One of the most celebrated American authors of all time, John Hemingway, once said: “If I have ever seen magic, it has been in Africa.” There is no denying that embarking on an authentic African safari is a dream come true for the countless adventurous individuals who flock to the Dark Continent every year. In recent years, safari vacations have become increasingly popular among senior adventure seekers and especially those looking to make the most of their retirement. Safaris are, in fact, as 56 suitable for 60-year-old voyagers as it is for 16-year-olds. If you are approaching your golden years and have your heart set on an African safari there is no reason why you should not tick it off your bucket list with a visit to one of these spectacular safari destinations.

Allow the Kruger National Park to impress you

It is with very good reason that the 20,000 km² Kruger National Park is among the most sought-after safari destinations in the world. Not only is the park home to more than 147 species of mammals (including the Big 5), 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, and 507 types of birds, but it also boasts some of the most impressive natural scenery in the world. There are a large number of esteemed tour operators that offer safari experiences in the park although many travelers do prefer to tackle their expedition without any assistance. Accommodation is plentiful and most of the larger camps offer fully accessible amenities. All budgets are catered for, and your safari can be as economical or lavish as you choose. When you aren’t spending time aboard a luxury safari vehicle, you can engage in leisurely hikes or, depending on the weather, cool off in a sparkling pool, both of which will provide you with exercise free of charge.

You will fall in love with the Serengeti

Every year nearly 200,000 people flock to the Serengeti and it is not hard to see why. The Serengeti National Park is one of the continent’s most popular safari destinations. Apart from boasting the most well-known animal migration in the world, the park is also home to a plethora of animal and bird species, including the world-renowned Big 5. When booking your Serengeti safari, make sure to do it for April/May so that you can experience the migration of nearly one million wildebeest from southern Tanzania towards Kenya in the north.  There are several safe and easy-to-access camps scattered across the park from where you can access a range of exhilarating experiences such as hot air balloon rides, walking safaris, and touching and educational visits to a local Maasai village.

Bask in the luxury of the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park

The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is situated in the KwaZulu Natal Province and is the oldest proclaimed reserve in the whole of Africa. If it is a luxury safari experience, you are after being sure to stay at the spectacular Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge which is the only private lodge in the park.  The lodge welcomes both young and older visitors with open arms and ensures that every guest gets to experience an authentic African safari as well as exclusive facilities and superb service. Apart from exciting game drives you can also put your retirement to good use and enjoy a bout of bird watching or spend the day being pampered in the on-site luxury spa. 

Enjoying a true African safari is a great way to celebrate your retirement. Regardless of your destination, spending time in Africa’s exquisite natural landscapes can only be good for the soul.