UPDATED FEB 2020. Is it your dream to go on an African Safari one day? It was a big one of mine and, though I had imagined what it would be like in my head many times, the real-life experience surprised me in a few ways. Here’s a first timers guide with the things to expect on a game drive based on my experiences at Amakhala Game Reserve. I’ve also added my links to other posts that will help you plan your own trip at the end. How many Lion King references can we fit in one post? Let’s find out.
10 Things To Expect On A Game Drive – First Timers Guide
Disclaimer:
This post was written in partnership with Amakhala Game Reserve.
1. Giraffes losing horribly at hide and seek
You know who is not the hide and seek world champion of the African bush? Giraffes.
Those gorgeous, long necks and vibrant orange coloring don’t quite work when it comes to blending in. Still, they try and I feel like they deserve an A for effort.
Ummmm, I can see you
You might think this is a disadvantage to them in nature, however, their predators don’t see color well.
They are looking for the shape of the animal they are trying to eat. The unique markings of the giraffe help to disguise the solid outline giving them excellent camouflage.
Mother and brand new baby giraffe playing hide and seek
2. Wind, wind, and lots of wind
You’ll be cruising the game reserve in an open vehicle and it’s mighty windy out there.
It’s a good idea to be wearing a few layers because when it’s cold, the wind cuts right through you. I’ve linked my packing guide post at the end of this one.
It’s also a good idea to tie your hair up or braid it because otherwise, your hair will be a tangled mess like that thorny bush that baby Simba jumps into when he is running away from the hyenas.
Windy safari selfies
3. Big butts
If you like big butts and you cannot lie, you’re in luck. One of the things to expect on a game drive is lots of butt viewing.
Sometimes the animals will give you a nice front or side profile to look at, but a lot of time you get to see big, bouncy butts walking away from you.
I think rhinos are notorious for this and love to show off their thick behinds the most.
I also saw a rhino turn around and break the silence of the wilderness with a roaring fart that seemed to go on forever, which was possibly the funniest thing I’ve ever heard.
One of the things to expect on a game drive is a camera full of animal butt photos
4. Lots of poop
Since the animals don’t have a restroom to use, you can expect to see a lot of different kinds of poop as you drive around. The weirder thing is you’ll probably find it interesting.
You’ll see everything from huge balls of poop to collections of tiny poop pebbles and you might even take photos of it. *weirdo*
My favorite remark from my ranger during one of the game drives,
‘There’s a smell of fresh elephant dung in the area.’
Safari poop
5. Warthogs in Olympic sprint training
Is there a ‘warthog dash’ event at the Olympics?
Because the warthogs are certainly out there training for it.
Seeing a warthog is cool because you’re like ‘Pumbaaaaaa!’ You think you’re going to be good pals, eat bugs, and sing Hakuna Matata together, right?
Wrong. What happens when you see a warthog is they look at you, pause for a millisecond, then sprint in the other direction.
Stoked to get a photo of a warthogs face before it ran away!
6. Incredible sunset colors
If you’re like me and love a good sunset, you’re in luck.
The sunsets at Amakhala Game Reserve are nothing short of stunning.
Seeing the sky light up in vibrant, bold colors while being out in such a peaceful setting is a mindful experience that reminds you of mother nature’s brilliant magic.
It doesn’t hurt that you get a drink break in the evening game to watch the sunset with a cold beverage.
Incredible sunsets in South Africa
7. Skeletons
Wait a minute, they don’t all peacefully come together for sing-a-longs at Pride Rock?
One of the things to expect on a game drive is to see the leftovers spread out on the ground. It’s a harsh reality of nature, but everyone has to eat.
The big predators will eat their serving, then the scavengers swoop in and take care of the rest. It leaves a display of bones on scattered on the ground as if like a decorative display to remind us of the circle of life.
Skeleton remains
8. Elephant destruction
It’s funny, you think that you would hear an almost thunderous thudding when elephants are walking nearby.
However, in contrast to their huge size, they are so gracefully quiet.
So graceful, yet so strong
Instead, if they are walking through the thicket, you hear their destruction. Branches breaking, snapping and scraping their thick skin as they make their own path in even the thickest of bush.
You can also expect to see evidence of their destruction as you are driving in the form of overturned trees. It’s amazing how strong they are while looking so gentle.
No path, no problem for the elephants
9. Lazy cats
The lions were the animal I most wanted to see when I went on a game drive, and they are a huge drawcard for others too.
But when you think about it, they’re actually pretty lazy.
They sleep. A lot.
Apparently, Narla has taken up smoking?
I guess when you are at the top of the food chain you get a life of leisure, right?
When they aren’t sleeping they’ll roam the perimeter of their territory, mate, and kill, but overall they’re pretty lazy.
Still, I could watch them sleep all day.
So beautiful!
10. Incredible views
The reserve is huge, with high points that give you far stretching views over the valleys and plains of the pride lands.
Let’s say you wanted to keep a lookout for, I don’t know, perhaps a stampede caused by the jealous brother of a great king that might cause the most traumatic death in history.
You know, hypothetically.
Amazing views of the reserve
Well, you’d have a great vantage point from these high points on the reserve.
You’d also get the most amazing natural views and a feeling of connectedness to it all.
Lucky capture
Other guides to help you plan your safari vacation
- Glamping In South Africa – Tips For Planning Your Stay At Bukela Lodge
- What To Wear On Safari In South Africa – Practical And Minimal Guide
- Bukela Game Lodge – What You Need To Know For An Epic Safari Visit
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