Game drives in Africa are the heartbeat of every safari adventure. When in Africa, the best way to see the Big Five and other iconic wildlife is from the open-air, high-seated 4×4 vehicles designed to take on any terrain. These vehicles allow you to sit above the bush, with the perfect view of the African savannah stretched out before you.
Whether you’re scanning the ground for dung beetles or spotting a camouflaged leopard in the treetops, game drives offer the best form of sightseeing. It’s the ultimate way to move through the bush and experience unforgettable animal encounters or capture that perfect photo. Most vehicles seat around six to ten guests, making this must-do activity great for both social groups and exclusive use.
Game Drives in Africa: Why Is It A Must?
While the animals play a key role, the hidden gem of your game drive can be found in the guides. With sharp humour, incredible knowledge of the terrain, and a sixth sense for spotting wildlife, your guide will no doubt go out of their way to make sure you get your chance to spot your favourite African animals. They’re always ready to answer your questions, stop for a special sighting, or laugh with you when your first lion turns out to be… a rock!
There’s no need to worry if you don’t spot everything before your first stop. Feel the African sun on your skin, listen to the sounds of the savannah, take in the spectacular views and enjoy the journey. With so many beautiful animals Africa has to offer, you’ll constantly be in awe of the sights and encounters available to you.
On The Hunt: Animal Encounters
Game drives in Africa have no shortage of exciting moments, but nothing compares to a kill. You’ll know it’s happening when the guide’s radio comes alive, and your safari truck surges forward, racing across the bumpy terrain to beat others to the scene and catch the animal’s mid-kill. These encounters are raw, wild, and unforgettable.
If the timing is right, you might see some thrilling kills like these:
- A pride of lions hunting together
- A leopard dragging its kill into a tree
- A crocodile ambushing at a watering hole
- Hyenas hunting as a clan
- A buffalo and lion standoff
- The rare sight of wild dogs hunting packs
However, not every game drive highlight is intense. After a kill, you may need some inspiring and sweet encounters to get your heart rate down! These moments, the ones that stay with you long after your African experience ends, are the ones that show the playful, social and majestic side of the animals. Here, you get to see who they are and what makes each animal special.
If you’re lucky, here are some of the memorable moments you might see unfold:
- Elephant calves mock charging with their ears flapping and trunks raised
- Giraffes silhouetted against the orange of an African sunset
- Hippo calves peeking out from the water
- Africa’s peaceful mixed herds
- A cheetah sprinting across the open terrain
On The Hunt: Best Game Drives in Africa
With so many incredible game reserves and African experiences on offer, choosing the best location for your trip is vital. Each offers different terrains, atmospheres and animal sightings. Which location is best for you?
South Africa
South Africa’s Kruger National Park offers incredible variety with the chance to spot nearly every animal, plus stunning views like the Crocodile River at lunch stops. Timing your visit is key. Hop into your safari truck and head north during the dry season for the best chance to see migrating animals. Known for its Big Five and great infrastructure, Kruger is perfect for unforgettable game drives. While in South Africa, there are always more bucket-list adventures to explore.
Botswana
Botswana’s Okavango Delta offers a remote and wild safari experience where game drives take you through waterways and vast floodplains. The lush, ever-changing landscape means you’ll find incredible animal diversity, from elephants to hippos, and plenty of intimate wildlife moments in a less crowded setting.
Tanzania and Kenya
Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve share some of Africa’s most classic savannah scenery. The annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra is a breathtaking sight, as herds cross rivers and plains in an unforgettable display of nature. On your game drives, be on the lookout for big cat sightings. If you’re hoping to witness a kill, this just may be the best place for you.
Zambia
Zambia’s game drives take you deep into some of Africa’s most untouched wilderness. Both South Luangwa and Kafue National Parks offer more intimate wildlife encounters due to fewer tourists. Zambia is a top destination if you’re hoping to spot elusive and rare animals. The diverse habitats provide once-in-a-lifetime animal sightings, from wild dogs to cheetahs. If you’re on the hunt for a leopard, make sure to book a game drive in South Luangwa!
On The Hunt: Times of Day
Timing your game drive is important if you wish to see your favourite animals in action. Here’s what to expect:
Early Morning Drives:
- Begin just before sunrise
- Cooler temperatures
- Active wildlife
Late Afternoon Drives:
- Begin before sunset
- Ideal time to see animals gather around water sources
- Predators preparing to hunt
Night Drives:
- Begin after sunset
- Focus around nocturnal animals
- Track animals in the dark
Nocturnal animal sightings may include hyenas, bush babies, genets, caracals, jackals, owls and porcupines.
Game Drives in Africa: What Should You Pack?
Make sure that you get the most out of your game drive and come prepared! Follow these tips below:
- Bring Layers, especially in the dry season (mornings are chilly, but warms up quick)
- Binoculars for spotting far-off wildlife
- Sun protection, sunglasses and a hat
- Refillable water bottle
- Comfortable closed shoes
Your Hunt Awaits
A game drive is one of the most rewarding experiences. The thrill of the hunt, the excitement and awe as you gaze upon these spectacular animals, stretch in your neck as you attempt to catch a glimpse of a giraffe’s face or the humbling presence of an elephant that stays with you.
Africa may never guarantee what you’ll see on your game drive, but it promises to leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
The hunt is on.
Ready to start planning? Let’s find where your story begins.
Bookings: info@jenmansafaris.com
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