Walking Safaris in Africa

Walking Safaris in Africa are the best way to literally put yourself into the heart of the wild and experience the deserts of Africa firsthand. Also called trekking or hiking safaris, a walking safari is one that is conducted on foot instead of in a vehicle. Perhaps the only downside is that you might encounter a very large creature with nothing but your own feet to carry you away!

That doesn't mean, however, that the vehicle won't be close by. When you're on a hiking Safari, you generally get in the jeep to go deep into the wild, but then you get out of the jeep to further explore on foot. That means that you can generally run back to the safety of the vehicle if the lion, elephants, and hippos get a little too close for comfort.

Of course, the beauty of a walking safari is that you're out in the fresh air getting exceptional exercise and seeing some of the most stunning beasts of nature in the whole world. When you love the outdoors and you love vacation adventures that keep your body in shape, an African hiking safari is going to be the expedition for you.

There are a lot of things about the natural splendor of Africa that you miss when you're in a cramped jeep with your seatbelt on. Sure, most of the jeeps don't provide a roof, so you can experience the fresh air, hear all the sounds, and see more clearly the lush flora of Africa.

However, on a walking trip, you feel the earth beneath your feet, feel the grass and bushes against your sides, and get a complete sensory experience of the country and your expedition. When you see the stunning animals and plants up close and in person, there's a completely different aesthetic experience, that is perhaps more potent and alive.

There are some things to consider if you want to undertake a walking safari in Africa as opposed to a traditional tour. You need to be in exceptional physical condition, you need to be of a certain age, and you need to have your wits about you.

One of the first things that they teach you on a hiking safari is how not to panic. It's quite disconcerting to learn how not to panic if you're confronted or challenged by a large animal. But in the end, what they teach is quite fascinating and more greatly reveals the character and motives of these wonderful animals.

Many of these walking safaris include overnight camping opportunities, as well as other fun things to do like swimming, boating, biking and more. Young children are almost never allowed on these trips for obvious reasons, but if you're of age and able-bodied, it can be the most thrilling experience of your life!