There’s more to a safari than wildlife
Whilst one of the main reasons for taking a trip to Southern Africa is likely to be an opportunity to see the Big 5 in their natural surroundings, the region can also offer a whole range of unique activities that have nothing to do with wildlife at all! Specialist Southern Africa operator Native Escapes offers tailor made and small group trips which include exciting safari adventures, including day and night Big 5 game drives, bush walks, and opportunities to see wildlife from a canoe or boat, as well as other experiences not always associated with a safari trip.
Their trips in South Africa’s Kwazulu Natal region include opportunities to go whale watching, see turtles hatching on the remote beaches of the north coast, and over the border in Mozambique, to swim with wild dolphins. A chance to visit a remote Zulu village for an insight into this tribal culture, hear the story of the Zulu Battles at Isandlwana and take walks to see ancient bush art or to waterfalls in the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Drakensbergs is also on offer.
Managing Director Sharon Holmes explains:
“We recognise that time off from work is highly valuable, and that there is increasingly a list of ‘My-top-100-things-to-do’ type mentality. People also like to be able to talk about unusual experiences they have had on holiday, and we have carefully planned itineraries that can be as full of unique activities as required. Whilst the wildlife element of a safari is an absolutely fantastic experience, destinations such as South Africa and Namibia are realising the need to offer more to an increasingly demanding visitor.”
In Namibia, itineraries include options to take a hot air balloon ride over the desert at sunrise, or an eco-quad biking excursion over the dunes to watch the red and orange hues change at sunset. A marine cruise – where dolphins and seals frequently follow the boat, and a chance to see ancient rock art is also on offer in addition to Big 5 game drives, cheetah tracking and seeing desert-adapted elephant in their natural habitat.
For more information on trips offered by Native Escapes, visit Nativeescapes.com.
