. Our 24/7 support means that wherever you are, help is always within reach. Africa, experienced this way, is not a risk. It is a revelation.

Why Ubon Safari is the ideal partner for your solo adventure

Planning a solo safari requires a particular kind of care. It is not simply about booking flights and lodges. It is about understanding what a solo traveller genuinely needs: the reassurance of knowing someone is always available, the confidence that every detail has been considered, and the freedom to know that while you are alone, you are never without support.

Our founders, Umang and Beena, have been crafting deeply personal African journeys for over 35 years. They understand that solo travel is not about going it alone in any anxious sense. It is about going on your own terms, with all the expertise and care of a trusted partner quietly behind you.

If Africa is calling, and you are thinking about answering that call on your own, we would love to hear from you. Start with a conversation. No obligation, no pressure. Just two people who love Africa, ready to help you find yours.

Africa has a long and noble tradition of stopping people in their tracks. One look at a lioness moving through golden grass. One sunrise over the Serengeti. One moment of silence so complete you can hear your own heartbeat. And suddenly, whatever you thought you knew about travel shifts entirely. Going solo in Africa has exactly the same effect. It reframes everything. And for a growing number of adventurers, it has become not the consolation prize of travel, but the whole point.

The Zanzibar Top 10

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 06:56:47 GMT

Why Zanzibar is such a great beach destination

In truth, Zanzibar’s appeal runs deeper than its beaches. For centuries it sat at the centre of Indian Ocean trade routes, linking Africa with Arabia, Persia and India. Merchants, sailors and settlers arrived with spices, textiles, stories and faiths, each leaving something behind. The result is a culture that feels layered and distinctively Swahili, shaped by African roots and Arab, Indian and European influences.

You see it in the carved wooden doors of Stone Town, taste it in fragrant curries and coconut stews, and hear it in the blend of languages and music that drifts through the streets.

Zanzibar is not simply a beach escape. It is history, culture, food, architecture and ocean life woven together on one small, sun-drenched island. It is the perfect counterpoint to an East African safari, and equally compelling as a standalone destination.

1. The beaches really are that good

Let’s start with the obvious. The beaches are exceptional! Powder-white sand stretches for miles, soft and cool underfoot even in the midday heat. The water is warm year round, clear enough to see fish flickering around your ankles. Palm trees lean towards the shoreline and the horizon seems endless.

The east coast of the main island of Unguja is known for its wide tidal flats and luminous blues, where the ocean retreats each morning to reveal sandbanks and shallow lagoons. The north offers classic postcard swimming beaches with calm water and long, lazy afternoons. The south and south east feel and the smaller islands of the archipelago like Pemba are quieter and more remote, perfect for travellers who want space and stillness.

Wherever you base yourself, the sea is never far away and neither is that feeling of complete escape.

2. A natural pairing with safari

Zanzibar works beautifully alongside a safari. After early mornings in open safari vehicles and dusty afternoons tracking wildlife, the island feels like a reward.

The transition is seamless. One day you are listening for lions at dawn, the next you are floating in warm water with nothing but sky above you. The contrast enhances both experiences. The intensity of the bush makes the coast feel softer. The calm of the beach helps you process everything you have seen inland.

Few destinations balance adventure and relaxation as effortlessly.

3. History you can walk through

Zanzibar is not only sand and sea. It has depth. The ancient capital of Stone Town sits at the cultural heart of the islands and feels like stepping into another era. Narrow alleyways twist between coral stone buildings, carved wooden doors and shaded courtyards. The air carries the scent of cloves, coffee and charcoal grills.

This was once a major trading hub linking Africa, Arabia and India, and that history is still visible in the architecture and everyday life. Arab balconies, Indian influences, Swahili culture and European remnants all sit side by side. Mosques, churches and markets share the same streets.

You do not visit Stone Town to tick off sights. You wander. You get lost. You stop for strong coffee or fresh sugarcane juice and watch the world pass. It is messy, vibrant, layered and completely absorbing.

4. Authentic culture

Zanzibar does not feel manufactured for tourism. Life here continues as it always has. Fishermen push wooden boats into the surf at sunrise. Women gather seaweed along the shore at low tide. Children play football on the beach in the evenings as the sun sinks into the ocean. The rhythm is authentic and unhurried.

Music drifts from houses, spices and fish dry in the sun and conversations spill out into the streets. Visitors are welcomed into this everyday life rather than kept separate from it, which makes the experience feel genuine and grounded.

5. Flavours shaped by the spice trade

Food is an essential part of Zanzibar's islands. Zanzibari cuisine reflects centuries of trade and migration. Cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom flavour everything from curries to coffee. Fresh seafood arrives daily, grilled simply or folded into fragrant stews. Coconut, lime and chilli appear in almost every dish.

Evenings might mean lobster on the beach with your feet in the sand, or street food in Stone Town where skewers sizzle and chapatis are flipped on hot plates. It is unfussy, generous and full of flavour.

Meals here are not rushed. They stretch long into the night, accompanied by conversation, sea air and the soft crash of waves.

6. The life aquatic

The Indian Ocean surrounding Zanzibar is alive. Coral reefs fringe much of the coastline, creating ideal conditions for snorkelling and diving. Visibility is often excellent, and even a short swim from the beach can reveal reef fish, starfish and coral gardens.

Boat trips take you further out to sandbanks and atolls where dolphins pass through and turtles drift between the reefs. Whether you are an experienced diver or simply curious with a mask and snorkel, the underwater world adds another dimension to the islands.

7. It's easy to slow down

Some destinations demand constant activity. Zanzibar encourages the opposite. Days unfold naturally. A morning swim. A late breakfast. A walk along a beach. Time with a book under the shade of a palm. Perhaps a massage or a dhow cruise at sunset.

There is no pressure to do more. The simplicity is the luxury. After a few days, watches are forgotten and the only schedule that matters is the tide.

8. Boutique stays with character

Accommodation on the island tends towards intimate and characterful rather than oversized and impersonal. Boutique hotels, small beach lodges, converted merchant houses and low-key resorts blend into their surroundings. Whitewashed walls, thatched roofs and open air spaces keep the focus on the ocean and the breeze. Service is warm and personal, the kind where staff quickly learn your name and your morning coffee order.

It feels relaxed and genuine, which suits the islands perfectly.

9. The perfect climate and easy access

Zanzibar’s climate makes it a reliable beach destination for much of the year. Warm temperatures, plenty of sunshine and refreshing sea breezes create ideal conditions for both relaxation and exploration. It's also remarkably easy to reach, with straightforward connections from East Africa’s main safari hubs such as Arusha, the Serengeti and Nairobi. That convenience makes it simple to combine bush and beach without complicated logistics.

10. Flexible and fun

Ultimately, Zanzibar’s greatest strength is its flexibility. You can fill your days with diving, sailing, spice tours and cultural walks, or you can do almost nothing at all. Both feel equally valid. This destination adapts to your pace rather than the other way around, offering rest without boredom, culture without crowds and beauty without pretence.

Talk to us about adding Zanzibar to your next safari itinerary or visiting it as a standalone beach destination!

Some places invite you to slow down the moment you arrive. Zanzibar is one of them. Warm air heavy with spice drifts through open windows. The Indian Ocean shifts between turquoise and deep cobalt as the tide rises and falls. Dhows sail past on the horizon, their white sails catching the light like scattered shells. Life here moves to the rhythm of the sea and the call to prayer, to footsteps in sand and long, salt scented afternoons. Let's find out more...

Our guide to a safari in South Africa

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 11:25:11 GMT

The ultimate African adventure awaits in the "Rainbow Nation"

A great place to start your journey is South Africa’s most celebrated wilderness - The Greater Kruger National Park. The benchmark for safari experiences, it's a vast mosaic of savannahs, thickets and riverine forests that features the legendary Kruger National Park and its surrounding private game reserves where the Big Five roam freely.

Game drives here reveal the subtleties of predator and prey, the intricate choreography of herds and the quiet moments that often go unnoticed.

Private reserves bordering Kruger, such as the Sabi Sand, Timbavati, Klaserie and Manyeleti, offer a more intimate rhythm. Expert guides track wildlife on open safari vehicles, allowing you to follow spoor off-road, linger over sightings and witness rare behaviours.

Nights bring a different world to life. The calls of hyenas and owls echo across the plains, fireflies dance in the shadows, and the sky, unpolluted by city lights, reveals a tapestry of stars that seems infinite.

Epic landscapes, history and heritage

Other parts of South Africa offer a completely different perspective. In KwaZulu Natal nature takes the spotlight, combining rolling hills, river valleys and coastal plains with a deep and complex history. The region is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, from the Drakensberg mountains with their towering, jagged ridges and deep gorges to the gentle savannahs and grasslands that stretch towards the Indian Ocean.

History is woven into a land dotted with the sites of historic battles, including those of the Anglo-Zulu and Anglo-Boer wars. These battlefields provide a window into the past and sweeping vistas that allow you to appreciate the scale and isolation of the terrain that shaped these conflicts. Combined with the traditional Zulu culture that remains vibrant across the province, KwaZulu-Natal invites travellers to experience both natural beauty and the echoes of history in the same journey.

Breathtaking routes to explore

In South Africa’s lush lowveld the landscapes are front and centre, especially along the celebrated Panorama Route, where jaw-dropping scenery unfolds at every turn. The Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest in the world, offers sweeping vistas that seem to stretch to the horizon, while Bourke’s Luck Potholes reveal the sculptural power of water over millennia. God’s Window provides a vantage point over misted valleys and forests, reminding you that South Africa’s beauty is as much about scale and perspective as it is about detail.

This is a region for slowing down, for letting landscapes sink in. Waterfalls cascade into deep gorges, birdsong punctuates the quiet, and the air carries the scent of flora and forest. Each lookout and trail encourages observation, reflection and connection to the land in a way that complements the immediacy of the bush.

City of sea, sky and spirit

From the bush, the mountains and escarpments, the journey turns to the southernmost tip of the continent, to the Mother City of Cape Town, a place of striking contrasts and enduring charm. Table Mountain rises above the city, its flat summit offering panoramic views of the Atlantic seaboard. Below, beaches curve into secluded coves, African penguins waddle at Boulders Beach, and the city hums with energy and colour.

Cape Town is where culture meets landscape. Bo-Kaap, with its vividly painted houses, reflects the city’s Cape Malay heritage and rich history. Contemporary art galleries, music venues and markets pulse with creativity. Dining here is an experience in itself, from seafood fresh from the Atlantic to Cape Malay bobotie and innovative farm-to-table dishes, each meal telling a story of heritage, flavour and culinary ingenuity.

Rolling vineyards and refined indulgence

A short drive from the city, the Cape Winelands extend the South African experience into sun-drenched vineyards, centuries-old estates and cellar doors that pour some of the world’s most elegant wines. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl each offer a distinct character, from historic architecture and quaint streets to world-class wine estates. Sampling Cap Classique sparkling wines, sipping a crisp Chenin Blanc or pairing a pinot noir with a local meal is an extension of the journey, engaging the senses in a different but equally memorable way.

Here, the rhythm is slower. Days are measured in tastings, vineyard walks and leisurely meals overlooking mountains and valleys. Evenings are spent watching the light change over the vineyards, the air fragrant with ripe grapes and fynbos, the land quieting as night descends. It is a deliberate contrast to the immediacy of the bush, yet no less immersive.

Timing your visit

The timing of a safari in South Africa shapes the experience. Dry winter months from May to September are preferred for game viewing. Cooler temperatures and sparse vegetation make animals easier to spot as they gather at rivers and waterholes. Early mornings are crisp, with golden light that enhances photography and adds a quiet, meditative quality to the bush. But Cape Town's climate can be unpredictable during this time.

Summer (December to February) and autumn (March to May) bring a different rhythm and are wonderful times to be in South Africa and when Cape Town is at its most beautiful. In the Kruger, the bush bursts into green, rivers run higher and migratory birds are found in spectacular numbers. Calving season begins, offering a glimpse of life cycles that keep the predator-prey balance in constant motion.

Rainfall, usually in the form of short afternoon thunderstorms, adds drama to the skies and provides a refreshing contrast to the heat. Understanding these seasonal shifts allows you to align your safari expectations with the wildlife and landscapes you most want to experience.

Wild encounters

A South African safari is defined by immersion and attention to detail. Open safari vehicles provide unobstructed views of the land and its inhabitants, while trained guides interpret tracks, behaviours and ecosystems. Game drives move at the pace of the animals, not the clock.

Sometimes patiently following spoor, other times arriving at a sighting by sheer serendipity. The real reward comes in the subtle moments: a pair of mating lions in tall grass, elephants gently interacting at a waterhole or the flight of a fish eagle across a mirrored river.

Mornings and evenings are key. The bush awakens slowly, and wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk. Afternoons can be spent back at your lodge, observing birds, tracking signs of smaller mammals or walking with rangers to learn about the ecology and conservation challenges that define each reserve. These slower moments create a fuller understanding of the land and its rhythm.

Culinary and cultural experiences

Food and culture are inseparable from travel in South Africa. Braais (known as barbecues everywhere else) and local specialties provide insight into traditional ways of life, while contemporary cuisine demonstrates the country’s evolving culinary identity.

Local wines add a sensory layer to travel that enhances each day’s adventure. Cultural encounters, whether visiting communities near reserves or exploring markets in Cape Town, provide context and connection to the land and its people.

Making it unforgettable

The perfect South African safari blends wilderness, culture and landscapes into a cohesive experience. It is the interplay between quiet bush moments and human connection, between the intensity of tracking wildlife and the calm of a vineyard terrace at sunset. Savour the sights, sounds, tastes and textures of the country. Every encounter in the bush, every conversation and every meal is part of the story.

With careful planning and an open mind, South Africa becomes more than a destination. It becomes an experience that lingers, a story you carry long after the journey ends.

Talk to us today about creating a custom South African safari for you.

South Africa is a land of contrasts and discoveries, where untamed wilderness coexists with vibrant cities, rolling vineyards and landscapes that shift dramatically at every turn. A South African safari is more than a wildlife adventure: it is a journey through ecosystems and cultures, through history and heritage, through sights and sounds that awaken all your senses. From tracking elephants across golden savannahs to sipping wine in sun-drenched valleys, the country invites you to immerse yourself fully in its rhythm.

Where romance meets wild

Sat, 13 Dec 2025 22:00:00 GMT

How to choose the right safari honeymoon destination

Every couple travels differently. Some love the thrill of adventure. Others want tranquillity. Many want a blend of both. The joy of an African honeymoon is that you can match the place to your personality.

Here are a few regions we love and some reasons why they may be the perfect fit for your first journey as newlyweds on the honeymoon of a lifetime...

Botswana

Botswana is the definition of intimacy. Remote camps set in pristine wilderness areas... Mokoro safaris drifting through lilies... Elephants swimming in the channels of the Okavango Delta at sunset... Some camps offer private decks where dinners are served to lantern light under the stars, and the soundtrack is frogs, hippos and your own laughter.

If you want luxury that feels grounded in nature and a safari that never feels crowded, Botswana is a beautiful choice. Wildlife is exceptional year-round and the experiences feel tailor-made for two.

Kenya and Tanzania

We love the Masai Mara and the Serengeti. They both offer epic love stories in enormous landscapes. Indeed, the great savannas of East Africa bring drama and emotion into every moment. Lion prides stretched across golden plains... Endless horizons... Sun rising behind acacia silhouettes in a sky washed pink...

For couples dreaming of witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration, this is where love meets legend. Think hot air balloon safaris followed by champagne breakfasts or alfresco bubble baths with views of zebra on the plains. Lodges here are designed with privacy in mind, where every sunset feels like it was arranged especially for you.

South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

The South Luangwa is for those who want to be in the wilderness, not simply look at it. This is the home of walking safaris and exploring on foot brings a different kind of closeness, where you discover tracks, smell wild sage and feel the pulse of a landscape full of life.

Here you'll find rustic luxury lodges with outdoor showers, star beds and campfires shared by only a handful of guests add to the intimacy. Shared adrenaline builds shared connection. And in the South Luangwa, those moments come easily.

Rwanda

Meeting mountain mountain gorillas is as life-changing as tying the proverbial knot. There is a powerful, emotional stillness in the forest, followed by the awe of seeing wild gorillas up close. It is tender. It is humbling. It is unforgettable.

Gorilla trekking combines beautifully with lakeside relaxation at Lake Kivu or a few nights in Akagera National Park for a low-impact Big Five finish. It is a honeymoon defined by meaning, with conservation woven into every step.

The Indian Ocean islands

Safari is exhilarating. A little barefoot luxury afterwards can be the perfect balance. These islands pair beautifully with East or Southern Africa for a honeymoon that has both wild adventure and tropical calm...

Zanzibar

Character, colour and spice-scented nights combined with history and heart - Zanzibar is oozing romance. Stone Town is alive with winding alleys, markets and carved wooden doors. Then come the beaches. Palm fringed, white sand, warm turquoise sea. It feels both exotic and relaxed. Add dhow cruises at sunset and rooftop dinners overlooking the old city and it becomes heavenly.

Seychelles

Granite boulders, lush jungle and beaches that look like nature’s sculpture gallery... The Seychelles archipelago of drop-dead gorgeous islands is where you go if privacy and barefoot luxury are your priority.

Boutique island lodges - some completely exclusive - create the feeling that you have slipped away into your own secret paradise.

Mauritius

Soft and welcoming with quiet coves and coral reefs perfect for snorkelling and private pools framed by tropical gardens. Mauritius is for couples who want long, unhurried days with optional adventure on tap. Add some golf, sailing, hiking through forested peaks, or simply do nothing at all.

Start your journey with us...

Your honeymoon is the very first chapter of your married life. Make it a story of awe, adventure and togetherness. Africa will give you laughter, quiet wonder and a thousand moments you never saw coming.

And UBON Safari will make sure every one of them feels beautifully, perfectly yours.

We create journeys that honour both the romance and the wilderness. We listen to what you love and design a honeymoon that feels like it belongs to you. So let's chat about your dream honeymoon today.

There is a certain kind of honeymoon that does more than celebrate a wedding. It sets the tone for a lifetime. A safari honeymoon does exactly that. It brings you into landscapes where life feels raw and beautiful, where every day holds something rare, and where two people can stand side by side witnessing nature at its most astonishing. It's waking to golden light resting on the horizon... Leaning close as a leopard passes through tall grass... Sitting around a quiet fire under a sky so full of stars you forget civilisation exists. And in those moments, you realise how exhilarating it is to begin married life with discovery...

Our guide to safaris in Botswana

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 10:12:14 GMT

Discover the quiet heart of Southern Africa

At UBON Safari, we design journeys that let Botswana reveal itself slowly. We work with camps and guides who protect the wilderness first and welcome people second. Because here, nature always leads. And when you follow that rhythm, Botswana becomes impossible to forget.

The Okavango Delta

Nowhere captures Botswana’s spirit quite like the Okavango Delta. Each year, floodwaters arrive from distant Angolan rains, breathing life into dry Kalahari sands. Water curls and divides into channels and lagoons, then disappears, absorbed by a thirsty land. The result is a mosaic of contrasts: bright islands that are home to majestic riparian trees; open floodplains that glimmer in the sun during the annual inundation becoming vast open savannahs in the dry season; and woodlands rich with shade and countless leopard tracks.

A safari here shifts with every hour. One moment you are drifting silently in a mokoro through reeds where jewel-coloured malachite kingfishers hunt; the next you're following lions across an island, their paws still wet from a channel crossing. Sundowners arrive with elephants, trunks swinging, water droplets catching the light. Nights are loud with frog choruses and the distant grunt of hippos. You lie in bed knowing you are entirely woven into a living, breathing system. This is wilderness that surrounds you, challenges you, and rewards you with encounters as raw as nature intended.

Moremi Game Reserve

The Moremi takes the Delta’s energy and concentrates it. It's a place of action, a land where big cats thrive and the daily story belongs to predators and prey. Leopard sightings here are among the best in Africa. Wild dog packs race through the floodplains, and hyenas patrol the edges of every drama, waiting for opportunity. Buffalo gather in thick herds, and giraffe watch over everything, unhurried and elegant.

Yet beyond the power and the pulsing chases, Moremi has a quieter side. Mopane woodlands harbour secretive species. Riverine forests hold the calls of countless birds. A crown eagle soaring overhead... A Pel’s fishing owl glimpsed in the half-light... A herd of red lechwe splashing across a waterlogged floodplain... All remind you that spectacle is not the only kind of beauty. The Moremi wears its wildness honestly. No theatrics. No predictable script. Just nature, unapologetic.

Makgadikgadi Pans

Drive into the Makgadikgadi and you feel the world open. Flat. Unbroken. A white shimmer as far as the eye can reach. Ancient salt crusts tell the story of a vast lake that once dominated the interior of Southern Africa. Today, it feels otherworldly, a place where one zebra strolling across a pan can become the most arresting sight on Earth.

Look closer and the ecosystem reveals itself. Meerkats rise with the sun, alert and comical on their hind legs. Brown hyenas wander back from secretive hunts. Ostriches stride like dancers across the emptiness. On rock-strewn islands, baobabs stand like guardians of time, their roots deep in stories older than cities.

And in the rainy season this is a place of remarkable transformation, when the pans flood attracting huge flocks of flamingos and other birds. Grasses grow new and green and zebra migrate in their thousands from the Okavango Delta. Here, stillness is an experience. And when darkness falls, stars stretch so wide you lose track of the horizon. Botswana shows you scale in the Delta. In the Makgadikgadi, it shows you infinity.

Chobe National Park

Chobe is defined by movement. Elephants are constantly on the move here, migrating between water and woodland, forming family units that stretch across the landscape like great grey rivers of life. You watch them drink, play and communicate with rumbling calls that roll beneath your feet. It is both intimate and monumental.

Along the Chobe River, wildlife gathers in astonishing numbers. Buffalo pack the banks. Crocodiles lie in wait. Herds of impala leap like embers in the golden light. From the seat of a boat, the waterline becomes theatre, and the low sun paints everything in gold.

Drive deeper inland to Savuti and the energy shifts. Lions here are known for their audacity. Cheetahs use open spaces for high-speed chases. Hyenas reign after dark. It feels rugged, unfiltered, and ancient in the best possible way.

The Tuli Block

At the eastern edge of Botswana lies a land of dramatic geology and deep history. Sandstone cliffs glow red in the late evening sun. Balanced boulders dot the landscape like works of art. Riverbeds cut winding pathways through fever-tree forests where leopards melt into dappled shade.

Tuli feels personal. It is a place of walking safaris, horse riding through dramatic scenery, and long hours beneath wild skies. You might explore ancient rock art from civilisations whose stories still whisper from the stone. Communities here are partners in conservation, sharing knowledge, culture, and the responsibility of protecting wildlife.

The wildlife viewing is riveting, yet it is the sense of heritage that sets Tuli apart. The land itself is a storyteller.

No matter your destination, Botswana proves what happens when a country chooses wildlife. Low-impact tourism ensures animals have the space they need, and visitors feel like respectful guests. Most camps are small, most areas are remote, and most travellers understand that to be here is a privilege.

At UBON Safari, we share and protect that philosophy. We refuse any safari practice that pressures wildlife or crowds critical habitats. No cornering animals. No engines revved for the perfect shot. No disruption to migrations or natural behaviour. The wild has been moving to its own rhythm for millennia. We are here to honour that, not interfere.

Come quietly. Come openly. Come ready to be changed.

Botswana rewards those who travel with intention. It is for people who want their safari to feel real, to connect their heart to the land underfoot, to understand the world beyond their own. If you are seeking the Africa that still feels ancient and alive, Botswana will welcome you. And UBON Safari will guide you every step of the way.

Botswana is not a place you pass through. It is a country that holds you, quiets you, and reminds you that the wild world still breathes freely. It is one of the last strongholds where wildlife moves as it always has, where rivers shift with the seasons, where silence has power, and where a safari is not about ticking off sightings, but about belonging to a landscape.

The Great Wildebeest Migration: Serengeti or Masai Mara?

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 07:14:59 GMT

Your guide to witnessing the world’s greatest wildlife spectacle

The Serengeti: where the story begins

In the Serengeti, the migration feels ancient, sweeping and endless. This is where the herds are born and where the story begins each year. Between January and March, the southern plains of the Serengeti and the Ndutu region burst into life with the calving season. Hundreds of thousands of wildebeest calves take their first steps across the green grasslands, bringing an almost electric sense of renewal.

The predators are never far away. Lions, hyenas and cheetahs watch from the acacia shade, alert to the vulnerability of new life. The drama is raw and immediate, but so too is the feeling of space. The Serengeti is vast and boundless, and even in the height of the migration you can drive for hours without seeing another vehicle. It is a place that invites stillness as much as excitement, a wilderness that feels timeless.

Life and death on the Grumeti River

As the months move on, the herds follow the rain and the promise of fresh grazing, heading north and west. In May and June they gather in the Grumeti region, crossing its crocodile-filled river in surging, chaotic bursts. These crossings are less photographed than those of the Mara River, but no less thrilling.

Here, in the quieter corners of the Serengeti, the sense of discovery is profound. You may be the only witness to the crossing, watching in silence as the river churns with life and death. This is the Serengeti at its purest: raw, remote, and astonishingly beautiful.

The Masai Mara: nature’s grand theatre

By July, the herds are moving towards the border with Kenya, spilling into the Masai Mara and transforming its golden plains into a living tide of movement. The Masai Mara is smaller and more intimate than the Serengeti, which makes the migration feel more concentrated, more intense.

The famous Mara River crossings are the main event here, where thousands of wildebeest gather on the banks, hesitating before plunging into the murky, crocodile-filled waters. The air is thick with dust and tension. When they finally leap, the sound of hooves and splashing water becomes a thunder that vibrates through the ground. It is nature’s drama at its most visceral.

A closer stage, a wilder crowd

The Mara is also a paradise for predators, and this is where you’ll find some of Africa’s highest densities of big cats. Lions stalk the herds across the plains; cheetahs sprint through the grass; leopards lurk in the riverine trees. Because the reserve and surrounding conservancies are more compact than the Serengeti, you seldom have to travel far to encounter wildlife. Every drive feels rich with possibility, and even short safaris deliver extraordinary sightings. The Mara is, in many ways, the migration distilled – a perfect stage for its fiercest scenes.

Yet with accessibility and concentration come crowds. During the height of the migration season, the main crossing points of the Mara River can draw dozens of vehicles, and some of the intimacy can be lost.

This is why private conservancies adjoining the Masai Mara National Reserve are such an appealing alternative. They offer the same landscapes and wildlife, but with far fewer vehicles and the flexibility to explore on your own schedule. For many travellers, this balance between action and exclusivity makes Kenya’s side of the migration particularly rewarding.

The Serengeti’s gift of space

In contrast, the Serengeti offers more space. Its immensity means that even in the busiest months, you can still find your own pocket of wilderness. The landscapes shift constantly, from endless grass plains to wooded valleys, granite kopjes and sweeping rivers.

It feels like a land with no edges, where the migration is not a spectacle to be observed, but a living process that you become part of. Here, the experience is slower, deeper, more meditative. You learn to follow the weather, to understand the movements of the herds and the rhythms of their world.

Choosing your migration experience

Choosing between the two is less about which is better, and more about what kind of safari experience you seek. If you crave the raw theatre of river crossings, the power of predators in pursuit, and the immediacy of action, the Masai Mara in peak season is unparalleled. If, however, you are drawn to space and to witnessing the migration as part of a broader, ever-changing ecosystem, the Serengeti is the place to be.

Ideally, you would experience both – beginning in the southern Serengeti during the calving season, then following the herds north through Grumeti and into the Mara as the dry season unfolds.

Honouring an ancient rhythm

The Great Wildebeest Migration is not just a journey of animals, but a journey of emotion. It reminds us that survival is both fragile and resilient, that life is constant motion. Whether you stand on the Serengeti plains as the first calves take their wobbly steps, or watch the wildebeest launch themselves into the Mara River in a frenzy of instinct and fear, you will feel it – that pulse of wild Africa that humbles and exhilarates in equal measure.

At Ubon Safari, we believe that to witness this natural wonder is a privilege that carries responsibility. We are steadfastly against over-crowding and unethical safari practices that distress wildlife or disrupt the herds’ natural behaviour.

For countless millennia the wildebeest have followed these ancient pathways unimpeded, shaping the very ecology of East Africa. Our role is to honour that movement, to protect its rhythm, and to ensure that every safari we create allows travellers to experience the migration in a way that is ethical, authentic, and profoundly respectful of the wild.

The Great Wildebeest Migration is Africa’s greatest wildlife spectacle, a year-long circular journey of more than a million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras, gazelles and the predators that follow them. It is the heartbeat of East Africa's Serengeti–Mara ecosystem, a rhythm of movement and survival that defines East Africa’s wilderness. But while this migration is one continuous natural phenomenon, the experience of witnessing it differs profoundly depending on whether you find yourself in Tanzania’s Serengeti or Kenya’s Masai Mara. Both are magnificent, yet each reveals a different mood of the wild. Let's find out more...

The UBON Safari guide to kids on safari

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 12:17:52 GMT

The whys and wherefores of taking your family to Africa

Children are instinctive explorers. Give them wide horizons, towering elephants and the mystery of lion tracks in the sand, and they will thrive. A safari is an immersive lesson in the natural world, but it never feels like learning. From identifying bird calls to spotting insects and understanding the role of each animal in the ecosystem, every day offers wonder and discovery.

The wilderness is also the perfect antidote to busy modern lives. With little distraction from screens or schedules, families reconnect over shared adventures. Sundowners by the river become hot chocolate by the fire for younger guests, while the thrill of seeing wildlife together creates bonds that last a lifetime. These are the moments children will talk about long after they return home.

Safety comes first

The thought of bringing children into big game country can be daunting, but safety is always our top priority. At Ubon Safari we only work with camps and lodges that are family-friendly and have the right infrastructure, staff and experience to host younger guests.

Guides are trained to read situations, adjust drives and tailor activities to the age and comfort levels of children. Family tents and suites allow you to stay close together, and many camps have safe areas where children can relax between activities. Camp staff are used to working with families and will always make safety briefings clear and easy for children to understand.

Rules are straightforward: children must stay close to parents or guides, never wander alone, and listen carefully when moving around camp. With these simple steps, families can relax knowing that everything possible is in place to keep them safe.

Health and peace of mind

A family safari also requires a few sensible medical precautions. Before travelling, parents should consult a doctor about anti-malarial medication appropriate for children, as advice may vary by destination and by age. Insect repellent suitable for young skin, long sleeves and mosquito nets at night all add extra layers of protection.

It is also important to carry any personal medication, as well as a small family first-aid kit with child-friendly pain relief, plasters and rehydration sachets. Camps are experienced at handling common travel needs and many have trained staff, but preparing ahead gives parents extra peace of mind. With these precautions in place, families can focus on the adventure knowing health is well looked after.

Making safari magical for kids

A safari isn’t about long hours in a vehicle. Family-friendly camps know how to keep children engaged, with shorter game drives, bush walks designed for little legs, and fun challenges like finding the “Little Five” or ticking off animal sightings in a wildlife journal.

Many camps weave in storytelling, bush crafts, and star-gazing sessions. Children can learn how to make a bow and arrow from a local guide, follow animal tracks, or listen to ancient folk tales around the fire. For teenagers, conservation projects, wildlife monitoring and even learning a few guiding skills bring the bush to life in meaningful ways.

The joy of safari is that it scales to every age. Younger children marvel at giraffes and elephants, while older children are drawn to the drama of predator behaviour. There is something for everyone, and the experience grows with them.

Practical advice for parents

Packing for a family safari is simple when you know what to bring. Children should follow the same rules as adults: neutral colours, breathable fabrics, long sleeves and trousers for sun and insect protection, plus sturdy shoes for walking. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and a fleece for cooler mornings are essential.

Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent suitable for children, and personal medications. A small daypack for each child helps them feel independent and can be filled with their own essentials like a water bottle, a snack, a notebook or field guide.

We also recommend binoculars designed for smaller hands and perhaps a simple camera. Having their own equipment encourages children to engage more deeply and often results in delightful perspectives captured through their eyes.

Why it’s worth it

Families sometimes hesitate at the idea of bringing children on safari, but those who do often say it was the best decision they made. Seeing the African wilderness through a child’s perspective adds wonder to every sighting and helps adults slow down and appreciate the small details. It is a chance to step away from routine and share something extraordinary together.

Safaris also inspire responsibility. Children who see wildlife in its natural habitat develop a respect for animals and an understanding of conservation that no classroom can match. Many parents tell us their children return home more curious, more appreciative and more inspired than before.

The Ubon Safari difference

At Ubon Safari we take great care in matching families with destinations and camps that welcome children and know how to create the right balance of safety, fun and adventure. We understand that family needs vary, so we build itineraries that allow flexibility, comfort and peace of mind while never losing sight of the wild magic that makes safari unforgettable.

Bringing your children to Africa is not just a holiday. It is an investment in shared memories, an opportunity to inspire young minds, and a gift of adventure that will shape the way your family sees the world. With thoughtful planning and our expertise, a safari with children is not only possible but truly extraordinary.

A safari may not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a family holiday, but it should be. Sharing Africa’s wilderness with your children is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have together. At Ubon Safari we’ve seen countless families return from safari with not only extraordinary memories but also a sense of connection and perspective that few other trips can deliver. Here's why...

How to look great on safari

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 09:03:31 GMT

Our guide to safari style, comfort and smart packing

Safari style has evolved over the years i nto a blend of function and understated elegance. Forget the stereotypes of head-to-toe khaki, though neutral tones are still best. Soft greens, browns and beiges help you blend into the bush, are less likely to attract insects, and are kinder to wildlife than bright colours. White clothing tends to make you stand out as well as getting dirty quickly and red tones can make animals uneasy, so rather leave those for more urban adventures. That said, when you're in and around camp and not on game drives, white is a wonderful option, even if it does need washing every time you wear it!

When travelling to East Africa and parts of Southern Africa (Zambia, Zimbabwe and Malawi, for example) we do recommend avoiding blue and black clothing as these colours are known to attract the pesky tsetse fly which has a painful and very itchy bite. But if you're heading to the vast expanses of Namibia's incredible desert, then blue and black are not such an issue. So you can tailor your wardrobe to suit your destination and the activities you'll be doing.

Climate clothing

The African sun is strong, so lightweight shirts and trousers are your best friends. While long sleeves and long trouser legs aren't obligatory, they do help to protect you from the elements and insect bites of an evening. Good clothing protects against sunburn, helps prevent insect bites, and keeps you cool when made from breathable fabrics.

A wide-brimmed hat, a good pair of sunglasses and a light scarf or buff complete the look while offering practical protection. Baseball caps are also a good option on the back of an open safari vehicle as they don't blow off so easily and can be tightened. Of course, don't forget to pack your swimsuits and board shorts as most camps and lodges have pools! A kikoi (sarong) is also a wonderful addition to your suitcase and has multiple uses!

Evenings and early mornings can be surprisingly cool, especially in the Southern African winter months from May to August, so layering is essential. A puffer jacket, fleece or lightweight windbreaker takes up little space but keeps you warm when temperatures dip. If you're travelling at this time of year, add in a beanie, scarf or buff and gloves, and nice warm socks.

Footwear matters

You’ll spend plenty of time in open safari vehicles, but there are also opportunities to walk. A pair of sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or trainers is essential, and some travellers also like to bring lightweight hiking boots.

Around camp, sandals or flip-flops/mules are perfect. Aim for neutral colours and shoes that are easy to clean after a day in the dust. And check the soles for thickness, especially if you're going to be walking - the thorns in the African bush can be particularly tough!

Packing smart

Less really is more. Safari camps often include a daily laundry service, which means you can pack lighter than you might for other trips. Please note that in countries like Zambia and Zimbabwe, washing your own underwear is required, with soap powder often provided for this in your bathrooms. So choose underwear that's easy to hand wash and that dries quickly.

A soft-sided, lightweight but tough duffel bag is recommended and is easier to stow on small aircraft than hard luggage, and many bush flights have strict weight limits. Get in touch to find out more about this and to get the latest information on luggage restrictions, weights and sizes.

There are many bags made of tough ripstop canvas with leather trim that are perfect, and other even lighter bags that offer the room you need without compromising on weight. You'll also need a day pack to put essentials in and to take on game drives and walks with you. Again, opt for neutral colours and steer clear of black as it absorbs the heat and makes whatever you put in side very hot.

Essentials

Clothes you can't leave behind:

T-shirts
Shorts/Cargo pants/Trousers
Shirts (long and short-sleeved)
Fleece/lightweight wind-breaker/puffer jacket (winter)
Lightweight jersey
Swimsuit
Walking shoes/boots
Sandals/flip flops (thongs)
Socks
Hat/beanie (winter)
Sunglasses

In addition to your clothing, here are a few other must-haves:

Sunscreen, lip balm and insect repellent.
A refillable water bottle.
Binoculars for wildlife viewing.
A camera with spare batteries or power bank.
Personal medication, cosmetics and a small first-aid kit.

Many travellers also like to bring a journal to record their experiences, or a good book for the quiet hours between game drives.

Looking good, feeling confident

Safari clothing isn’t about fashion in the traditional sense, but there is an undeniable style to it. Well-chosen, functional pieces create a timeless look, and many of our guests say they feel at their best in safari wear. By keeping your wardrobe neutral, lightweight and practical, you’ll look effortlessly appropriate in any setting, from a riverside sundowner to a bush walk with your guide.

The key to a great safari ensemble is comfort. Stretch fabrics, lightweight layers and nothing that stops you from moving easily (or breathing) are perfect.

Make up and the bush

For all of our lady travellers we always recommend you go "au naturel" on safari because in the heat and dust of the African wilderness wearing make-up can seriously affect your skin. Use a great moisturiser with a good SPF factor and keep your skin hydrated. Clogging pores with foundation and powder is not recommended as your skin needs to breathe properly under safari conditions.

When you know how to dress and pack, you can stop worrying about what’s in your bag and start focusing on the adventure. Looking great on safari isn’t about standing out, it’s about blending in, staying comfortable, and feeling prepared for whatever the African wilderness has to offer. With UBON Safari guiding you, you can travel with confidence, style and ease.

A safari is one of life’s great adventures, but it also comes with its own dress code. At Ubon Safari we want you to feel confident, comfortable and prepared, which is why we go the extra mile to ensure our travellers have the very best guidance when it comes to what to wear and what to pack. The good news is you don’t need a wardrobe overhaul. With a few key pieces and a little planning, you can look great while being practical and respectful of the environment and the places you will be visiting.