WHAT ANIMALS WILL I SEE ON SAFARI?

The Big 5 on Safariby Steve MortimerLeave a Comment on WHAT ANIMALS WILL I SEE ON SAFARI?

WHAT ANIMALS WILL I SEE ON SAFARI

AND WHAT IS THE BIG 5?

Safari holidays mean different things to different people, but if there’s one common ground that everyone shares, it’s the chance to spot African safari animals in their natural habitat.

From lions to lizards, eagles to elephants, and all that’s in between; the only way to come face-to-face with wildlife, is to visit the game reserves of South Africa and the wider region.

What is The Big 5?

But first, let’s talk The Big 5 for a moment.

The Big 5 is another term for the bucket-list of wildlife that have come to be the most revered and iconic in Africa. The term dates back to the 1800s, named by those involved in trophy big game hunting Africa. The big five animals were named so, for being the most challenging and dangerous to hunt down on foot.

And sadly, whilst today these animals are still hunted, it has thankfully been vastly reduced, due to the hard work of conservationists and local tour operators.

So, let’s take a look at the big five animals in more detail:

  1. Lions

No safari is complete without spotting the king of the beasts. Since the lion is a sociable creature, living in groups, you’re likely not to just spot one – but a whole pride of them while on safari. Go with an experienced tour guide and you’ll be able to track their movements whatever time of year you visit.

South Africa, Kenya and Botswana, are undoubtedly the best destinations to spot this big cat.

  1. Leopards

What the leopard lacks in size (as the smallest of the big five animals), it makes up for in agility and strength. Distinguished by its light fur and dark rosettes, this is one mammal that enjoys its freedom to roam… lurking, often alone.

Wild Insight Safaris tour guide, Graham Cooke, is a leopard expert, having raised two baby cubs in the wild. He uses this incredible insight to track leopards and other breeds, by their footprints, scents, alarm calls and other cues, while on safari.

The best time to spot a leopard is between May and August, frequenting all the main parks in South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania amongst others.

  1. Elephants

From the smallest to the largest of the big five animals. The loveable elephant is a sight to behold, measuring up to 3.3 metres tall and weighing up to seven tons. Often found in families, don’t be fooled by their cute appearance. These animals can still pose a danger and are sceptical of human company, in no small part thanks to poachers, however despite being giants, they are gentle creatures.

A South African safari, is the best way to spot this beast. Kruger National Park offers one of the most accessible locations to spot elephants, with 13,050 at last count.

  1. Rhinos

There are two species of rhino; black and white, along with five subspecies. Whichever you spot, it’s still a huge accolade as one of the most rare and exotic animals from Africa.

They’re hard to miss too, weighing up to 5,000 pounds and up to fifteen feet long, and with their trademark horn, they have a distinguishable look too. When they have to shift, they’re unmissable at speeds of up to 55kph. You definitely wouldn’t want one charging at you!

Very sadly, due to the impact of humanity – poaching and environmental factors, very few rhinos live outside of national parks and reserves. To catch a rare glimpse of these beasts, head to the many game reserves of South Africa.

  1. Cape Buffalo

Living in large herds of African plains, the cape buffalo understands the importance of safety in numbers! And while this helps to find them in droves, it also means you need to keep a safe distance. After all, this is an animal that has become accustomed to defending itself against predators – so it’s anything but friendly.

These African safari animals can be spotted in various locations, from Botswana to South Africa and Zimbabwe.

Take a Walk on the Wild Side

Whether you’re going on a safari to capture safari animal pictures, or to spot wildlife for your own personal pleasure, the national parks make some of the best settings for spotting natural wildlife. This is also important for those considered about conservation, since many of the exotic animals from Africa remain at risk from predators and poachers.

Five of the best locations for safari holidays include:

  • Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa
  • Masai Masai Mara, Kenya
  • Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
  • Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
  • Etosha National Park, Nambia

Aside from the big five animals, here’s just some of the other exotic animals you might encounter: Antelope, impala and Springbok (the national animal), herons, storks, eagles and birds of prey. Hyenas, cheetahs, ostrich, wild dogs, hippos, wildebeest, Cape Grysbok, mongoose, wild horses, zebra and giraffe. Python and cobra snakes, crocodiles, gorillas and monkeys.

Tips for Seeing the Big Five Animals on Safari

For many, a safari holiday is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity – you won’t want to miss the opportunity to take as many safari animal pictures as possible. From the big five animals, to your personal favourite, here’s the best way to see as many exotic animals from Africa on your trip:

  • Book with a tour operator

Unless you’re a secret lion whisperer, chances are you don’t know your way around the dusty savannahs of Africa. That’s why it pays to book through a trusted South African tour operator. They will take care of all the details, from booking your flight to transfers through the wilderness, to securing the best camp near the heart of the action, so you don’t miss a trick.

  • Book a tour guide

There’s no compensation for booking with a person on-the-ground. Using the lay of the land and the signs of wildlife, these are big game Africa experts, able to uncover some of the most unusual, exciting and exotic animals from Africa.

  • Time of Year

Dry season is a good time to go. This lies between May and September, when there’s less vegetation for animals to hide behind, plus they tend to hangout near water supplies; such as waterholes and rivers. This can enhance your chances of spotting your favourite South African safari animals.

  • Time of Day

From dusk till dawn, the animal kingdom never sleeps. Whether you’re a night owl, or early worm, there’s different animals you can expect to see at different times of the day. Your tour guide will advise you on the best times to tour the park, so you can get the most out of your visit.

  • Pack Well

An obvious but important point – to optimise your chance of seeing the big five animals, be sure to pack binoculars and wear camouflage clothes. These animals are particularly prone to being skittish, so you’ll need to be stealth-like to get up close and personal.

There’s nothing more exciting than a South African safari, to witness some of the 1,100-different species of mammals this vast country has to offer. There’s also a huge collection of birds, with over 2,600 species, making it an ideal destination for bird spotters too. Whatever reason for your reason for visit, whatever time of year you come, the game reserves of South Africa remain one of the best ways to spot animals in the wild.

What vaccinations do I need for South Africa Safari?

Safari Vaccinationsby Steve MortimerLeave a Comment on What vaccinations do I need for South Africa Safari?

VACCINATIONS AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS  WHEN TRAVELLING TO AFRICA ON SAFARI

There’s nothing more exciting than planning a holiday. There’s new places to discover, a new wardrobe to buy and new cultures to be explored. And since travel expands the mind, one of the most enriching and memorable experiences you can book is a safari holiday – whether for yourself or the entire family.

However, with far-flung travel, especially safari holidays, there’s also some pre-travel planning involved to ensure a smooth, safe trip. A little organisation can go a long way when it comes to safety and peace of mind. Therefore, it’s worth considering your medical requirements in good time of your trip.

If you’re one of the many travellers about to embark on safari, you might wonder if you need vaccinations for South Africa, or other regions of the country. In this article, we look at all the essential safety and medical precautions to consider before travelling.

What Vaccinations do you Need to Travel to Africa?

Every year, millions of tourists visit Africa for a safari trip of a lifetime. The vast majority of visits are problem-free, however some precautions need to be considered for overall health, safety and wellbeing.

First of all, Africa is a huge continent made up of 57 different countries. Of these, some of the most popular destinations for safari holidays are; South Africa safari (Kruger is a favourite), Tanzania, Kenya, Zambia and Botswana.

Where you decide to go will determine the medical provisions you need to take. In the first instance, it’s advisable to speak to your GP at least 6-8 weeks in advance of flying, should travel vaccinations be required.

Since health requirements are subject to change, it’s important to check your destination in the first instance. The government recommend the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNac) for the very latest information available.

However, for detailed information on all travel vaccinations against infectious diseases, please consult the government green book, or speak to your local GP or nurse as a starting point.

Malaria Considerations

As well as travel vaccinations, you should also speak to your GP about antimalarial medication. Malaria is present throughout the year in parts of sub-saharan Africa, typically highest risk is between September to May.

One of the top destinations for South Africa safari – Kruger National Park, does have malaria present throughout the year – so please check with your pharmacy for more information on Malaria protection.

Safari Destinations and Vaccinations

For safari holidays to Africa, travellers should be up to date with routine vaccinations and boosters. This includes the MMR vaccine and diphtheria-tetanus-polio vaccine.

In the event of a diphtheria outbreak, you will require diphtheria travel vaccinations.

Additionally, it’s possible that you may require; Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid vaccinations/medication. Please consult with a medical healthcare provider for professional advice.

In terms of shots needed for African safari, here’s some additional considerations to key safari destinations:

South Africa and Botswana

While there is no risk of yellow fever in South Africa and Botswana, you may be required to produce a certificate of yellow fever vaccination, especially if you have travelled to high-risk countries.

Although it’s less likely that you will need these travel vaccinations, please speak to your healthcare provider about also being protected against; Cholera, Hepatitis B, Rabies and Tuberculosis.

Kenya and Zambia

Most travellers will need polio vaccinations.

It is less likely that you will need protection against; Cholera, Hepatitis B, Rabies, Tuberculosis and Yellow Fever, but please speak to a healthcare provider. For travel to Kenya this also includes protection against Meningococcal Disease.

Tanzania

Some travellers will also need travel vaccinations to protect against; Cholera, Hepatitis B, Meningococcal Disease, Rabies, Tuberculosis and Yellow Fever – please speak to your healthcare provider.

Where to get Travel Vaccinations?

If you require vaccinations for South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or other African countries, you may be able to get some of these free.

The NHS provides free travel vaccinations against:

  • Polio (usually a combined diphtheria/tetanus/polio jab)
  • Typhoid
  • Hepatitis A
  • Cholera
  • They can also provide antimalarial tablets

For paid-for travel vaccinations, you can visit a private travel vaccination clinic or pharmacy with travel healthcare services.

Other Safety Considerations

Shots needed for African safari is just one way to protect yourself. However, due diligence and some sensible precautions will help prevent many of the potential issues you face, as follows.

Sun Protection

In peak conditions, parts of Africa can heat up to 40º. For this reason, it’s vitally important to use high sun protection, usually 50+ for maximum coverage. This should be coupled with lightweight UV protective clothing, hats and sunglasses. Time in the direct sunlight should be minimised and your tour guide should be able to advise on safe shade spots.

Food and Water

It’s very easy to have an upset stomach or have diarrhoea, from food poisoning or bacteria spread though human and animal faecal contamination. The best way to avoid this is through exercising great care with hygiene. Bring a hand sanitizer with you and always wash hands thoroughly before eating.

To enjoy your safari holiday, it is advisable to use alcohol wipes to clean utensils before eating. If you choose to eat food from a street vendor, ensure that food is fresh and fully cooked and served immediately while hot. Use common sense, such as avoid eating leftovers and opting for pasteurised milk only.

It is essential to stay hydrated throughout your trip, however water should always be purified. To learn more visit, this NHS website.

Book with a Professional Tour Operator

For a safe and enjoyable safari, it’s important to book with a professional and experienced tour operator, like Wild Insight Safaris. This will provide you with the reassurance, expertise and guidance you need to get the most out of your safari holiday. As well as being part of the Travel Trust Association, the operator provides an on-the-ground tour guide who is native to South Africa.

Accident Prevention

When you’re travelling in unfamiliar territory, it’s important to exercise general care and caution. This means not going off-the-beaten track, staying with your group and tour guide (particularly at night time), and listening carefully to instructions.

Driving around South Africa requires some caution. Keep to the main roads and well-lit areas, minimising travel at night where possible. It’s important to take care and be vigilant at all times. The government website offers a detailed guide to road safety in South Africa here.

Insect and Animal Bites

Even if you’re taking antimalarial tablets and have all the necessary travel vaccinations, you will want to take care to avoid being bitten. Mosquito, flea and tick bites can be unpleasant and irritating, and may also pass on disease or infection.

It’s therefore advisable to wear long-sleeved tops, trousers and shoes in safari – or whatever your tour guide recommends. Tuck trousers into socks to minimise skin exposure. Use insect replant and always check for ticks at the end of the day.

The likelihood of being attacked by a wild animal on safari is low, however, the best way to avoid any issues is to listen to your tour guide. Even outside of the safari environment, it’s possible that animals such as dogs or monkeys can attack, so it’s worthwhile to be up on rabies and tetanus jabs.

 

 

 

 

What are the fastest animals on Earth?

Uncategorisedby Steve MortimerLeave a Comment on What are the fastest animals on Earth?

WHAT ARE THE FASTEST ANIMALS ON EARTH?

 Whether you love wildlife, animals, or just the great outdoors; the game reserves of South Africa are some of the best places for observing nature in all its forms. Here you can expect to see everything from wildebeest to buffalos, hippos to elephants and much more.

Safari holidays are the perfect way to observe the big five animals (link to big five post), which famously include; lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalo. But, you may be surprised to learn that of these, only lions are amongst the fastest animals in the world.

Curious to learn more? Then it’s time to swot up ahead of your safari holiday. Here is our concise list of the fastest animals in the world 2019 –  2020, in the air and on land (in no specific order):

  1. The Cheetah

When it comes to the top 10 fastest land animals in the world, the Cheetah takes first place as the fastest animal on land. To give you some ideas of their agility, when sprinting they spend more time in the air than on the ground.

Reaching up to 109.4 km/h (or 68 mph), they achieve speeds that some cars can only dream of! However, the fastest Cheetah on record goes to Sarah – an 11-year-old cheetah who covered 100 meters in 5.95 seconds.

Identified by their golden fur and black spots, this giant cat is best seen on African safari, particularly in; Botswana, Kenya, Namibia and South Africa.

  1. The Springbok

The Springbok is the much-loved national animal of South Africa. This medium-size antelope can gather vast speeds of up to 62mph and is best known for its prancing grace, reaching up to 13 feet in the air.

If they look familiar, it might also be because they have become an emblem for the country, featuring everywhere – including the shirts of the South Africa rugby team (who go by the same name).

The Springbok’s swift nature is also part of their evolutionary natural defence in avoiding predators. Native to southwest Africa, Springboks are one of the reasons so many people make a safari booking in the first place. There’s nothing quite like seeing them in their natural habitat.

  1. Blue Wildebeest

Going by several monikers, from wildebeest to white-bearded wildebeest, to (our favourite) brindled gnu, this giant antelope is distinguished by its menacing looks! Sharp curved horns, an unruly beard and stripes on its mane, will make you question if it’s a bull, beast or work of fiction.

Alas, this is not an animal to be messed with, as one of the fastest mammals on the planet reaching up to 80 km/h. Africa is of course, the best place to see these wild animals, especially during their famous migration journey up to the Masai Mara in Kenya. Make your safari booking for August, if you plan to see this.

  1. The Peregrine Falcon

The fastest bird on earth and the fastest animal on the planet – the Peregrine Falcon swoops down at 200mph, outrunning all land animals.

Thriving on wide-open spaces, this is one bird of prey you’re likely to see in most continents, including Africa. Don’t forget to look up!

  1. The Lion

The fastest animals in the world 2019 list would not be complete without paying tribute to the king of the jungle – the lion.

Gaining speeds of 50.3 mph, it ranks as the second fastest land animal in Africa, after its friend the Cheetah. However, unlike the Cheetah this big cat is not able to sustain speeds for lengths of time and in typical feline fashion, likes to enjoy its downtime too. This has its upsides though, for those that want to sneak a glimpse of them on safari holiday, there’s a good chance you’ll spot one! When you do, you can add it to your big five animals tick list.

And the best place to see this jungle king? Africa of course. Kruger National Park is home to roughly 1,600 of these beautiful animals.can this link be changed to the mayeleti one pls?

  1. The American Cockroach

There’s little affection for cockroaches, however it can’t be denied that they are pretty resilient critters. Not only that, they are one of the fastest animals on land. Records have shown that they can peak at 3.4mph, which for their size is pretty astonishing. In human terms, this would be the equivalent of running 210 mph!

As the name suggests, if you want to get up close and personal to one of these animals, head to the States, particularly the southern region since they thrive on humid conditions.

  1. Thomson’s Gazelle

Beauty and beast combined, Thomson’s Gazelle resembles an antelope and springbok, but it’s best defined by its pointy spiral horns and stunning gold, brown and white print. Don’t be fooled by their good looks, this wild animal has been known to run as quick as 50mph, making it one of the fastest mammals you’re likely to see on your safari holiday.

Part of the reason for their speed is their need to get away from animals preying on them. They make a delicious meal for Cheetahs, and unfortunately for gazelles, they can’t quite keep up with their vast speeds.

Add this wild beauty to your safari booking bucket list, and seek them out in savannas and grassland, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania.

  1. Mexican Free-Tailed Bat

When it comes to the world’s fastest mammal, the Cheetah comes second only to the Mexican free-tailed bat. This sweet little creature is native to America, and has recently been nominated as a ‘species of special concern’ owing to their rapid decline.

Experts in the field have studied these flying animals, to find that they can reach ground speeds of up to 160 km/h (99mph)– that’s nearly twice as fast as some trains.

  1. The Ostrich

You might not instinctively think of the ostrich when you think of top 10 fastest land animals, however they are actually the fastest bird on land.

It remains quite a divisive animal, which some consider beautiful, and others consider quite the opposite! Whatever your view, it is certainly a mesmerising animal, capable of much more than you’d expect. It’s long outstretched legs make it the ideal candidate for a hefty sprint, reaching up to 70km/h (45mph), when it gets going. Ostriches can be found throughout the wild, with plenty dotted around the Western Cape and the game reserves of South Africa.

  1. The Pronghorn

And finally, the pronghorn. It’s one of the fastest mammals in the world, often confused with an antelope. This beautiful animal has goat-like looks, coupled with antelope looking features and a nod to the bushbuck thrown in for good measure.

Another speedy animal, it has been recorded at 53mph, often running away from predators such as coyotes. However, you’re more likely to see a Pronghorn in North America, than you are in North Africa, since these are native to the country.

Now that you know what the fastest animals on Earth are, why don’t you come and visit!

Get in touch today and book your safari of a lifetime.

 

 

 

 

Where is the best place to go on Safari?

Best Safariby Steve MortimerLeave a Comment on Where is the best place to go on Safari?

WHERE’S THE BEST PLACE TO GO ON SAFARI?

When it comes to memorable travel, a South African safari consistently ranks as one of the top bucket-list destinations in the world.

As such, it’s a must-do travel experience for any intrepid traveller, or anyone with an inner wanderlust that needs to be quenched! However, in order to get the best out of your safari holiday, it takes careful planning and some insider knowledge – better still if you can go with a local guide.

Whether it’s your first or fifth time on safari, this feature covers all the essentials to help you make the right choice on where to go.

Africa – Home of the Wild
It’s universally agreed, that Africa is the best safari destination in the world. Home to a diverse ecosystem and exotic wildlife (including the big five animals), vast stretches of savanna, and glorious sunshine – it’s a year-round destination enjoyed by 30 million tourists annually.

However, with so much choice, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Therefore, we’ve highlighted four of the best safari holidays, that are all-round crowd pleasers. From the call of Kenya, to the crib of Kruger, your ‘out of Africa’ experience awaits you!

With an abundance of wildlife, breathtaking backdrops and scenery guaranteed to make sure you fall in love with the country, you won’t be disappointed with whatever destination you choose to visit.

Kruger National Park, South Africa
When you think of classic safari holidays, Kruger National Park is what comes to mind. This truly magical setting is home to more species of large mammal than any other African game reserve. For photographs, for selfies, for just marvelling at the beauty of the world and the animals that inhabit it – Kruger has it all.

At 2 million hectares, it’s also one of the largest national parks on the planet. Nonetheless, it remains very welcoming to visitors, well equipped with a host of lodgings for every kind of guest. As such, it’s ideal for first-timers and well-travelled explorers alike.

Due to its popularity, authentic experiences can be hard to come by in Kruger – one exception, however, is The Wild Insight Safari Company.

Offering a non-prescriptive Greater Kruger national park tour, local guide and man of the bush, Graham Cooke, takes you on a unique journey, determined by the ‘signs of the wild’; meaning that no-two experiences are the same.

There’s nothing quite like Kruger game, so expect to rub tusks with the Big 5, as well lions and leopards, elephants and buffalos in this sprawling other-worldly land. It’s an assault on all the senses, offering a memorable and highly sensory experience that you can make your own.

If you want to really explore the depths of Kruger National Park; from its Crocodile Rivers to the great outback, then the eight-day Rondavel Camp trek is not to be missed. Or for a more intimate experience, the Wilderness Camp option provides luxurious trappings within authentic settings. If you always wanted to stay in Meru-style tents and be at one with nature this is the best way to immerse yourself in bush life.

When to visit:
Although this is a year-round destination, Kruger National Park weather can be rainy between November and March, so it’s best to avoid these months.

Sabi Sands, South Africa
Bordering Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands is made for those who want luxurious safari without the crowds. Staying in high-end lodgings, you’ll enjoy all the trappings of five-star living within very rural confines. That said, since there’s no border between here and Kruger Park, the wild animals frequently roam from site to site, so expect to see plenty of distractions on your visit!

Conservation is high on the agenda here, with the chance for extraordinary close encounters with the big five animals and great African wildlife roaming free and protected. As such, this South African safari adventure is especially popular with wildlife enthusiasts, bird watchers and photographers, all vying to capture a moment in time.

The Sabi Sands is also noted for one animal in particular; the leopard. If you’re a fan of the giant cat, there are dedicated tours where you can get up close and personal with four-footed friends of all types; from lions to hyenas, leopards to cheetahs.

If you’re looking for the best safari in the world within comforting settings, Sabi Sands is for you.

When to visit:
As with Kruger National Park, the best time to visit is between April and October.

The Maasai Mara, Kenya
You’ve seen it on television and film, and read about it in books. The northern stretch of Tanzania’s Serengeti is one of the most captivating destinations for the big five and much more. Expect to see every wild animal, from hippos to buffalo, elephants to zebras, and of course the resident big cat’s native to this region. It’s one of the most popular Kenya safari holidays for good reason.

You may also have the opportunity to meet the local Maasai people, many of the local tribes host tours of their villages for a small fee. This is a great way to learn more about their fascinating culture and lifestyle, bordering the breathtaking backdrop of African safari.

When to visit:
The most popular time to visit is between June and October, you will also get the chance to see the spectacular wildebeest migration during these months too. However, be prepared that it gets extremely busy with tourists during peak season.

Moremi and Khwai, Botswana
Safari in Botswana is as original as it comes. This is the place to visit for an unforgettable trip of a lifetime. But, it’s not for the faint of heart, and therefore best reserved for those that enjoy getting off the beaten track. Here you will experience nature face-to-face, quite typically on a 4X4 self-drive.

For that reason, it’s best to take a well-organised trip with an experienced team. Camping out under the stars is not to be missed. The gentle sounds of the big five whipping past, serve to remind you of the privileged setting you find yourself in.

During the day, tours cover the many spots to explore. This ranges from the tropical Mopane woodland, to great game areas such as Black Pools – popular with bird watchers. At Third Bridge, you’ll co-exist with lions and baboons, before heading up to Xakanaxa – an original bush camp in the heart of Moremi Game reserve. It’s also voted as one of the best spots for wildlife viewing in the region.

Experience Africa as it was meant – raw and unfiltered, with a trip to Botswana.

When to visit:
The best time to come is between May and September.

Your Safari Adventure Awaits
There are so many good reasons to book a safari holiday. The opportunity to see wild animals in their natural habitat, the unique experience of sleeping under the stars – or in remote lodgings, and the chance to get back to nature in the most beautiful surroundings. The sights, smells and sounds, all come to life before your eyes, making a South African safari one of the most memorable trips you’ll ever take.

From the diversity of wild animals in Kruger National Park tours, to the rugged terrain and close encounters of Botswana, to the charm and culture of the Masaai Mara. These are just some of the best safari holidays, suitable for every kind of traveller.