Aardvark Safaris, an independent safari specialist tour operator, is elevating its walking safari experiences designed to fully immerse guests in the raw, untamed beauty of the African wilderness, with three new offerings.
Each expertly crafted safari sees guests venture ‘off-road’ as they traverse breathtaking landscapes on foot. This adds a more heightened and exciting dimension to wildlife viewing and the chance to appreciate nature in a slow, profound, and meaningful way.
NEW: Cheetah Trail, Samara Karoo, South Africa – Launching September 2024
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Many visitors to Africa arrive with a bucket list of animal sightings they hope to tick off, and the iconic cheetah is high on the list. Samara Karoo in the Eastern Cape has long been synonymous with this majestic cat. It was once home to the famous Sibella, an ambassadress for cheetah conservation.
For guests who fancy tracking wild cheetah on foot, this is the ultimate adventure. Launching in September, the four-day trip offers walkers and wildlife enthusiasts the rare opportunity to walk alongside and get up close to the fascinating cheetah. Expert guides and trackers will lead the way during the hike, which covers 10-15 km each day, imparting tips on how to spot the signs of a cheetah’s presence while keeping their eyes peeled for any sign of movement. Accommodation is in an off-grid luxury tented camp, with one night spent under the stars in a mobile fly camp.
Available through Aardvark Safaris from US$1,416 per person per night (US$3,643 for two adults). Price includes three nights in a tent with bedroom, en-suite bathroom, fireplace and indoor/outdoor seating area overlooking the Karoo landscape. Daily morning bush walk with experienced guide and tracker, daily afternoon wildlife drive with experienced tracker and guide, three meals and safari activity snacks daily, soft drinks, house wines and selected spirits and beers, use of a pair of binoculars.
NEW: Walks for Wellness, Chem Chem, Tanzania
Spending time in green spaces and immersing in nature is widely known to bring significant benefits to both mental and physical well-being. With the introduction of three new wellness walks, Chem Chem Lodge offers the perfect setting for guests to recharge and rebalance lives.
These uplifting wellness walks focus on disconnecting from daily stresses and reconnecting with nature’s rhythm. The ‘Nature Walk,’ led by a highly knowledgeable Maasai guide, provides unrivalled insight into the hidden corners of the bush, with guests benefiting from the guide’s expert and extensive knowledge. For a deeper connection to the environment, the ‘Silent Walk’ encourages guests to fully engage with their surroundings, allowing their heightened senses to take control as they absorb the sounds, sights, and smells of the African bush. For those seeking a more energetic experience, the Maasai guide will lead an invigorating and rejuvenating 6-10 km ‘Power Walk’ through the heart of the wilderness.
Available through Aardvark Safaris from US$1,775 per person per night. Price includes walking, all accommodation, meals and drinks, private guide, drives and other safari activities, laundry and wifi.
Footsteps of Mankind, Lenotis, Tanzania
Embark on an extraordinary journey to the birthplace of human existence with Aardvark Safaris’ latest trek to the Olduvai Gorge, famously known as ‘The Cradle of Mankind,’ formed over 2 million years ago.
This 7-day itinerary begins in the breathtaking Ngorongoro Highlands, offering an immersive experience of Tanzania’s dramatic landscapes and natural beauty. Highlights include hiking through the awe-inspiring Gregorian Rift Valley and Sanjan Gorge, and venturing deep into the Empakai Crater, where flamingos gracefully feed in the lake.
Maasai guides will lead guests through their villages and across rolling hills, providing a captivating glimpse into their lives, customs, and culture. Guests will enjoy two nights at the luxurious Lake Natron Camp and five nights at wilderness camps along the route, ensuring a perfect blend of comfort and raw natural beauty as they explore uncharted territories.
Available through Aardvark Safaris from US$4,520 per person for 7 nights based on four people travelling together. Price includes all guided safaris, all accommodation, all meals and drinks.
For more information on the itineraries, see www.aardvarksafaris.com.
