Walking Safaris in Africa: Wildlife Experiences Done Differently

There is more to a walking holiday in Africa than conquering the peak of Mt Kilimanjaro or battling your way through the jungles of Uganda and Rwanda in search of the mountain gorillas. While these experiences are fantastically rewarding, you shouldn’t rule out an African walking holiday under the pretence that it is unmanageable for you. There are less strenuous ways to discover incredible wildlife experiences and explore a patchwork of fascinating landscapes on foot.

If you are up for an active adventure through Africa but prefer to have your breath taken away solely by the experiences and incredible animal encounters rather than huge distances and extremely challenging terrain, then perhaps one of these walking tours of Africa is for you.

Zimbabwe: Walking and Wildlife

Spend two weeks exploring Zimbabwe in search of incredible wildlife encounters and scenic trails. Enjoy gentle walks through the valleys and woodlands and conquer Zimbabwe’s highest peak, Mt. Nyangani, on a 7 kilometre round trip hike that rewards with incredible views and a picnic lunch at the summit.

Plunging valleys and volcanic peaks await in Chimanimani National Park, much of which is only accessible by foot. Wander through the pristine wilderness to Bridal Veil Falls where a soft wall of water tumbles through the beautiful forest fringing it and follow quartzite ridges to a plateau offering sweeping views towards the Mozambican border.  

Venture to Matobo National Park to immerse yourself further in wildlife and culture. Here you will find San Bushmen art that adorns cave walls and it is one of the best places on earth to spot Black and White rhinos (which you can search for on a full day adventure by foot and vehicle). A rural walk through surrounding villages showcases the local way of life. You’ll also enjoy further wildlife viewing opportunities in Hwange National Park, celebrated for its elephant population and home to many more species.

Arguably the highlight of the journey is the iconic Victoria Falls where you will enjoy a 2-3 hour guided walk from the Zimbabwean side, as well as a full free day to fill as you wish. Choose to set off on a white water rafting adventure, take a scenic flight, perhaps enjoy a sunset cruise, or head across the border to check out the falls from the Zambia side. No stone is left unturned on this exceptional exploration of Zimbabwe.

South Africa: Walking and Wildlife

Spend 15 days exploring South Africa with a sidestep into Swaziland and enjoy game drives and walks to spot incredible wildlife throughout. Set off on foot in search of elephants and buffaloes in Letaba Ranch Game Reserve with a local guide and tracker, keep your eyes peeled for the Big Five during game drives in Kruger, and watch for birds flitting through the fascinating flora as you walk the picturesque trails of Malolotja National Park in Swaziland, home to over 280 species of birdlife.

Get an insight into the history of the region as you hike along the Fugitive Trail, a route taken by British survivors after a battle with the Zulus in 1879, and appreciate the varied scenery sprawled across the landscape of South Africa with a series of walks incorporated in your itinerary.

Follow the Thukela river, take in views of the Drakensberg Mountains, cut through the Mahai Valley, check out the distinctive natural Amphitheatre of Royal Natal National Park and hike to Tugela Falls (the second tallest in the world) - just to name a few.

Kenya: Masai Mara Walk

A great addition to a longer journey, this three day adventure through the Masai Mara gives you an insight into the real Africa. During your journey you may be lucky enough to see Masai tribes people adorned with their colourful dress, as well as the illustrious Big Five.

You’ll travel by vehicle to and from Nairobi, and once you are in the land of the Masai you’ll take a two hour guided walk around the area. This walk will take you to a Maasai homestead and presents the chance to spot native wildlife along the way.

You’ll stay in a simple tented camp within a prime game viewing area where you will be lulled to sleep by the sounds of the wild. You’ll also enjoy a full day of game drives in search of the Big Five in the Masai Mara National Reserve - keep watch for herds of elephants as these gentle giants roam the plains, spot prides of lions, and if you’re lucky maybe even catch sight of an elusive leopard. Lace up – adventure awaits.