What to do in Mababe

It’s hard to describe what a safari really feels like… Every day brings something unexpected and no two are ever the same, from the wildlife you spot to the magnificent scenery around every corner. Of course, Africa is the home of the safari and each country has something unique to offer. You could walk your way through South Luangwa in Zambia, ride horseback through Kenya’s Laikipia plateau, marvel at the Great Migration thundering across the Serengeti, or game drive through the Kruger in search of the Big Five…. and much more. Whatever you choose, one thing’s for sure: you’ll never look at nature the same way again.

If a night under the stars in the African bush isn’t on your bucket list, then add it, pronto! First up is fly camping, the real deal when it comes to night-time bush escapades, with bucket showers, bedrolls, gauzy mosquito nets and an enormous dollop of good, old-fashioned adventure. Prefer a few more creature comforts? A night in a star bed might be just up your street. These alfresco bedrooms take glamping to new oh-so-luxurious levels, with night-time viewings accompanied by champagne, enormous four-posters, and, in the morning, fragrant coffee (of course!).

There's no more intimate way to explore the wilderness than on foot, with only a pair of binos and an expert guide. Test your stamina on a heart-pumping, camp-to-camp expedition spanning several days, or take a leisurely morning stroll that ends back at camp before lunch. For us, foot safaris are all about appreciating the little moments – the call of a francolin, the fresh smell of elephants nearby, the alarm call of a kudu, or lions roaring in the distance. At Timbuktu, our favourites include the undisputed king of the walking safari, Zambia, with Botswana and southern Tanzania a close second.

The Holy Grail of African wild beasts, the Big Five (buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion and rhino) have a place in every safari-aficionado's heart, no matter how many times you’ve donned your khakis. But despite their appearance on the covers of guidebooks and every postcard in every shop, seeing all five in one trip can be difficult. And that’s where we come in. Read on for our tips on where and when to go to maximise your chances of seeing these elusive creatures (and make everyone at home green with envy!).