Our recent trip to Zambia was different in many ways. This time we had a first-time safari companion—our friend and colleague, Kady Kirchmeyer, who is now a safari enthusiast. As a seasoned Africa traveler, I view safaris from a certain perspective, but the experience with Kady allowed us to see it again with a fresh and new eye. It was a real eye-opener, as a safari is completely different from a beginner’s perspective. In this article, we spoke to Kady about her safari experience to help new safari travelers be better prepared for this unique journey.
What did Kady wish she knew before going on safari?
When we asked Kady what she wished she knew before going on safari, she said that her first safari being in a place like Zambia was a little different for her because Zambia is not usually a top destination for first-time safari travellers. She said that having someone with her who had done safari before helped her a lot in being mentally prepared. Especially while using the outdoor toilet for the first time at night, when the sounds of hippos and rustling of the forest were heard around, her heart did not sink. This experience can be quite challenging for a new safari traveller, but with the right company and mental preparation, everything becomes easy.
Experience of complete care in the camp
Before going on safari, Kady had taken information from blogs, podcasts and friends many times, but she was stunned to see the level of facilities and care available in the camp. She says that every single moment of yours in the camp is completely well organised, and you only have to reach there. Everything is prepared for you in advance, which gives you a feeling of complete comfort and luxury. This is an experience that often surprises new travellers, because they think that going to the forest means a journey full of difficulties, but in reality every possible comfort and safety is taken care of there.
Away from the Internet: A pleasant experience of digital detox
Kady enjoyed it the most when she realized that she was completely away from the Internet. In today’s digital age, being away from the constant busyness of social media, emails and messages was an experience of a new world. Not having the Internet at all on Zambia’s classic safari proved to be a boon for Kady . She says that she had no idea of time, what was day or night; there was just the joy of being lost amidst all this nature. This digital detox was a great reason for mental peace, making the safari experience even more memorable.
Experience of weather and temperature: Balance between cold and heat
Our trip took place in July, which is the winter month in the Southern Hemisphere. Kady said that she expected it to be cold there, but she did not expect such a huge change in temperature between night and day. It felt hot during the day due to the bright sunshine, but as soon as night fell, the temperature suddenly dropped, which increased the cold considerably. She recommended packing warm clothes like beanies, gloves, and sweaters for the cold weather, especially if you are travelling at this time. She also said that this time the cold was a surprise for her, as the last trip was not so cold, so the clothes were not properly prepared.
Packing Tips: What to Bring and What to Leave
Kady also said that you do not need to bring too much luggage on safari. Personal care items like shampoo, conditioner, and lotion are available in the camp, so you can bring your shower gel or other toiletries and leave them at the camp instead of adding unnecessary weight. She shared this experience so that she will pack even lighter next time. Also, carry a limited amount of clothes, as most safari camps have laundry service. Pack long-sleeve t-shirts, sweaters, and comfortable pants, especially those suitable for day and night temperatures.
Special features of the daily safari routine
Kady said that she never thought she would like waking up at 5:30 in the morning so much. Waking up in the morning and having breakfast near the fire, then going on a game drive at 6:30, resting for a while in the afternoon and then enjoying afternoon activities like a walking safari or a sundowner became a fun part of their routine. Sleeping early at the end of the day and waking up early again the next day, this routine made the safari even more special. Everything was so smooth and organized that the whole experience of the safari was great.
Experience of safety among wild animals
The biggest question of a safari is safety. Kady said that wild animals often come and go in the camp. There are antelopes, hippos, elephants, and baboons to lions and leopards. Sometimes during dinner, hearing the leopard’s warning would make his heart beat faster, but seeing that leopard again the next morning made him feel thrilled instead of scared. He knew that he was in the hands of professionals who work with these animals every day and take full care of their safety. This gave him the assurance of safety throughout the safari.
Lack of information about the animals and plants of the forest
Kadhi also admitted that if she had gathered a little more information about the animals and plants before going on the safari, she would have understood the guide’s words better. There is no internet in the forest.
Due to her being so busy, she was not able to find any information immediately. Although the guides were very knowledgeable and explained in detail, having some basic information would have made the safari experience even more enriching.
5 essential tips for beginner safari travelers
- Pack light: Safari camps often offer laundry services and have low weight limits. So only pack the essentials and accessories. Pack less day-to-day clothes like t-shirts, pants, sweaters, and socks. Pack a few extra sets of underwear that you will have to wash yourself.
- Get the right photography equipment: If you just want to take photos, a phone is fine, but to take beautiful animal photos, a good camera and a zoom lens (at least 100-400mm) are a must.
- Beware of mosquitoes and insects: The number of mosquitoes varies according to the season and location of the safari. Less in the dry season, more in the rainy season. Wear light-colored clothes on safari, use mosquito repellent and wear long sleeves.
- Understand your safari budget: A good safari can be expensive. Safaris inside expert-run camps and national parks start at around $500 per day, including flights, transfers, and park fees. Self-drive or day trip options are available for a lower budget, but the real safari experience is found inside the park.
- Be safe: Wild animals are present in the wild, but professional guides and camps work hard to ensure safety. Be careful about personal safety, especially for women going on safaris alone. Be cautious about political instability and diseases such as malaria. Safaris are also safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers, but choose your destination carefully.
Conclusion
Safari is a unique and lifelong experience for first-time travelers. Our safari experience in Zambia was a wonderful combination of the beauty of nature, the reality of wildlife, and modern amenities. Proper preparation, mental patience, and travelling with safe safari operators are important for every new traveler. Kady’s experience shows how a safari, seen from a new perspective, can be exciting, educational and completely relaxing.
If you are planning to go on a safari for the first time, learn from this experience and make your trip memorable. This opportunity to get lost in the lap of nature will give you both relaxation and excitement of a lifetime.
