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The Yellow Zebra blog about travelling in Africa. Discover our latest updates on the best wildlife encounters, travel guides, safari trips & expert advice.
Rich in national parks and game reserves, and including the brilliant beach destination of Zanzibar, Tanzania has so much to offer the nature lover, and when it comes to wildlife, the country is a real treasure trove!
07 April 2020
Boasting some of the best wildlife in all of Africa, South Africa is a favourite destination for first-time safaris. Here, we outline the mammals and birds you can expect to see on a South Africa safari:
03 April 2020
A Big Five safari to Africa will include sightings of lion, buffalo, leopard, elephant, and rhino! Here’s our guide to where you can see Africa’s Big Five on a safari:
31 March 2020
After your first safari and witnessing the famous Big Five, we recommend focusing on some of the more interesting and elusive wildlife, such as the aardvark, aardwolf, porcupine, caracal and pangolin:
By Julian | 30 March 2020
Once you’ve spent a few days scouring the bush for them in a safari vehicle, how about an alternative safari experience, searching for Africa’s Marine Big Five? This is: whales, dolphins, seals, sharks and penguins!
27 March 2020
If you’re asking yourself, ‘What wildlife will I see in Botswana?’, then this is the guide for you. Here, we outline the mammals and birds that you can expect to see during a safari to this amazing destination.
26 March 2020
Below, we’ve selected our top places in Africa to see rhinos, from walking safaris in remote Zimbabwe to conservation excursions with the ‘Save the Rhino’ trackers in Namibia.
25 March 2020
Seeing buffalo on an African safari is probably the easiest of the Big Five members to spot. However, just because they are prevalent and move in large, obvious herds, doesn’t make them any less fascinating. Here’s our favourite places to spot them:
25 March 2020
Here, you’ll find the YZ top 12 places to see elephants as well as our recommended safari camp or lodge. We reckon there’s something to suit all types of travellers here!
24 March 2020
The most elusive of the Big Five members, leopards can be tricky to spot. Here’s our guide to the best places to observe leopards, to increase your chances of encountering all the Big Five during your Africa safari.
23 March 2020
A member of the Big Five, for good reason is the lion considered King of Beasts! Here’s the YZ guide to the best places to see lions in the wild in Africa.
20 March 2020
YZ expert Charlotte finished her recent Tanzania educational trip with a few nights on Pemba. Here’s her guide to the island and where best to stay:
By Charlotte | 18 March 2020
So you've booked your safari, you're very excited, you’re looking forward to the adventure of a lifetime… however, you have some questions! We've compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions plus answers!
By Julian | 12 March 2020
The majority of people on their first or second safari will most likely centre their attention on ticking off the Big Five; however, we feel that sometimes nothing beats watching the Africa wild dog in action. Here's are top 5 places to see them:
By James S | 09 March 2020
The most common question we get asked at Yellow Zebra is, ‘How much does a safari cost?’ Here we explain what factors go into determining the cost of your ideal safari, and how we can help make your budget go further:
By Julian | 27 February 2020
Micheline travelled to Tanzania on a safari designed by YZ expert Charlotte, and explored Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti National Park.
24 February 2020
YZ Sales Manager Emma embarked on a walking safari from Buhoma to Nkuringo – an incredible hike through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to see the local wildlife, with a chance of spotting mountain gorillas.
By Emma | 20 February 2020
YZ expert Antonina explains what you should take into consideration when it comes to planning a safari to Southern Africa’s leading safari destinations, South Africa and Botswana. Here’s her guide to picking the safari best suited to you:
By Antonina | 11 February 2020
Recently, YZ expert Izzy returned from a horseback riding safari in Kenya. Here she gives her top tips and advice on what to pack for a horse-riding adventure to Africa:
By Izzy | 07 February 2020
Whale sharks can be seen all year round on the east coast of Africa, stretching from southern Mozambique all the way up to northern Kenya, and are often found just off shore from a number of little islands...
By James S | 03 February 2020
A photographic hide gives you the unique opportunity to view wildlife, unbeknown to the animals, at an angle you don’t get from bumping around in a vehicle or trying to approach on foot.
By Emma | 30 January 2020
YZ clients the Bauer family recently returned from a holiday to Tanzania. They explored Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater, spotted the Big Five in the Serengeti, and relaxed along the white sands of Zanzibar. Here’s their firsthand account:
29 January 2020
For those who need to go full ‘cold turkey’ on the internet, our experts have provided their top picks where you can unplug and enjoy the Digital Detox.
24 January 2020
Here we’ve provided our guide to Cape Town’s best beaches, whether you’re looking for a relaxing day walking along South Africa’s beautiful coast or hoping to visit the top beach for observing penguins.
By Kim | 22 January 2020
Are you looking to go on a safari with teenagers? Well, Kenya is the perfect destination, with its Big Five wildlife, impressive amount of activities, & epic lodges that are fantastic for kids. Here’s YZ expert Jesse’s advice on what you can expect:
By Jesse | 17 January 2020
We've outlined the visa requirements for UK & USA passport holders travelling to Africa. Other nationalities should check the current entry requirements.
By Julian | 17 January 2020
Travel insurance is often viewed by clients as an extra cost that can be avoided. At Yellow Zebra however we insist that all travellers are fully insured for their trip. This blog covers the major reasons why travel insurance is essential.
By Ellie | 17 January 2020
From classic novels to essential field guides, we've listed a few books that we recommend you take on a safari to Africa:
By Abi | 17 January 2020
La Digue Island truly stole a piece of my heart. Its laidback lifestyle is so refreshing and relaxing when enjoying the tropical sun.
By Maddie | 13 January 2020
We've rounded up our top 10 safari tips on how to get the most out of a safari in Africa:
By Wies | 13 January 2020
Our experts have divulged their favourite properties in Safari Africa that waive the single supplement. There has really never been a better time for a self-discovery adventure to Africa!
By Shona | 13 January 2020
The depths of the Indian Ocean hide some of the world’s most unique creatures; it's a paradisiacal place for keen divers. Whether you’re on your 1000th dive or don’t know your fins from your mask, there is something for everyone in Zanzibar.
By Lauren | 10 January 2020
Our 'classic' safaris are the most popular safaris we sell. Starting prices are approximately $7,000 per person. This blog talks through what to expect from this style of safari, the approximate prices and links to examples of the trips themselves.
By Julian | 10 January 2020
Here, we answer your questions on luggage limits and bag sizes when travelling to Africa. Airlines can be very strict on baggage limits, so it’s important to double-check your limit before you travel.
10 January 2020
Michelle O'Dea and her husband travelled to South Africa for their two-week honeymoon, and witnessed the circle of life whilst staying at &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge in the Greater Kruger’s Timbavati Game Reserve.
09 January 2020
One of the most attractive qualities of the Seychelles is its one-of-a-kind beaches, and Praslin’s pristine beaches are some of the finest in the archipelago.
By Maddie | 09 January 2020
Below, we’ve outlined what you could bring for the locals you meet while on safari, as well as a few important considerations.
By Catherine | 09 January 2020
In September, YZ client Jill W travelled to Victoria Falls and Botswana, where she and her husband spent some time in Chobe, Moremi, and the Okavango Delta, spotting rare wildlife and plenty of big game.
08 January 2020
Spending a month in the Seychelles allowed me to experience a lot of what the islands and oceans had to offer. Below, I provide a quick summary of my favourite ‘snorkel spots’ for anyone who is lucky enough to travel to this paradise.
By Maddie | 08 January 2020
Below, along with YZ co-founder Julian Carter-Manning, professional photographers Will Burrard-Lucas and Marc Muench talk through their recommendations and offer a few tricks on how to snap that perfect safari photograph:
08 January 2020
Here’s our guide to Safari Africa’s most exciting developments in 2020. Featuring new property openings and destinations set to enter our radar, this is the YZ hotlist for this year:
07 January 2020
Mahé is the most developed and populated island in the Seychelles, and this brings with it an abundance of activities and places to visit.
By Maddie | 07 January 2020
Our 'value' safaris are our most economical trips. They are adventurous, great value safaris from +/- $4,000pp. This blog talks through what to expect from this style of safari, the approximate prices and links to examples of the trips themselves.
By Julian | 07 January 2020
Giraffe Manor is one of the most sought-after properties in the world, and finding availability at this Kenyan hotel can be tricky. Here are some options that might bring you a little closer to living out your dream.
By Shona | 06 January 2020
Choosing where to go on your first safari can be somewhat daunting!
By Julian | 06 January 2020
Here's everything you need to pack for your Africa safari. We provide a list of packing essentials and details of the best footwear to take, as well as where you can have your laundry done.
06 January 2020
Our 'luxury' safaris are some of the most expensive safaris we sell. Starting at +/- $10,000pp these trips are some of the very best. This blog talks through what to expect from this style of safari, the approximate prices & links to sample trips.
By Julian | 03 January 2020
With the festive season fast approaching, we’d like to share with you our top gift suggestions. Whether the recipient is a seasoned safari-goer or a first-timer, our safari-themed gift ideas are sure to be a hit this holiday season:
By Catherine | 08 December 2019
Not sure about which beach destination to combine with your African safari? Here, YZ’s Kirsten helps you to pick the beach extension that’s the best fit with your safari:
By Kirsten | 04 December 2019
Having just returned from a safari to Zimbabwe and Botswana, YZ’s Angela explains the impact that the drought in both areas had on her recent game viewing. She also discusses why you could consider travelling during the dry season:
By Angela | 04 December 2019
Here’s YZ Wies’s guide to activities, besides a traditional game drive, that you could try in the Okavango Delta, looking at both water- and land-based adventures:
By Wies | 03 December 2019
On a recent trip to Tanzania, Kelly and her partner Richard spent a night under the stars at Alex Walker’s Serian fly camp in the Serengeti. Here are her thoughts on the experience:
By Kelly | 03 December 2019
YZ Kenya expert Jesse went on a safari to Kenya in April. Here he explains the benefits of going on a safari during green season:
By Jesse | 02 December 2019
YZ expert James visited Hwange and Mana Pools during his recent adventure to Zimbabwe. Here he compares the two national parks as safari destinations:
By James H | 02 December 2019
YZ expert Izzy enjoyed an 8-day adventure with Offbeat Riding Safaris in the Maasai Mara. Here, she describes what a horse-riding safari is like with this day-by-day description:
By Izzy | 01 December 2019
Here’s YZ expert James’s guide to walking safaris in Zimbabwe and Zambia, in which he compares the experiences, the lodges, and the level of safety in each safari destination.
By James S | 30 November 2019
YZ expert James H just got back from a trip to Zimbabwe, during which he travelled to Mana Pools and witnessed the amazing moment when elephant Boswell stood up on his hind legs:
By James H | 29 November 2019
YZ expert Charlotte returned to Ruaha and Selous for her recent educational trip. Here she compares the two areas as safari destinations within Tanzania’s quieter southern circuit.
By Charlotte | 28 November 2019
YZ clients Nora Clark and her husband recently returned from a trip to Tanzania. They explored Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti, before relaxing along the shores of Zanzibar. Here’s their review of the trip:
27 November 2019
Jenny Bolton-Clark and her husband journeyed to Tanzania’s southern Selous Game Reserve, where they stayed at Sand Rivers and went fly camping. Here’s Jenny’s description of the 24-hour experience.
26 November 2019
YZ expert Emma went on a walking safari in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park with legendary guide Deb Tittle. Here Emma recalls her experience:
By Emma | 13 November 2019
The Frohlich family travelled with Yellow Zebra to South Africa, where they spent some time experiencing the country’s culture in Johannesburg, its wonderful coast in Cape Town, and its famous wildlife in Kruger. Check out their review here:
10 October 2019
If you’re thinking of going to KwaZulu-Natal to visit the Battlefields in Zululand, why not consider also enjoying a safari in Phinda Game Reserve? YZ’s Will has returned from a trip to this quieter corner of South Africa:
By Will | 10 October 2019
YZ’s Antonina discusses her recent experience of Botswana’s Okavango Delta and the game reserves that have been affected this year by low water levels.
By Antonina | 04 October 2019
Here YZ expert Ro details her top 3 environmentally friendly properties in Kenya. These comprise a family-focused lodge in Laikipia, a holistic camp at the foothills of the Chyulu Hills, and an elephant haven in the heart of Samburu:
23 September 2019
YZ expert Angela headed out to Kenya and got to experience what the country is like for the true romantic! She and her husband went horse riding, enjoyed a glorious yoga session at sunrise, and completely fell in love with Kenya during their trip.
By Angela | 16 September 2019
When YZ expert Wies ventured to Kenya recently, as well as experiencing fly camping, an incredible sleep-out, and flying in a biplane, he stayed at Laikipia Wilderness Camp, which very quickly became one of his favourite properties.
By Wies | 04 September 2019
Having been involved in a part of the cheetah reintroduction project in Central Namibia, YZ expert Will details why and how conservation of this species is being carried out.
By Will | 03 September 2019
The sky-high rates of Botswana’s top lodges have been a contentious issue in the travel industry for years. As a number of properties cruise into the multi-thousands per night, YZ co-founder Julian explains why it’s worth paying those prices:
By Julian | 02 September 2019
Here’s our guide to the best beach destinations in Safari Africa, where we compare Tanzania’s famous island Zanzibar with Kenya’s quieter coast, including the beaches of Mombasa, Diani, and Watamu.
29 August 2019
YZ clients Rick and Dorothy F. just returned from safari to Tanzania, where they explored paths less travelled in the Southern Circuit of the Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park.
07 August 2019
Here, Kenya-born and -bred YZ expert Jesse tells us what there is to do in Nairobi, Kenya’s buzzing capital city, from the best museums and art galleries to the finest hotels, bars, and restaurants:
By Jesse | 31 July 2019
Heading off the day after their wedding, John and Jac travelled to South Africa for a Winelands, Cape Town, and safari honeymoon with Yellow Zebra. Here Jac reviews their trip, detailing their favourite highlights and recommendations:
22 July 2019
Not just a gateway to the country’s northern safari areas, Arusha has a lot to offer travellers to Tanzania. Here YZ’s Matt discusses the top things to do in the city when you have some time to spare.
By Matt | 16 July 2019
YZ’s Lauren recently went in search of the best views in Kenya, ranging from Out of Africa’s celebrated cinematic scenery to the country's quiet northern corners. Here she lists her favourite lodges that overlook Kenya’s incredible landscapes:
By Lauren | 09 July 2019
And you may be surprised which is the most effective!
05 July 2019
Although YZ expert Will is predominantly a beer-drinker, he travelled to South Africa’s famous Winelands to see what there is to do in Franschhoek if you don’t drink wine.
By Will | 17 June 2019
YZ expert Ro has just got back from a safari to the hidden-gem reserve of Meru National Park. Here she explains why you should consider visiting Meru as part of a Kenya safari holiday.
06 June 2019
For any family going on safari, the issue of safety is always important. Here we offer some advice on the main concerns, and you should also be aware that a safari takes you into the habitat of wild animals, where there is always a degree of risk..
By Jesse | 29 May 2019
YZ Tanzania expert Matt went on a safari to Tarangire in April. Here he weighs up the pros and cons of visiting this national park during the green season.
By Matt | 23 May 2019
YZ client Claudia B. just returned from a safari to Zimbabwe, where she witnessed one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls, and went on a safari in Hwange National Park and Mana Pools.
20 May 2019
Who better to advise you on what there is to do in Cape Town than our very own Matt W.? Matt is from South Africa, and he lived in the spectacular Mother City for over two decades. Here is his round-up of the Top 10 activities to try:
By Matt | 16 May 2019
YZ expert Izzy has recently returned from a horse-riding safari. Here she weighs up the different lodges that offer world-class horse riding in Kenya:
By Izzy | 15 May 2019
Here are the winners of the 2019 YZ Photography Competition, as well as a selection of the top 5 best images and the reasons behind why they were selected.
10 May 2019
YZ expert Sam travelled to Uganda in search of the fascinating shoebill stork and to Rwanda to witness some of the area’s impressive birdlife. Here, he gives his account of going on a birding safari:
09 May 2019
YZ expert Jesse missed spotting the elusive black leopard by one game drive! Here he explains where is your best chance of seeing this incredibly rare animal in the wild.
By Jesse | 03 May 2019
YZ Kenya specialist Jesse writes about his encounter with female leopard Nalango, when he was Head Trails Guide and camp manager at Offbeat Mara, Kenya.
By Jesse | 17 April 2019
YZ expert Kirsten recently returned from an educational trip in which she travelled solo around Kenya. Here’s how she designed the perfect solo safari.
By Kirsten | 10 April 2019
YZ client Greg and partner Tina travelled to Kenya and Zanzibar in January 2019. From spotting the Big Five within 24 hours of safari to having a very special Maasai name-blessing ceremony, they enjoyed some amazing adventures.
20 February 2019
YZ expert Emma has just returned from an epic adventure to Botswana’s Okavango Delta, where she witnessed her very own ‘Battle of the Beasts’.
By Emma | 02 February 2019
Kahambu Malilissa Solange is one of the 26 female rangers who have completed rigorous training in order to protect the last of the mountain gorillas. Here she answers a few questions about the opportunities and challenges she experiences.
01 February 2019
Here’s YZ gorilla expert Linda’s experience of visiting the lowland gorillas in the Republic of the Congo’s extraordinary reserve, Odzala-Kokoua National Park.
By Linda | 31 January 2019
Antonina and her partner spent a short but sweet few nights in South Africa’s Winelands. Check out her experiences and her recommendations for a weekend break in this wonderful destination:
By Antonina | 03 January 2019
South Africa’s Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s most popular wildlife reserves. YZ co-founder Julian gives his thoughts on the park and where to stay:
By Julian | 18 December 2018
Tony and Terry M travelled with Yellow Zebra to Tanzania on a Nomad safari in November 2018. Among the favourite properties they visited were Ruaha’s Kigelia Camp and Selous’ Sand River:
03 December 2018
Listed as the fourth longest river in Africa, the mighty Zambezi offers a variety of epic activities, as YZ Charlotte discovered on her safari to Zambia in October 2018.
By Charlotte | 03 December 2018
Antonina’s trip to Victoria Falls started by being welcomed by locals who were traditionally dressed in feathers and spears and singing ancient Shona songs! And this excitement endured throughout the holiday, as she recalls here:
By Antonina | 29 November 2018
YZ expert Wies travelled to northern Kenya to explore the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary.
By Wies | 27 November 2018
Night drives provide access to an alternative world – the wildlife you don’t usually see during the day becomes abundant and opens up an entirely new experience on your safari, as Charlotte recently discovered on her trip to Zambia.
By Charlotte | 27 November 2018
Northern Botswana is home to some of the most striking and magnificent trees found in Africa! Our Botswana safari expert James H reveals the top 5 unique trees and where to find them.
By James H | 26 November 2018
Sue and Bill travelled with Yellow Zebra to Tanzania on a couples safari. Among the favourite properties they visited were Machweo House, Plantation Lodge, Nasikia Mobile Migration Camp and Pole Pole.
12 November 2018
Having just returned from exploring Mauritius, Shona has shared some highlights from her trip, including the top activities as well as her recommendations for local restaurants and luxury hotels to stay in...
By Shona | 06 November 2018
"Returning after many years to the very special Sabi Sands, I wondered how I had let so much time elapse between visits to this magical private game reserve."
By Linda | 05 November 2018
The best part of being on safari is without doubt the incredible wildlife! However, to find that exceptional encounter, you need a skilful guide who knows the area and everything within it, to help create that once-in-a-lifetime experience.
24 October 2018
Working on both sides of the Kenya–Tanzania border, Asilia Africa's and Serian's leading ladies have a wealth of inspiring stories, shared with us in this two-part series blog.
23 October 2018
Cape Town is fast becoming Africa’s finest destination for world-class restaurants. Nearby lies the Winelands, which contains the majority of the continent’s other excellent eateries!
By Julian | 03 October 2018
Our Sales Director, James recently visited Namibia on his annual educational safari and explains why this is s one of Africa’s finest properties, and with the services to match!
By James S | 17 September 2018
The green season marks the start of the rains in the Linyanti, but don't let that put you off, as the region is transformed from a dry and thirsty region to a lush emerald bounty bursting with colour.
By Lauren | 14 September 2018
Choosing the right safari destination can be a real challenge with so many amazing experiences on offer. For this reason many people opt to combine countries, cherry-picking the most unique experiences from each, to create a truly bespoke trip.
By Kelly | 11 September 2018
With its white, palm-lined beaches, Zanzibar is often seen as the idyllic beach getaway, especially after a safari. Here are our top things to do on and around Zanzibar.
By Wies | 10 September 2018
YZ co-founder Julian has picked Safari Africa’s most authentic camps, from his absolute favourite lodges in Zambia to some exquisitely intimate camps in Tanzania.
By Julian | 04 September 2018
Debating whether to drive or fly-in on your Safari to Tanzania? Yellow Zebra Safari specialist Sam reveals the advantages of opting for style on a breathtaking sky safari.
04 September 2018
Deborah travelled with Yellow Zebra to Zambia for a family safari. Among the favourite properties she and her family visited were Nsolo Camp, Mchenja Bush Camp and Chongwe River Camp.
03 September 2018
