A day on safari: what to expect at our favourite African safari lodges 

Whether you’re bound for the remote plains of the Masai Mara or the peaceful bushveld of South Africa’s Makalali Conservancy, the rhythm of safari remains beautifully consistent – a balance of wild moments and quiet luxury. 

At the lodges we love, your days are designed to move with nature’s pace – early starts, golden hours and long restful stretches in between. Here’s how a typical day might unfold, from your arrival to your final night under the stars.  

Arrival: welcome to the wild 

Getting to camp is rarely just a transfer – it often doubles as your first game drive. Whether you arrive by light aircraft or scenic road, wildlife sightings tend to begin before you’ve even unpacked. 

At the lodge, you’ll be greeted with a warm welcome and a cold drink. After settling into the main lounge or mess area, your host will walk you through a relaxed orientation, including: 

-An overview of the property 

-The daily rhythm of activities

-Your preferences for meals, pace and interests 

-Any specific requests – dietary needs, photography drives, child-friendly timings 

The experience is tailored to you. Prefer a walking safari over a game drive? Want a lie-in one morning? It’s all arranged around your pace. The activities listed in your Vamoos itinerary (game drives, bush walks, night drives, bush meals, cultural visits) serve as a guide – not a strict schedule. In terms of what’s included, we’ll always specify what’s on offer at each lodge you stay at.  

Morning: sunrise, safari and silence 

A gentle knock on your door (or tent flap) around 5:30–6:00am signals the start of your day. A tray of tea, coffee and biscuits may arrive in-room, or you can gather around the firepit before heading out. 

Morning game drive: 

-The early hours are rich with wildlife – lions on the move, elephants bathed in golden light 

-Drives typically last 3-4 hours 

-Guides and trackers read the land like a book – following tracks, alarm calls and subtle signs 

Alternative mornings: 

-Walking safaris explore the smaller, fascinating details of the ecosystem 

-In water-based regions (like the Okavango Delta, Nyere National Park or the Lower Zambezi), you may venture out on boat safaris – spotting hippos, crocs and birdlife from a new perspective 

Mid-morning: brunch and bush time 

After the drive, a hearty brunch normally awaits – fresh fruit, eggs made to order, homemade pastries, juice, coffee and maybe even a mimosa. 

The rest of the morning is yours to enjoy: 

-Nap in your daybed 

-Take a dip in the pool 

-Visit the spa 

-Read or journal under an acacia tree 

Afternoon: slow living and sundowners 

At around 3:30-4:00pm, afternoon tea is served – think cakes, snacks and a second wind. Then it’s time for your afternoon safari, which might be: 

-Another game drive – often a bit more relaxed and social 

-A guided walk – great for tracks, bugs and medicinal plants 

-A cultural visit to a nearby village 

Sundowners:

At golden hour, your guide will stop at a scenic spot and set up a mobile bar – G&Ts, chilled wine, local beer and snacks. Toast the day as the sun dips below the horizon. 

Evening: stars, firelight and night drives 

As the sky shifts to violet, you’ll return to camp for dinner – often served in the mess tent, under the stars or out in the bush. 

Menus vary daily but might include grilled meats, local vegetables and house-made desserts. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are always available. 

Optional night drive: In private conservancies, some camps offer post-dinner night drives – spotlighting nocturnal animals like aardvark, bush babies and leopards. 

Bedtime: nature’s nocturne 

Back in your tent or suite, turn-down service is complete – often with a hot water bottle on cooler nights. As you drift off, the sounds of the bush take over: lions in the distance, hyenas calling, night jars chirping. Tomorrow brings more magic. 

Additional experiences 

Many lodges offer tailored add-ons – ideal for special occasions, photography-focused trips or added privacy. 

Hot air balloon safaris

Available in areas like the Masai Mara and Serengeti. Take off before dawn and float silently over the plains as the sun rises, watching wildlife from above. Usually followed by a champagne bush breakfast. 

Private vehicle and guide 

Book a private vehicle and guide for complete flexibility – ideal for families, photographers or travellers with specific interests. 

Sleep Out under the stars 

Some camps offer epic ‘Sleep Out’ options. Whether it’s up in a treehouse, or nestled amongst the rocks, you’ll get the chance to doze off under the open night sky, with the sounds of the bush lulling you to sleep.