Conservationist, Dr. Steve Boyes says: "The wilderness is a vibration which stabilizes you and makes you fall in love with your own innate wildness.

Sitting quietly in the wild is when the secrets of the universe come to you, the secrets of your own life that will guide you. "

Excerpts from an interview with another conservationist, Alan Smith:

“Time spent in the African bush, observing and learning about how wildlife interacts and survives in the wilderness allows us to become present. It allows us to pause and think about where our vitality comes from, to consider how we spend our energy, and to realize that the resources on our planet are finite. 

“When we are stressed, when we need a break - where do we go? For many it’s a walk up a mountain, along a river, or sitting quietly on a beach watching the crashing waves, and for a lucky few it’s a safari in a pristine wilderness area. Here we can recharge and find solace. A wilderness experience allows us to reconnect with our life force, which is in nature. 

“This is why nature conservation is the most urgent priority of our time. Of course, it is about the habitat – the animals, the trees and the plants, but it’s also about the conservation of this source of energy for humankind. If we loose that space to reboot, how are we going to navigate through pandemics and through social or spiritual turbulence? 

“A good wilderness guide is a matchmaker – they can make us fall in love with nature and celebrate our origins, our place of healing.”

Contact Africa safari specialist, Christine Boecker to curate your own love story, set in Africa. 

The African Elephant is the largest land mammal, with mature bulls reaching a record weight of 7 tons (15 400 lbs). Elephant cows average 2½ meters tall and weigh 3 tons. Both sexes have tusks. Females seem to have a more convex rounded forehead than the males.

Elephants are also known as pachyderms (Greek). This is a reference to their very thick skin which may be more than 3cm (1 in) thick in places, specifically their legs and rump.

A great deal of mythical folklore surrounds these magnificent giants of the bush. Indigenous people speak about the pair of "wisdom sticks" that the elephant carries on either side of his temples. They believe that these sticks enable the elephant to know time and place of its own death. That is why they believe that very old tuskers are often seen without their herd, preferring to find a hiding place to die, thus maintaining their dignity, as they wish to die alone and in peace. And elephants are believed to swallow a pebble every year, so as to keep a count of their age.

Vital Statistics 

• Height: 3.28 m [11 ft]  ♂ | 2.83 m [9 ft] ♀ 

• Weight: 5500 Kg [12 100 lbs] ♂ | 3700 Kg [8140 lbs] ♀ 

• Gestation period: 22 months 

• Food preference: 50% grass, 50% trees

• Maximum charging speed: 40 kph [25mph]

• Social grouping: Matriarchy

• Territory size: 15 – 2200 km2

• Life span: ±65 years 

• Record tusk weight: 102 kg [225 lbs] 

Information courtesy of Wildlife Campus

The lion has been one of the most talked about animals on the African plains, and not surprisingly has been the main topic of conversation around campfires for thousands of years.

Of the multitude of stories recounted about the lion, this one has its origins among the Shona people.

The Shona believe that there are three types of lion. The Zwikara - prime destroyer of cattle, sheep and people. It may be hunted and killed with impunity.

The other two - Shumba Dze Midzemu and Zwetebgwe - may not be harmed and it is even dangerous for anyone to try. The first is believed to be the embodiment of a former chieftain who has come to visit a relative and is harmless. It will avoid killing one from its own kraal (village), and as a spirit lion it comes only at night.

Zwetebgwe - the maneless lion - however is believed to be the incarnation of an evil human, who had a craving for raw flesh. These lions will kill man and beast indiscriminately and should be avoided at all cost.

Vital Statistics 

• Shoulder height: 0.95 m [3 ft] to 1.2 m [3.9 ft] 
• Weight: 126 Kg [280 lbs] to 200 Kg [440 lbs] 
• Gestation period : 3 ½ months 
• Hunting success : 30 - 50 % (for 2 or more co-operatively) 
• Maximum speed: 60 kph (40 mph) 
• Killing technique: Strangulation 
• Social grouping: Prides of 5 -13 members 
• Territory size: 20 - 400 Km2 (8 – 150 square miles) 
• Life span: 10 – 12 years 

Information courtesy of Wildlife Campus

There are two species of Rhinoceros in Southern Africa, the White Rhino - Ceratotherium Simum and the Black Rhino - Diceros Bicornis. The White Rhino has a square mouth, as opposed to the black’s hooked lipped mouth. Although they are the same colour, the black Rhinoceros is far smaller. 

One very significant difference - black rhino are many times more aggressive than white rhino. They will charge with little or no provocation and really live up to their reputation as dangerous game. Therefore it is of critical importance to be able to identify which rhino species you have come across whenever they are encountered in the field. Mothers with calves of either species are only to be observed at a safe distance. 

Vital Statistics 

White Rhino 

• Shoulder Height: 1.70m (5.6ft) 
• Weight: 2150kg (4730lbs) 
• Gestation period: 16 months 
• Food preference: Grazer 
• Maximum speed: 45kph (28mph) 
• Life span: 45 years 
• Record Horn Length: 158cm (63in) 

Black Rhino 

• Shoulder Height: 1.60m (5.3ft) 
• Weight: 1000Kg (2200lbs) 
• Gestation period: 15 months 
• Food preference: Browser 
• Maximum speed: 45kph (28 mph) 
• Life span: 40 years 
• Record Horn Length: 135cm (54in) 

Information courtesy of Wildlife Campus

Also called the Black Buffalo or the Cape Buffalo, these gregarious herbivores gather in herds that may range from a few individuals to over 3000 animals – a sight certainly worth seeing. 

Common herds are a mixed group of males and females of all ages, from new calves to old bulls. Smaller bachelor herds form frequently, and solitary old bulls are also found. These ‘Dagga Boys’ are particularly aggressive, and it’s best to be on guard around them.

While not closely related, buffalo look remarkably similar to domestic cattle but are generally black in colour. They may grow to massive size with recorded weights reaching 870 kg (1910 lbs). A buffalo’s most distinctive feature is its horns. These are present in both males and females.

Vital Statistics 

• Shoulder Height: 1.6 m [5.3 ft] ♂ | 1.5 m [5 ft] ♀ 
• Weight: 680 Kg [1500 lbs] ♂ | 600 Kg [1320 lbs] ♀ 
• Gestation period: 330 days 
• Food preference: Grazer 
• Maximum speed: 56 kph ± 35mph 
• Life span: ±20 - 25 years 
• Record span of horns: 1.47 m (59 in) 

Information courtesy of Wildlife Campus

Leopards are essentially very large cats. They have a ground tan colour and are spotted in groups of rosettes. The leopard is sometimes confused with the cheetah, which is smaller and more lithe, and is covered with individual dark spots rather than rosettes. 

The leopard, being the strongest cat weight for weight, has the ability to drag a carcass high into trees. The carcasses could be its own weight or more, and the cat claws its way up a vertical tree trunk with the animal in its mouth. In this way the leopard kill is quite protected, and it may return to the tree over the next three to four days to continue feeding off it. Thus, the leopard does not have to make a kill as frequently as most other predators. 

Vital Statistics 

• Shoulder Height: 60 cm [24 in] to 65 cm [26 in] 
• Weight: 55 Kg [121 lbs]to 60 kg [132 lbs] 
• Gestation period: 3 months 
• Hunting success: 40 % 
• Maximum speed: 60 kph (38 mph) 
• Killing technique: Strangulation 
• Social grouping: Solitary (unless mother with cubs) 
• Life span: 17 – 21 years 

Information courtesy of Wildlife Campus

All of our signature lodges, camps and small ship cruises have implemented rigorous COVID-19 protocols to ensure your health and well-being.  More about our pandemic precautions >>

If you are on a guided safari, your chances of encountering safety issues are minimal. TRAVELBOECKER ADVENTURES makes it our business to know the areas we travel in, thus reducing risk to travellers. However, we cannot take responsibility for your belongings. It is sensible to take precautions on your voyage, particularly when travelling through urban areas.

For your peace of mind we will provide you with a local 24/7 contact number that you can call, should the need arise.

On our tailor-made journeys, a TRAVELBOECKER ADVENTURES representative will meet you at your point of entry into the country. They will orientate you and usually transfer you to your first accommodation in destination. 

We will also provide you with a local 24/7 contact number that you can call, should the need arise.

Some countries require yellow fever shots and you may need to take anti-malaria prophylaxis as a precaution. We will advise you on these requirements and can also design your safari to avoid most of these entirely. More info >>

If you have a pre-existing medical condition, please consult with your physician about your travel plans. And we always recommend that you contact your local travel clinic for the latest updates.

Although most countries have lifted COVID restrictions it is still important to keep a close eye on the latest travel advisories:

Government of Canada Travel Information & Advisories

US Government Travel Information & Advisories

WHO General COVID-19 Advice

No matter where you travel, we recommend your pack the following to ensure your comfort in the outdoors: long trousers, fleece jacket or warm sweater, waterproof windbreaker, T-shirts, shorts, any other warm- or cold-weather wear, a wide-brimmed hat and comfortable walking shoes. When choosing clothing, muted colours, such as khaki, brown or beige are optimal. Additional essentials include sun block, lip balm, sunglasses, insect repellent, a camera with zoom and wide-angle lens, extra memory cards or film, spare batteries and binoculars.

Not to worry - TRAVELBOECKER ADVENTURES will provide you with a suggested packing list.

Generally, the weight restriction for luggage is 44lbs (20kg). For some fly-in safaris and inter-camp transfers, smaller aircraft are used and therefore restrictions are tighter. However, you will find you need less luggage than you might expect, as even luxury lodges are generally quite casual. TRAVELBOECKER ADVENTURES will advise you on specific weight limitations for your itinerary and we will provide you with a suggested packing list. 

As for luggage safety, we recommend that you do not leave cameras and hand luggage unattended and do not pack valuables, including medication, in your checked luggage.

The water in most major cities, as well as at most TRAVELBOECKER ADVENTURES’s handpicked signature selection of camps and lodges, is perfectly safe to drink. Where that is not the case, bottled water will be provided.

For a meal, whether in a restaurant or room service in a hotel, 10 to 15 percent is customary. Tips are also generally given for services such as a taxi ride, hotel porters, and guides. Rangers and trackers are often reliant on tips for their income. 

Remember - you will receive a tipping guide with your travel documents.

Many tented camps and lodges offer family units with adjoining rooms or tents for complete peace of mind when travelling with young ones. Varied child-focused activities are available, learning about nature and conservation while at the same time connecting with the locals.

Typically, game drives take place in the early morning, when the animals are out and about and the air is clear and cool, and again in the late afternoon. Depending on the age of your children, game drives will be conducted in a private vehicle, allowing for greater flexibility.

Minimum age

While children are welcome in many of the tented camps, parents should consider the fact that noise carries very easily in a tented environment. Some lodges and tented camps impose a minimum age for children.

Travel Documents

Apart from a notarized letter from the non-accompanying parent (if applicable), only the usual valid passport is required for travel to Africa.  South Africa requires a full birth certificate for all children under 18. Check our Traveller’s Toolkit for passport applications and travel visas.

Children’s meals

Most lodges and tented camps in Africa are exceptionally child-friendly and will be pleased to provide special children’s meals, and as early as you wish.

Quality time for parents

Many hotels, lodges and tented camps offer childminding (should be booked in advance), cots and extra beds. Many also have family rooms, which are either larger than normal or have adjoining bedrooms for the children. The larger hotels also tend to offer ‘animation teams’, groups of young professionals who have been specially trained in the art of keeping everyone (particularly the younger guests) engaged. Pursuits include: junior ranger programs, nature walks, ping pong, volley ball, pool games and a whole range of ‘edutainment’.

What to pack

• Sensible shoes for your safari – sandals and bare feet are NOT advisable due to the presence of sharp thorns and insects.

• Beach shoes – as protection against sharp coral, etc.

• Plenty of high-factor sun protection, hats and/or cover-up UV sunsuits.

• Books, games and diversions for lengthy travel times.

• Child-sized binoculars if you’re planning a safari, plus relevant guide books on animals, birds, trees etc.

• A travelling medical kit (note: many anti-mosquito repellants are not suited to children, particularly those containing DEET). Natural citronella oil may offer a suitable alternative – but must be applied regularly.

• Travelling mosquito nets for cots/strollers etc.

Luxury lodges certainly stand apart from the rest. They are mostly located in private conservancies and offer the highest standards in terms of experiences, ambience, refinement, food and wine. Here you will find the best wilderness guides and private game-viewing opportunities. You may also observe wildlife on horseback, by camel, bicycle or even from a hot air balloon or helicopter.

Premier lodges offer excellent 4-star standards of service and are found in private game reserves, and in national reserves in East Africa. They can accommodate between 50 and 100 guests. 

You might stay in individual chalets or cottages with en-suite bathrooms and similar  appointments as in a hotel room, though the safari ambience gives it a remarkably different feel. However, mealtimes are set and everyone eats together, sometimes communally, sometimes at separate tables.

Treat yourself! Contact us to plan your luxury safari.

Luxury tented camps allow you to get closer to nature without sacrificing creature comforts. As you can imagine, these are far from the type of tents you camped in as a child. They evoke just the right sort of safari ambience, allowing you to get out under the stars, yet have all the conveniences you would want.

Luxury tented camps can accommodate between 12 and 24 guests in spacious and comfortable Hemmingway-style tents. They are fitted with 2 doubles or 1 king size bed, luxury linens, luxurious bathroom amenities, flush toilet, large safari shower, hot & cold running water, writing desk, wooden cabinets, closets and flooring, 24-hour solar lighting, deck chairs, and may even have al-fresco soaking tubs. Shady veranda areas offer a vantage point to enjoy the smaller details of bush life. 

Most camps also offer a family tent, which accommodates 2 adults and 2 children (age restrictions vary) and some camps can also be booked on an exclusive use basis.

Air-conditioning is often found in South Africa’s tented lodges but is rarely offered elsewhere.

Guest areas create shady spaces to relax in the heat of the day or share a drink with friends in the evening hours, as dishes full of flavour find their way to dining tables. Dine beneath the stars on mouthwatering meals freshly prepared by accomplished chefs. Sated, draw your chair closer to the fire as talk and laughter merge into the starry night, swapping stories meant to last a lifetime.

Our naturalist guides have exceptional local knowledge, taking you to where the action is in open 4×4 vehicles, away from the crowds. The safari vehicles are specifically designed for game drives and come equipped with comfortable seats, charging units and a large refrigerator.

Optional activities like bush walks and night game drives are available at certain locations.

Get out under the stars! Contact us to plan your luxury safari under canvas.

Tented Eco Camps are usually seasonal camps. They move with the Wildebeest migration in East Africa or are rebuilt at the start of each dry season in Southern Africa. 

Tented Eco Camps aim for a low human footprint on the land, meaning that everything is taken away at the end of each season. This therefore entails a simpler way of living, providing a friendly experience with a maximum of 12 – 24 guests at a time. The guest areas usually take the form of mess tents for living and dining. 

Tents are set on a wooden platform, are tastefully furnished and have solar powered electric lighting with en-suite bathrooms including shower, wash basin and flush toilet. Some bathrooms have bucket showers and may be semi-open air.

Light your campfire! Contact us to plan your tented eco safari.

Mobile tented camps, often found in more remote areas, are set up in one location for 2 or 3 nights only and accommodate up to 12 guests. Now you are really following in the footprints of the safari pioneers of the early 20th century with dining alfresco around a campfire in complete harmony with the surrounding bush.

Mobile Comfort Tented Safaris are fully serviced. No participation is required. Your cook prepares delicious meals over a fire and you’ll enjoy communal meals in the mess tent. 

The tents are mostly 9 x 15ft wilderness tents with high roof and a 9ft covered veranda in front of the tent. Each tent is fitted with high camp beds made up with a mattress, sheet, duvet and pillows. 

Tents have en-suite bathrooms with chemical toilets and a ‘talking (bucket) shower’ at the rear of the tent. Showers can be ordered as hot, warm or cold and the water is heated in a bucket on the fire. Your camp attendant will ensure you have enough water, ask if the temperature is right, etc. hence the name ‘talking shower’.

Each tent has an oil/paraffin lamp on the verandah and in the bathroom. Within the tent itself a LED camp light is supplied along with a side table in the sleeping area. Batteries can be charged in the common area or on the vehicle.

There are family safari tents for when you are travelling with younger children, ensuring the children’s safety and their parent’s peace of mind. A family tent is a two-bedroom unit sleeping up to 4, with an adjoining bathroom and a lockable entrance/exit. The minimum age on our scheduled safaris is 12, and on our private safaris all ages are welcome.

Get up close! Contact us to plan your mobile tented safari.