Embarking on a safari adventure in Africa is a dream come true for many travel enthusiasts. The continent’s rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes and unique cultures make it a top destination for those seeking an unforgettable experience. In this edition, we explore Tanzania, South Africa, and Kenya—three of the most iconic safari destinations with Discover Corps.
Why These Safaris Are a Bucket List Experience
- Unrivaled Wildlife Encounters: Africa’s national parks and reserves offer some of the best wildlife sightings in the world.
- Diverse Landscapes: From the Maasai Mara to the bushveld of Greater Kruger, the scenery is breathtakingly varied.
- Cultural Immersion: Safaris not only connect you with wildlife but also offer a unique opportunity to connect with local cultures and learn about their heritage.
- Conservation Impact: Help contribute to conservation efforts, turning your trip into a means of supporting wildlife protection.
Imagine a place where elephants, zebras, and rhinos roam the plains beneath the towering, snow-capped peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro. This is Tanzania, where the Chagga people coexist with Africa’s most impressive wildlife.
Tanzania is synonymous with classic safari experiences. Home to the Tarangire National Park, Tanzania offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO Wodl-Heritage site, boasts stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, including the Big Five, all thriving within the crater’s unique ecosystem.
Our 10-day journey balances volunteering at a village school with cultural activities and a 3-day safari excursion. Stroll to a stunning waterfall at the base of Kilimanjaro, learn traditional batik art, and visit a women-supported coffee cooperative. Experience unforgettable jeep rides through Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire National Park, witnessing zebras, lions, leopards, elephants, wildebeest, and rhinos in their natural habitat.
Best Time to Go:
- June to October: This is the dry season, ideal for viewing wildlife as animals gather around water sources.
- January to February: Known as the high season where the weather is warm and dry, offering the chance to see newborn animals and predator-prey interactions.
South Africa: Wildlife Conservation Experience
The Greater Kruger National Park region is home to a variety of wildlife including a range of birdlife. Travelers will spot hyena, warthog, impala, zebra, rhino, elephant and more. A day visit to Kruger National Park, the world’s premier wildlife refuge, spans over 7,500 square miles of protected land and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Home to over 500 bird species and the highest diversity of large mammals in Africa, it’s a prime spot to see the “Big 5” – lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros.
Join DC in South Africa on groundbreaking conservation efforts in this area by helping local experts set camera traps to protect leopards and get behind-the-scenes insights into wildlife protection. Visit Jabulani, an elephant sanctuary, to learn about and interact with African elephants up close.
Split your time between thrilling game drives and engaging conservation projects. Visit famous wildlife sites, set camera traps, meet ambassador animals at a rescue center and explore a social impact project addressing conservation and community issues like wildlife crime, poverty and food insecurity. End your trip with an inspiring visit to the elephant sanctuary before flying back to Johannesburg. This journey goes beyond a typical safari – it immerses you in the heart of wildlife conservation!
Best Time to Go:
- May to October: The dry, winter months are the best for game viewing as animals are more easily spotted in the sparse vegetation. Mornings and evenings are chilly with mild daily temperatures.
- November to April: This is the best time for bird watching, as migrant species flock southwards. Rainfall is experienced but rarely lasts longer than a few hours.
Experience an African safari like no other. In Kenya with DC, you’ll go behind the scenes in renowned wildlife-viewing areas, contributing to projects that benefit East Africa’s most iconic species. Engage in private interactions with the world’s last two Northern White rhinos, track lions with local conservationists, collect data on species populations in the Kenyan Savannah, and learn from an elephant orphan rescue center. Meet the anti-poaching dog unit of a conservancy for an up-close wildlife experience in East Africa. Relax and take in the natural beauty from your luxury tented camps.
Discover various conservation approaches across Kenya and gain behind-the-scenes access to community projects. Enjoy game drives to spot lions, elephants, hippos, cheetahs, giraffes, and more. Join local Maasai tribesmen on a nature walk to a traditional village, experiencing a way of life that is disappearing. Visit women’s empowerment organizations to learn about the region’s successes and struggles.
Best Time to Go:
- July to October: The longest dry season of the year in Kenya, which coincides with the cooler months, offers an excellent opportunity to observe a higher density and diversity of wildlife.
- January to February: The weather is also warm and dry, making it an excellent time for game viewing and bird watching.
A safari in Tanzania, South Africa or Kenya is more than just a vacation; it’s a journey into the heart of the wild. Each destination offers unique experiences that cater to both seasoned travelers and first-time visitors. Whether you’re drawn by the Big Five or the meaningful community engagement and rich culture, these safaris promise memories that will last a lifetime.
Begin planning your African adventure today with Discover Corps and transform this incredible experience into a meaningful safari that you’ll remember for a lifetime!
Questions about any of our upcoming adventures? Give us a call during office hours at 9-6 PM PT or email us at info@discovercorps.com