The society that we live in today is one heavily controlled by technology and digital devices. While technological advances definitely have their advantages and our easy reach to the outside world can make us feel more connected, there are a few downsides as well. Being constantly connected to non-stop information and social media updates can dangerously lead to feeling overstimulated, envious, lonely, and unable to live in the moment. Our brain and our mental state need a break once in a while, and we all need time to unplug and connect with ourselves, and just as importantly, connect with our natural surroundings. One of the best ways to achieve that is to immerse oneself in the wild, face to face with nature, wildlife, and nothing else. A luxurious African safari is the perfect solution to disconnecting from the digital world, and below are the reasons why.
1. An African safari offers world-class wildlife sightings
Countries in Africa such as Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, are known for their abundance of wildlife in their natural habitat, including the Big 5 (elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos), and many others. Being surrounded by all kinds of fauna and flora, and being immersed in the African bush really helps you to disconnect from technology and makes you feel closer to nature, giving you the opportunity to see the world as bigger than yourself.
2. There is a range of safari types to choose from
If driving around in National Parks in an open 4×4 safari vehicle is not your thing, go on an aquatic safari trip on a traditional canoe in the Okavango Delta in Botswana or glide along the Zambezi River in Zambia. The tranquil ride will leave you feeling peaceful and relaxed, while offering opportunities to spot hippos wallowing in the water, or crocodiles catching some sun rays. The boat cruises are even better at sunrise where you get to see the world come alive, or at sunset where you get to witness the changing colours of the skies as nocturnal animals start to surface. It is one of the best experiences of the African wild, and a great way to connect with nature.
3. Safari accommodation
The accommodation of your safari lodge itself can be an excellent way to unplug and disconnect with the outside world. While most lodges and tents offer electricity and wifi service, there are many that emphasize a true authentic African experience in the bush, giving you the chance to put your digital life aside and enjoy the present. Rest assured that you will not be bored at your accommodation without wifi or electricity – many are situated right along a riverbed or overlook a waterhole, where you can observe animals gathering for a drink from the common lounge, your private terrace, or the pool. Some camps and lodges even offer cooking classes and cultural trips to local villages.
4. Cultural exploration
On an African safari, be it with the Masai Mara in Kenya and Tanzania, the San people of Botswana, or the Ju/’hoan people of Namibia, there are plenty of opportunities to meet and engage with local tribes, gaining insight into the life of hunter-gatherers and bushmen. These interactions help both the local communities and the visitors. They also offer a different perspective and broaden cultural knowledge, with the opportunity to practice tolerance, respect, and gratitude, not to mention a good way to connect with different people in real life, away from smartphones and the internet.
5. Wild nature, scenery, and conservation
The beautiful scenery of the African bush, the wild and untamed natural landscape, even without wildlife sightings, is enough to make one want to unplug and be in the moment. Whether it’s touring the Victoria Falls and listening to the thundering water, or exploring the wild with an experienced guide, tracking endangered rhinos on foot, or watching the sunset from your plunge pool at the lodge, a few days in the wild will leave you feeling rejuvenated and connected with nature. It’s also a good opportunity to learn about endangered species and conservation efforts, and making us realise that there is an important world existing outside of our social media lives.
