Safari Sophisticates or Safari Softies?

By Gilly Bachelor — Travel Expert

When clients come to me for safari advice, the first thing I ask is: what type of traveller are you? This question is more important than you might think, because it helps me design a safari experience that is truly memorable. In my experience, enquiries generally fall into two clear categories, and our safari planning reflects this. Whether you want comfort and variety or full bush immersion, understanding your travel style ensures the perfect trip

Safari Softies

I affectionately call these clients our safari softies — and I must admit, I’m one of them! These clients are often embarking on their first safari, or they’re looking for a wildlife adventure without compromising on comfort.

One of our first conversations is always about the realities of safari. It’s an incredible experience, but it can be intense if you want to get the very best out of it. Expect early mornings (often around 5am or earlier!) and long drives in a bumpy, dusty vehicle for up to four hours. Conditions can vary widely — from chilly mornings to wet afternoons, to blazing sun.

For most clients, 2–3 days on safari is optimal. This provides enough time to enjoy incredible animal encounters, but also to savour what your lodge has to offer. Think stargazing from your deck, bush breakfasts, braais (traditional BBQs), guided walks, spa treatments, and sundowners by a waterhole.

Many of our ‘safari softies’ are couples looking for a bit of luxury or families who prefer malaria-free options, making South Africa’s Eastern Cape a popular choice. Our most popular itineraries include:

• Cape Town for city highlights and culture
• Winelands for wine tastings, with Franschhoek being my standout favourite (we include the famous Wine Tram as a complimentary excursion as we love it so much!)
• Hermanus for seasonal whale watching (though I love the Thatch House any time of year)
• The Garden Route

Self-drive is a popular option for flexibility, but internal flights and private drivers are also feasible. South Africa offers incredible value for money — while getting there is expensive, once you arrive, the luxury experiences available will amaze you. The Western and Eastern Cape offer tremendous value, and crossing the border into KwaZulu-Natal can be even more rewarding.

Personally, in February/March next year, I’ll be spending three weeks exploring the Drakensberg mountains, Rorke’s Drift for Zulu history, the iSimangaliso Wetlands, and returning to Cape Town to explore the Cederberg mountains and Hermanus.

iSimangaliso Wetlands: A Safari Softie’s Dream

For safari softies seeking a slightly different experience, iSimangaliso Wetlands in KwaZulu-Natal is an absolute must. This UNESCO World Heritage Site blends pristine wetlands, coastal dunes, and savannah bushveld — giving you a completely unique safari landscape.

Highlights include:

• Hippos and crocodiles in Lake St Lucia
• Elephants, buffalo, and leopards on surrounding bush safaris
• Birdwatching paradise, with flamingos, pelicans, and storks
• Stunning coastal beaches for a brief scenic interlude

Self-Drive Safari Adventure: Bush Meets Wetlands

For the ultimate combination of comfort, variety, and flexibility, I recommend a self-drive safari itinerary that pairs a classic land-based safari with the wetlands of iSimangaliso. Here’s an example:

Safari Sophisticates

If you’ve been on safari before or crave a deeper bush experience, a longer, immersive safari is ideal. These clients often want full immersion in the bush, multiple regions, and more adventurous experiences.

Typical Trip:

• 10-day itineraries with 2–3 different safari regions
• Luxury or semi-rustic lodges, mobile tented camps, or private reserves
• Vehicle and walking game drives, sometimes including night drives

Top Recommendations:

1. Botswana Desert Pans

• Duration: 6–10 days
• Highlights: Okavango Delta, Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Nxai Pan National Park
• Activities: Mokoro (dugout canoe) safaris, quad biking, meerkat encounters, zebra migration viewing
• Experience: A blend of water-based and desert landscapes, offering unique wildlife encounters and cultural experiences with the San people.

2. Zimbabwe Walking Safari

• Duration: 12 nights
• Destinations: Hwange National Park, Matusadona National Park, Mana Pools National Park, Victoria Falls
• Activities: Walking safaris, game drives, canoeing, birdwatching
• Experience: A fully immersive walking safari experience, tracking wildlife on foot in remote reserves with expert guides.

These itineraries are designed for full immersion, prioritising wildlife, adventure, and remote locations — perfect for those seeking a “hardcore” safari challenge.