Your Guide to Walking Safaris
Walking safaris were the traditional safari—and they remain the purest version. Stripping away the speed and noise of modern travel, they offer an exciting, slow-paced journey into nature, where every scent, sound, and track share its own story.
Led by some of the finest guides, a walking safari in Africa brings you closer to the land than any vehicle could. The experience can be tailored to your comfort, from gentle strolls to multi-day flying-camping adventures.
We’ve walked these wild places ourselves and only offer the very best, and if you’re looking to connect a little more deeply with Africa’s wild heart, our collection of Walking Safari holidays is all you need for perfect inspiration.
All About Walking Safaris
What is a Walking Safari?
Very simply put, a walking safari is where your guide takes you on foot (far from the vehicle) on a thorough guiding experience through the specific wilderness area you are visiting—for an extended period of time.
There are arguably four different categories when answering what is a walking safari…
- Guided Nature Walks. A sensory-filled walk in which the small wonders of the bush, including tracks, bird calls, wild herbs, and more, come up close.
- Tracking Walking Safaris. A thrilling experience for adventurous guests (16+ only) that lets you follow expert guides as they track big game on foot (like rhino or elephant) after spotting fresh signs on a game drive.
- Big Game Walking Safaris. Led by specialist guides, this rare Africa walking safari allows you to immerse into the wild to view Big Five animals safely on foot. An experience not for the ‘Gram, but for the soul 🤍
- Fly Camping Experiences. For the wild-hearted traveler, fly camping offers an unforgettable night under the stars in a private bush camp. After a guided walk to your secluded site, enjoy fireside dining, cozy tents with real beds, and a hot shower. Natural luxury with safety and soul.
Are Walking Safaris Safe?
Yes, walking safaris are safe. The qualified, reputable guides all have specialized training to handle wildlife encounters and ensure guest safety at every step, while keeping the experience respectful to the environment and its inhabitants. Plus, most wildlife animals prefer avoiding the risk of injury than attacking you.
Where to Go on a Walking Safari in Africa
Tanzania
The destination for one of the most rewarding safari experiences. Head to the Serengeti for a chance to walk along ancient wildlife migration routes or explore the Selous (now Nyerere National Park), where riverine forests and open plains make each step an adventure. In Ruaha National Park, expect fewer crowds and raw wilderness, perfect for walking safaris that feel truly off the beaten path.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-June to October
Kenya
A walking safari in Kenya is all about connection—connection to the land, the wildlife, and the culture. Though most of Kenya’s national parks do not allow walking safaris, the experience is slowly becoming more accessible in neighboring wildlife concessions and private ranches. Kenya’s captivating Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most well-known safari destinations to join the most exciting bush walks with local Maasai warriors, who certainly know the land closely.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-June to October
South Africa
The best place to enjoy a South Africa walking safari is at the Kruger National Park. This famous destination features incredible dry-season bush walk expeditions paired with multi-day trips. You can also enjoy memorable walks in some of South Africa’s private reserves, such as those in Sabi Sands and the Eastern Cape.
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Zambia
South Luangwa National Park, the very first walking safari spot, is a breathtaking destination for a Zambia walking safari. The location is known for its extraordinary dry season safaris, where tourists get to witness the largest concentrations of wildlife in Africa.
Best Time to Visit: July – October
Botswana
Feel your senses heighten as you go deeper into a walking safari Botswana. From the tiny miracles of the bush to the majesty of the Big 5, there’s plenty to see. And if you’re looking for something a bit different, walking along the Makgadikgadi Pans is as unique as it gets. Spanning 9,942 square miles, they are the largest salt pans in the world.
Best time to Visit: April to October
Final Words
The best walking safari camps are not just connected to wildlife, but rooted in wild places, led by the continent’s most professional guides, and built around the focus that exploring on foot invites a deeper kind of connection. If that’s what you’re looking for, Good Earth Tours has the best to offer. Contact us today to plan the safest yet most memorable walking safari.
