Big Five Alternative Safaris

Whilst game drives continue to be the original way to see Africa’s wildlife, there are an increasing number of ways to see the bush, allowing you to get closer than ever to Africa's flora and fauna. Safari experiences vary greatly between destinations, so our specialists can recommend the best way to navigate the terrain.

Big Five Alternative Safaris

So whether you're celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking to see the plains from a new perspective, we’ve compiled our favourite ways to see wildlife from the ground, water and air.

Spotting giraffe on a walking safari
Walking Safaris in Zambia

Walking safaris are an exciting way to spot game whilst familiarising yourself with the nuances of the bush. Zambia is considered the best country for walking safaris thanks to its fantastic guiding and incredible array of wildlife. Whilst increasing your awareness of the surrounding wilderness, you will learn from the expertise of your guide on how to follow tracks and how to approach the wildlife as carefully as possible.

At Tena Tena Camp in South Luangwa National Park, take a walk among the ebony groves for the chance to see wildlife such as the elusive leopard or, watch as elephants come to drink at the lagoon in front of the camp.

Canoeing with elephants on safari
Canoe Safaris in Zimbabwe

Set on the banks of the Zambezi River in Mana Pools National Park, Zambezi Expeditions tented camp is an ideal place from which to embark on a canoe safari. A short paddle out to a mid-stream sandbank to watch the sunset is a perfect way to end a day on safari. The park is known for its game rich flood plains and a canoe safari is an incredible way to spot wildlife, getting up close to Zimbabwe's impressive array of flora and fauna.

Horseback riding safari
Horseback Safaris in Botswana

The exhilaration of cantering across an open plain is incomparable. Explore the Okavango Delta on horseback and get closer to Botswana’s game than ever imaginable on foot or even in a vehicle. Long days in the saddle will be rewarded with unique experiences such as galloping alongside a giraffe or walking alongside a herd of zebra.

From African Horseback Safari's camp, Matacoo, you will ride into the bush accompanied by an expert guide who will take you on a safari adventure like no other.

Flying safaris in Namibia
Flying Safaris in Namibia

See the iconic Skeleton Coast from a totally unique perspective, witnessing the mammoth sand dunes from above. Marvel as the incredible coastline stretches out as far as the eye can see as you glide across the dunes in a light aircraft. The sheer scale of Namibia’s wild coastline is a true sight to behold and your pilot will show you the highlights of the region during the flight by flying low over the region’s iconic shipwrecks, getting close to the haunting landscapes of Namibia's coastline.

Hot Air Balloon safari in Kenya
Hot Air Balloon Safari in Kenya

Watching the sunrise over the Maasai Mara as you float across the region’s plains makes for an unforgettable adventure. Spot game as you soar across Kenya’s spectacular landscapes and seize the moment for amazing photo opportunities. This is a truly unique experience designed to be spent with a loved one or your family, and perfect for celebrating special occasions. Soaring across the plains is the perfect way to experience the magic of the savannah.

Call us on 020 3468 1971 to start planning your holiday

You are on our UK website

We noticed that you are in US and recommend that you explore our US website instead.
switch to US website
Or continue to explore our UK website

Plan your trip

Please tell us a few details about your holiday plans and provide your phone number so we can call you back..
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4

When would you like to go?

Please select Enter your departure date*
Please select Year*

Where would you like to go?

Please select Select your interest

How many nights?

How many nights? Drag the slider to select nights
0 21 nights +

Guests*

Number of adults (aged 12+). Minimum 1 adult  
Adults (age 15+)
Children (age 0-15)
Rooms

Select your budget per person

Please select
Budget*

Contact details

Your First name First name*
Your Last name Last name*
Your email address Email address*
Your phone number Phone number*
+44
Tell us about your trip
Let us know if you have fixed dates, who you’re travelling with or if it’s for a special ocassion
Please tick this box to continue  

Unable to submit your request

Unfortunately, we were unable to submit your request. Please try again later or contact us.