Walking Safaris

On foot through the wilderness

Experience the thrill of observing Africa’s magnificent wildlife on foot while exploring its breathtaking landscapes on a walking safari.

Come with us on an intimate adventure along riverbanks and across the African savannahs on a tailor-made walking safari led by our expert guides. With a maximum of six participants, we ensure a personalised experience you can enjoy at your own pace.

Our African walking safaris offer a unique opportunity to observe and learn about the behaviours of animals in their natural habitat. While large game may be seen from a distance, the emphasis is on observing and understanding the ecosystem as a whole, often focussing on the smallest contributors usually overlooked from the height of a vehicle. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, you’ll have the chance to get close to smaller animals and birds and even discover fascinating insects along the way.

As you traverse the breathtaking landscapes, you’ll find your senses on full alert, listening for the snap of a twig, analysing that scent in the air, and scanning the surroundings for any sign of movement. The towering granite boulders in the distance are evocative visual landmarks, guiding you through the savannah’s diverse terrain.

Delight in the sights and sounds of resident and migrant birds as your guide identifies them, often purely by their call, and points out the fragrant aromas of shrubs and wild herbs. Examine tracks left in the sand to identify what, and how recently, something was here before you. Listen for the distant calls of wildlife, and the splashing sounds of winding rivers teeming with crocodile and grunting hippo.

Walking safaris are often a once-in-a-lifetime experience. To add this unforgettable activity to your itinerary, speak with your Asilia safari advisor. Join us on a walking safari and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Where to stay on a Walking Safari

A walking safari is a prerequisite for an extraordinary and adventurous experience. However, not all Asilia camps offer this thrilling activity, so consulting with our expert safari planners is essential. Time of the year is also crucial to consider in the planning process, as sometimes walking is not possible when the vegetation becomes too thick and lush. The dry season’s end is usually the best time for walking in most destinations.

Our specialists can advise you about the best walking safari options and provide unique and exciting perspectives. All camps are situated in diverse locations, and the terrain can be physically challenging for some on foot. Apart from closed, comfortable shoes, a basic fitness level is recommended for an immersive and enjoyable expedition.

Chat with your Asilia safari advisor about which camps feature walking safaris to include this highly sought-after and captivating activity, ensuring more unforgettable memories.

Naboisho Camp – Mara Naboisho Conservancy, Kenya

Naboisho Camp is known for the exceptional walking safaris offered through this private and diverse conservancy. While the staggering density of wildlife and the incredible scenery make this a memorable experience, it is the expertly trained walking guides offering immersive insights into the ecosystem, that make this walking safari experience truly special.

Best time to go: The dry season from June to late October.

The Highlands – Ngorongoro, Tanzania

From The Highlands, there are a multitude of walking and hiking options. The Empakaai Crater offers hikers the chance to descend into the crater to see the flurry of pink flamingo on the shores of the soda lake at its centre. You can also follow an old Maasai cattle trail through mountain forests, across grasslands and over rocky outcrops, spotting birds and butterflies along the way. At the top, you’ll be rewarded by a magnificent view of the Olmoti Crater below.

Best time to go: The dry season from June to late October, and January and February.

Namiri Plains – Serengeti, Tanzania

Namiri Plains enjoys a location far removed from other camps. This region of vast plains, dotted with rocky outcrops, is home to exceptional wildlife, particularly big cats. Stepping down from the vehicle, the smaller ecosystem so regularly overlooked comes into focus. Termites, ants, butterflies, and dung beetles all play a role in the ecosystem’s success, and a walking safari allows the time to appreciate them.

Best time to go: The dry season from June to late October, and January and February.

Rubondo Island Camp – Rubondo Island, Tanzania

The remote Rubondo Island is covered in lush forests and home to creatures great and small. Set out on foot to explore the depths of the canopy-covered forest, learning about the plants, insects, and birdlife that reside within this sea of greenery. One of the island’s more unique offerings is the opportunity to experience chimpanzee trekking.

Best time to go: The dry season from June to late October when the ground is firmer underfoot. July and August are best for chimpanzee sightings. January and February are warm and clear but with increased humidity.

Roho ya Selous – Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park offers a walking safari experience unlike any other, as it incorporates a diversity of terrain difficult to find in other parks. From lakeside shorelines through palm forests to wide open grassy plains, with a diversity of wildlife to match the terrain. While the emphasis is always on the smaller ecosystems, big game is frequently seen.

Best time to go:  The dry season from June to late October.

Jabali Ridge, Jabali Private House, and Kokoko Camp – Ruaha National Park

In the dry season months, Ruaha National Park offers some of the best walking safaris in Africa. As the dry season progresses, vegetation dries out and thins, and the movement of wildlife throughout the day becomes more predictable as they are governed by their need for water. Our camps in Ruaha National Park all offer exceptional walking opportunities, whether you’re staying at Jabali Ridge, Jabali Private House, Kokoko Camp, or Usangu Expedition Camp. A Ruaha walking safari is not an experience that should be overlooked.

Best time to go: August, September and October.

Explore more experiences or enquire now to start planning your dream safari…

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