Embarking on a safari in the African wilderness is an adventure like no other. Knowing a few local safari terms can really enrich your experience. Here’s a rundown of some of the top safari lingo you’re likely to hear from locals and guides, along with a bit of background on each one:
Big Five - These are the five rockstars of the safari world: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros. Originally, this term was coined by hunters as the most challenging animals to hunt, but now it’s all about spotting these majestic creatures in the wild.
Binos: Often abbreviated to ‘binos’- binoculars are a safari essential. Although animals can get close to the game vehicles, a high-quality pair of binoculars are a necessary tool for great wildlife viewing – especially for birdwatching.
Bushveld: Used interchangeably with ‘bush’, bushveld also refers to any savanna or grassland inhabited by big game.
Sundowner - Picture this: a cold drink in your hand as you watch the sun dip below the horizon. This delightful tradition of enjoying a sunset drink hails from British colonial times and is now a must-do on any safari.
Boma - This is your cozy evening hangout, often around a fire. The term comes from Swahili and other African languages and originally referred to livestock enclosures, but now it’s all about social gatherings under the stars.
Bushwhacking - Sometimes, the best paths are the ones you make yourself. Bushwhacking means driving through thick vegetation without a clear trail, adding a dash of adventure to your journey.
Dorp: Commonly used in South Africa, dorp refers to a small rural town or village.
Game Drive - Hop in a safari vehicle and set off in search of wildlife. “Game” refers to wild animals, a term from the hunting days, but now it’s all about observing these animals in their natural habitat.
Mokoro - Glide through the serene waters of the Okavango Delta in Botswana in a traditional canoe. This peaceful mode of transport is perfect for navigating the shallow waterways.
Spoor - Keep your eyes peeled for spoor, or animal tracks and signs. This term, from Afrikaans, is essential for trackers who use these clues to find wildlife.
Braai - Think of it as a barbecue with an African twist. A braai is a popular way to cook meals in the bush, bringing everyone together for a delicious feast.
Fly Camp - For the ultimate in bush experiences, a fly camp is a temporary setup for overnight stays deep in the wilderness. It’s basic but incredibly atmospheric, with tents and a campfire under the stars.
oppie: A Dutch word that translates to ‘little head’ and is often used to refer to small hills or rocky islands jutting out of the plains. This safari word is mostly heard when in the Serengeti.
Lappet - Named after the Lappet-faced Vulture, a bird you’ll likely see soaring in the savannah. The name comes from the distinctive folds of skin (lappets) on its face.
Midden: This is the name given to an animal dung heap or area of communal defecation. White rhinos, in particular, are known to make use of middens – which can be over three metres wide.
Jumbo - A playful term for an elephant. While some think it’s from the Swahili word "jambo" (hello), it’s more likely named after a famous elephant called Jumbo, whose name became synonymous with anything large.
Rondavel: A traditional African hut that is circular in shape with a conical thatched roof.
Rutting Season: During the Great Wildebeest Migration, April to June is referred to as rutting (breeding) season, and is one of nature’s most amazing displays. This is when males fight for dominance in a noisy and violent affair for patches of prime grazing, and half a million wildebeest mate.
The biggest misconception about an African safari is that it's all about luxury and relaxation. While there are certainly luxurious lodges and relaxing moments, a safari is primarily an adventure, often involving early mornings, bumpy rides, and the unpredictability of wildlife encounters. It's an immersive experience in nature that goes beyond comfort to offer a raw and authentic glimpse into the wild. |
Tick Bird - Also known as the Oxpecker, this bird rides on buffalo or rhinos, munching on ticks and parasites. It’s a perfect example of nature’s symbiosis.
Ranger or Field Guide - These pros lead your safari, armed with deep knowledge of wildlife and survival skills. Whether from a military or park ranger background, they’re your go-to for all things safari.
White Rhino - This term distinguishes the larger species of rhino from the Black Rhino. The name comes from a misunderstanding of the Afrikaans word "wyd" (wide), referring to its mouth, which English speakers heard as "white."
Khaki Fever - A cheeky term for the crushes some tourists develop on their rugged, khaki-clad safari guides. It’s all part of the safari charm!
Veldskoen: Often referred to as ‘vellies’ for short, veldskoen shoes originated in South Africa and are a leather field shoe that is typically worn on safari. However, the shoe has grown in popularity over the years, and is now worn as a fashion statement on the streets of trendy cities, like Cape Town, as well as to explore the bush.
These terms are just a taste of the rich vocabulary you’ll encounter on your safari, each adding its own bit of magic to the experience of Africa’s wild beauty.
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