Walking Safari
There’s something special about exploring the African bush on a walking safari. Not only will you see animals like elephant and giraffe from a completely different perspective, but you’ll also gain a deeper, more intimate connection with your surroundings. So, leave behind the comfort of a 4x4 vehicle and discover the magic of destinations like Zambia, Tanzania, and Botswana on foot!
Types of Walking Safaris
Short walking safaris
Shorter walking safaris, ranging from a couple of hours to a half-day excursion, are typically offered by most lodges in the morning or late afternoon as an alternative to going on a game drive.
Multi-day walking safari tours
Multi-day walking safari tours are the ultimate walking safari experience. On this style of tour, participants head out into the bush for several hours at a time, while hiking from camp to camp and covering vast stretches of terrain every day. You’ll be on foot most of the time, but there’s also plenty of time to relax and recharge back at camp in between game walks.
Regardless of the duration, both types of safaris are generally slow in pace and suitable for all fitness levels.
Best Destinations for a Walking Safari
1. Zambia
Popular destinations: South Luangwa, North Luangwa, Lower Zambezi National Park, and Kafue National Park are all known for their extraordinary walking safaris
Best time to go: May to October
2. Tanzania
Popular destinations: Ruaha National Park, Katavi National Park, Tarangire National Park, Selous Game Reserve, and Serengeti National Park
Best time to go: July to October
3. Botswana
Popular destinations: The Okavango Delta and Selinda Reserve
Best time to go: May to September
4. South Africa
Popular destinations: Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands Reserve, and the reserves of the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, such as Hluhluwe Game Reserve and Mkuze Game Reserve, are ideal for walking safaris
Best time to go: May to October
5. Kenya
Popular destinations: Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, and private conservancies in the Laikipia area
Best time to go: June to October
6. Zimbabwe
Popular destinations: Chizarira National Park and Hwange National Park
Best time to go: May to October
Tips for Embarking On a Walking Safari
Listen to the guide
Your guides are specially trained to keep you (and the animals) safe, so always follow their commands immediately.
Remain silent
The quieter you are, the more likely you are to see elusive animals like leopards. It’s also important to remain silent so you can be alerted to any danger along the way.
Do not use your phone
There’s nothing more distracting than the sound of an abrasive ringtone, so consider leaving your phone back at the camp. If your phone is your primary camera, make sure it’s on silent before you set off.
Respect the surroundings
Remember that you’re walking through a delicate ecosystem; never litter, remove any plant life, or attempt to feed the animals.
Do not run
The most important rule on any walking safari? Don’t run. Even a non-threatening situation can escalate if someone starts running.
Walking Safaris: Everything You Need to Know
What is a walking safari?
A walking safari is an adventurous excursion that lets guests travel through the bush on foot, following trained guides at a leisurely pace while viewing some of Africa’s most incredible wildlife from a completely unique vantage point. You might not see as much big game on foot as you do in a safari vehicle, but you’ll have the chance to experience all the small details you’d normally miss on a game drive, from plants to insects and animal tracks.
Are walking safaris safe?
As with any activity that involves wild animals, embarking on a walking safari comes with its own set of risks. No walking safari is 100% safe, but you can rest assured knowing walking safari guides undergo rigorous training to ensure the safety of all participants. You’ll normally be accompanied by at least two people, and one of them will always be armed.
How many people are in a walking safari group?
Group sizes will vary depending on your chosen operator and destination — so be sure to get in touch with the organizer for any specific details. Regardless of your group size, you can always expect a wildlife guide and at least one other person (potentially a park ranger or tracker) to accompany you.
Are walking safaris available in all destinations and parks?
Many parks and reserves — including sought-after destinations like Kruger National Park and the Okavango Delta — allow guests to participate in walking safaris; however, depending on the destination, certain restrictions may be enforced. Walking is prohibited in most of Kenya's national parks and reserves (apart from select private conservancies).
Are there any age restrictions?
Due to the presence of big game and the element of risk on a walking safari, some companies will enforce a minimum age requirement. The age limit will vary depending on the type of walking tour, the destination, and the operator, so be sure to double check with the organizer prior to booking. If you’re travelling with children, look for a company that offers walking safaris specifically tailored to families.
Book your Walking Safari today!
+1 844 311 8331
24/7 Support
Our team of experienced Travekl Experts have ventured to hundreds of countries around the globe and have decades of first-hand travel experience to share. Contact us now to have all of your tour-related questions answered!