YOUR NEXT SAFARI AWAITS
MAKE YOUR DREAM HOLIDAY A REALITY
YOUR NEXT SAFARI AWAITS
MAKE YOUR DREAM HOLIDAY A REALITY
SAFARI EXPERIENCES
ESCAPE SAFARI CO.
SAFARI EXPERIENCES
The need to disconnect in order to reconnect with nature and oneself has never been greater. Sometimes all it requires is pressing the escape button to discover places you thought were out of reach. Nature is our best teacher and reminds us to be present and patient. This makes a safari the ultimate way to unwind and gain perspective.
At Escape Safari Co. we understand the desire for discovery, adventure and the feeling of true wilderness. Africa has an allure like none other and we are exceptionally passionate about sharing it with people. Whether it is by vehicle, on foot, boat or even a traditional mokoro, people with a natural curiosity are drawn to Africa. Here, they get to experience some of the most astonishing, unusual and magnificent wildlife and landscapes on earth.
Our aim is to make life-changing experiences a reality by tailoring all safaris with exceptional detail and care. A very personal approach makes every guest feel welcome, cared for and safe throughout the process of planning this once-in-a-lifetime journey.
An African safari is so much more than just a holiday. By visiting iconic destinations like this, you actively play a role in the fortification of the three pillars that make up the safari tourism industry: People, Land and Wildlife. At Escape Safari Co. we’re constantly striving to participate in the custodianship of wildlife, wilderness areas and local communities, believing that with your help, anything is possible.
Why not choose your safari experience and let our specialists handle all the details? We’ll plan, book and host your adventure so that you can make memories that last forever.
Click here to see Escape Safari Co's favourite safari experiences.
BEACH & BUSH
Africa is an incredibly diverse continent that offers a variety of experiences. Between impenetrable forests, towering mountains and vast grass plains, you’ll find some of the most pristine beaches in all the world. This also includes an impressive collection of beach destinations along Africa’s coastline and nearby islands.
The combination of a safari and beach holiday is a penultimate experience for honeymooners, couples and families visiting South and East Africa. There’s nothing like a few days on a tropical beach as the perfect end to a safari, where you can reminisce about the sunrises and sightings that were experienced.
Some of our favourites beach escapes include the likes of Zanzibar, Mozambique, Madagascar, Seychelles and Mauritius. The choice of beach location is normally determined by your particular safari destinations, however, combining two has been simplified thanks to modern air travel and our intricate knowledge of the logistics involved. This means that you could be on the beach the same day you complete your safari.
Want the best of both worlds? Get in touch with our team and our specialists will create an itinerary just for you…
WALKING SAFARI
A walking safari is the traditional, authentic and spiritual home of the wilderness experience. It allows you to connect with nature on an intimate level by elevating all of your senses to your surroundings. By becoming more aware of your beautiful environment, you’ll gain a greater understanding of all living systems and how they are intrinsically linked within their fragile ecosystem.
At Escape Safari Co. we offer a variety of walking experiences that are available at most safari destinations. These are often enjoyed in combination with game drives and photographic safaris. From individuals to families and even groups, almost anyone can enjoy a walking safari. For starters, there are short walks. These are focused on smaller creatures and tracks that are often missed on a game vehicle. For those who prefer a more lengthy venture, we offer another experience that encompasses longer distances, focusing on tracking and safely viewing larger animals on foot. This includes the likes of lions, elephants, buffalo and rhino, as well as trekking for gorillas and chimpanzees. For those looking for the complete walking safari, we offer a 3 to 7 day expedition, where guests can stay in either a rustic fly camp in the middle of the wilderness or the comfort of a luxury lodge.
Every walking safari is a one-of-a-kind experience. For us, few things rival the thrill and appreciation for nature that guests gain from the entire trek. No matter the option you decide on, all of our game rangers are armed for your safety and the addition of professional guides ensure comfort and an unforgettable adventure.
Curious about escaping on a walking safari? Get in touch and let us create a customised experience unique to you.
GORILLAS & CHIMPANZEES
The Great Ape experience is undoubtedly the ultimate safari adventure. It provides guests with some of the most unique discoveries that anyone could imagine, let alone photograph. Every trek for gorillas and chimpanzees take place within near-mythical towering forests deep in the heart of Africa. This adds yet another layer of exotic adventure to these experiences, making them almost impossible to replicate anywhere else. This bucket-list expedition is accessible, safe and comfortable. At Escape Safari Co. we take pride in visiting Uganda, Rwanda and Congo as it enables us to contribute to the protection of the rainforests and conservation of mountain gorillas, western lowland gorillas, chimpanzees and countless other species.
We invite you to learn more about experiencing gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats by reading below. Should you have any questions, please contact one of our specialist safari planners.
*Due to high demand, booking as early as possible will give you the best chance of getting the necessary permits as well as accommodation at the best lodges.
GORILLAS
Unmistakably one of the most charismatic primates on earth, the gorilla is sadly a critically endangered species. It is estimated that there are only about 100,000 western lowland gorillas and between 800 to 900 mountain gorillas left in the wild. This makes encountering them a definite once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s also a way to aid in the conservation efforts generated and developed through eco-tourism. Without it, we would face the strong possibility that there would be none left to see.
More recently, there has been a major focus on the development and procedures involved when viewing a gorilla family. This is due to their vulnerable status and how susceptible they are to human illness. Even a common cold could be fatal to a whole family of gorillas, making the health and fitness of guests vital. Those wanting to share the experience should also be prepared for the muddy and humid conditions associated with a rainforest. That aside, there is no doubt that it’s well worth the effort in order to be one of the few people on earth to have the privilege of spending time with gorillas.
Our gorilla trek is led by professional guides and trackers that take you in search of a particular family group. After exploring through the depths of the forest and a family is heard feeding or sighted, a quiet and gentle approach is made. The guide then allows the trekking group to settle down and observe the gorillas for nearly an hour from approximately 10m (25ft) away. In almost every destination, there are restrictions on the amount of time and number of people that can view a family of gorillas per day. Fortunately, this makes treks an exclusive, intimate and profound experience.
CHIMPANZEES
A chimpanzee experience is an incredibly profound one. Spending time with these animals makes one aware of how intelligent, conscious, observant and thoughtful they really are. This makes a trek for chimpanzees unlike any other animal encounter in Africa. Sadly, there are only as few as 10,000 to 30,000 chimpanzees left in the forests of central and western Africa. These can be found in countries like Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Congo.
Trekking for chimps is typically not that difficult but once found, they can prove to be a thrilling animal to view due to their active nature whilst gliding through the forest canopy during a hunt. Chimpanzee experiences take place in some of the most breath-taking settings that safari destinations have to offer, but should you want to view gorillas on the same safari, this will need to be taken into consideration.
Our favourite Great Ape Expeditions:
THE GREAT MIGRATION
The Great Migration is the largest overland migration in the world. It is also one of the earth’s most spectacular natural wonders constantly taking place. Together, close to 1.5 million wildebeest, 250,000 zebras and a few thousand Thomson gazelle and Topi migrate along an 800km route between Tanzania and Kenya. The majority of the migration moves through the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Loliondo Game Controlled Area and the Grumeti Reserve in Tanzania. The migration then passes through the Masai Mara Game Reserve and Masai Mara Wildlife Conservancies in Kenya.
This migration is driven by the continuous search for available water and fresh shoots of grass brought along with the passing rains. These animals trail the cycle of the seasonal rainfall that passes over the migration route, dictating when the majority of the migration will be found. The large herds of wildebeest and zebra have no natural leader and the herd will often split up into smaller ones made up of a few thousand animals that circle and re-join the main herd. The herds must constantly overcome challenges that stem from crossing diverse habitats that range from open grass plains to riverine forests and even woodlands. Every obstacle is systematically explored and overcome together through a process known as “swarm intelligence”. Whilst the migration may seem manic, it is part of life for the animals.
The migration is accessible for most of the year, however, it is crucial to plan a Great Migration safari so that it can coincide with one of three big events. These are the rut, the river crossings and the calving season. The migration “begins” with the calving season in the short nutritious grass plains of the Serengeti from January to March. The wildebeest tend to congregate in February, with the synchronised calving event taking place over a 2 to 4 week period, where the wildebeest give birth to approximately 500,000 calves. This means that roughly 8000 calves are born a day.
By April, the Serengeti starts to dry up and most of the grass has been devoured. This drives the herds along the Grumeti River towards greener pastures. This region is known for its predator viewing, especially when the herds move through. The wildebeest normally begin crossing the Grumeti River when the water levels are low and the herds have no choice but to drink and cross a river alive with crocodiles.
Before July, the main herd begin their approach to the Masai Mara as the reserve receives rain. The animals are drawn to the new grasses from mid to late June, staying through to September and often crossing back and forth over the Mara River between the Masai Mara Game Reserve and the Mara Triangle.
At the end of September and beginning of October, the herd begin turning back towards the Serengeti, as the rains start to fall in Tanzania. Over November and December, the herd will reach the plains where they first set off 12 months before. Over this 12-month period, around 250,000 wildebeest and 30,000 zebras are killed. This is a result of predation by carnivores and also from thirst, hunger and exhaustion.
The sights and sounds of this spectacular natural event are extraordinary to experience. There is so much that happens during the migration, making it one of the ultimate wildlife experiences on the planet. It is Africa’s great escape and one that we are proud to guide you through.
Want to experience one of the world’s most spectacular events? Contact us and let our specialist safari planners handle all the details.
BIG CATS
The iconic big cats of Africa epitomise the theatre of a true African safari. In fact, it is difficult to imagine a safari without seeing a lion, leopard or cheetah. Each one of these magnificent cats has their own unique traits that have captivated us for centuries. The powerful lion, the elusive leopard and the electric speed of a cheetah, all add to an authentic and spectacular bush experience.
All three big cats can be found in a diversity of environments that extend across a variety of protected areas in Africa. From the arid desert to open plains and even riverine areas, guests can choose where they’d like their experience to unfold. Historically, East Africa has been one of the best places to view big cats, particularly where lions are concerned. For cheetah, the Serengeti and Masai Mara host the perfect setting for these cats to scan the open plains. When looking in the right places for leopards, other species like the caracal and serval can be seen too.
Southern Africa provides some of the most intimate and exclusive viewing of big cats that anyone could wish for. The Okavango Delta in Botswana also offers amazing opportunities to view both leopard and lion, especially when floods create islands that isolate prides. As the most iconic destination for buffalo and lion interaction, the Okavango Delta is one of the most sought-after big cat safari experiences in Africa.
South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. Thanks to having the most intact major river system in Africa, the Luangwa River is the lifeblood of the reserve that draws in brilliant lion and leopard sightings, particularly during the dry season.
Mana Pools in Zimbabwe is an especially enchanting piece of wilderness that is incredibly unique in its experience. Situated on the mighty Zambezi river amongst a cathedral forest, herds of elephants and wild dogs provide incredible lion viewing. This can often be enjoyed on foot with the safety of a professional guide.
In South Africa, the entire Greater Kruger National park, including the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, has an exceptionally high density of predators. With Sabi Sands lying adjacent to the Kruger National Park, it is a great place to see lions. This also makes it arguably the best place to see wild leopard in the world. For those looking for some of the best cheetah viewing in South Africa, Phinda Private Game Reserve definitely deliver.
At Escape Safari Co. we take pride in providing guests with the full beauty and drama of these majestic animals. By selecting the best destinations, we’re able to exceed guest expectations.
If you’ve got dreams of a big cat escape, we’re the ones who can make that a reality.
ELEPHANTS
Easily one of Africa’s most recognisable animals: the elephant is truly majestic. There’s something indescribable and humbling about experiencing a herd in the wild. Although their strong presence is an undeniable one, they are gentle and intelligent creatures. This can be seen and felt with every deep rumble, trumpet and intricate social interaction within the herd.
Elephants are found in most quality safari destinations, however, the experience will differ from place to place and with every encounter. Sightings are frequent in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Tanzania and if fortunate enough, one might see the forest elephants in the Congo. Each destination has unique and beautiful backdrops from open grass plains to mountains, jungle forests and even the desert. This makes every elephant encounter unique in its own way.
If an elephant escape is what you after, why not let us tailor your safari around these awe-inspiring animals.
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WILD DOGS
As one of the most enthralling predators to observe and one of the rarest to see on safari, wild dogs top the list for many bush enthusiasts. With a current population estimated at approximately 6,600 adults in 39 subpopulations, only 1,400 are mature individuals. What makes them so remarkable extends further than their rarity. Their social structure gives them the ability to organise, which makes a pack incredibly successful when hunting. Every interaction between pack members is one of meaning. This means that every nudge, chirp and meal only strengthens their bond, to the extent that they look after one another regardless of age.
Wild dogs can be seen throughout the year, however, between May and June, the pack is denning with their pups. This means that the pack will always return to the same area sometime twice a day to feed the Alpha female and her pups. During this period, the pack will cover large areas in search of small to medium antelope to hunt. Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, South Africa, Tanzania and Kenya are the best countries to see wild dogs in their natural habitats.
Want to see one of the most energetic and exciting predators on safari? Let us know!
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THE CAPE & WINELANDS
On the southern coastline of South Africa lies a city boasting the reputation of one of the best travel destinations worldwide. Cape Town is home to the magnificent Table Mountain, where hikers and cable cars can be seen making their way up to the top. Here, the spectacular views over the ocean and the city are simply breathtaking. From the top of Table Mountain, boats can also be seen heading to the famous Robben Island, the prison where Nelson Mandela was once held. It is open to travellers who wish to experience the museum and the legacy of Madiba.
Local craft markets offer visitors a taste of South African history and culture. Alternatively, you can dine at one of many restaurants overlooking the waterfront, where the freshest seafood can be found. Not far from the city, there are white sandy beaches that are home to curious penguins, making them a firm favourite the world over. Ocean lovers can also partake in enthralling whale watching and even exhilarating shark cage diving.
For the wine enthusiast, South Africa produces some of the best wines in the world, many of which are made in the Cape Winelands. This is a place of serenity and great beauty, with rolling green landscapes and historic architecture. Whether you’re interested in trying the local wines or enjoying delicious meals, this is definitely the most unforgettable experience that combines the two.
Why not escape to the beautiful Cape and its Winelands? Contact us to find out more
SAFARI FROM THE WATER
People, wildlife and plants in Africa have a deep connection with the rivers that run through its diverse landscape. These rivers support all living systems on the continent, particularly during the dry periods of the year. Seasonal rainfall patterns impact all life associated with the river and during these seasons, animals are drawn closer to the rivers as the natural flood plain and vegetation begin to dry out. Many of these rivers flow through some of the most outstanding wilderness areas, allowing one to correct with all elements of the natural surroundings.
The Congo, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zimbabwe are the finest areas to experience a safari from the water. Guests should remember that a safari from the water is an extremely different yet remarkable experience that could take you deep into the Congo jungle or even the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Depending on the destination, there’s an option of poling down the river in a traditional mokoro canoe dug out of wood. Alternatively, guests can paddle in a normal canoe or kayak, whilst saying in the comfort of a luxury houseboat.
The common thread of a safari from the water is the sense of calm that comes with your surroundings. This is only enhanced by the pure excitement of what lies around the next corner.
For a unique and memorable trip, come escape with us on a safari from the water.
SAFARI FROM THE AIR
From the air, guests can gain a surprising, unique and uncommon perspective of the landscape, habitats and animals that lie below. This allows each person to see the world in a completely different way from a spectacular and uninterrupted view. There’s also the potential for a hot air balloon ride, helicopter trip or a short aeroplane flight to your safari experience. Every mode of flight is a totally different experience from one to the other, allowing you to choose the option that appeals most to you.
When flying into destinations, you get a brief glimpse of the landscape. For those wanting to take a longer look, another option is a helicopter flip overlooking the landscape. This in itself is a photographer’s dream that allows one to scan the wilderness below. Guests are often taken to a mountain top or valley for a beautiful lunch, adding an extra dimension to an already unforgettable occasion.
A balloon flight is one of the oldest and most peaceful ways to experience a safari. Picture a hot air balloon flight over the rolling plains of the Masai Mara in Kenya, floodplains in Zambia, Okavango Delta in Botswana or even the red dunes of the Namib Desert in Nambia. All of the above have fast become highly sought-after experiences for discerning guests. The balloon itself is able to fly low without disturbing the animals beneath. Almost all balloon safari experiences end with a bottle of champagne and a breakfast in a beautiful setting. Having champagne is a tradition that dates back to 1780 when the French parliament declared that balloon pilots had the right to land anywhere as long as they gave the landowner a bottle of champagne as compensation.
A safari from the air is truly a thrilling escape and a spectacular way to observe the wonders of nature. If you’re interested in enjoying the view, get in touch with our team of specialists.
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CULTURAL EXPERIENCES
Travelers that experience Africa are always left speechless with a profound “feeling.” Many say that this “feeling” is one that cannot be described. They often leave saying that a part of their heart will remain. For many, it is never just a vacation, it becomes a truly unique experience that leaves some completely changed forever.
Africa has a linguistic diversity of 1500 to 2000 languages. In South Africa, there are 11 official languages so one can only imagine the cultures that accompany them. The spirit of Africa is one made up of a diverse community of people that are willing to share their stories. These might include how they’ve grown up herding cattle from a young age, grown their own produce and learned traditional cultural beliefs from the elders. The endless stories are endless and always awe-inspiring.
Something that comes so naturally to many of the locals is their innate ability to sing and dance from a place of pure passion and joy. This is something that guests are always entertained and inspired by. There are many local villages, craftsman and schools that can be visited and supported during a safari. This is yet another way to explore and understand the African cultures and their people.
At most of the Safari lodges, there is an incredible opportunity to be guided on a bush walk. Here, a guide will share the traditional beliefs of everything around you. From the art of tracking and finding animals to understanding the tracks, there is much to be learned. Another important aspect is the local plants. These are believed to have medicinal healing properties for each culture.
Bush walks allow you quiet time in which nature can teach and show you all that it has to offer. Whilst walking with a guide through the African bush there are no cell phones ringing and no chatter. With your feet officially grounded on the earth and serenity surrounding you, all five of your senses are heightened by nature, allowing you to be completely immersed and in the moment.
If you’re willing to answer Africa’s call and learn of her cultures, we’d be more than happy to assist you.
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OKAVANGO DELTA & BUSANGA PLAINS
Discover the wetlands in completely open and wild eco-systems that are famous for elephants, lions, leopards, wild dog, large herds of buffalo, pods of hippo and crocodile. In Botswana’s Okavango Delta and the Kafue’s Busanga Flood Plains in Zambia, the presence of water is vital for the survival of fragile and extraordinary life systems. This produces some of Africa’s most authentic and sought-after wilderness experiences.
The famous Okavango Delta is one of our planet’s last wetland wildernesses and it is known as “the river that never finds the sea”. This extraordinary piece of nature can be explored by a walking safari, 4x4 game viewer, mokoro canoe and even from the sky if you choose. Better yet, it is accessible all year round.
Without a doubt, it’s a true bucket list escape that is complemented by the lesser-known but equally incredible, Busanga Plains in Zambia. Busanga Plains is an uninterrupted haven of unforgettable wilderness, which is remotely situated and only accessible for eight months of the year. Its misty and dramatic scenes can be explored by 4x4 game viewer, boats and even a hot air balloon.
Both Busanga Plains and the Okavango Delta appeal to first-time safari travellers and wildlife photographers alike. Whether done separately or together, both set the scene for the perfect escape.
Want to explore a wild oasis the way that nature intended? Let us plan your dream safari.
FISHING SAFARI
Africa is an angler’s paradise. It’s why we love facilitating journeys that are off the beaten track in search of an authentic adventure in combination with incredible wildlife. In some cases, combining fishing with a safari can be one in the same or completely separate entities. This depends on where you decide to go. For those passionate about fishing, this is a spectacular way to experience Africa. Our fishing safaris take place in the Congo, South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Seychelles, with only the most experienced and operators. This maintains the quality of fishing as well as safety and to make it the adventure of a lifetime.
If your dream is to experience an untouched estuary, powerful rivers, deep sea by fly, dropshot or trawling, Escape Safari Co. will make a point to facilitate to your preferences and skills. Should you fish by fly rod, bait or lure and you wish to catch a GT, trigger fish, yellow fin tuna or tiger fish, every suggested destination will be carefully selected to give you the experience you desire.
Let us turn your safari dreams into an unforgettable reality.
GOLFING SAFARI
Combining golf and an African safari makes for the perfect fusion of relaxation and adventure. Many world-class golf courses are dotted across Africa, particularly in South Africa. There are several top golf courses located along the wine route in the Cape as well. For those travelling to the Kruger National Park or Sabi Sands, a round of golf can easily be arranged at the famous Leopard Creek, situated on the Crocodile River, between your morning and afternoon safari. For those wanting to add a beach getaway to the end of a safari, there a few fantastic courses in Mauritius an Seychelles, boasting some of the most pristine coastline views.
Every area we suggest provides first-class facilities and a scenic backdrop that rivals some of the world’s best courses.
Interested? Take a look at some of our Golf Escapes to give you a little inspiration. If you like what you see, get in touch with us. We’ll soon tailor an itinerary that includes everything you want and need.
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A DESERT ESCAPE
The Namib Desert in Namibia plays host to one of the most magnificent and vast landscapes that can be encountered in Africa. The Namib Naukluft National Park is one of the largest conservation areas in the world. It is filled with rolling red dunes during the day and wide-open starry skies at night. The attractions of a desert escape include visiting the famous Sossusvlei dunes and the Dead Vlei. Further north lies the Hoanib river that is rich in wildlife. There’s also the Groot and Klein Oasis and a shipwreck-strewn Skeleton Coast that holds the possibility of seeing a rare desert black rhino, brown hyena and desert-adapted lions and elephant. The spectacular cultural experience of visiting the semi-nomadic Himba Tribe alone is a major drawcard for guests.
A desert escape is filled with effortlessly beautiful landscapes, rugged coastlines, dry river valleys and isolated mountains. It is the ultimate destination that adds a refreshing element to any safari escape for all travellers, especially photographers that appreciate the night sky, stunning landscapes and uncommon wildlife.
For an escape that won’t be forgotten, contact our safari experts today.
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WILDLIFE, WELLNESS & YOGA
Imagine taking your yoga practice to the banks of a river where your focus point is a herd of elephants or exploring tree pose beneath ancient trees. Our specialist wellness and yoga teacher, Laura Bunting, has expanded our scope of a safari, offering guests the opportunity to incorporate yoga, guided meditation, and wellness into their safari experience.
Before setting off on safari in the morning you can expand your awareness in a guided sunrise meditation. Through mindfulness, you can begin to embody the peace and presence of the animals that surround the landscape around you. By moving and breathing consciously you return home healthy and restored. With Laura as a private wellness guide, you’ll decide together how deeply you step into this experience. Connecting people with love for travel, nature and yoga through eco-conscious and wildlife experiences, while giving back to the areas they operate in is Laura's passion.
With Laura and our travel specialists, wellness and yoga safaris can be booked in a retreat style for groups as well as for couples or individuals looking to add a new element to their safari. These safaris are not limited to specific locations. Instead, our team can arrange to have this experience at any of your dream destinations.
On these safaris we fall in line with nature’s rhythm and find ourselves an integral part of it. There is no better place to remember your own true nature than in the wilderness. From this deeply aware and connected place we co-create with the healing of the planet.
It is an adventure to that inspire those who are curious and passionate about the wildlife, wellness and yoga in some of the most magical locations.
This is true transformational travel.
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OTHER MIGRATIONS IN AFRICA
Liuwa Plains
Although lesser-known than the Serengeti-Masai Mara migration and with far fewer safari and expedition opportunities, between 20,000 and 30,000 wildebeests migrate between areas in eastern Angola and western Zambia. With the rainy season starting around November, large herds of wildebeests move from Angola into Liuwa Plain National Park. The herds move back north and west in May and June. Smaller herds aren’t any less impressive though, so we invite guests to enjoy this majestic experience with our expertise.
Zebras in Africa
Approximately 300,000 zebras move along the same route as the wildebeests in Tanzania and Kenya. Another great zebra migration of around 20,000 animals takes place in central and northern Botswana through the areas of Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pan National Parks. The animals move with the rain between the grasslands of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pan in the Kalahari Desert and the Boteti River or Okavango Delta.
The dry season, usually between June and October, finds the zebras along the Boteti River, their only regular source of water. In the past, the river has dried up but in more recent years thanks to more abundant rainfall, it’s in better condition and able to support more wildlife, including larger zebra populations. When the rains arrive, these herds move east to the grasslands and salt pans to eat, mate and give birth. The journey lasts up to 240km (150 miles), as family groups stick together as part of the larger herds throughout this migration.
The Sardine Run
Every year, between the months of May and July, millions of silvery sardines travel north from the cold southern oceans off South Africa's Cape Point. They hug the shore as they make their way up along the coastlines of the former Transkei (northern Eastern Cape) and KwaZulu-Natal in what is known as the annual Sardine Run.
Visible even by satellite, these famous sardine shoals travel in seething masses, stretching for up to 15km in length, 3.5km wide and nearly 40m deep.
It’s a spectacle in itself but to add to this, hundreds of predators arrive to partake in a feeding frenzy. This results in a wildlife extravaganza that rivals the Great Migration of the wildebeest across the African savanna. Guests can expect a variety of birds, dolphins, sharks, whales and game fish all at the ready to gorge themselves on sardines. This offers an enthralling and memorable experience.
Take in the excitement of the Sardine Run when you start planning your next escape with us.
Barn Swallows
As spring arrives in South Africa in September, the migratory European swallows/barn swallows start to appear. At Mount Moreland, South Africa’s largest roosting grounds, the initial small flocks swell to thousands and then millions of Swallows. By November, as many as 3 million barn swallows can be seen every evening over the Lake Victoria wetland roost until April. Evening displays like this differ widely during the swallow season and depend on a number of factors. These include weather, wind, degree of light and insects. Watching the swallows is a special sight and even an overcast sky can offer equally spectacular displays as a picturesque sunset.
See the barn swallows in all of their glory by getting in touch with us today.
Fruit Bats
In Kasanka National Park, Zambia there is incredible migration of straw-coloured fruit bats that arrive every year in November and December. They visit to gorge on Kasanka’s seasonal abundance of fruit. This gathering comprises the greatest concentration of mammalian biomass in Africa, if not the world. Only a lucky few have been able to witness it. What makes it even more mysterious is that no one knows where they’ve come from or where they go once they have their full.
Straw-coloured fruit bats live in colonies that are thousands or even millions strong, on the edges of forests, towns and cities. Their range encompasses the tropical belt of Africa and populations exist from Sudan south to Zambia. The species even reach Nigeria and the Ivory Coast.
These bats are frequently attacked by birds of prey. These include fish eagles, martial eagles, crowned eagle and kites, while crocodiles snap up any unfortunate individuals that fall to the forest floor. The bats take no chances and should they spot a predator circling above, a squadron will mob it until it retreats. This activity continues until the sun has risen when the bats finally settle to sleep.
Individuals with satellite-tracking collars observed their movements. They found that after their departure in December, the bats were able to cover an astounding 1,000km in just one month.
Does your ultimate escape include the fruit bats? We’ll tailor your experience to suit your preferences.