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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.

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Three Great Guides: Highlights of My Recent Trip to Botswana

This blog was written by James an ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team for 3 years. Here, James writes about his trip to Botswana and the three great guides he met.

09 May 2022

Sophie's Top Five Experiences in Zambia

Written by Sophie, ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team from November 2016 to August 2018. Sophie has narrowed down her most memorable experiences from her trip to Zambia’s most famous areas.

06 May 2022

Remembering Makwela: Return to the Sabi Sands

This blog was written by Linda, an ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team for 3 years. Here, Linda writes about her trip to Sabi Sands and reminisces over her incredible memories with Makwela, the extraordinary female leopard.

06 May 2022

Kenya's Top 10 Luxury Lodges

From the professional guiding and activities to the level of accommodation, a lot of thought goes into offering a top-end product. Here, we've put together our top 10 luxury lodges in Kenya.

By Julian | 15 March 2022

My Honeymoon On Safari In Zimbabwe

YZ expert Kirsten chose to spend her honeymoon on safari in Zimbabwe - here she describes her experience of sleeping on the most luxurious train in the world, witnessing the 'Smoke that Thunders' and then her adventure in Hwange National Park.

By Kirsten | 09 March 2022

Visa requirements for UK and USA passport holders

We've outlined the visa requirements for UK & USA passport holders travelling to Africa. Other nationalities should check the current entry requirements.

24 February 2022

Travel Insurance - Don't travel without it!

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.

24 February 2022

Luggage limits when travelling to Africa

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.

24 February 2022

Buffalos in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

COVID-19: Africa and your safari

Throughout the pandemic, we’ve monitored the impact COVID-19 has had on the travel industry. Here we discuss how it changed our travel plans in 2020 and 2021, but why we are optimistic for something much closer to ‘normality’ for 2022.

By Ellie | 23 February 2022

Lion Sands Chalkley Treehouse South Africa

Top most romantic sleep-outs and star beds

Here's our top best star beds and sleep-outs in Africa. With large beds and mosquito nets, you can experience a night under the stars without sacrificing any of your favourite luxuries.

By Kirsten | 14 February 2022

What to do in Sossusvlei: An Adventure Through The Namib Desert

During an amazing trip to Namibia, I spent three days in Sossusvlei, and although I might have only seen the odd oryx and jackal the visit was one of the highlights of my holiday, and I wouldn’t have wanted to have spent any less time there!

By James S | 10 February 2022

Namibia and Botswana: A Trip for the Safari Connoisseur

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 | 09 February 2022

Is This Namibia's Most Unique Camp?

Our Sales Director, James visited Namibia on an annual educational safari and explains why Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp is one of Africa’s finest properties, and with the services to match!

By James S | 08 February 2022

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The story of relocating wild dog puppies in Botswana

YZ Malcolm had the most incredible experience when working as a bush pilot in Botswana. Here he retells the story of how he helped relocate nine wild dog pups.

By Malcolm | 02 February 2022

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What's hot for 2022

Here’s our guide to Safari Africa’s most exciting developments in 2022.

25 January 2022

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Kenya vs. Tanzania

One of the biggest challenges for many people when planning a safari to East Africa is making the choice between Tanzania and Kenya.

11 November 2021

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Animal Migration in Africa

One of the most awe-inspiring sights in nature is large numbers of animals moving together with a collective purpose.

03 November 2021

Client Review: Travelling During The Pandemic by Esther P. and Tracy C.

Read our client review of their trip during the COVID-19 pandemic. Find out how they managed COVID travel restrictions in Kenya and Zimbabwe.

06 October 2021

Mountain hiking to spot gorillas in Uganda

Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda

Africa offers so many wonderful safari experiences to visitors. One of the most unique and captivating is a trek to see the mountain gorillas.

01 September 2021

Male gorilla, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Rwanda

Luxury Gorilla Safaris in Africa

Want to know the best places to see gorillas on your African safari? Our safari experts are here with a guide to help you plan the ultimate gorilla safari holiday!

20 July 2021

Bathtub view, Lemala Mpingo Ridge, Tarangire, Tanzania

Best lodges for a nice view in northern Tanzania

YZ expert Linda has just returned from an extensive safari to northern Tanzania. Here she picks out her favourite views:

29 April 2021

Best five places to see the African wild dog on safari

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 our top 5 places to see them:

By James S | 22 April 2021

Apoka Safari Lodge, Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda

Wildlife found in Kidepo Valley National Park

YZ expert Linda details the wildlife she encountered during her safari to Uganda’s Kidepo Valley National Park, from Big Five members to the land-dwelling patas monkey.

09 April 2021

Rock climbing adventure with Karisia Walking Safaris

The most adventurous safari lodges in Kenya

Do you love exploring new places? Well, we may have the list of properties in Kenya that will tick all your boxes! Tapping into our Kenya experts’ knowledge, we've come up with the most activity-filled camps in the country – take a look here:

15 March 2021

What to Consider When Planning Your Trip

Planning a safari can be very hard and it is difficult to get your head around everything you need to do. These 10 points should help you get the exact trip that you want, at a price that you like and with the best itinerary!

By James S | 08 March 2021

The 5 best luxury lodges in Madikwe, South Africa

Here, we’ve picked a few of our favourite luxury properties in Madikwe Game Reserve.

18 February 2021

Lion in Maasai Mara Kenya with Yellow Zebra

14 reasons why you should go to Kenya on your safari

Kenya is a stunning country, hosting vast landscapes, breathtaking scenery, and an amazing abundance of wildlife. Here’s our list of reasons why you should visit this incredible safari-focused destination:

28 January 2021

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Madikwe or Sabi Sands… which one is right for you?

Here we compare the renowned Sabi Sands with malaria-free Madikwe to give you advice as to which game reserve you should visit during your luxury South Africa safari.

11 January 2021

The YZ 'Top 5' safaris in Africa

Choosing where to go on safari can be somewhat daunting! With so many first-class countries to consider, and so many different environments, species, sights, and activities to choose from, planning a trip can leave you feeling completely confused!

By James S | 17 November 2020

The Serengeti & Great Migration

Stomping ground of the Great Migration and location of the highest predator concentrations in Africa, the Serengeti is one of those rare places that actually exceeds the hype! This Great Migration 12 part Blog Series gives you 'All you need to know'!

By Julian | 01 September 2020

Should you travel to Botswana’s Okavango Delta or Tanzania’s Serengeti for your safari?

Are you confused as to whether you should travel to the Okavango Delta or the Serengeti? Here, YZ expert Wies outlines the differences between the reserves, to help you decide which is better for your safari to Africa.

By Wies | 13 August 2020

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Going alone to Africa: my solo holiday to Botswana and Zimbabwe

YZ’s Angela has just returned from a solo safari to Zimbabwe and Botswana. She explains why Africa is such a great destination for a solo holiday.

By Angela | 07 July 2020

Beach views, Zuri Zanzibar, Tanzania, Africa

The ultimate guide to where to stay on Zanzibar

Here’s our comprehensive guide to where to stay on Zanzibar, including luxury lodges, boutique hotels, and barefoot resorts set on the best beaches in Tanzania.

By Lauren | 04 June 2020

Hot air ballooning over the Great Migration

East Africa or Southern Africa – where to safari?

Can’t decide whether you should go to East Africa or Southern Africa for your safari? Here we take a look at both areas, so you can work out which is the right destination for you:

By Kelly | 14 April 2020

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The wildlife of Tanzania

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

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The Wildlife of South Africa

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

Africa’s Big Five and where to see them

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

The Mysterious Five Wildlife

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

The Marine Big Five

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

The wildlife of Botswana

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

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Best places to see rhinos in Africa

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

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The best places to see buffalo in Africa

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

Top places to see elephants in Africa

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 5 best places to see leopard in Africa

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

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The best places to see lions in Africa

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

A Guide to Pemba Island

This blog was written by Charlotte, an ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team. Here's her guide to the island and where best to stay.

18 March 2020

Questions to ask before you go on a safari

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

What is normally the price of an African safari?

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

Client review: Tanzania – a beautiful discovery

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

Hiking through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda: Buhoma to Nkuringo

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

South Africa vs Botswana: how to choose the right safari destination

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

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Top tips on what to pack for a horseback riding safari

Here we give our top tips and advice on what to pack for a horse-riding adventure to Africa:

07 February 2020

The best places to spot whale sharks in Africa

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

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YZ’s Favourite Photographic Hides in Africa

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

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The Bauer Family Holiday to Tanzania

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

Your Digital Detox: Africa Lodges Without WiFi

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

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The Best Beaches in Cape Town

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.

22 January 2020

A Kenya family safari with teens

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 our advice on what you can expect:

17 January 2020

The YZ Recommended Reading List

From classic novels to essential field guides, we've listed a few books that we recommend you take on a safari to Africa:

17 January 2020

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Best Things to Do in La Digue

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

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Top 10 Safari Tips

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

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Best Africa Safari Lodges for Solo Travellers

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

Best 5 Diving Sites in Zanzibar

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

YZ's 'Classic' Safaris

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

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Client review: Witnessing the circle of life on safari in South Africa

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

Top 6 Things to Do in Praslin

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

Gift for Locals and Supporting the Community

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

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Rare Wildlife & Big Game – a client experience of Victoria Falls and Botswana

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

Where to Take Your Snorkel in the Seychelles?

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

Best Camera Equipment for an African Safari

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

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Top Things to Do in Mahe

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

YZ's 'Value' Safaris

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

How to Visit Giraffe Manor

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.

06 January 2020

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Where to go for a first-time safari

Choosing where to go on your first safari can be somewhat daunting!

By Julian | 06 January 2020

What to Pack for Your Africa Safari

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

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YZ's 'Luxury' Safaris

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

Christmas Gifts for Travellers to Africa

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

How to choose your beach extension after an African safari

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

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Experiencing the drought in Hwange National Park and the Okavango Delta

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

mokoro excursions, okavango delta, botswana safari holidays

The best activities to try in the Okavango Delta

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

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A night under the stars at Alex Walker’s Serian fly camp

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

Why travel to Kenya in the Green Season?

This blog was written by Jesse, an ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team for 3 years. Here, Jesse writes about his trip to Kenya in which he explains the benefits of going on safari in green season.

02 December 2019

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Hwange vs. Mana Pools – Zimbabwe’s top two safari destinations

YZ expert James visited Hwange and Mana Pools during his recent adventure to Zimbabwe. Here he compares the two national parks as safari destinations:

02 December 2019

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The ultimate horse-riding safari: Offbeat Riding Safaris

This blog was written by Izzy, an ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team for 3 years. Here, Izzy writes about her trip with Offbeat Riding Safaris in the Maasai Mara and describes what a horse-riding safari is like.

01 December 2019

The best walking safari experience: Zimbabwe vs. Zambia

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

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Meet Boswell, the elephant who stands on his hind legs

This blog was written by James H, an ex-safari specialist who was an invaluable member of our team for 4 years. Here, James writes about his trip to Mana Pools in which he witnessed the amazing moment when elephant Boswell stood up on his hind legs.

29 November 2019

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Ruaha vs Selous: Visiting Tanzania’s southern circuit

Here we compare Ruaha and Selous as safari destinations within Tanzania's quieter southern circuit.

28 November 2019

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Client review: The Clark couple’s holiday to Tanzania

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

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Fly camping in the spectacular Selous: a client review

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

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Walking with Deb Tittle

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