Walking Safaris of Africa

First-time safari travelers are often surprised to discover that walking with elephants and other big game is possible, always in the care of professional guides. Swapping a game drive for a walk one morning, they become hooked on this immersive experience which offers a deeper dive into the natural world.

From camel-supported explorations with the Samburu of Kenya’s northern frontier to gentle walks amidst the Cape Floral Kingdom, a lifetime of alluring adventures awaits. Luxury lodges, seasonal trails camps, leave-no-trace backcountry camping adventures – this book is the essential companion for all kinds of walking safaris. It offers guidance on when to go, what to bring, and reserve-by-reserve information about the terrain, ecology and walk operators, as well as a series of inspirational narratives of walks undertaken.

This is the first guide to walking safaris that covers all of the major safari destinations in Africa. Along the way, a superficial search for ‘Big Five’ animals is transformed into an absorbing discovery of the entire ecosystem – from fossils and flora to invertebrates, tracks, human history and rock art. It’s not surprising that those who love walking safaris become champions for habitat conservation. Including information for all levels of ability, from gentle
dawn walks to sleep-out primitive trails, this is for everyone who wishes to include a guided walk as part of their visit to an African reserve.

Comprehensive, well-researched and insightful — there is no better source of inspiration and advice to get you exploring Africa on foot. Travel Africa Magazine The definitive guide to experiencing the magic of the wilderness on foot, this is a welcome boost to immersive and sustainable conservation tourism in Africa. African Parks

Denis Costello is a FGASA-qualified Trails Guide and keen adventurer. As well as completing numerous walking safaris in Africa, he has made solo treks ranging from the Greenland icecap to the jungles of Papua New Guinea, traversed the islands of South Georgia and Seram, and descended the upper Congo river by pirogue. He has written for Travel Africa (UK), Wild (RSA) and other publications.