Your Day In The Bush: Planning an African Safari

When planning an African safari, it’s good to have an idea of what to expect. In the bush, we live our lives according to the seasons. Winter (April to September) is the dry season, when the vegetation recedes and water sources become increasingly scarce. Summer (October to March) is the rainy season, flooding our world in a riot of green and providing enough sustenance for new life.

It’s an age-old dance, and here at Tuningi, we strive to fit into the natural rhythms around us, which is why we structure your daily schedule according to the seasons, too.

If you’re joining us in the next few months, here’s what you can look forward to.

5 am: Wake-up call

To city-dwellers, this may seem like a torturous time of day to be out of bed, but believe us, once you’re out in the bush, time doesn’t hold the same power over you as it does in the ‘real world’. Here, light governs our waking hours.

5.15 am: Coffee time!

Ok, so, we’re not all early birds. Tea and coffee will be served at the Main Lodge before you depart on your morning drive – a little caffeine boost never hurt anybody. Your ranger will join you and together you can discuss what you’re most looking forward to seeing on your outing. They’ll also be able to give you a good idea of what to expect and where you’ll be headed on the reserve.

5.30 am: Morning drive departs

Once you’re out on the vehicle you’ll understand the need for an early wake-up. There’s simply nothing better than watching the bush come alive around you as the sun rises. This is also the best time of day to make for a water hole and catch predators having a drink after a busy night of hunting.

9 am: Breakfast

Having worked up an appetite over a myriad of wonderful sightings, return to the lodge and tuck into a hearty breakfast overlooking the surrounding bush.

After breakfast, you have a few hours to do as you please. Take a leisurely swim, settle into your holiday reading, book a spa treatment, break a sweat in the gym, lounge on one of the many decks, both private and shared, spend some time in the hide and simply enjoy our luxurious amenities – there’s nothing and nobody rushing you.

1 pm: Organised kids’ activities

For those with little ones, Tuningi offers organised kids’ activities at the Main Lodge. (The perfect time for mums & dads to squeeze in an afternoon nap!) They’ll be well taken care of and spend a fun few hours learning about the bush over interactive activities and games.

2 pm: Lunch

Tuck into delicious, varied and beautifully-presented food made by our talented culinary team.

We go to great lengths to cater to guests with specialist dietary requirements. Simply let us know what your needs are prior to arrival and we’d be happy to tailor a menu to your tastes.

Meals are served in the cosy dining room or in the unique boma, perfectly set under an old Fig Tree overlooking a very active waterhole.

For more on our splendid bush cuisine, click here.

4 pm: Afternoon drive

Time for another thrilling journey into the bushveld! Try and pick up on the different energy in the bush during the afternoon. You’ll be exposed to different animals, different sounds and different smells.

Most drives end with sundowners at a scenic location of your ranger’s choice.

7 pm: Return from drive

After a full and relaxing day in the bush, it’s time to return to camp and enjoy a few pre-dinner drinks in the bar. This is a great time to debrief other guests on your day’s sightings and enjoy some quality time together with your party.

At 8 pm, dinner is served and everyone retires (once they’re ready) to their suites to fall asleep to the sounds of the African night.

To print out our Winter/Summer Schedule, click here.

Planning an African safari?

Tuningi Safari Lodge, in South Africa’s world-renowned Madikwe Game Reserve, is a 5-star luxury lodge that accommodates 16 guests in beautifully-appointed suites overlooking the bushveld.

Stay with us for a safari experience unlike any other.

Browse our website and book your stay online via our seamless booking platform. Alternatively, contact our front desk directly at book@tuningi.co.za and we’d be happy to help with the arrangements.