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Liza Lind, Founder
What is the accommodation like on a horseback safari?
Many who have never been on a safari imagine the same thing. Two-man tent. Sleeping bag. Bucket shower. And sure – that type of safari exists, if that is what you are looking for. But just like when you book a resort in the Mediterranean, there is a wide variation even when it comes to accommodation on horseback safaris. From five-star, luxurious lodges with infinity pools and wine tastings to small, mobile bush camps in the middle of the African wilderness. It is simply about what experience you are looking for yourself.
Lodge-based or mobile safari – what is the difference? What are the accommodations like and are there flush toilets?
Yes, there is some talk about “mobile safaris” and its alternative is usually referred to as a lodge-based safari.
On a lodge-based safari, you stay at one and the same lodge for the majority of the trip. Every day you ride out on new routes, in new areas, but then return to the same accommodation. It suits you if you appreciate a little extra comfort and like returning to the same room after the day's riding. You are often met by spacious rooms with private bathrooms, “real” showers and flush toilets together with comfortable beds and likely a pool. Some lodge-based safaris also include one or two nights in a fly camp or at another lodge, which offers a combination of both worlds. (A fly camp is a simple, temporary and remote tented camp set up in the wilderness, usually as a complement to a fixed and more permanent base).
On a mobile safari, you ride from camp to camp – a to b to c – and discover a completely new area every day. While you are on horseback, your luggage is transported by car to the next overnight stop, so you never need to carry your luggage with you. On mobile safaris, you often stay in simple but comfortable tents that are set up when you arrive, and where each tent usually has real beds. Guests share a number of private bush toilets as well as so-called bucket showers – a canvas container filled with hot water hung above the shower. It is significantly more comfortable than many imagine and also a rather special experience to shower under Africa's starry sky.
Combine a luxurious lodge with a fly camp
Kujwana Camp combines accommodation at a fixed base – a beautiful tented glampsite – with a few nights in a fly camp.
Closer to nature with a mobile safari
On the Kilimanjaro Elephant Ride you stay in a mobile camp that moves in step with your journey through the African bush.
Will I have my own room?
You usually choose this yourself (noting that it is sometimes subject to availability). If you are travelling with someone, you usually share a room or a tent. If you are travelling alone, you can either share with another guest of the same sex or book a single room for a so-called single supplement.
What is the food like?
Also something I often get hesitant comments about, but the fact is that the African food is surprisingly good. Safari lodges in southern and eastern Africa generally maintain a very high standard, both when it comes to food and hygiene. Local ingredients are often combined with international influences and most safaris end the day with a three-course dinner together with local wines. If you have allergies or special dietary requirements, this can almost always be arranged, as long as they are notified in advance.
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