While most people will never have the opportunity to approach or even touch these animals, many game reserves in South Africa (see: www.sa-venues.com) offer both a unique opportunity to an elephant safari. Imagine yourself perched 6ft in the air at the back of an elephant 6 tons, slowly making your way through open veld or dense forests. It’s a safari like no other. As such, an elephant safari in South Africa are increasing in popularity.

Game viewing on elephant back provides you the unique opportunity to become really close to wildlife (see: www.sa-venues.com/wildlife) that you could normally only view from afar. The smell of elephants that afflicts so many other animals such as rhino, giraffe and buck etc will not be frightened by the smell of people nearby. As such you are able to get closer to the amazing wildlife. A safari on elephant back to most of the reserves game is generally considered good event including meals and of course, the elephant ride. Elephants are prepared with a comfortable seat and you sit behind an experienced elephant handler. An elephant back safaris usually last about one hour and 30 minutes. While your first few minutes on the back of this monstrous animal will be supported with more than a little apprehension, but rest assured that the safari begins and you become accustomed to the rhythmic movements and tranquility of the elephant, the experience that follows will be incredible.

Many game reserves in South Africa are also unique and pleasant to walk with the elephants as you move through the veld and forest. Being surrounded by these huge animals and moving with them during the safari is a sobering experience and not easily forgotten. The elephant sanctuary near the Magaliesberg Mountains offers the opportunity to spend a whole day with these animals and taking part in activities like elephant walks, elephant back safaris, food and brushing the elephants and much more.

A South African elephant back safari is a great experience. Being immersed so deeply into the nature and interaction with these powerful creatures is deeply rewarding and satisfying and is an opportunity not to be missed.

If you have the financial resources to do it, you must go on an African safari at least once in your life. The word safari comes from the Swahili language. It means journey, and journey you will. Return to the continent of your human origin and see its magnificent wildlife. You are able to expect to observe elephants, lions, tigers, and hippos in their native habitat. A safari does not even compare to a visit to the zoo. Seeing these animals as they exist in the wild is an unbeatable experience. You will discover Africa and experience a holiday that you will never forget.

You have several choices when you go on a safari. You can take a walk safari or on a hosted safari in a game preserve. A game preserve safari provides you with guides, transportation, and typically food and tents for camping out. You might be in the wild for several days, and most of your basic needs will be taken care of. Experienced guides will take you directly to the wildlife, making sure that you get to see lot of animals. You can also choose to travel alone in your own vehicle, but do so at your own peril. The animals are far from domesticated and you can get into trouble without a native guide, especially when you’re trying to get close enough to take pictures. You do not want to be on the wrong end of a stampeding rhino. Invest in a long lens camera before your trip, so you do not have to get too close to nature to take great shots. Your photo album from your holiday will be unforgettable.

A safari company is invested in making your trip safe as well as exciting. On an extended safari, guests will typically stay in either a lodge or a tent village equipped with most of the comforts of home. A chef is provided for meals, as well as guides for protection from predators who might be interested in the lights of your camp. Expect to be regaled with Africa folklore by your guides. You can sit around the campfire and exchange stories at night, and then go to bed under mosquito nets while hearing to the hum of insects and the calls of wild animals. If you are uncomfortable sleeping in the open or you are not prepared to give up running water and air-conditioning, then sign up for a safari where you will be housed in a lodge and take shorter day excursions. You will not be able to venture as far as if you were camping, but you will not have to exchange the comforts of home.

When you go on safari in Africa, make sure to pack well. In addition to a great camera, you had better invest in a pair of binoculars. You might decide to adopt a new hobby while on the continent – bird-watching. There are so many species to observe in their native habitat. It would be a shame to be restricted by regular vision. After you have your camera and your binoculars, you can start thinking of clothing. Light, loose clothes are essential for your travels. A hat with a wide rim will protect you from the sun. Polarized sunglasses will protect your eyes without compromising your view. Finally, discover and revel in your African safari.