Most safari-goers are quite early to bed after early starts. Very quickly one gets used to the cycle of the natural world – up before the sun and to bed early. But saying that we would be telling untruths if we didn’t say that a few nightcaps around the fire after dinner doesn’t happen!
It is worth noting that most camps have quite strict rules about walking to and from tents and main areas in the hours of darkness for obvious safety reasons. It also should be mentioned that most people in Zambia are used to using the 24-hour clock. So “15” is 3 pm.
Timings and activities will depend on the time of year and the particular camp, but a sample day would go something broadly like this:
-
05:00
Morning wake-up call. Which will be the guide or another staff member gently calling “knock-knock” outside your tent until they get a response! Depending on the camp they may be bearing a tray of tea or coffee that they place outside for you. You then have 30mins to get awake and equipped.
-
05:30
Guests gather in the main area or deck or firepit for early breakfast which is sometimes just a muffin or two, or a continental buffet. And of course coffee…It is usually quite informal – just sitting around the fire. Often your guide will join to talk about the day unfolding.
-
06:00
Head off for a morning game drive (or other activity) as the sun is rising. Temperatures may be very low. In open areas like Busanga, even in the hottest months, you can expect to be layered up. After a few hours of game viewing the guide will stop the vehicle and offer tea, coffee, and biscuits. It’s a good chance to get to know your fellow guests as conversation while game viewing is not really done!
-
10:30
Arrive back at camp. Many camps (the majority) then offer a brunch option after such an early start. Usually, this comprises the best parts of a cooked breakfast plus salads and other delicious options. You then have some hours to relax, siesta, download memory cards, review pictures, read, have a few cold drinks, etc. Before meeting up again.
-
15:00
Meet on the deck/main area for high tea. This is tea/coffee/cold drinks (often in the hot season iced tea or coffee will be an option) together with some delicious cake and some savory snacks before heading out again. Once again it is a bit of a social time to get to know your guides, hosts, and fellow guests.
-
15:30
Head off on your afternoon activity. If you are game driving then this may well seamlessly transition into a short night drive before returning to camp. If you are night driving you might return just in time for dinner. Or if it is another activity then you might be arriving back in camp 30 mins or so after sunset in which case you might have a bit of time before dinner.
-
19:00
Meet for a pre-dinner drink around the fire.
-
19:30 - 20:00
Dinner.