safari@bonamy.co.uk
Botswana is a land of impossible abundance. From the Okavango Delta to the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Botswana is at the top of any safari aficionado's bucket list. A paradise of deltas, savannahs and deserts.
A haven for some of Africa's rarest animals including forest elephant, black-bellied pangolin and western lowland gorilla. The CAR is as far off the beaten track as one can get.
Safari, as we know and love today, was born in Kenya. From flying off in the ‘Out of Africa’ biplane to galloping through the Masai Mara, Kenya is full of that old cavalier safari-goers’ sense of adventure - this is where you go to have fun. Combined with epic game viewing, iconic scenery, diverse cultures and a dreamy coastline, Kenya is a very special country.
A world unto its own, Madagascar is a land of endemic flora and fauna of a diversity that can match the Amazon. From 99 species of lemur to 960 species of orchid - conveying the sheer beauty of the world’s fourth-largest island is impossible.
Dominated by the crystal clear waters of Lake Malawi and the jaw-droppingly beautiful Great Rift Valley, Malawi is a country quietly making a name for itself. It is the place to go for a safari and beach experience unlike any other.
A world of private islands and picture-perfect beaches. Whether combining the Maldives with a safari or escaping straight there for pure relaxation, the 26 coralline atolls that make up the country have everything you could ever dream of.
Fringed by classic tropical coves and coral lagoons, Mauritius is an activity lover’s dream destination. This is the island to visit for those who prefer larger resort-style hotels that offer every activity under the sun.
Whether you stay in your own villa on a private island or a romantic cabin on a secluded beach, Mozambique is a perfect paradise to round off any safari. From the idyllic Quirimbas Islands in the north, to the stunning Bazaruto Archipelago and around Maputo Bay in the country’s south, Mozambique is home to some of the finest beaches in Africa.
The awe-inspiring beauty that Namibia’s vast landscapes offer is otherworldly. For a country that is predominantly a desert, the diversity of landscapes and wildlife never ceases to surprise. From the canyons of the south, via the deep red dunes of the Sossusvlei and up to the wildlands of the Hoanib Valley, Namibia is quite simply spectacular.
For a country that has suffered so much, the recent success of Rwanda is not just an example to the rest of Africa, but to the entire world. Not only is this the first African country to ban plastic bags, but it has also revolutionised the protection of its jungles and gorillas.
Tucked away off the west coast of Africa, you’d be forgiven for never having heard of São Tomé and Príncipe - and that is exactly why it is worth exploring. The smaller island of Príncipe is a portal to a forgotten time. The relics of Portuguese rule are slowly being absorbed back into the island’s jungles. This is a haven of remote beaches, sea adventures and chocolate.
This stunning set of 115 islands forms one of the most incredible archipelagos in the world. Quiet lodge-like hotels can be found on the main island of Mahé, or further afield on the more vegetated islands around Praslin. This is a tropical archipelago that has perfectly balanced luxury tourism with conservation.
The diversity that South Africa has to offer is nothing short of remarkable. From historical battlefields to vast mountains, incredible safari destinations to untouched coastlines, delicious Winelands and up-and-coming cities - this country has it all.
Rolling open plains covered in herds of wildebeest and zebra, this is the land of plenty. Tanzania is a safari lover’s dream with so many diverse parks throughout the country. Combine this with the stunning Zanzibar Archipelago and you have the ultimate safari & beach destination.
The Republic of Congo is the smaller, more peaceful sister of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and is a must-visit country if you are in search of a sensory overload. The beauty of the jungles and their baïs, and the diversity of incredible wildlife, make this a destination not to miss.
Known as ‘the more affordable destination to see mountain gorillas’ does Uganda an enormous disservice. With amazingly hospitable people, beautiful National Parks and the source of the River Nile, this country is a haven for anyone looking to experience something other than a conventional safari.
Home of the walking safari, Zambia remains one of the bastions of ‘old-fashioned’ safaris full of adventure and character. This is the place to visit for those seeking a ‘conventional’ safari in a remote way. For a true safari connoisseur, Zambia’s Lower Zambezi, South Luangwa, Kafue and Liuwa Plains National Parks are a must.
It is with immense excitement that we watch the re-establishment of some of Africa’s most beautiful parks. A huge effort has gone into returning Zimbabwe’s wildlands to their former glory. This country is now, once again, a destination that will make you fall deeply in love with this continent.
This is arguably the most important holiday of your life. We'll help you create the most memorable, romantic but also fun adventure through Africa, that is completely unique to you. Many of our favourite lodges have great honeymoon special offers (these tend to be applicable within six months of marriage); be it discounts, upgrades or little treats while you're there. Congratulations!
Travelling as a family needs little introduction, but as we know happy kids means happy parents and we fully understand what family travel entails. Every family is different, whether you're travelling with grannies and grandkids or escaping with just your clan, its important we get it right for you.
Across Africa, we'll help you pick the perfect and most family orientated places to stay, as well as the best experiences and activities to keep everyone entertained.
Taking to the open road with no agenda other than your destination is one of the most liberating ways of exploring Africa. You can cruise the open roads along the Whale Coast or head to the horizon with a tent on the roof, wherever you are its a magical way to travel. GPS is mostly pretty unreliable in the sort of landscapes you can visit, but when the next junction is the only junction, in 500km, getting lost isn't really something to worry about. Embrace the freedom and the solitude and explore at your own pace.
'Adventure' means something different to everybody. A safari is an adventure in itself, however for some it might be travelling beyond the beaten track, for others it could be pushing yourself to the extreme, or simply taking a step outside your comfort zone. Whether you want to hike Kilimanjaro, wade through the swamps of the Congo Basin, or experience the exhilaration of a night out under the stars, we can make it happen.
It's not just the wildlife that draws people to Africa, the shimmering white sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean are a huge appeal. Fly and flop, island hop or just make it a short add-on to a safari, there are a multitude of options. Choose from a boutique waterfront lodge, an all-singing resort or something in the middle. We've got beach ideas for every budding sandcastle builder.
For those of us who have spent far too much on photographic equipment (!), we'll help you find those shots to justify it all. We've spent years focusing on finding the best areas at certain times of year for the richest light and getting to know the most experienced guides to get you into the perfect spot so you never miss that shot.
Budding photographers don't have to have all the kit to take amazing photos though, several lodges offer the chance to borrow or hire a camera body and lens, and photographically trained guides can help you develop your skills.
There's no denying that a great guide is at the heart of the best safaris. We only work with operators who have the highly qualified professional and passionate guides of their own, and Bonamy's got one too! Our founder, Toby, is a professionally trained guide who has led adventures across the continent. Travelling with Toby, or one of our hand-picked experts, as your guide and host takes your safari to the next level.
The benefits of travelling with a private guide are endless, and while they do add to the cost the knowledge and overall experience gained is invaluable. A private guide will help to reduce and even remove any potential anxiety and stress that you have about travelling to the bush or with a big family. You'll benefit from a top and consistent level of guiding. You'll have your own personal host to make sure that your every want and need is taken care of. Travelling with a private guide really helps you to make the absolute most of your adventure.
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Got an idea? Does it sound a bit crazy? Challenge us...
There are no set itineraries or ideas to these kinds of expeditions but some examples to inspire your imagination could be: quad bike the length of the Skeleton Coast, cycle across the Okavango Delta, private jet.
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Is there a better continent for an extended journey of discovery, adventure and disconnect? We don't think so. One month or six months (or more!), we can help you fill your precious break from the grind with experiences and memories to last a lifetime. Linger for longer than an average visitor to really immerse yourself, although we can't promise that you'll want to rush back to work!
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Game drives are the most commonly available safari activity, as you head out in either a shared or private vehicle with your guide in search of the local wildlife. Different destinations operate game drives slightly differently, be it timings, duration or even the type of vehicle but the end result is the same; a fantastic experience, covering the most ground and plenty of close-up animal sightings.
Getting out of a vehicle and setting off on foot brings a new way to understand and appreciate your surroundings. The original and purest form of safari, walking through the bush awakens your senses while bringing you up close and personal with nature in the most awe-inspiring way possible. A walking safari can range from learning about the medicinal benefits of a particular tree, to tracking down that pride of lions you heard roaring last night.
One of Africa's most memorable experiences has to be trekking with gorillas. Adventurous, humbling and exhilarating in equal measure, there are few experiences in life that leave such a lasting mark. Spotting a Silverback is high on many people's lists, but a day with chimpanzees is an equally enthralling and special experience. At the heart of successful conservation projects, the Great Apes belong firmly on any bucket list.
Taking to the water gives you a whole new perspective on your safari experience. Various types of water-based safari are available, depending on your location. Whether its cruising rivers and lagoons at sunset (with a drink in hand), or paddling silently, low down among the reeds, whichever vessel you're on, its a wonderful contrast to the more classic game drives.
Africa has a rich culture and heritage that spans the breadth and width of the continent. The most important factor, for us, is to help you experience this in a sensitive and respectful fashion.
Tracking with Hadzabe in Tanzania, beading with the Maasai mothers in Kenya or hiking across the Zulu battlefields there is a plethora of experiences to learn from, always responsible and always authentic.
Take to the skies to experience the sheer beauty of Africa from a different perspective. Swoop across floodplains in a helicopter or silently glide over grasslands in a hot air balloon. Aerial safari is special, whichever way you do it, especially if you factor in a little champagne stop along the way.
Spending a night under a blanket of many millions of stars is an experience unlike any other, and comes in all manner of set-ups. Whatever the style of sleep-out, you can guarantee a sense of disconnect and reconnect, accompanied by the finest African soundtrack and the most incredible view from your pillow.
Below ground, in the treetops or dug into a riverbank, a photographic hide is an increasingly popular addition to a safari and can be a great way to fill some spare time or incorporate into a game drive or walk. Being at toe-level with animals in a waterhole makes for some great close-up images from a whole new angle.
All of our local partners are affiliated with a conservation project of some sort, and it is imperative for us that we leave a positive impact. By travelling to any of our destinations you are contributing towards a multitude of projects, its also possible get closer to on-the-ground operations to witness just how your money is helping the people, wildlife and future of this special continent.
A thrilling way to experience the wilderness is from the back of a horse. Gallop across the savannah, splash through floodplains and become one with the bush. Riding safaris are available for all abilities, in various locations, and will provide an unforgettable experience for every mounted explorer.
Think safari and you'll be forgiven for thinking Big Five; many people's sighting wishlist, and for good reason. Seeing a rhino in the wild is (sadly) becoming increasingly difficult, however there are still locations where the five hottest sightings roam wild and free. Don't discount everybody else though, the humble hippo will never forgive us.
A luxury safari lodge provides a unique and unforgettable experience for those who want to immerse themselves in the beauty and adventure of Africa while enjoying the comfort and luxury of world-class accommodation. Lodges are often designed by renowned architects, with spacious and stylish interiors. Expect high quality linens, exceptional food and wine, air-conditioning, Wifi, spa facilities and private plunge pools. No sign of sleeping under canvas here.
More rustic than a luxury lodge but by no means simple. Bush lodges are small, intimate and eco-friendly offering an authentic experience with plenty of creature comforts. Usually constructed from locally sourced materials and often built in a traditional African style, a bush lodge blends into its surroundings. Typical features are thatched roofs, open-air spaces and outdoor showers. Breakfast may be served around a camp fire and bush dinners are highly likely.
Tented accommodation, but about as far from camping as it gets. A luxury camp will feature large tents with many of the amenities of a high-end hotel, perhaps without the air-con. Indoor and outdoor showers, private plunge pools and exceptional views are par for the course in a luxury camp. Beyond the rooms you can expect a high standard of service, food and guiding. A perfect blend of privacy and socialising caters to all type of visitor.
A bush camp is typically set up in a remote location, away from the busiest areas and lodges, and offers a more rustic, natural, immersive and authentic safari experience.
Bush camps often feature open-air dining areas, communal campfires, and comfortable sleeping arrangements, generally under canvas. En-suite bathrooms will be plumbed but may feature a bucket shower, a truly authentic bush experience.
Bush camps provide a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the thrill of the African wilderness, while still enjoying the comfort and security of a well-equipped camp.
As the name might suggest, these are camps that don't spend long in one place, yet they come in a variety of styles. Some mobile camps have large, well-equipped tents in the style of a bush camp and are erected seasonally, for example to catch a migration as it passes nearby.
Other types of mobile camp move every couple of days, as you walk, boat or drive between locations. These are much more simple setups; smaller tents, camping beds, bucket showers and long-drop loos. This is about having an immersive experience.
A third mobile option is when you're as mobile as your accommodation - in a self-drive vehicle with a rooftop tent, providing maximum flexibility and adventure.
Whatever the setup, the common theme of a mobile camp is its zero impact and leave-no-trace approach.
A stylish and characterful hotel that offers an intimate and personalised experience, usually city-based. Location is as key as comfort and service, and if there are additional highlights such as a spa or an exceptional restaurant then even better. Guests will be welcomed as friends and treated even better.
Situated with direct beach access, a beach resort typically has a range of room types to choose from and offers guests plenty of amenities, included activities and selection of other things do to. This variety makes resorts best suited to longer beach breaks for those seeking a relaxing and fun-filled holiday.
Typically smaller and more intimate than a resort, with fewer rooms and a more relaxed, low-key atmosphere. The quality of rooms, food and service is still top-notch and there is often other things to do in the vicinity if you want to head off and explore your surroundings a bit. The location of a beach lodge is likely to be more remote, secluded or even a private island.
Dotted throughout Africa is an amazing selection of private, exclusive properties that come in all shapes and sizes. From a cosy, two-bedroom house to an entire property with multiple rooms, exclusive use is just that, its all yours. You'll have your own team of staff, chef, guides and vehicles providing maximum flexibility and freedom. The ultimate option for special family-time, or a memorable get-together with friends.
1 min read
Toby finds tracks while on safari in Botswana. Here he explains how to identify them as leopard tracks.
Born and bred in the South of England, James is Bonamy’s intrepid traveller. When not honing his skills in London over the last decade, he's spent much of his time on self-planned expeditions and a...
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