If, like me, you love safari and all things Africa but prefer your experiences in the bush to be filled with authentic encounters through your very own eyes, not an expensive pair of binoculars, a luxury walking safari will be right up your street.
From living in Africa for over 3 years I’ve become a big fan of swapping the noisy jeep for a back to basics approach of strapping on my walking boots and slowing down the pace. Most importantly, you get a better feel and understanding for the incredible environment you’re in. From a few hours meandering through the bush to back-to-back days guided walking with expert trackers there are more than a few ways to experience a walking safari – I’ve experienced most of them, some of my top picks for anyone interested are below:
Karisia – Kenya
A world away from the modern world of glamorous lodges, Karisia is the ultimate place for walking safaris in the Northern wilds of Kenya. Here, days are spent wandering through the bush from camp to camp with local Samburu warriors as your guides in their own land.
Tafika – South Luangwa – Zambia
Sitting along the Luangwa River Tafika is in the heart of Zambia’s prime game viewing area. Definitely one for safari purists, here you can take guided walks to visit local villages as well as hunt out the incredibly vast array of wildlife. Walking safaris are a speciality of the Luangwa Valley and a two or three day walking trail to Tafika’s remote bush camps are highly recommended.
Impala Camp – Selous Game Reserve – Tanzania
With elephants walking through the camp and hippos grunting in the water below, you don’t always have to trek far in this area to experience the wildlife close up. The early morning walking safaris here are well worth the early alarm clock and perfect for catching Tanzanian wildlife at the breaks of dawn.
Alex has over 3 years experience of living across Africa and currently advises people on the best spots to holiday at over at Exsus Luxury Holidays.