Speak to a Africa expert today
and start planning your tailor-made vacation
Alistair
Africa Expert
CONTINUE READING...
Ruth
Africa, Indian Ocean, and Caribbean Specialist
Published on
19 Aug 2024
Updated on
24 Apr 2025
Share
Far & Wild Artwork by local Cumbrian artist Sophie Botsford
Introduction
Safari vehicles vary from camp to camp, and country to country. In this guide we want to show you an example so you know what to expect. On the whole there are 2 main types of vehicle.
- Open vehicles tend to be used in Southern Africa (Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zambia).
Electric safari vehicles are an emerging trend in eco-friendly wildlife tourism. These vehicles offer a sustainable alternative to traditional gas-powered safari trucks, allowing visitors to observe wildlife with minimal environmental impact.
Specific aspects of safari trucks and their luxury features
A well-equipped safari truck combines rugged functionality with luxurious comfort to enhance the wildlife viewing experience. These vehicles typically feature an elevated, open-air seating area with padded bucket seats and individual armrests, allowing passengers unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. High-end models may include leather upholstery, adjustable headrests, and even heated seats for chilly morning drives.
The truck is often outfitted with a mini-fridge stocked with refreshments, as well as charging ports for cameras and devices. Some luxury safari vehicles boast a retractable canvas roof for shade, powerful spotlights for night drives, and state-of-the-art suspension systems to smooth out rough terrain. Binoculars, field guides, and sometimes even Wi-Fi hotspots are provided for guests' convenience and enrichment.
'Closed' Vehicles
Most Safari vehicles are Land Rover Defenders and Toyota Land Cruisers, seating up to seven guests plus your driver. They are designed to maximise wildlife viewing in the National Parks as well as comfort on the roads in-between the parks. The below seven seat vehicles have special features including window seats for all passengers, as well as a pop-up roof so that you can stand up and get an amazing unobstructed view of the animals. These provide more comfort and security, with air conditioning and protection from dust and weather. They're suitable for all-weather conditions.
'Open' Vehicles
Where long journeys by road aren't required for your safari, most of southern Africa, open sided vehicles tend to be used. These 4x4's are normally Land Cruisers, or Land Rovers. Open sided vehicles have their advantages. They provide an unobstructed view of the surroundings, allowing passengers to feel more connected to nature. They're ideal for photography and offer a thrilling, immersive experience. If shade is needed most vehicles will have sunshades.
Electric Safari Vehicles
As battery technology improves, these vehicles are becoming increasingly practical for longer safari tours.
Solar-powered safari vehicles utilise photovoltaic panels installed on the roof or other suitable surfaces to harness the abundant African sun. This renewable energy source can be used to charge the vehicle's batteries, power onboard equipment like refrigerators or charging stations for guests' devices, and even contribute to the energy needs of safari camps. The integration of solar power not only reduces the carbon footprint of safaris but also increases the vehicles' range and self-sufficiency, particularly valuable in remote areas.
While still in the early stages of adoption, solar-powered safari vehicles represent an exciting frontier in sustainable tourism. They offer the potential for truly off-grid, zero-emission wildlife viewing experiences, aligning perfectly with the conservation ethos that underpins responsible safari tourism.
Many wildlife reserves and national parks are now incorporating electric vehicles into their fleets, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable tourism.
Electric safari vehicles offer several advantages:
- Silent operation, reducing disturbance to animals.
- Zero emissions, helping preserve the natural environment.
- Lower operating costs due to reduced fuel and maintenance needs.
- Enhanced visitor experience with quieter rides.
Which is the best type of vehicle to opt for
Safari vehicles are an essential part of the wildlife viewing experience, bridging the gap between human visitors and the natural world. Whether closed or open, traditional or electric, these vehicles are designed to navigate challenging terrains while prioritising passenger safety and optimal wildlife observation.
The choice between closed and open vehicles often depends on the region, climate, and specific needs of the safari. Closed vehicles offer protection and comfort, making them ideal for longer journeys and variable weather conditions. Open vehicles provide an immersive experience and are excellent for photography, best suited for areas with milder climates and shorter drives.
Equally important as the vehicles themselves are the experienced safari guide drivers who operate them. These skilled professionals are much more than just drivers – they are knowledgeable naturalists, expert navigators, and passionate storytellers. With years of experience in the field, they possess an intimate understanding of animal behaviour, local ecosystems, and the best spots for wildlife viewing. Their expertise not only ensures guest safety but also dramatically enhances the safari experience by providing insightful commentary, identifying species, and positioning the vehicle for optimal viewing and photography opportunities.
The emerging trend of electric safari vehicles represents a significant step towards sustainable tourism. These eco-friendly alternatives maintain the functionality of traditional vehicles while reducing environmental impact through silent operation and zero emissions. Experienced guides are adapting to these new technologies, leveraging the quieter operation to get even closer to wildlife without causing disturbance.
Ultimately, regardless of the type of vehicle used, the goal remains the same: to provide visitors with unforgettable encounters with wildlife while preserving the delicate ecosystems of the world's most precious natural areas. As technology advances and environmental concerns grow, we can expect safari vehicles to continue evolving, always striving to balance the thrill of adventure with responsible conservation practices. Throughout this evolution, the role of the experienced safari guide driver will remain crucial, continuing to bridge the gap between visitors and the wild, natural world they've come to explore.
Whatever sort of vehicle you're in you'll have an amazing safari, for more inspiration, check out our 26 best safari ideas or call our team on 01768 603 715 and they'd be happy to help.
If you're planning you're researching your first safari, you might also want to take a look at our guide on 'where to go on my first safari' or big five safaris.
