Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Stay in an African Safari Lodge At Least Once in Your Life
People are always searching for a unique travel experience to top all others. With its glowing, red sunsets and diverse wildlife, Africa is quickly becoming the hotspot travelers desire. Over 30 millon yearly visitors will agree it offers a vacation unlike any other, but how do they make the most of it when they visit? The best-kept secret is African safari lodges. There is no better way to experience this beautiful country than by staying in one of these, and here’s why.
It’s authentic
Everyone wants a touch of luxury on vacation, but it’s easy to sacrifice authenticity in the way of it. This is certainly not the case when you stay in an African safari lodge. With rustic décor, home-cooked meals and friendly local staff, you’ll get a true taste of Africa when you visit. Most of these lodgings look directly out onto nature reserves, so you’re never far from the action. Luckily, there are also some more luxurious options available to travelers that offer the best of both worlds.
Safaris can be cheap
Unfortunately, there has been a huge misconception in recent years about the cost of African safari lodges. While many can cost a lot of money to visit, recent developments mean that everyone can enjoy the wonders of the African wilderness. Much like with tropical all-inclusive resorts, you can get more bang for your buck by searching for all-inclusive packages before you depart.
Peace and quiet
If there is one feature safaris have perfected, it’s their reputation as a peaceful retreat. Far from large cities and work, you can truly escape the worries of daily life when on safari. It’s a vibe that people come from all over the world to see. With only the sounds of nature singing you to sleep, don’t resist the temptation to come back again next year.
An immersive experience
It is one thing to watch safari on your television, and another entirely to experience it in person. There is no other getaway as immersive as an African safari. Daily tours take you into the heart of the wilderness, and the lodges enjoy prime location within nature reserves. Though you might not be able to touch some of the animals, you can get an intimate snapshot of how they live in the wild. This is not something the everyday traveler can say.
The Big Five
Wildlife enthusiast or not, there is nothing more magical than seeing the famous Big Five on an African Safari. This prestigious group is made up of the lion; the African leopard; the rhinoceros; the African bush elephant, and the African buffalo. Sightings of these animals aren’t rare when you pick the right safari tour to go on, and you’ll no doubt be in awe of their presence. You might also catch sight of the iconic wildebeest migration, which occurs on the Serengeti plains from July to August each year.
The night sky
Being immersed in the wilderness means one exceptional thing: a stunning night sky view. Without the light pollution of big cities, safari-goers often speak of the unrivaled constellations they see. In some cases, you’ll see whole galaxies light up the sky, in colors of yellow, blue and violet. These can be spotted when you’re out on night safari, or from the comfort of your own African safari lodge.
Excellent photographs
It doesn’t matter if you’re a professional photographer or a keen tourist, you’ll want to capture every moment you see here on camera. There is every chance to catch some safari picture to commemorate your experience with, and professional photographers will also jump on the chance to set up a night-time shoot. This is a place where golden hour come to life, so keep your camera on hand from then until sunset.
Conservation support
Africa is full of endangered species, which have nearly been wiped out by poachers and climate change. Animal lovers do all they can to prevent this from happening, and you can, too. Depending on which African safari lodge you visit, you could be doing worlds of good for conservation efforts. The money you spend goes directly into a sustainable system formed by local wildlife conservationists. Who knew safari trips could be so wholesome?
It’s educational
Everyone knows that travel is educational, but African safari lodges take this to a whole new level. Aside from learning about conservation efforts, you can learn all about the diverse ecosystems that exist across Africa. When you go out on safari, your guide will strive to tell you about these incredible creatures. Make the most of this experience by asking all the questions you can. You never know which fascinating facts you’ll come home with.
Lifelong friends
Avid safari-goers will say that African safaris are as much about the people you meet than the animals. This couldn’t be truer. In your lodge, you’ll meet people from all over the world, who are united in their love of wildlife and adventurous spirit. Don’t be surprised when you find yourself swapping tales with your fellow travelers, and keeping in touch with them for life. Who knows, you might even plan a trip to return together in the future.