So you want to go on a safari tour but you’re a little hesitant to abandon the creature comforts of your cosy home for the outdoor adventures lying in the bush. It’s an understandable concern, after all, stepping outside of your comfort zone can be easier said than done. But what if I told you that a safari could be exciting, adventurous and luxurious?
When you book with the right operator you can enjoy the best highlights of a safari while also getting treated like royalty and being offered every relaxing perk that one hopes to have on holiday, but might not expect. Here are a few of said creature comforts that you might not realise are part and parcel of the deal at many safari lodges.
Sundowners in the Bush
If you’ve stayed at a safari lodge that does daily game drives then you’ll no doubt have had the pleasure of experiencing the ritual of sundowners in the bush. Halfway through the evening game drives the rangers will find a safe spot to park with 360-degree views around the game vehicle and no potential predators lurking in wait. Everyone gets to climb off the vehicle and indulge in some ice-cold beverages and delicious snacks, while taking in a glorious African sunset. Local beers and wines will usually be on offer as well as other stalwarts such as the gin and tonic.
Our Self drive safari through Botswana and Namibia is still one of our most memorable adventures yet. For one month we drove through the bush spotting wildlife all day, and sitting under the vast sky staring at the stars every night.
We had two blue folding chairs in the back of our truck that came everywhere with us. At the end of a long game drive we couldn’t wait to set up our campsite, open a beer and sit in these chairs overlooking some of the most beautiful scenery we’ve ever seen. These chairs became a definite comfort we looked forward to along our trip!
In addition to star gazing, a warm shower at the end of the day, before we climbed into our tent felt like such a luxury throughout our 30 nights of camping! Not all of the campsites were fully equipped with amenities, which is why we anticipated the ones that did have showers! – Caroline, Travelling 9 to 5
High Tea
Between lunch and sundowners, you might feel somewhat peckish. Many safari providers and luxury game lodges are one step ahead with a lavish layout for high tea. A number of teas and coffees are included as well as sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, local sweet treats, biscuits and cakes. There’s nothing like comfort food to make you feel at home.
Turn-Down Service
Even in the bush, 5-star service can be expected. Upon coming back to your room, chalet, or luxury tent after dinner, you’ll find that your curtains are drawn, lights are dimmed, candles have been lit, and your bed will have been turned down and there’s often a small and thoughtful gift waiting for you on the pillow, from chocolates to locally made biscuits or fudge.
Food Preferences and World-Class Meals
Most of the African safari lodges have world-class chefs cooking up a storm for their guests’ meals (all included in most cases). If you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or have any other food preferences or allergies, these are treated with respect and sincerity. You can expect to be provided with a specially prepared meal that more often than not out-of-this-world!
Wi-Fi Connectivity
You wouldn’t expect to be able to connect to Wi-Fi in the middle of the savannah, but most lodges have satellite connectivity for themselves and their guests. Being able to upload your latest safari pics or keep up to date with work or family is 100% doable from the comfort of the lodge you’re staying in.
Laundry Service
For all-inclusive packages, you usually find that premium laundry services are included so you can rest assured that you always have clean clothes. If the service isn’t included in the cost it will be available for a reasonable fee.
Bathing with a View
Luxurious takes on a whole new meaning when you can bath or shower while casting your gaze over the African savannah. Many lodges have rooms that either has the bed, bathing or shower facilities facing the bush while being blocked off to ensure complete privacy. This not only makes you feel free and invigorated but also gives you a complete sense of being alone in the middle of the bush.
During my walking safari trip inside the Satpura National Park (Madhya Pradesh, India), I went glamping with Pugdundee Safaris. My luxury camping experience was out of the world! I particularly did not expect to be able to take a hot shower in the wilderness. I had my own bathing tent with a shower-bag held up by a pulley. I took the most ethereal shower of my life under a clear night sky spangled with stars. The thrill was impalpable, also because my safari-tent was set up in the core tiger zone, by the side of a river. I always on the lookout for a crouching tiger. – Oindrila, Oindrila Goes Footloose
On-Site Spa
Many game lodges will have their own on-site spa where you can indulge in decadent massages and treatments. Where a spa isn’t on-site, they often have a resident masseuse who can come to your room to massage away knots and relieve tired shoulders after long days spent chasing views of diverse wildlife.
