Drumbeat Autumn 19

Q: Cape Town seems to have a different weather pattern to the rest of Africa. How can we do a safari and visit Cape Town without getting wet in one place or the other? Richard answers: Both Cape Town and the more northerly safari areas in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana enjoy good weather between March and May, and again in September and October. A direct flight between Maun in Botswana and Cape Town makes that combination of ‘safari and sophistication’ particularly easy. Q: Is it possible to see the "big 5" but not be in a busy part of Africa? Alice answers: Yes definitely, you just need to dodge the crowds without avoiding the animals. The Kruger, Masai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater, Okavango Delta and the Serengeti are famous (and busy) because they show wildlife at its best. Rather than avoid safaris here we suggest ways to enjoy them in relative peace. Staying in secluded camps on private land adjacent to the busy parks works perfectly, you dip in and out of the big name wildlife areas, retreating to tranquillity when you wish. Boundaries are rarely fenced so the wildlife wanders in and out at will. You’ll often find more activities – walking and night drives – available on private concessions too. Travel Doctor. T: +44 (0)1980 849160 I E: mail@aardvarksafaris.com www.aardvarksafaris.com We’ve travelled extensively in Africa and like to get off the beaten track. Luxury is not important – it’s more about the overall experience. Becky answers: For something different swap the well-trodden tracks of Tanzania’s northern plains for Mahale and Katavi – two treasures way out to the west. Katavi is rarely visited by humans but has huge populations of elephant, buffalo, hippo, crocodile and giraffe. Even more remote, Mahale’s forested mountains are home to chimpanzees (that you can track) and barely another human soul. Elsewhere, visiting the semi-arid Kalahari Desert in Botswana between November and April is under the radar for many, but this is when rain turns the landscape a glorious green, sparking an influx of migrant birds and Africa’s second-largest wildebeest and zebra migration. We’re a family of five with teenage children. We like adventure, all horse ride, and love the idea of combining areas without taking light aircraft flights in between. What do you suggest? Lucinda answers: I’d recommend Kenya and specifically the Laikipia region with excellent wildlife and great variety. Safari at Laikipia Wilderness, a classic tented camp with an array of activities and plenty of wildlife. Travel to your next spot on a camel assisted walking safari. You’ll explore by day with Samburu guides and camp in a new site each night. Then quadbike or horse ride to Borana Lodge where wildlife can be spotted by bike, vehicle, horse or on foot. If I can persuade you to fly, a few days on the Kenyan coast would be the perfect end – the teenagers will love it and it’s a chance to relax and reflect on your adventures. l P15