An African safari offers the chance to witness some of the most spectacular wildlife and breathtaking wilderness on Earth. But a safari is about more than just watching wildlife from a vehicle. This list of activities takes your adventure to the next level—connecting you with local communities, immersing you in African culture, keeping you active, and adding an exciting twist to your journey.
1. Local Heartbeat: A Kenyan Homestay Experience
Experience the heart of Kenyan culture with a Nairobi homestay. Instead of heading to a hotel, you’ll be greeted at the airport and welcomed into a local family’s home. This intimate experience provides an insider’s view into everyday life, authentic cuisine, and rich traditions, making for an unforgettable start to your safari adventure.
2. Sleep Under the Stars at Loisaba Conservancy
At Loisaba Conservancy, you can spend a night directly under the stars on a luxurious four-poster bed. Set on raised platforms, these beds are rolled out into the open at night, offering an unmatched view of the sky’s constellations and the sounds of the wild. Wake up to the first light of dawn in this unique, unforgettable outdoor sleeping experience.
3. Meet The Last Two Northern White Rhinos In The World
Encounter Najin and Fatu, the last of their kind, at Ol Pejeta Conservancy. This heart-touching visit not only brings you face-to-face with these gentle giants but also emphasizes the critical conservation efforts to save their species.
4. Stargazing Across the Safari
African skies offer unparalleled stargazing opportunities. Whether in Kenya or Zambia, the clear skies reveal the cosmos in all its glory, offering a serene end to adventurous days.
5. Private Lunch in a Shamba Garden: Fresh Farm-to-Table Experience
Enjoy a hands-on dining experience in the Maasai Mara, where you’ll pick vegetables from an organic garden, get a private tour, and taste fresh homemade cheese and fruits. Complete with a selection of wines and panoramic views of the Mara, this meal connects you directly to the land’s bounty and traditional farming practices.
6. Run Wild: Morning Jogs With Ol Pejeta's Rangers
Join the rangers of Ol Pejeta Conservancy for a running experience across the African plains. This activity offers a chance to start your day with energy, running alongside the professionals who protect the reserve’s wildlife. Covering distances of 5-7km, the runs take you through diverse terrains where you might spot rhinos, elephants, and other wildlife in their natural habitat, all under the safe guidance of the conservancy’s experienced rangers. It’s a rare opportunity to combine fitness with wildlife viewing, offering insights into the daily routines of conservationists and the landscapes they protect.
7. Escape To Your Own Private Pradise Island
Indulge in the unparalleled luxury and seclusion of Fanjove, your very own private island nestled within the pristine Songo Songo Archipelago. This exclusive retreat promises not just a getaway but an immersive experience into tranquil beauty, opulent comfort, and close encounters with nature. Fanjove Island, with its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs, offers a sanctuary where you can unwind in the lap of luxury while being surrounded by the untouched wilderness of the Indian Ocean.
Your stay at Fanjove includes accommodation in eco-friendly, oceanfront Bandas (Swahili for ‘huts’) that blend seamlessly into the natural environment, offering stunning views and direct access to the beach.
8. Reteti Sanctuary Adventure: Up Close with Rescued Elephants
Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, a pioneering haven well off the beaten track and the first of its kind to be run by the local community in Africa. This sanctuary is not just a refuge for orphaned elephant calves but a testament to the strength of community-driven conservation efforts. Here, in this secluded sanctuary, the Samburu community is directly involved in the care, rehabilitation, and eventual reintroduction of elephant calves back into the wild. A visit to Reteti offers an intimate look at the dedicated efforts to protect wildlife, support community empowerment, and strengthen the bond between humans and nature. Engage with passionate caretakers, learn about innovative conservation techniques, and witness the sanctuary’s impactful work, all while enjoying the tranquility of this hidden gem.
Behind the Scenes: Conversations with a Reteti Elephant Keeper: Podcast:
9.Visit A Local School For A Meaningful Cultural Exchange
Deepen your safari experience by visiting a local school in rural Africa. These visits offer an authentic connection with the community’s next generation. Participate in classroom activities, join a game of football, or engage in music and storytelling sessions. A school visit provides powerful insight into daily life, the value of education in remote areas, and the hopes of young students. It’s a meaningful way to contribute to responsible tourism and support local development.
10. Go On A Guided Walking Safari In Africa For A Close-Up Wilderness Experience
Step off the vehicle and into the wild with a professionally guided walking safari in Africa. Led by expert guides, these safaris immerse you in the details of the landscape—from animal tracks and medicinal plants to birds, insects, and towering trees. With every step, you gain a deeper appreciation for the ecosystem and a unique, ground-level perspective that vehicles can’t offer.
11. Stay In A Underwater Room At The Manta Resort
Experience a unique stay in The Manta Resort’s underwater room, off Pemba Island. This one-of-a-kind room features a bedroom beneath the ocean surface, offering 360-degree views of marine life through glass walls. Above water, there’s a lounge and bathroom, and the roof doubles as a sun deck. This immersive underwater experience combines luxury with the wonder of the ocean, providing an unforgettable glimpse into the aquatic world.
12. Anti-Poaching Canine Interaction
Discover the frontline of conservation with a visit to an anti-poaching unit. Interact with the trained dogs and learn about their role in protecting Africa’s wildlife.
13. Ballooning Over Wonders: Wildebeest Migration And Kilimanjaro Views
Soar above the Maasai Mara in a hot air balloon for a spectacular view of the great wildebeest migration, or float over the plains with Mount Kilimanjaro in the backdrop. This serene journey at sunrise offers an unparalleled view of Africa’s landscapes and wildlife, from the majestic migration in Kenya and Tanzania to the iconic silhouette of Kilimanjaro
14. Trek Mount Kenya Or Mount Kilimanjaro
Take on the challenge of Africa’s iconic peaks. These treks are not just physical endeavors but journeys through diverse ecosystems filled with unique sights and sounds.
15. Supporting Local Crafts: Unique Handmade Gifts That Empower Communities And Conservation
The Maa Project: This initiative empowers Maasai women through beadwork, offering visitors the chance to buy exquisite, handmade items that support local families and community development.
Mulberry Mongoose, Zambia: Exquisite jewelry crafted from snare wire by local artisans. Each piece is not only a work of art but also a stand against poaching, transforming the tools of harm into symbols of beauty and resilience.
Tribal Textiles, Zambia: This initiative combines traditional techniques with contemporary designs, offering one-of-a-kind pieces that support local artisans and their communities.
16. Take A Boat Safari For Wildlife Viewing On Water
A boat safari offers a peaceful, unforgettable way to view wildlife from Africa’s rivers and lakes. Drift quietly past hippos, crocodiles, and elephants, enjoy exceptional birdwatching. This water-based experience complements land safaris by offering a fresh perspective and access to areas vehicles can’t reach.
17. Horseback Riding Alongside Wildlife
Experience the unique thrill of riding on horseback through the African wilderness. This extraordinary activity allows you to get remarkably close to wildlife, offering a serene and intimate connection with nature. On horseback, you move quietly through the savannah, blending into the landscape and observing animals as they go about their daily lives, undisturbed by your presence. It’s not just a ride; it’s an immersion into the heart of the wild, where you’re not just a spectator but a participant in the ancient rhythms of Africa.
Pack for a Purpose: A few extra pens and pencils for local communities can make a big difference.
Why Choose King Salama Safaris?
Eco-Friendly Practices: We are committed to sustainable tourism, ensuring that your adventure leaves minimal impact on the environment.
Expert Guides: Our knowledgeable guides provide a deeper understanding of wildlife and ecosystems, making your safari educational and immersive.
Luxury in the Wilderness: Experience the perfect blend of luxury and nature, with eco-conscious accommodations that redefine safari comfort.
Don’t Just Dream It… Live It!
King Salama Safaris expert team is here to ensure that you have the best safari. We are here to listen and craft the perfect trip. From the minute you book with us until we say goodbye to you at the airport, we are with you all the way.
