The Timbavati and Klaserie Private Nature Reserves are considered malaria areas. All travelers are advised to take precautions. There are various prophylactic drugs available. Please check with your physician regarding the prescription most appropriate for you. No other immunizations or health precautions are necessary. The water throughout the reserve is 100% safe, however, if desired we happily provide bottled water for drinking. At Wilderness Encounters, safety is our top priority. We give a detailed safety briefing before our first game drive or walk. We will never knowingly put our guests or ourselves at increased risk for the sake of an animal sighting. In the unlikely event of a life-threatening situation, your armed guide is highly trained in the handling of dangerous game.
At Wilderness Encounters, because the only guests in camp are your known travel companions, attire is generally very casual and comfortable. When you book your Wilderness Encounters safari we work with you through private e-mails regarding the specific attire best suited for your safari. All visitors are encouraged to bring any necessary prescription drugs, sun block, sun glasses, a hat, a good flashlight with extra batteries, binoculars and the best camera with the strongest lens possible. It's also advised to bring sturdy walking shoes and a notebook to document the details of your adventure.
Seasonal Considerations :
We believe there is no bad time of year for a safari. However, each season has characteristics to be considered. Here are some general guidelines, although specifics related to the timing of your safari can be addressed through personal e-mail.
Winter - Mid-May through August : Although the bush's colors are not as vibrant, the foliage is the least dense of any time of year, making the spotting of game easier than in summer. There are very few insects, snakes or reptiles. It is rare to contract malaria in the winter. Daily temperatures typically range from about 40 F - 80 F with little, if any rain. Heavy coats, hats and gloves are required for game drives. Conditions are generally not suitable for swimming.
Spring: September - The bush is very dry, the foliage is sparse and the game is easier to find than in summer. Temperatures can be unpredictable, fluctuating dramatically between about 50-F and 90-F. Insect and reptile life remains very still and the chances of contracting malaria are slimmer than in summer. Winter weather clothing is still advisable although shorts are usually worn in the afternoons.
Summer: Oct.- March - Rains generally start falling in November or December, sparking a flush of vibrant green throughout the bush. As the foliage starts to thicken the game spotting is often a bit more difficult, albeit nowhere near impossible. Summer is peek calving season for many animal species. Great learning opportunities are available as a range of interesting insect and reptile species as well as migratory birds can be studied. Temperatures generally range between about 60-F and 105-F. The pool is key for downtime pleasures!
Fall: April - mid-May - Rains have generally ceased but the bush is still quite dense and green. Afternoons are in the pleasant 70's and 80's. Night times are also mild, in the 50's. Though still present, insect and reptile numbers are beginning to diminish with the coming of winter. Migratory birds have taken flight.