The ultimate guide to visiting African wildlife parks.
The ultimate guide to visiting African wildlife parks.
One of the best things about living in Cape Town is the opportunity to explore the depths of Africa. Even after working here for many years, I still seize the chance to engage in outdoor activities. From South Africa to Kenya and other regions, there is nothing more fascinating than experiencing exotic wildlife in their natural habitats.
Although completely worth it, planning a safari in Africa is a daunting task.
Where is the best place to go? When is the golden time to watch animals? What should I pack for the wildlife park? You've been asking me a lot of questions about the wildlife park, and I'm ready to cover all of them!
Are you ready for some wild adventure? This is your ultimate guide to exploring the African wildlife park.
The best time to visit the wildlife park.
Imagine if the United States, China, India, and most of Europe were combined to form a massive landmass. This incredible supercontinent would give you an idea of just how big Africa is! In fact, Africa is four times larger than the continental United States.
Of course, if someone asks for the best time to visit the United States, it will depend on countless factors. The same goes for Africa. This diverse continent has snow-capped mountains, vast deserts, lush grasslands, and dense forests.
You can get completely different experiences at different times of the year.
The greatness of Africa's vast expanse lies in the fact that you can visit at any time of the year. Check out my post on the best times to visit wildlife parks in Africa for a complete month-by-month guide to help you determine when to go.
What to pack for the wildlife park
Usually, in terms of packaging, less is more. After all, you can almost always go to your local shopping center and buy anything you need. However, when you're at a wildlife park, it's a completely different story.
The most important thing is that you will not have local convenience facilities.
When you go to a wildlife park, you are completely exposed to the elements and everything you need for the day is crucial. Most importantly, luggage space is often strictly limited (if you are taking a short jungle flight to get to your destination), so you need to have a high level of strategic planning.
Before you depart, please check my breakdown of what to pack for each type of wildlife park so that you look and feel great every second.
How to find the hunting cabin
Finding the right wildlife park cabin is crucial to the success of your trip! Unlike hotels where you can come and go as you please, wildlife park cabins are often where you'll spend most of your time.
In most cases, they also provide the game driver itself.
It is entirely possible to come all the way to Africa and interact only with your cabin, for better or for worse. Lodges often come with vast spaces and many amenities. Do diligent research before committing.
The first step in finding suitable accommodation for a wildlife park is to choose your wildlife park experience. From small tents to luxury cabins, every type of traveler can find something that suits them.
One of your early steps is to decide what kind of zoo visitor you are.
When you know what experience you are pursuing, please carefully review these key contents to look for in the cabins of the wildlife park.
Last but not least, consider the experience from the perspective of the animals. A wildlife park is about safely entering the animals' habitat without disrupting anything. Before you decide on a wildlife park company, look for key tips on how to ethically encounter animals. Sadly, too many companies focus on profit rather than animal welfare.
Careful planning leads to non-cruel adventures.
Gonwana Game Reserve
Read more!
Places I have lived
I am very lucky to have experienced some of the best safari lodges in Africa. When you are looking for inspiration, here is an overview of the country's most unforgettable places for me.
South Africa
Rovos Rail Durban Wildlife Park: Not your typical wildlife park experience, the vintage charm of Rovos Rail Durban Wildlife Park will take you back in time.
Lion Sands Ivory Lodge and Treehouses: I stayed at Lion Sands Ivory Lodge and Treehouses for a magical luxury camping experience! What could be better than spending the night under the stars with lions, tigers, and bears? Disclaimer: No bears.
Royal Malewane: Kruger National Park is widely regarded as South Africa's premier wildlife destination, and staying at Royal Malewane will take you to the heart of it all.
Gonwana Game Reserve: During my stay at the Gonwana Wildlife Conservation Area in South Africa, I visited an African wildlife park for the first time, and this place will always hold a special place in my heart.
Giraffe Manor, Kenya
Kenya
Campsite of the Cotswolds in the 1920s: This family-owned place is iconic in Kenya. Spending the night at the Cotswolds' 1920s wildlife campsite is a great way to disconnect from the world and see what Africa used to be like.
Maasai Mara National Park's luxurious destination owned by the famous Richard Branson, staying at Mahali Mzuri is an epic adventure that won't disappoint.
Giraffe Manor: This retro and chic hotel is easily one of the most Instagram-friendly hotels in Africa, and in fact, giraffes may eat from your hands.
Namibia
Wolwedans Boulders Safari Camp: When it comes to Namibia, everything is related to Wolwedans Boulders Safari Camp. They offer fully customizable accommodations so you can create your own wildlife park.
Botswana
Botswana's Black Mongoose Alley: Reconnect with nature in the sky beds of Khwai Private Reserve and the luxury tents of Black Mongoose Alley.
Meno a Kwena: Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. The simple and rustic Meno a Kwena campsite is a comfortable place for anyone looking to reconnect with nature.
What is the budget for the wildlife park?
Wildlife parks are not cheap, and you usually get what you pay for. Before you enter the sticker shock, remember that wildlife park lodges are usually all-inclusive - so that typically includes food, lodging, alcohol, and guided drives. The only extra cost is your flight.
When you start thinking about travel details, please read my guide to learn about budgeting for African wildlife parks.