Safari Lingo You Should Know Before Your African Adventure.
Heading to Africa on safari? You’ll hear plenty of unique terms—from “braai” to “mokoro” to “Big Five.” Understanding the language of the bush gives you context and confidence. We’ve put together this safari glossary of essential words and phrases so you can follow conversations at your lodge, ask the right questions on game drives and feel right at home in the wild.
General Safari Words
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Boma: An outdoor dining space, often near a fire, where meals are shared under the stars.
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Braai: The South African term for an open-fire barbecue, popular in safari lodges post-game drive.
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Bush breakfast: A pre-dawn meal served in the open wilderness; coffee, bush sounds and the rising sun included.
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Charter flight: A small-plane flight scheduled for your group that takes you between remote safari camps.
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Safari vehicle: A specially adapted 4×4 designed for safety and wildlife viewing; your eyes on game drives.
Wildlife & Safari Terms
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Big Five: Lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—the most sought-after animals on safari.
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Little Five: The ant-lion, leopard tortoise, elephant shrew, rhino beetle and buffalo weaver—a fun “mini” challenge for wildlife lovers.
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Crepuscular: Animals active at dawn and dusk (lions, bats); perfect times for photo opportunities.
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Nocturnal: Wildlife that thrives at night; night drives give you a chance to spot them.
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Private concession: Land leased for exclusive use by a lodge — fewer guests, more freedom, greater luxury.
Culture & Local Terms
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Karibu: “Welcome” in Swahili—your guide will likely say this on arrival in East Africa.
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Lekker: South African slang meaning “great” or “awesome”—you’ll hear this in camp.
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Ugali/pap: Classic maize-based porridge eaten in East and Southern Africa—simple food, hearty polo.
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Ubuntu: Meaning “I am because we are”—a concept you’ll feel when staff, community and wildlife unite in safari experiences.
Holiday & Camp Styles
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Luxury lodge: Fully serviced accommodation with all the trimmings—chef, pool, spa, panoramic views.
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Tented camp: Canvas tents with creature comforts—luxury meets adventure.
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Mobile camp: A high-end tented camp that moves with the game (migration or seasonal changes) to track wildlife.
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Walking safari: No vehicles—just you, your guide and the bush. Close-up, low-footprint safari that connects you deeply with the land.
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Disclaimer
This glossary is provided for general travel education. Local usage may vary. Always verify terminology and services when planning your trip with your operator or lodge.
