Micato Safaris
Going on safari is a rite of passage for many keen travelers, so how do you make sure you land the trip of a lifetime? With so many countries, landscapes, and dozens of ways to experience wildlife, it’s a jungle out there (we couldn’t resist the pun).
Lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo make up the traditional Big Five, though safari today goes far beyond those historic roots. Travelers are seeking conservation-focused camps, walking adventures, water-based experiences, and destinations beyond Africa.
Solio Lodge, Kenya | Thorntree River Lodge, Zambia
Classic safari destinations such as South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania are often ideal for first-time safari travelers thanks to the variety of wildlife and ease of reaching tented camps. South Africa pairs beautifully with Cape Town and the Winelands; Tanzania delivers the drama of the Serengeti and the Great Migration; and Kenya’s Maasai Mara is known for its expansive plains and seasonal wildlife movements.
Looking beyond the classics, or if this is not your first Jeep drive, Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe offer a different safari experience. These countries are often overlooked, which is part of what makes them so rewarding. Expect more immersive experiences with fewer vehicles and fewer tourists. Zambia is known for exceptional walking safaris, while Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools offers canoe excursions and close wildlife encounters along the riverbanks.
Kisawa Sanctuary, Mozambique | Gorilla Trekking, Rwanda
Want to pair wildlife with downtime? Bush-and-beach itineraries continue to grow in popularity. Zanzibar and Mozambique offer white-sand beaches that create a relaxing start or finish to a safari itinerary and a chance to ease into the trip or recover from any lingering jet lag.
Wildlife experiences beyond traditional game drives are also drawing more interest. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda can be deeply moving, while India is known for tiger safaris, and Sri Lanka pairs leopard sightings with beautiful coastal scenery. Brazil's Pantanal offers a completely different safari experience with one of the best opportunities to spot jaguars in the wild.
Atzaró Okavango, Botswana | Wilderness Kulala Desert Lodge, Namibia
Celebrating something special? Look at Botswana and Namibia. High-end camps with fewer guests often offer greater privacy, personalized service, and exceptional guiding. Botswana’s camps offer extraordinary access to the Okavango Delta, while Namibia pairs safari with dramatic desert landscapes and some of Africa’s most visually striking lodges.
Go wild! Let’s talk about what you’re looking for on safari.