A New Dawn
National Geographic Traveller (UK)|July/August 2022
A new era of travel is dawning across Africa. A truly special safari deepens our connection with the natural world, and the newest trips offer wildlife-watchers far more than just a twice-daily drive in a diesel truck. From cutting-edge lodges and innovative electric vehicles to hands-on conservation experiences and off-grid adventures in biodiverse landscapes, there's a raft of options for exhilarating, eco-minded trips that plug you into local culture
By Emma Gregg
A New Dawn

THE SILENT SAFARI

AN ELECTRIC EXPERIENCE IN KENYA

Clean, green, and serene: e-vehicles are changing how we explore the bush, transforming safari into the truly tranquil experience

We're gliding across a meadow of sun-ripened grass in the smoothest safari vehicle I've ever experienced. Suddenly, there's a thundering of hooves to our right. A 30-strong herd of buffalo is heading straight for us.

Uncertainty chokes me. Buffalo can be dangerous, but it's usually grumpy lone bulls that cause problems. What's provoked them? Could it be our electric vehicle? The elephants here in Kenya's Lewa Wildlife Conservancy took a while to get used to it when it first arrived less than three years ago. Is it emitting some kind of high frequency note that only buffalo can hear?

Gorgeous but pricey, electric safari vehicles (ESVS) remain rare in Africa's safari heartlands, with just a handful of operators trialling them. In Kenya, Botswana and Zambia, there are signs they'll catch on. But when I told a guide from South Africa that I was visiting Lewa's founding lodge, Lewa Wilderness, to sample an ESV firsthand, he scoffed. What if you get into trouble? he said. At the first sign an animal might charge my vehicle, I rev my engine to make a big, loud noise. What happens if you can't do that?

Perhaps I'm about to find out. The buffalo are getting close, the thunder rising to a roar. But, as it turns out, it's not our vehicle that's spooking them. A lion! says Frances Mayetu, my guide, gripping the steering wheel as the herd swerves past and the lioness comes into view - until now, she was invisible in the grass.

This story is from the July/August 2022 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK).

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the July/August 2022 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK).

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELLER (UK)View All
The craftspeople of Sarawak
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

The craftspeople of Sarawak

From ancient pottery to embroidery fit for Miss World, meet the producers championing traditional artisanal creations in Malaysia's island region.

time-read
5 mins  |
January/February 2024
ALTERNATIVE WINTER EXPERIENCES
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

ALTERNATIVE WINTER EXPERIENCES

From ice skating and cross-country skiing to snowy train rides and cosy cabins stays, there are many memorable ways to make the most of the European winter

time-read
6 mins  |
January/February 2024
GOLDEN YEARS
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

GOLDEN YEARS

Join the celebrations century of statehood as the island marks half a with fireworks and parades

time-read
1 min  |
January/February 2024
A TASTE OF The Philippines
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

A TASTE OF The Philippines

A TRIO OF BIG, BOLD FLAVOURS DOMINATES THIS ARCHIPELAGO NATION'S UNIQUE CUISINE

time-read
2 mins  |
January/February 2024
WHERE TO STAY Helsinki
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

WHERE TO STAY Helsinki

FINLAND'S CAPITAL HAS AN OFFBEAT SIDE THAT SHINES THROUGH IN ITS CREATIVE HOTEL SCENE

time-read
2 mins  |
January/February 2024
A YEAR OF ADVENTURE
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

A YEAR OF ADVENTURE

Make 2024 one to remember with these epic trips, putting fairytale castles, cultural exchange and slow travel front and centre

time-read
2 mins  |
January/February 2024
Bear Grylls
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

Bear Grylls

THE TV PRESENTER AND FORMER SAS OFFICER ON RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL, COMFORT ZONES AND EXPLORING THE WORLD ON HIS DOORSTEP

time-read
3 mins  |
January/February 2024
BOSTON
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

BOSTON

In the 19th century, Boston was nicknamed 'The Hub of the Solar System' such was its importance at the heart of the young American nation.

time-read
5 mins  |
January/February 2024
BALI
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

BALI

Known for its beaches, jungles and colourful temples, the Indonesian island of Bali is also home to a vibrant and hugely varied offering of local dishes, from grilled octopus with starfruit to rich Padang-style curry

time-read
5 mins  |
January/February 2024
MANCHESTER
National Geographic Traveller (UK)

MANCHESTER

A spirit of rebellious creativity infuses the northern city, with old factories turned into artists' studios and a unique sense of style on display throughout

time-read
7 mins  |
January/February 2024