How Game Drives Work at Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

If you’ve never been on safari before, you might be wondering: How do game drives actually work at luxury safari lodges in south Africa? What time do they start? How close do you get to the animals? And what’s the difference between a guided game drive and doing it yourself?

At Wandering Travel CO, we’ve experienced game drives in the most exclusive corners of South Africa — and we’re here to guide you through exactly what to expect when staying at a luxury safari lodge.

Daily Safari Schedule: What to Expect on Game Drives

Most luxury safari lodges in South Africa operate on a two-drive-per-day schedule:

• Morning Game Drive: Starts just before sunrise

• Afternoon/Evening Game Drive: Begins mid-afternoon and ends after sunset

  
  

Each drive lasts approximately 3 hours, but duration can vary depending on sightings and wildlife activity.

Morning Drives often begin with a light wake-up call, followed by coffee, tea, and rusks or pastries. This is the prime time to see predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas, who are often still active after a night of hunting.

Evening Drives usually include a scenic sundowner stop — a South African safari tradition where guests enjoy a drink while watching the sunset. Think a G&T with elephants in the distance. After dark, spotlights are used to search for nocturnal species such as bush babies, owls, and elusive leopards.

Note: Flexibility is key. If your guide hears of a special sighting — like a cheetah on the move or wild dogs on the hunt — they may adjust the schedule to get you there in time.

Expertly Guided Game Drives vs. Self-Drive Safaris

A major benefit of staying at a private luxury safari lodge is access to a dedicated guide and tracker team. These professionals are trained in animal behavior, tracking, safety protocols, and storytelling — adding depth, context, and insight to every sighting.

What makes a guided game drive different?

Guided Game Drive (Private Lodge)	Self-Drive Safari (Public Park)
Access to off-road driving for better sightings	Limited to designated roads only
Conducted in open 4x4 vehicles	Done in your own closed vehicle
Expert guidance from trained rangers	You rely solely on your own spotting skills
Small group sizes for a personal experience	Can be crowded during peak times
Night drives permitted	No access after sunset

In short: a luxury lodge safari isn't just about seeing the Big Five — it’s about learning the bush's language. You’ll follow animal tracks, identify bird calls, and understand the delicate balance of life in the wild.

Comfort, Safety & Style

Luxury game drives are not only about exceptional wildlife encounters — they’re also designed for your comfort and safety.

Expect:

• Warm blankets on chilly mornings

• Rain ponchos and hot water bottles in winter

• Refreshments during and after your drive

• Stringent safety protocols and professional handling of close wildlife encounters

Even if you find yourself just metres from a lion pride, you’ll be in safe hands — with highly trained guides who know how to manage every moment.

Why Choose a Luxury Safari Lodge?

When you stay at a luxury lodge in a private reserve, you're investing in more than just a place to sleep. You’re gaining access to intimate wildlife experiences, off-the-beaten-path locations, and expert teams that turn game drives into something unforgettable.

At Wandering Travel CO, we only recommend lodges we’ve personally vetted. We match you with guides who are as passionate about the small details as they are about the big moments — because a safari is more than ticking off animals. It’s about connection, education, and awe.

Ready to Experience a Game Drive for Yourself?

Let us help you plan your first (or next) safari in South Africa. Whether you're dreaming of big cat sightings, luxury suites, or meaningful encounters in the wild, we'll craft the perfect itinerary just for you. Email us at hello@wanderingtravelco.com — we’ll take care of the rest.