If an African safari to see the “big five” was part of your travel plans this year, it is frustrating that it’s not advisable to travel outside of our own countries for the foreseeable future. South Africa for instance, as of 1 May 2020 was still in Risk Level 4 with the South Africa Tourist office stating “all domestic and international travel remains prohibited and all hotels and establishments must remain closed.” While a physical visit to Africa isn’t possible, the chance of seeing rhinoceros, elephants and lions in the wild is, thanks to some game reserves and organisations offering virtual game drives. Virtual safaris are being live streamed allowing you to virtually “drive” with expert guides who offer commentary and a chance to ask questions along the way.
South African travel company andBeyond has joined forces with wildlife broadcasting experts WildEarth to stream personalised game drives, twice daily, that travellers can view from their living rooms. Viewers are able to join two live safaris a day, one in the early morning and one in the afternoon, each of which lasts approximately three hours. The first hour of the afternoon safaris is aimed at children with special commentary and a chance to ask questions in a live chat section on the side of the screen. These safaris are hosted by expert field guides from andBeyond and streamed in real-time from two renowned South African game reserves in Kruger National Park, Ngala Private Game Reserve and Djuma Private Game Reserve.
