One morning in Kenya, we pulled up to three male lions sleeping in the grass. No other vehicles. No one jockeying for position. Just us, our guide, and three lions close enough that you could hear them breathe. The next day in the Maasai Mara, there were five other vehicles crowded around a pride. The lions were still incredible. But it wasn't the same. That's the difference between a national park and a private conservancy — and it's a big part of why safari costs what it costs.

When most people plan a safari, they think about the animals. What they don't think about is the land — and that's the decision that shapes everything. National parks, private reserves, and conservancies operate completely differently, and the one you choose determines more about your experience than almost anything else.

I heard the elephants before I saw them. Crashing through trees, somewhere in the bush ahead of us, getting closer. My guide had already stopped the vehicle. He knew exactly where they were going and exactly where to position us. That moment didn't happen by accident. It happened because of the person sitting in the front seat.

People always ask me what you actually do all day on safari. The answer is more than you'd think — and also, intentionally, less. Here's what a real safari day looks like, hour by hour.

Nobody tells you about the fence. I didn't know until I was there — standing in a private conservancy in South Africa, noticing the boundary line in the distance. It didn't ruin the trip. But it changed how I thought about what I was experiencing, and it made me understand why on my next trip, I'd want a bigger property. Here's the honest version of what your first safari is actually like.

Even as a travel advisor, my first safari surprised me in more ways than I expected. From early wake-ups to off-road adventures and the reality of “middle seat views,” here’s what really stood out—and what you’ll want to know before planning your own safari adventure.

After my first safari, I realized it’s not just about seeing animals—it’s about understanding the rhythm of safari life. From timing and rest to what to pack (yes, neutrals really do matter), here’s what I’ll be sharing with future clients to help them plan smarter, smoother, and more magical safaris.

Your first safari lodge is a real decision. Here's why I chose Hippo Lakes in South Africa, what it was actually like, and whether I'd send my clients there.