Wilder by Far and wild logo

What To Expect From Your Safari Vehicle

A useful guide to safari vehicles. Whats the difference, and where are they used?

Alistair

Alistair

Africa Specialist
Published on

04 May 2018

Updated on

17 Nov 2020

Kearsley Safari Vehicle

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. 'Closed' vehicles, which are mainly used in Eastern Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda). 'Open' vehicles tend to be used in Southern Africa (Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zambia).

'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.

Kearsleys Tanzania Safari
Migration viewing
Kearsley Vehicle
Fleet of safari vehicles
Kearsley Vehicle
Elephant viewing
Vehicle Plan
Example internal seating plan

'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. It's much easier to capture photos and the experience seems much closer. If shade is needed most vehicles will have sunshades.

Inyati Safari Open Vechicle
Lion viewing on a Inyati Safari Vechicle
Open Safari Vechicle
Example of an open safari vechicle
Open Vehicle Safari with Lion
Lion on Safari

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.

Start Planning Your Dream Safari

Speak To Our Experts Today

  • Richard

    Richard

    African Specalist

  • Ali

    Ali

    Africa Specialist

Call an expert on

01768 603 715

Far & Wild Customer Reviews

Find out what our customers think of their adventures!

Read all reviews

100% value for money

Adam travelled to Kenya in January 2024 on a trip organised by Ruth.

It was SO NICE to have someone else do it for me.

Cathy travelled to Tanzania and Zanzibar in December 2023 on a trip organised by Alistair.

I've already recommended Far and Wild to a couple of friends

Paula travelled to South Africa in December 2023 on a trip organised by Alistair.

Adventure of a Lifetime in Kenya

Maria travelled to Masai Mara Safari in October 2023 on a trip organised by Ben.

A dream to visit Mum's birth place!

Christine travelled to St Helena Holidays and South Africa in December 2023 on a trip organised by .

I didn't realise my high expectations could be so easily exceeded

Hannah and Elaine travelled to Kenya in November 2023 on a trip organised by .

Plan with an expert Plan with an expert

Have a look at our original holiday experiences and then contact us with your brief, or call 01768 603 715

A tailor-made itinerary just for you A tailor-made itinerary just for you

Our experts will send you a detailed holiday itinerary specified to your desires. It's our service promise to you.

Value guarantee Value guarantee

Tailor-made doesn't mean expensive! Ask about our price promise and book with financial security.