Wildlife experiences

It's one of life's greatest joys to tread through the lush forests of Volcanoes National Park, hear a hushed, "there they are", and see the surreal figure of a fully-grown mountain gorilla for the first time. You will leave in the early hours and be led by your seasoned guide through the jungle that covers the volcano foothills. After walking for up to four hours (directed by the findings of a scout), you will spend an magical hour watching the antics of these mysterious creatures. See the fascinating family dynamics, youngsters at play and the comical grooming process. The gorillas can be up to three times the size of an average man yet are still remarkably tolerant of human visitors. The best time to go is the dry season (June - Sep). Known as one of Africa's most beautiful rainforests, it is home to around half of the world's mountain gorilla population (300) and it's one of the best places to see them in the wild. And every cent goes back into protecting them and their home!

A verdant tangle of wildlife-brimming tropical forest and some of the most amazing gorilla-trekking territory in the world, Dzanga-Sangha is a real gem. The park is a sanctuary for dozens of endangered species, including one of Africa's most diverse collections of primates, which you'll discover while exploring this piece of the Congo Basin on foot. You'll leave in the early light, led by your experienced guide across the delightfully flat terrain, walking straight into the forest to find a family of western lowland gorilla. Spend a memorable hour with these smaller relatives of the mountain gorilla, watching as they tumble along the forest floor, snack on insects and groom each other. While the rainforests of Africa are almost perpetually damp, the best and least rainy time to go is between May and September.

Under a canvas of stars, set out from camp in a jeep to spy on the wildlife as Amboseli comes alive with a whole new cast of creatures. Even more so than the day, night time belongs to the predators. Lions slink between the trees, sniffing out hidden antelopes, and spotted hyenas howl in excitement as they look for leftovers. In the quiet of the evening, scan the brush for a pair of glowing eyes - then try and figure out if they belong to a bush baby, aardvark or even the shy civet. Your guide knows all and won't let any rustle go unnoticed!

Known as Rwanda's rising star of safari, Akagera is a vast landscape marked by its large and gleaming lakes. Take to the water early in the morning or at golden hour when birdlife from its 520 species takes a last flight before settling into the forest-fringed shores. Cruise the lake, navigating lurking crocodile (the highest numbers in Africa) and pods of hippo, whilst spotting the wildlife on shore. As the sun sets, casting its colours across the water, enjoy a chilled drink and snap all the photos you can.

Of all the Kruger's wild and woolly creatures, the Big Five induces the most gasps - and with good reason! At sunrise (or as sunset approaches), depart from camp on a game drive with your expert guide to track Africa's most famous quintet. Explore the rolling savannah, lush valleys and river banks where you may spy a languid leopard on a branch, elephant splashing in the water, rhino and buffalo snuffling in the grass and a pride of lion snoozing in the shade of a fever tree.

When it comes to conservation and unbelievably diverse wildlife, Laikipia has them both in spades. Take your seat on an open 4x4 in the early mornings and late afternoons, setting out to ogle more animals than you could imagine. Laikipia has some of the best wildlife in Kenya including the likes of giraffe, Grevy's zebra, cheetah and growing packs of painted dogs. Keep your binoculars poised to see the Big Five, including almost half of Kenya's black rhino population who graze in the shadow of Mount Kenya!