Guided Safari - Hoedspruit

Guide to Your Wildlife Safari Experience in Hoedspruit

What is a Wildlife Safari?

A wildlife safari is a safari where the main focus is on viewing wild animals in their natural habitat. Guided safaris are a great way to explore both the private reserves around Hoedspruit as well as the world famous Kruger National Park. The safari experience will be different for each person, depending on their interests. The wildlife safari is an unforgettable experience for many reasons. The first one is that you get to see animals in their natural habitat, which is not something everyone gets the opportunity to do. Another reason why it's so memorable is because of the vastness of Africa and how much there is to see and do there. Another alternative option to a guided safari is to do a self-drive option where you stay in luxurious accommodations at a fixed location.

While Hoedspruit is a popular gateway to some of South Africa’s best safari destinations and private nature reserves, as well as the iconic Kruger National Park, Hoedspruit also has a growing reputation as a conservation, research and training hub. Known as the wild heart of the lowveld, it is also a haven for artists, photographers, film-makers, writers and environmentalists inspired by nature.

Understanding the Safari Experience

The Safari Experience is one of the best ways to get close to nature. It's not just about the animals, it's also about getting to know the people that live here, their culture, and their way of life. A guided Safari is an immersive wildlife safari experience, designed to give you the chance to get up close and personal with some of Africa’s most iconic animals. The safari excursions are an excellent opportunity to see all kinds of wild animals like giraffes, zebras, elephants, lions, and more. It is also an opportunity to see an abundance of bird, reptiles, insects, and fauna and flora. Most guided activities last 2 to 5 hours and are conducted when the wildlife is most active: early in the morning (often before breakfast), just after breakfast, in the afternoon and at night (where allowed by park authorities).

There are three main types of guided safaris: game drives, walking safaris, and family-friendly activities. Game drives are the most popular type of safari because they offer close-up animal sightings. Walking safaris offer a more intimate experience with animals and nature while family-friendly activities are for people with small children who may not be able to handle long days in the wilderness.

When it comes to safaris in Hoedspruit, the type of safari you opt for will depend on your budget, the time you have available, and the type of animal sighting you want to see. Popular guided safaris in Hoedspruit include game drives, walking safaris, and scenic flights. A walking safari is where you hike on foot with an expert guide who will show you the way. An air safari is when participate in scenic flights over the reserves in a small plane, helicopter or even microlite. Horse Riding Safaris are also available.

Why a Privately Guided Safari in Hoedspruit?

A privately guided safari is the ideal choice for small groups, families, and keen photographers. Your expert guide will work hard to put you in the right place, ready in the right moment to capture that once-in-a-lifetime image, or be in the thick of dramatic encounters. To do this, your private guide draws on years of guiding experience, practical knowledge of fauna, flora and animal behaviour, and superb tracking skills. Safari guides are explorers, storytellers, conservationists, botanists, food and wine connoisseurs, history enthusiasts, and curators of once-in-a-lifetime adventures. If you have a great guide, you’re guaranteed to experience Hoedspruit and surrounds in one of the most exclusive ways.

How to Prepare for Your Safari

Medications

Remember to bring any medications you might need to take during the day

Malaria

The use of malaria prophylaxis medications can reduce your risk of contracting malaria. Please consult your doctor about prophylaxis before your trip and do not forget to pack it.

Clothing

Always check the weather. It is a good idea to dress in layers as there can be a sudden change in weather. Light, neutral coloured clothing is preferable. Safari only requires casual clothing unless specified.

Shoes

Comfortable sneakers/sandals/walking shoes if going game walks

Hat

Many first time visitors to Africa underestimate the strength of the Sun even in the late afternoons. Preferably choose a hat that has a wide brim to shade your eyes and the back of your neck (this is an area most people forget, and where they get sunburnt.

Sunscreen

Choose a sunscreen with a high SPF or sun protection factor of between 30 and 50. Do not underestimate the power of the African sunshine - the last thing you want on holiday is sunburn or sunstroke.

Sunglasses

It is always a good idea to pack a pair of sunglasses as the glare from the sun during the middle of the day can hurt your eyes and give you a headache, especially if you are not used to it.

Camera

You will want to take lots of photographs so make sure you take plenty of memory cards for your camera. Don't forget to pack the charger.

Binoculars

Binoculars are essential for optimum wildlife viewing on safari, A good pair of binoculars will make a big difference to your safari. Each person should consider bringing their own binoculars in order to get the most out of every safari.

“Nothing but breathing the air of Africa, and actually walking through it, can communicate the indescribable sensations.” - William Burchell