Into the Wild

By James Durston

9 Safari Insights with Ewan Burger, Head of Africa

From watching throngs of wildebeest crashing through a crocodile-infested river to floating serenely in a hot-air balloon over the savannah plains to view grazing giraffe, safari experiences are becoming more personalized, more family-friendly and more accessible. Ewan Burger, Head of Africa at Charlotte Travel, explains why safaris are such a popular bucket-list experience and what you need to know before you go. 

What are the current trends in luxury safari travel?

Two trends we are seeing that we love: hyper-personalization and accessibility. When we begin all our conversations with travellers now, we start with two essential questions: what do you want to experience, and how do you want to feel? It’s never one thing for everyone. Then we build a picture of that experience whilst maximizing their Africa adventure. We are also seeing more lodges able to accommodate the rise of multi-generational families sharing kid-friendly safaris-time spent with grandparents for everyone to enjoy together.

Are there any lesser-known destinations worth visiting?

The majority of our clients want to see the migration, so the main choice is always Serengeti in Tanzania, which hosts the migration for 10 out of 12 months. But more and more we offer a safari + gorilla combination where you can finish your safari in the Serengeti, then fly direct to Kigali in Rwanda to see the gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. 

Another is Zimbabwe. It’s not traditional first choice as a Southern Africa safari destination, it’s seen as Botswana’s little brother, but the experience here, the lack of crowds, the value for money, it really offers something special for those who want to see something a little different to the usual safari programme. 

What are the best times to visit each region? 

Africa’s magic really unfolds all year round, but each season offers its own wonders. In Tanzania, everyone will say that the Great Wildebeest Migration peaks between July and October in the north. But as an insider, I recommend January to March in the southern Serengeti when it is calving season. Nothing compared to thunderous herds crossing the Mara River – a spectacle best witnessed from a private tented camp.

For South Africa, April and September deliver golden savannahs and crisp mornings, ideal for tracking the Big Five in Sabi Sands then ending your trip with sundowners on Cape Twon’s Table Mountain.

Namibia’s ethereal dunes glow fiery red at sunrise in June, whilst Rwanda’s misty volcanoes invite intimate gorilla encounters year-round (through drier months, June-September, making trekking easier.)

It matters to us when you go because we don’t just ‘book trips’ – we want to choreograph moments like hot—air balloon drifting over the Serengeti at dawn, or a bush driver under Namibia’s infinite stars, just for you.

How do you create authentic safari experiences while maintaining luxury?

Luxury in Africa isn’t about chandeliers; it’s about connection. Picture this: after a day tracking lions in Okavango Delta, you return to your suite at &Beyond Xaranna where your plunge pool overlooks a watering hole visited by elephants. Or in Rwanda’s Bisate Reserve, volcanic peaks frame your fireplace as you recount thr day’s gorilla trek with your private guide.

We partner with lodges that redefine wilderness elegance: think linen-draped beds, Michelin-worthy bush cuisine and staff who anticipate your love for Amarula coffee at sunrise. Even ‘roughing it’ means a mobile camp in the Serengeti with Persian rugs and a sommelier-curated wine list. 

What sustainability efforts is the safari industry undertaking?

We choose partners who lead the charge, for example, Singita’s reserves fund 100% of their anti-poaching units, whilst Wilderness Safaris employs 1,200 locals across Africa. In Rwanda, every gorilla permit directly funds community schools. We are designing more and more for conscientious travellers’ that support the community they stay in. For example, at One&Only Gorilla’s Nest, your visit supports reforestation. 

Can you share some tips for first-time safari travellers?

Slow down. Africa rewards those who linger. Spend four nights in one lodge to learn the land's rhythms, the way a leopard marks its territory, or to hear the thunder clouds rolling in over the Serengeti plains.

For families, South Africa's Royal Malewane offers child-friendly game drives with wildlife sketchbooks. Honeymooners? Nothing compares to star-gazing on a platform in the tree-tops at Lion Sands signature Tree house star bed experience (my recommendation is either Chalkley or Kingston).

I have two rules for safaris:

1. Your experience is made incredible by the guide you have, and we only arrange the best. They hold the key to what you see and how you experience the animals.

2. Africa is a year-round destination, but the trick is to know what is happening where and when you want to travel, so you can make the most of your time there.