Arrival and check-in time at most safari lodges is usually between 12h00 and 14h00. You will be met by the lodge manager or a senior staff member, offered a refreshing welcome drink and assisted with checking in. The lodge procedures and itinerary will be explained to you. (Kindly note that this is a general description – there may be slight differences from lodge to lodge)

You will then be shown to your room, where you can settle in and explore your surroundings before making your way to the dining area for lunch (if time allows – if you arrive late in the afternoon there may only be a light snack before departing on the afternoon game drive). 

Afternoon tea/coffee is usually served on the deck at around 15h00 (or later in summer) and then the afternoon game drive departs. Before departure, you may be asked what you wish to drink for sundowners (the drinks stop during the game drive).  

Your safari guide will drive the vehicle, interpret the sightings and share his vast knowledge of the bush with you. If the lodge uses trackers, the tracker usually sits on the front of the vehicle to help spot animals and identify tracks. (Some lodges do not use trackers). The guide is usually in radio contact with other vehicles on game drives, so they can notify each other of sightings. 

As the sun sets, the guide may stop at a scenic spot in the bush where you can enjoy sundowners and stretch your legs, if time and game viewing allow. After sunset, the game drive may continue as a night drive with a powerful spotlight, looking for the nocturnal animals that become active after dark. 

Upon returning to the lodge, you can freshen up in your room before enjoying a pre-dinner drink at the bar. Normally, dinner is served around the fire in the traditional boma (open air dining area), weather permitting of course. Alternatively, dinner may be served on the deck or in the dining room. After dinner, the fireside stories often carry on deep into the night, and you can retire to your room whenever you feel like it.