When you imagine your dream safari, you probably picture yourself and your partner in an open jeep, surrounded by nothing but the sights and sounds of the African bush. No crowds, no distractions—just you, the wildlife and the magic of the wilderness.
But the reality can sometimes feel very different.
In some game parks, you could find yourself in a scrum of safari vehicles, and private cars all jostling for the best position to catch a glimpse of a lion or a herd of elephants.
Not only does this detract from the intimacy of the experience, but it can also stress the animals, disrupting their natural behaviour.
Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be this way.
If you’re longing for a safari that offers true solitude, exclusive game drives and the chance to connect with nature without the distractions of other tourists, you still have options.
Here are my recommendations for places where you can escape the crowds and experience a true wilderness safari.
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Selinda Reserve, Botswana
Located in northern Botswana, the Selinda Reserve is one of the most exclusive safari destinations in Africa.
Nestled between the Okavango Delta and the Chobe National Park, this private game reserve is known for its pristine wilderness and minimal human footprint.
What makes Selinda particularly appealing for those seeking a quiet safari is its low visitor numbers and limited access. With only a handful of guests permitted at any given time, you can expect to see far more wildlife than you do people.
The Selinda Reserve is home to an abundant range of species, including elephants, lions, leopards, and endangered wild dogs.
Due to its private status, vehicle access is carefully managed, and you’ll rarely encounter another safari vehicle.
Guests can enjoy exclusive game drives with expert guides, often spending hours tracking animals without any interruption.
My recommended lodge: Selinda Camp
For a true luxury experience, Selinda Camp offers a perfect blend of comfort and privacy.
Located on the edge of the Selinda Spillway, the camp is designed to merge seamlessly with the environment, offering stunning views of the river and the wildlife that frequent the area.
With only nine luxurious tented suites, Selinda Camp provides a truly intimate experience. The camp also offers activities like walking safaris and boating, allowing guests to experience the reserve in a variety of ways, all while ensuring a private and peaceful stay.
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South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
South Luangwa is one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, famous for its walking safaris and its remote, rugged landscapes.
What sets South Luangwa apart from other safari destinations is its relative isolation compared to more popular parks like the Maasai Mara or Kruger.
This national park remains far less commercialised, and while it offers spectacular wildlife encounters—including large populations of leopards and elephants—it is much quieter in terms of tourist traffic.
When I spent a week in this park we often went the whole day without seeing another vehicle. This is because there is a limited number of high-quality lodges in the park
My recommended lodge: Chinzombo Camp.
Located on the banks of the Luangwa River, Chizombo offers one of the most luxurious ways to explore this wild and pristine corner of Zambia.
With just six villas, each with a private plunge pool, and spacious decks overlooking the river from the moment you arrive you will be wowed.
The camp offers ultimate privacy and exceptional service. Expert guides lead private game drives and walking safaris, ensuring that every guest has the chance to explore the park without the presence of other vehicles.
The camp’s location and design are perfect for those seeking peace, luxury and a deep connection with nature.
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The Serengeti National Park, Tanzania for the Great Migration
You may have heard the horror stories about the dozens of safari vehicles crowding together for a chance to get as close as possible to the Great Migration.
However, the surrounding conservancies offer a much quieter and more intimate safari experience.
My recommended lodge: Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Singita offers an extraordinary option. Situated in the remote northern region of the Serengeti, this luxury tented camp is perfectly positioned along the Mara River, providing front-row access to one of nature’s most dramatic events—the annual wildebeest migration.
Unlike the more crowded areas of the Serengeti, Singita Mara is set in a private concession, ensuring a serene and intimate safari experience.
Here, you can witness the spectacle of the migration, including the intense river crossings, with minimal disruption from other tourists.
The area is known for its abundant wildlife, including big cats, and the lodge’s expert guides tailor each experience to offer the best sightings, whether you’re on a game drive, walking safari, or enjoying the view from your private deck.
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Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, South Africa
For those seeking complete isolation and a truly private safari, Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is a standout destination.
Located in the heart of South Africa’s Kalahari Desert, Tswalu is one of the country’s most exclusive game reserves, offering vast, untouched wilderness and unparalleled privacy.
The reserve spans over 100,000 hectares, which means it’s possible to spend days exploring its diverse landscape without coming across another vehicle.
Tswalu is known for its successful conservation efforts, particularly around the protection of endangered species such as the black rhino and wild dog.
The silence and vastness of the Kalahari make it an ideal destination if you are seeking solitude and with the bonus of being malaria-free.
My recommended lodge: Tswalu Motse Lodge
Tswalu Motse Lodge offers an extraordinary level of luxury amidst the quiet beauty of the Kalahari Desert.
The lodge features just nine private suites, each with stunning views over the sweeping plains and a private plunge pool for ultimate relaxation.
Game drives are conducted in custom-built, open-top vehicles with no other guests in sight.
The lodge also offers unique activities such as horseback safaris and guided walks, allowing guests to explore the desert from multiple perspectives. With a focus on sustainability and exclusivity, Tswalu offers a true wilderness experience.
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Namibian Desert, Namibia
Namibia’s deserts are known for their dramatic landscapes and utter lack of crowds. For those seeking peace and solitude, a safari through the Namib Desert is the perfect choice.
Unlike traditional safaris focused on the “Big Five,” desert safaris offer the chance to experience unique species such as desert-adapted elephants, oryx and the strikingly beautiful desert lions.
Namibia’s lack of infrastructure in these remote areas ensures that crowds are sparse, making it one of the best destinations for those looking to escape the typical safari tourism circuit.
My recommended lodge: &Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge
For a serene and luxurious desert escape, &Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge offers an experience like no other.
Situated in the heart of the Namib Desert, this lodge features luxury suites with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the vast desert landscape.
The lodge is an eco-friendly retreat, offering a range of activities including scenic drives through the dunes, nature walks and stargazing in one of the darkest skies in the world.
With its remote location and only a small number of guests, you’ll rarely encounter other visitors, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serenity of the desert.
Why Book Your Wilderness Safari with Me?
Expert Guidance for a Stress-Free Experience
Planning a safari can be overwhelming, but I’ll take care of every detail so all you have to do is look forward to your adventure.
From handpicking the perfect lodges to ensuring seamless logistics, I’ll make sure your safari is not only unforgettable but also completely stress-free.
Unbiased, Tailored Recommendations
Unlike operators tied to specific lodges, I’m free to recommend the best options from a wide range of exclusive lodges and camps across Africa.
This ensures your safari is perfectly tailored to your requirements, whether you’re looking for complete seclusion, conservation-focused lodges or an ultra-luxury retreat.
A Commitment to Conservation and Ethical Safaris
As someone passionate about wildlife and conservation, I carefully select lodges and operators that prioritise the wellbeing of the animals and the environment.
I guarantee that your safari won’t contribute to overcrowding or the stress of the wildlife you’re there to see.
Personalised Service at Every Step
When you book with me, I’ll be your point of contact from start to finish—no call centres or junior agents.
I’ll work closely with you to craft a safari experience that exceeds your expectations and becomes one of your most treasured memories.
Your Holiday is in Safe Hands
Your safari will be booked with ATOL-bonded tour suppliers, providing financial protection for your holiday.
As part of the prestigious Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO), Berry Travel also adheres to the highest standards in the industry, offering you the peace of mind that your trip is in the safest of hands.
Let’s Create Your Dream Safari Together
To make things easy, I offer a free, no-obligation 30-minute consultation.
We’ll have a chat about what you love, what your dream safari looks like, and any must-haves for your trip. After that, I can put together a few tailored options for you to consider.
There’s no pressure to book, but you’ll walk away with expert advice and a clearer picture of how to make your dream safari a reality.
If that sounds good, give me a call on 01372 677999 or email me at [email protected], and let’s start planning your wilderness safari today.
Not Read My Guide Yet?
If you haven’t downloaded my free guide, How to Find Your Perfect Safari, it’s a must-read. In just 10 minutes, you’ll gain a clear understanding of the Big 5 safari destinations—South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Kenya, and Botswana.
Discover the best times to visit, insider tips to avoid common mistakes, and how to pair your safari with a stunning beach escape.
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