Safari: a day in the life!

You’ve seen the jaw-dropping safari photos. You’ve pinned all the safari outfits on Pinterest. But if you’re wondering what a day on safari actually looks like — from sunrise to sundowners (and yes, where on earth you go to the bathroom) — let’s take a little armchair adventure together.

Because here’s the thing about safari life: it’s the perfect blend of thrill and tranquility, of barefoot luxury and dust-in-your-hair adventure. And it’s exactly the kind of experience that lets you fully unplug and reconnect — with nature, your travel crew, and yourself.

🌅 5:30-6 AM – Wake-Up Call & Morning Game Drive

Yes, it’s early. But trust me, hearing a gentle knock on your canvas tent followed by coffee and cookies delivered in a thermos? That’s a vibe.

You’ll toss on a cozy sweatshirt, grab your binoculars and camera, and hop into a rugged open-air vehicle just as the sun peeks over the horizon. It’s quiet. Still. Except for the sounds of birdsong and your guide whispering, “Hold on — there’s a (insert animal here) up ahead.”

This is nature, unfiltered. Maybe you’ll spot a pride of lions wrapping up a hunt. Maybe a herd of elephants crossing the road in slow, steady rhythm. Every day — every drive — is wildly different. And that’s the magic.

🥓 9:00 AM – Bush Breakfast (with a Side of Humor)

A few hours into the game drive, your guide will pull off into a scenic clearing and set up what can only be described as a gourmet picnic in the wild. We’re talking eggs and bacon sizzling over a fire, fresh fruit, granola, hot coffee, and a mimosa or two — because, well, you’re on vacation.

Now let’s address the elephant in the… bush: the loo.

There’s no glamorous restroom sign here. Instead, your guide will set up what’s affectionately known as the bush loo. It’s basically a shovel, a scenic tree, and a whole lot of good humor. Want to keep it discreet? Simply tell your group you’re “off to pick flowers” or “checking the tires.” It’s safari speak for “brb, nature’s calling,” and everyone knows exactly what you mean.

And honestly? That memory will be one of your favorites.

🛁 Midday – Downtime, Nap Time, Pool Time

After breakfast, it’s back to camp. And here’s where things get deliciously indulgent.

Maybe you take a dip in your private plunge pool. Maybe you sip a cold glass of sauvignon blanc on the deck while watching warthogs trot past your tent. Maybe you crawl under crisp white sheets for a nap that feels more luxurious than any spa treatment. I got a much needed massage at my first stop because the safari jeeps are Very BUMPY!

Lunch is usually fresh, light, and full of local flavor. Everything tastes better after a morning of fresh air and adrenaline.

🐆 4:00 PM – Afternoon Game Drive

Once the sun starts to mellow, it’s time to head back out.

Animals that were snoozing in the heat are waking up. You might see giraffes silhouetted against the horizon, or hippos waddling back to the river. Your guide — who has eyes like a hawk and ears like a superhero — will spot things you would never notice on your own.

Oh, and remember: this is golden hour. Your photos? Chef’s kiss.

🍸 6:30 PM – Sundowners

This is hands-down my favorite safari tradition. As the sun sinks low and paints the sky in honey and rose, your guide will pull over, pop a table, and hand you a perfectly chilled gin & tonic.

Cheers to the day’s wild beauty, to the moments of awe and quiet and connection.

And then — just when you think the day can’t get any better — you’ll head back to camp for a candlelit dinner under the stars, complete with stories around the fire and maybe a hyena cackle or two in the distance.

7:30PM – Dinner

At the end of the day, you are equal parts full of joy and equal parts exhausted. The safari camps feed you the most incredible local food to fill your belly for a great night of rest.

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In short? A day on safari is pure magic.
It’s the kind of experience that makes you forget about email, laundry, and snack duty. It’s thrilling, grounding, and soul-filling. And yes — it may involve peeing behind a bush while pretending to “pick some flowers.” But friends, that’s half the fun!