There’s something special about going on safari that other trips simply can’t match. You’re in the heart of the wild, riding in a vehicle built specifically for safaris.
Safari vehicle types used by Zara Tanzania Adventures are tough, open-sided 4x4s designed to navigate rough terrain and let you see everything up close and in clear detail, so you can watch elephants, giraffes, and lions go about their daily business with nothing between you and the action.
Our trained safari guide drives and explains what you’re seeing and will also lay out safety protocols during close wildlife encounters, making you feel safe and cared for at all times.
We will take you through what to expect in your safari vehicle so you can head into Africa’s wide-open spaces with genuine excitement and complete confidence.
What Are Safari Vehicles?
Safari vehicles are specialised vehicles used for safari adventures. They are special cars or trucks designed to drive on rough terrain and unpaved roads, allowing their passengers to see wildlife.
Most safari tours use open-sided 4×4 safari vehicles that seat four or seven people at a time. A roof would obstruct your view, so an open roof lets you see everything clearly and inspires excitement for wildlife photography.
During the rainy season, some private lodges use fully enclosed safari vehicles that are rolled out for safaris, offering a wonderful view with somewhat more shelter.
Tanzania safari vehicles are often well-equipped with features to enhance comfort, such as swivelling seats that allow passengers to follow the action comfortably and enjoy the experience fully.
Their interiors are usually well cushioned and provide extra space for storing camera equipment.
Who Is A Safari Guide?
A safari guide is your leader. They are your driver, storyteller, safety guide, and animal spotter all rolled into one. He knows the lay of the land, what animals live in it, and how to keep you safe.
Your safari guide will always carry binoculars for spotting wildlife at a distance, maps to help you find your way through the bush, and a fully stocked first-aid kit, just in case during the safari.
A safari guide’s job is to make you feel pampered, even when you’re out in the middle of nowhere.
Why Is A Good Safari Vehicle Important?
A good safari vehicle is essential for any wildlife adventure, as it provides the necessary safety, comfort, and access to rugged terrain, especially when the tour operator has a strong reputation and well-established standards.
In areas where animals roam free, such as the Serengeti, a reliable safari vehicle will reduce the risk of getting stuck or delayed, so you don’t miss out on wildlife while you’re preoccupied with logistics.
A safari can be a long adventure, involving hours on rough, bumpy trails, so a well-equipped safari car will have compartments for storing refreshments and snacks.
All passengers must remain seated and inside to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience.
What Should You Look For In A Safari Vehicle?
There are many factors to consider when choosing a safari car, ranging from safety and comfort to 4×4 features that help you get the best wildlife views.
That is why, at Zara Tanzania Adventures, we ensure that our vehicles are fully equipped to make your trip enjoyable, comfortable, and safe. To help you know what to look for, we have compiled a list of the most essential features for you to consider.
Open Roof or Pop-Up Top for Safe Viewing
An open roof or pop-up top is one of the most essential features to look for in a safari vehicle, as it is necessary.
It offers passengers a safe, unobstructed 360-degree view of the surrounding terrain and wildlife, and photographers will love this feature, as it allows them to photograph the animals from different angles without obstruction.
Pop-up roofs also make it easier and safer to stand inside and observe tall animals, like giraffes and elephants, making the safari more immersive, bringing guests closer to nature, and getting a more natural connection to their surroundings for better sightings.
4x4 Capability
A 4×4 vehicle is a must for any safari adventure, as it allows you to navigate off-road and rugged terrain.
Standard cars cannot get through sandy tracks, rocky terrain, steep inclines, and the occasional river crossings or flood areas you often find in national parks and game reserves.
A safari vehicle’s 4×4 off-road capability ensures a smooth, uninterrupted safari with a lower risk of getting stuck or delayed in the middle of nowhere.
They offer greater traction, stability, and control, allowing drivers to navigate uneven, rugged terrain more safely.
Some national parks, like Serengeti or Selous Game Reserve, have areas that are inaccessible unless you’re in a 4×4 vehicle. So, not having a 4×4 limits your opportunities to spot key wildlife, explore further afield, or visit more remote locations.
Safety
Safety is a top priority on any safari, and well-equipped safari vehicles with seat belts, reinforced side protection, and reliable brakes will make travellers feel safe and secure, allowing them to enjoy their experiences without anxiety or worry.
Seatbelts are particularly important, especially on the bumpy, sometimes steep trails, and reinforced side protection can help provide a barrier against branches or accidental bumps from wild animals.
Reliable brakes and sound suspension systems are also important for maintaining control on rough, steep, or uneven terrain.
A safari vehicle keeps passengers enclosed when necessary, which can help reduce the risk during close encounters with large animals such as elephants, buffalo, and rhinos.
Combine these safety features with an experienced guide’s knowledge, and travellers can enjoy their adventures without risking their safety and well-being.
Comfort
Comfort is for every safari adventure, and it is a vital feature of any safari vehicle, as game drives can often be long, lasting several hours over rough terrain.
Safari vehicles equipped with well-designed suspensions and good legroom will help travellers feel more relaxed and at ease, making their safari experience more enjoyable and less tiring.
Some safari vehicles will also feature additional storage for refreshments, shaded areas for sun protection, and foldable benches for seating larger groups.
A comfortable vehicle helps passengers focus on wildlife watching and photography, rather than on their physical discomfort, making their safari experience less tiring and more fun.
You can further enhance your comfort by bringing along sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket. Our safari packing list covers everything you should bring for a smooth, comfortable trip.
Safari Vehicles At Zara Tanzania Adventures
We love our safari vehicles at Zara Tanzania Adventures because our tourists do too. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities, but we also want your safari experience to be as memorable as possible, so we offer pop-top and open-roof safari vehicles for optimal viewing. All safari guides at Zara Tanzania adventures are locally trained, licensed, and experienced in wildlife behaviour, safety protocols, and guest care.
With 40 years of road experience behind the wheel, our safari guide will ensure you have a confident and expertly guided transfer every time.
Our vehicles are well-maintained and equipped with seat belts, reinforced side panels, and reliable brakes, ensuring every aspect of your safari experience is curated for your safety and comfort.
Ready For Your Safari Adventure?
Safari adventures all come down to wildlife watching, and the right vehicle makes it easier and more comfortable to spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and much more, all up close.
Not only is the vehicle important, but the way you travel also impacts your experience. Planning your trip during the best time to visit Tanzania for safari gives you clearer roads, better wildlife viewing, and a more comfortable experience.
If you are considering a safari tour in Africa, we are delighted to plan your trip and lead you on Tanzania safari tours, including the Serengeti safari, so that you can see the beautiful animals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Safari Vehicles & Guides.
1. Why Do Lions Not Attack Safari Vehicles?
Lions will not attack a safari vehicle because they do not perceive it as prey; instead, they view it as a large, immovable object.
During safaris, they are used to seeing vehicles come through their territory, which often makes them less likely to attack or view the people inside as food.
2. Can I Request Specific Vehicles For Our Safari?
Yes, you can request specific vehicles for your safari, but availability may vary based on the current bookings.
3. What If Our Group Does Not Fit In One Safari Car?
If the number of pax exceeds 6-7. We will provide you with vehicles to accommodate all passengers. You will also be in a convoy, with the cars moving together from the beginning to the end of your safari.
4. What Happens If The Vehicle Encounters A Problem?
Zara Tanzania Adventures will always have contingency plans in place for repairs or a replacement if the vehicle encounters a problem during your safari.
