wheelchair safari

  • Ximuwu Lodge

experiences

Private Game Viewing

signature wheelchair safaris

​Private & Personalised Game Viewing

Embark on the ultimate safari at Ximuwu, nestled in a private South African reserve. Experience personalized, fully accessible game viewing amid lush landscapes and diverse wildlife. Every guest enjoys comfort and style, with our commitment to accessibility ensuring a seamless adventure.

Immerse yourself in the wilderness at our luxurious lodge in the heart of Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, adjacent to Kruger National Park. Discover the thrill of meeting the African Big 5 in a setting that combines adventure with comfort. Join us at Ximuwu for an unforgettable safari experience.

private safari guide

Exclusive Unlimited Access

Discover the ultimate safari at Ximuwu. Enjoy exclusive access to our game-viewing vehicle with your personal guide and tracker. Tailor your adventure in the Klaserie Reserve, your gateway to the African Big 5, wild dogs, cheetahs, and more. Experience private game drives in the vast Kruger area for unforgettable wildlife encounters.

At Ximuwu Safari Lodge, luxury meets adventure in a private setting that ensures personalized service. Ideal for wildlife photographers and nature lovers, our bespoke safaris provide unparalleled encounters with Africa’s iconic species. Join us at Ximuwu for an inspiring safari experience.

game drives

At Your Pace

Enjoy personalized safaris with Ximuwu’s flexible game drives. Choose your ideal time, morning or evening, to tailor your adventure perfectly. Our accessible vehicles feature slide-out seats, catering to all guests and ensuring comfort for those with mobility needs.

Explore the Lowveld with our expert guides and trackers, immersing yourself in South Africa’s stunning landscapes. Ximuwu promises unforgettable, inclusive safari experiences for everyone. Experience the thrill of the African wilderness, with bespoke tours designed to meet your individual preferences and accessibility requirements.

Embark on a journey through the breathtaking scenery of Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, adjacent to the famous Kruger National Park. At Ximuwu, every safari is a unique adventure, crafted to provide an enriching and accessible experience for all guests. Join us to discover the beauty and diversity of the African bush in complete comfort.

night drives

Starlight Exploration

Watch the sunset dissolve into a starry wonder at Ximuwu. Experience the magic of the African night sky, perfect for stargazing, relaxation, or a romantic moment. Under the stars, every evening at Ximuwu transforms into an unforgettable adventure.

Discover the celestial beauty over Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, next to the renowned Kruger National Park. Indulge in the tranquility and romance of the starlit African wilderness at Ximuwu Safari Lodge. Ideal for stargazing aficionados or those seeking a serene escape, Ximuwu offers a pristine viewing experience that captivates and enchants.

Seize the opportunity to witness the majestic skies at Ximuwu, where every nightfall unveils a new spectacle of the cosmos. Embrace the charm of the African night sky and make each evening a memorable journey into the stars.

sound safaris

Unique Experience

Immerse yourself in the auditory wonders of the bush with Ximuwu’s unique sound safaris. Embrace nature’s symphony, experiencing the bush not just through sight but through amplified sounds with our high-quality equipment. This deepens your connection to the wilderness, offering a profound sensory experience.

Our sound safaris provide a sensory journey unlike any other, tuning you into the natural world and transforming your understanding of this vibrant ecosystem.

Explore African wildlife in a new dimension at Ximuwu Safari Lodge, nestled in the heart of Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, adjacent to the famous Kruger National Park. Discover the depths of the bush in an unforgettable auditory adventure.

UNVEIL THE NIGHT

NIGHT VISION

Discover the African wilderness after dark with Ximuwu’s Pulsar thermal vision goggles. Observe nocturnal wildlife like elephants, impalas, and zebras in their natural habitats. This immersive tool enhances your understanding of these majestic creatures by revealing behaviors unseen during daylight hours.

Experience the hidden nocturnal world anew. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, these goggles delve deep into the dynamics of the African grasslands and dam areas at night, transforming your safari experience.

Embrace this unique adventure at Ximuwu Safari Lodge, located in the heart of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve. Experience unparalleled wildlife viewing and gain a deeper appreciation for Africa’s nocturnal wonders.

memorable safaris

EXPERIENCE XIMUWU

photo safaris

Capture Incredible Memories

Set off on an unparalleled photographic safari at Ximuwu Safari Lodge, ideally next to the renowned Kruger National Park in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve. Perfectly tailored for photography enthusiasts and beginners, our safaris are meticulously crafted to capture the captivating African wilderness during the enchanting golden hours.

Discover Ximuwu’s two specialized underground photography hides. One is ideally positioned to harness the soft early morning light, while the other is versatile enough for day or nighttime photography. Nestled in the heart of the reserve, these secluded hides ensure privacy and optimal lighting conditions. They have camera stands, gimbals, and power outlets, providing everything you need for the perfect shot. Importantly, all facilities are fully accessible to every guest.

Indulge in the luxury of focused photography, where the majestic African landscape becomes your uninterrupted muse. At Ximuwu, seize the opportunity to make every moment and every photo uniquely yours.

WILDERNESS ADVENTURES

Photographic Hides

"Two wheelchair-accessible photo hides are available, allowing guests to safely and comfortably approach wildlife and capture stunning photographs up close.

"The luxurious spa at XIMUWU, fully wheelchair accessible, invites guests to indulge in a range of treatments including massages, facials, pedicures, and manicures, ensuring a delightful and inclusive pampering experience."

Under the stars

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This Wheelchair-Accessible Safari in South Africa Should Be the Future of Adventure Travel

By Sophie Morgan

The author Sophie Morgan at Ximuwu a lodge and wheelchair accessible safari in South Africa.

Defining disability has long been a contentious and polarizing endeavor. For some, the word carries a heavy burden; for others, it's a source of pride. Each person's relationship with the label is as complex, personal, and nuanced as their impairments themselves. There is no single definition, no one size fits all.

But in recent years, our community has agreed to move away from the medical model of defining disability and towards the social model . This new way of looking at the term considers disability as something created by society and the environments in which we live, not by our individual impairments. Disabled people face barriers that stop us from participating in society the same way as non-disabled people. So, instead of wanting to fix us and remove our disabilities, the social model instead stipulates that we fix the barriers themselves.

Ximuwu Luxury Klaserie Lodge South Africa

Ximuwu: Luxury Klaserie Lodge, South Africa

When Patrick Suverein became temporarily dependent on a wheelchair due to back complications in 2017, his world — namely, a 2000-hectare private game reserve in Klaserie National Park, South Africa — became inaccessible to him. He and his indomitable partner Elly then had to ask the very question so many wheelchair users before them had grappled with: “How do you do a safari in a wheelchair?”

A pragmatic problem solver, Patrick began to adapt the game reserve to meet his needs. It was initially for his own benefit, but soon it occurred to him and Elly that others with similar mobility impairments could benefit too. Ximuwu Lodge (pronounced Shi-mu-wu) was born: a five-star lodge and wheelchair accessible safari open to the ambulatory and non-ambulatory public. Like all things forged out of urgency, pressure, and necessity, it is a precious gem just waiting to be unearthed.

Sophie Morgan at Ximuwu Luxury Klaserie Lodge South Africa

Situated inside of the Greater Kruger National Park, Ximuwu is easily reached either by a short flight to Hoedspruit Airport or a six-hour drive from Johannesburg , a detail Elly explained they had considered closely. Many safaris sell themselves on remoteness, but that's a quality they deliberately replaced in favor of convenience. Besides, Elly and Patrick have other more inclusive boxes to tick, the first of which greets me on arrival: wheelchair-accessible transfers. Agasp, I watch on as Matt Porter, the head guide and safari manager, slides open the door of a brand-new adapted green Land Cruiser, wrapped in Ximumu branding that depicts a wheelchair-using lion. He lowers an adjustable swivel seat to my height for me to self-transfer onto.

If this were to be the first sighting of the accessible big five at Ximuwu, the second would be the portable pool hoist, waiting beside the infinity pool. A rare sighting indeed. This was followed quickly by an array of shower seats, commode chairs, grab rails, and — I could hardly believe my eyes — an adjustable bed in one of the two accessible suites. Once again, this is something rarely found in a hotel, and further proof of the attention to accessibility detail at Ximuwu. Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, Patrick points to the safari Land Cruiser and an extendable seat that's waiting for me, hovering over a concrete ramp like a dragonfly over water. It's time for a safari.

Ximuwu Luxury Klaserie Lodge South Africa

As we drive into the African bush to search for the actual Big Five, dust swirling in the dusk, Matt and the eagle-eyed tracker Frank Mkhabela point out pawprints and clues that we follow for the next few hours until the sun begins to set. The traditional sundowner calls us to a halt. Sipping on a G&T, I gaze out at this unspoiled and entirely private resort that stretches as far as the eyes can see.

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The typical timetable of safari dictates our movements for the next four days. Early starts to catch the game before the heat of the day, and evening drives to find them as the shadows creep in and the hunts begin. Hot water bottles, blankets, and biltong bush snacks are packed along with the binoculars and night vision goggles so that no stone goes unturned. A herd of elephants a whisker away from the jeep sends adrenaline coursing through me.

Sophie Morgan at Ximuwu Luxury Klaserie Lodge South Africa

When the sun is at its zenith, a lunch spread of Nobu -inspired salmon teriyaki awaits, after which a hoist lowers me down into the pool to float like a contented hippo. The lodge overlooks a vast plain, so even when you aren't on safari, there's always a chance of spotting something. If you are lucky, and positioned at the right time in the hide (accessible via wheelchair ramp), you can get as close to nature as is feasibly safe. One afternoon, after a generous helping of homemade raspberry sorbet, a lone giraffe gallops into view and takes his lunch in front of us.

Sophie Morgan at Ximuwu Luxury Klaserie Lodge South Africa

No need to waste a moment: a quick nap can be combined with a deep tissue massage at the spa; Elly — equipped not only with her pilot's license but also hairdresser credentials — offers me a wash and blow dry. Her hospitality is matched by her team, fronted by Anette Porter, all of whom are fully disability-aware and know exactly when to help and when not to.

The borders between the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve and Kruger National Park are unfenced, allowing animals to move freely around both reserves. In total, I checked off over twenty-five sightings: from hyenas, leopards, rhinos, lions, and giraffes to vultures, bush babies, warthogs, and more. The space is teaming with life, but the reserve itself is deserving of equal praise, sightings or otherwise.

Flying in a helicopter over Kruger National Park  South Africa

One early morning, Elly and Patrick arrange for a helicopter ride. Matt offers to lift me into the passenger seat, and off I soar into the sunrise, a herd of dehorned rhinos to our left and buffalos to our right. As the African sun peaks over the horizon and we wait in the sky to welcome in the new day, I find myself wondering how on earth I will ever get over this place.

Patrick is living proof that disability can happen to anyone at any time. It is not a niche existence; it's part of the circle of life. Thankfully, his experience changed not only his own world, but all of our experiences for the better — and in Ximuwu, a wheelchair accessible safari awaits.

A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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Curb Free with Cory Lee: A Wheelchair Travel Blog - Sharing the world from a wheelchair user's perspective

A Wheelchair Accessible Safari Guide to Kruger National Park

wheelchair safari

For as long as I have dreamed of going on an African safari (which is my entire life), I’ve dreamed of visiting Kruger National Park. I’m not sure where or when I first heard of Kruger National Park, but it has always been a dream of mine to explore this vast landscape. At more than 7,500 square miles, it is the ultimate wheelchair accessible safari destination in South Africa. With more than 12,000 elephants, among many other animals, you’ll be able to spot the Big 5 in Kruger (elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, and rhino) and a whole lot more.

 wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Aside from just driving around on safari and looking for animals, the park offers visitors much more, including rest camps, shops, and restaurants. But is Kruger National Park a wheelchair accessible safari experience? During my recent visit to this South African landmark, I uncovered the best of what Kruger has for wheelchair users as a disabled safari holiday.

 wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

WHERE TO STAY

Sure, you could simply visit Kruger and just do a day trip or stay outside the park, but it is extremely convenient to stay within the park. There are 12 rest camps, so you’ll be covered no matter which area of the park you are in. I stayed in Kruger National Park for four nights total, which may not seem like a long time, but it was plenty for me to get a good grip on the park and see all of the animals that I could possibly imagine. For the first two nights, I stayed in Skukuza Rest Camp and for the last two nights, I moved to Satara Rest Camp . The accommodations at both camps were about the same, but I’ll tell you about them one at a time just so you will get a full idea of what they were like.

You can also check out this guide to the rest camps .

 wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Out of the many camps that Kruger Park has, Skukuza is the largest, which makes it the most popular. It’s in a great area and is wheelchair friendly with smooth paths and accessible bungalows. There are quite a few wheelchair accessible safari bungalows at Skukuza, but I stayed in bungalow number 131. It had 2 beds, a spacious roll-in shower, and an outdoor kitchen with a refrigerator. I’ve actually never been camping, so this was a really cool experience for me. I mean, I was staying in a bungalow in the middle of Kruger National Park… can life get any better?!

 wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Roll-in shower

Skukuza does have a large accessible gift shop, which I spent way too much money at, as well as a restaurant. However, our guide, Alfie from Epic Enabled (the tour company that I went on safari with), cooked dinner every night at the bungalow’s outdoor kitchen. We enjoyed dishes such as spaghetti, chicken, and sausages just to name a few, and every meal was exceptional. I’m a pretty adventurous eater, but usually when my mom and I go to foreign countries, she ends up losing 5-10 pounds because she is a picky eater. However, she even loved all of the food that we had and maybe gained a pound or two. I was surprised by how similar the food was to American food. I was expecting some kind of bone soup (maybe that’s in other parts of Africa?), but this was the best food I’ve ever eaten on a trip.

wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

My favorite meal; chicken, corn on the cob, squash, and a cheesy potato

These dinners were always great because it gave us a chance to talk about the day and learn about each other. In my tour group, there were 3 wheelchair users including me and 5 able-bodied people. It was my mom and I, a family from Sweden, a lady from New York, and two friends from Germany. We were a global bunch from all over the world and at dinner, we would talk about our different cultures and laugh with each other. I always love meeting new people and I really feel like I made some great new friends from this trip.

wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Here is a Facebook Live video of my accessible bungalow at Skukuza –

After two nights at Skukuza, we moved to Satara Rest Camp . Satara is Kruger Park’s third biggest camp and is known as the “cat camp” because it is the best place to spot the lion, leopard, and cheetah. Much like Skukuza, it has smooth paved paths and wheelchair accessible safari bungalows. There is also a gift shop, a pizzeria, and a Mugg & Bean coffee shop. At Satara, I stayed in bungalow number C-57, which was spacious and had two beds and a roll-in shower just like the last camp. Another amenity that both bungalows I stayed in offered were power outlets. I was easily able to charge my wheelchair, iPhone, and laptop (even though there was no WiFi).

Cappuccino at Mugg and Bean

Cappuccino at Mugg and Bean

While the accommodations were the same, one thing that made me love Satara was the fact that there were monkeys all over the place. They wandered around the camp and we even caught them stealing some food out of someone’s outdoor refrigerator and cabinets. They were fun to watch and it was quite a sight to say the least! Be sure to lock your cabinets up if you keep any food in the outdoor kitchen of your bungalow.

GOING ON A WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE SAFARI

Now let’s get to the fun part – safari! I expected to see a lot of animals in Kruger National Park, but nothing could prepare me for everything that was in store. Within one hour of passing through the Kruger entrance gate, we spotted giraffes, elephants, a leopard devouring an impala up in a tree, and more. Needless to say, it was quite a welcoming, but that was nothing compared to what we would see over the next days.

wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Most of the roads in Kruger Park are paved, so it was always a perfectly smooth ride. There are dirt roads, but we never went on them and I don’t feel like I missed anything by staying on the paved roads. The animals were usually right by the road or even in the road. We frequently had to wait on elephants or giraffes to cross, which was a pleasant sight.

wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Stuck in a buffalo traffic jam

To get around, Epic Enabled used a wheelchair accessible safari truck with large open-air windows. It had a lift on it and I was able to stay in my wheelchair for all of the rides in Kruger. Tie-downs are available if you want to secure your chair, but I opted not to use them while in Kruger because all of the roads were smooth. I was able to move around the large truck, and get from one side to the other if I wanted to see an animal better. Since I can’t really turn my neck all the way to the side due to weak muscles, I was a little worried before going on safari that it would be difficult for me to see everything if my wheelchair was tied down in the truck. However, everything worked out beautifully and I was able to freely enjoy all of the sights that Kruger had to offer. I could not have asked for a better vehicle to go on safari with or a better driver.

wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Our guide, Alfie, was quick to spot any animals and would point them out to us and explain fun facts about them. I feel like I learned so much about animals on this safari and it definitely gave me a better understanding and appreciation for them.

Our game drives were usually between 3-4 hours long and we were lucky to always spot at least one or two new animals on each drive. The daily routine was to do a game drive early in the morning and then one in the afternoon. While I usually like to sleep in a bit on vacation, I was always anxious to get up and go on a drive, even if it was at 5:30 AM. I know, I know… that sounds incredibly early, right? Many of the animals are more active in the early morning when it is not as hot, so you will be more likely to see them and get great safari photos by getting out as early as possible. Another bonus of getting up early were the incredible sunrises. There’s just nothing better than watching the sun rise over Kruger National Park with a giraffe in the distance.

 wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Over the course of four days in Kruger Park, we spotted the Big Five and much more. Some of my most memorable safari moments were seeing lions for the first time, a herd of elephants around a watering hole, baboons running rampant, hippos and crocodiles lazing in the water, and observing giraffes. All of the animals were fascinating to watch, but the giraffes impressed me the most. They would just stare at us humans inside the vehicle and seemed to be more intrigued by what we were doing than we were by them.

wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Want to see my safari in action? Check out this video below –

We’ve covered a lot in this article so far, but here are some additional tips to help make your disabled safari holiday even more magical –

wheelchair safari

Check out how close this elephant looks thanks to the Moment lens!

– Use the bathroom before going on game drives. Since the drives can be several hours long and sometimes there may not be an accessible restroom available, you will want to use the restroom before going.

wheelchair safari

– Use mosquito spray. Kruger Park is in the malaria affected zone, so using mosquito spray and taking anti-malaria medication is a good idea. I visited in October, so I only saw one mosquito during my entire trip, but better safe than sorry.

wheelchair safari

Bundled up for an early morning drive

– Bring a flashlight. The camps get dark at night and there aren’t really any lights along the pathways, so if you’re walking around the camps, you will definitely want a flashlight.

– Bring the right adapter and converter. South Africa uses 220 volts, so if you are American, you’ll need a converter or a 220 volt wheelchair charger. You’ll also need an adapter that will fit South African outlets. These are the ones I ordered and they worked perfectly.

As you can see, Kruger National Park is an ideal destination for wheelchair users that are looking for an adventure. It may take a bit of planning , but I can promise that it will be well worth it in the end. From accessible accommodations to a wheelchair friendly tour company, there is no reason why wheels should stop you from going on the ultimate wheelchair accessible safari in Kruger National Park.

*Thank you to Epic Enabled for working with me on this trip. Affiliate links are included, however, all opinions are authentic and my own.

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On a Wheelchair Accessible Safari in South Africa [VIDEO]

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After being diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy at the age of two, Cory's thirst for adventure never ceased. He went on many trips around the US when he was younger, and then started taking things internationally when he turned fifteen. Since then, Cory has traveled around the world, all while managing to successfully graduate college and start up his travel blog curbfreewithcorylee.com, where he shares his accessible, and sometimes not so accessible, travel adventures with others. Through this, he hopes to inspire other wheelchair users to roll out of their comfort zone and see all of the beauty that the world has to offer.

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I think it is important that more and more places become wheelchair accessible. No one should be excluded from doing or seeing what they want to. Unfortunately there are quite a few places that are still not accessible, but I hope one day they will be. This looks like it would be a fun trip, thanks for sharing!

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Access Adventure

Information for special assistance travelers

Cory Lee Safari

A WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE SAFARI GUIDE TO KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

Written by Cory Lee, Curb Free With Cory Lee , September 30, 2023

wheelchair safari

For as long as I have dreamed of  going on an African safari  (which is my entire life), I’ve dreamed of visiting Kruger National Park. I’m not sure where or when I first heard of Kruger National Park, but it has always been a dream of mine to explore this vast landscape. At more than 7,500 square miles, it is the ultimate wheelchair accessible safari destination in South Africa. With more than 12,000 elephants, among many other animals, you’ll be able to spot the Big 5 in Kruger (elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, and rhino) and a whole lot more.

 wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Aside from just driving around on safari and looking for animals, the park offers visitors much more, including rest camps, shops, and restaurants. But is Kruger National Park a wheelchair accessible safari experience? During my recent visit to this South African landmark, I uncovered the best of what Kruger has for wheelchair users as a disabled safari holiday.

 wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

WHERE TO STAY

Sure, you could simply visit Kruger and just do a day trip or stay outside the park, but it is extremely convenient to stay within the park. There are 12 rest camps, so you’ll be covered no matter which area of the park you are in. I stayed in Kruger National Park for four nights total, which may not seem like a long time, but it was plenty for me to get a good grip on the park and see all of the animals that I could possibly imagine. For the first two nights, I stayed in  Skukuza Rest Camp  and for the last two nights, I moved to  Satara Rest Camp . The accommodations at both camps were about the same, but I’ll tell you about them one at a time just so you will get a full idea of what they were like.

You can also check out this  guide to the rest camps .

 wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Out of the many camps that Kruger Park has, Skukuza is the largest, which makes it the most popular. It’s in a great area and is wheelchair friendly with smooth paths and accessible bungalows. There are quite a few wheelchair accessible safari bungalows at Skukuza, but I stayed in bungalow number 131. It had 2 beds, a spacious roll-in shower, and an outdoor kitchen with a refrigerator. I’ve actually never been camping, so this was a really cool experience for me. I mean, I was staying in a bungalow in the middle of Kruger National Park… can life get any better?!

 wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Roll-in shower

Skukuza does have a large accessible gift shop, which I spent way too much money at, as well as a restaurant. However, our guide, Alfie from  Epic Enabled  (the tour company that I went on safari with), cooked dinner every night at the bungalow’s outdoor kitchen. We enjoyed dishes such as spaghetti, chicken, and sausages just to name a few, and every meal was exceptional. I’m a pretty adventurous eater, but usually when my mom and I go to foreign countries, she ends up losing 5-10 pounds because she is a picky eater. However, she even loved all of the food that we had and maybe gained a pound or two. I was surprised by how similar the food was to American food. I was expecting some kind of bone soup (maybe that’s in other parts of Africa?), but this was the best food I’ve ever eaten on a trip.

wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

My favorite meal; chicken, corn on the cob, squash, and a cheesy potato

These dinners were always great because it gave us a chance to talk about the day and learn about each other. In my tour group, there were 3 wheelchair users including me and 5 able-bodied people. It was my mom and I, a family from Sweden, a lady from New York, and two friends from Germany. We were a global bunch from all over the world and at dinner, we would talk about our different cultures and laugh with each other. I always love meeting new people and I really feel like I made some great new friends from this trip.

wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Here is a Facebook Live video of my accessible bungalow at Skukuza –

After two nights at Skukuza, we moved to  Satara Rest Camp . Satara is Kruger Park’s third biggest camp and is known as the “cat camp” because it is the best place to spot the lion, leopard, and cheetah. Much like Skukuza, it has smooth paved paths and wheelchair accessible safari bungalows. There is also a gift shop, a pizzeria, and a Mugg & Bean coffee shop. At Satara, I stayed in bungalow number C-57, which was spacious and had two beds and a roll-in shower just like the last camp. Another amenity that both bungalows I stayed in offered were power outlets. I was easily able to charge my wheelchair, iPhone, and laptop (even though there was no WiFi).

Cappuccino at Mugg and Bean

Cappuccino at Mugg and Bean

While the accommodations were the same, one thing that made me love Satara was the fact that there were monkeys all over the place. They wandered around the camp and we even caught them stealing some food out of someone’s outdoor refrigerator and cabinets. They were fun to watch and it was quite a sight to say the least! Be sure to lock your cabinets up if you keep any food in the outdoor kitchen of your bungalow.

GOING ON A WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE SAFARI

Now let’s get to the fun part – safari! I expected to see a lot of animals in Kruger National Park, but nothing could prepare me for everything that was in store. Within one hour of passing through the Kruger entrance gate, we spotted giraffes, elephants, a leopard devouring an impala up in a tree, and more. Needless to say, it was quite a welcoming, but that was nothing compared to what we would see over the next days.

wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Most of the roads in Kruger Park are paved, so it was always a perfectly smooth ride. There are dirt roads, but we never went on them and I don’t feel like I missed anything by staying on the paved roads. The animals were usually right by the road or even in the road. We frequently had to wait on elephants or giraffes to cross, which was a pleasant sight.

wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Stuck in a buffalo traffic jam

To get around,  Epic Enabled  used a wheelchair accessible safari truck with large open-air windows. It had a lift on it and I was able to stay in my wheelchair for all of the rides in Kruger. Tie-downs are available if you want to secure your chair, but I opted not to use them while in Kruger because all of the roads were smooth. I was able to move around the large truck, and get from one side to the other if I wanted to see an animal better. Since I can’t really turn my neck all the way to the side due to weak muscles, I was a little worried before going on safari that it would be difficult for me to see everything if my wheelchair was tied down in the truck. However, everything worked out beautifully and I was able to freely enjoy all of the sights that Kruger had to offer. I could not have asked for a better vehicle to go on safari with or a better driver.

wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Our guide, Alfie, was quick to spot any animals and would point them out to us and explain fun facts about them. I feel like I learned so much about animals on this safari and it definitely gave me a better understanding and appreciation for them.

Our game drives were usually between 3-4 hours long and we were lucky to always spot at least one or two new animals on each drive. The daily routine was to do a game drive early in the morning and then one in the afternoon. While I usually like to sleep in a bit on vacation, I was always anxious to get up and go on a drive, even if it was at 5:30 AM. I know, I know… that sounds incredibly early, right? Many of the animals are more active in the early morning when it is not as hot, so you will be more likely to see them and  get great safari photos  by getting out as early as possible. Another bonus of getting up early were the incredible sunrises. There’s just nothing better than watching the sun rise over Kruger National Park with a giraffe in the distance.

 wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Over the course of four days in Kruger Park, we spotted the Big Five and much more. Some of my most memorable safari moments were seeing lions for the first time, a herd of elephants around a watering hole, baboons running rampant, hippos and crocodiles lazing in the water, and observing giraffes. All of the animals were fascinating to watch, but the giraffes impressed me the most. They would just stare at us humans inside the vehicle and seemed to be more intrigued by what we were doing than we were by them.

wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa

Want to see my safari in action? Check out this video below –

We’ve covered a lot in this article so far, but here are some additional tips to help make your disabled safari holiday even more magical –

–  Get a Moment lens.  Since some animals may be far away, you’ll want a camera that can capture those perfect shots. Instead of hauling around a big camera, I decided to just use my iPhone 6. The  Moment lens – Tele photo 60mm  attached to my iPhone and zoomed in two times closer with no distortion. It was truly a lifesaver and took some great photos!

wheelchair accessible safari, disabled safari holiday, kruger national park south africa, elephant

Check out how close this elephant looks thanks to the Moment lens!

–  Use the bathroom before going on game drives.  Since the drives can be several hours long and sometimes there may not be an accessible restroom available, you will want to use the restroom before going.

–  Buy a Kruger Park map & guide book in the shop.  These guide books by  Andy & Lorrain Tinker  are available in all of the shops within Kruger. Not only do they contain all kinds of interesting information, but they have pictures of all of the animals in the park in the back of the book, so you can check off the animals as you see them. It’s a good souvenir! Also be sure to check out  Kruger National Park – Questions & Answers: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know!

–  Use mosquito spray.  Kruger Park is in the malaria affected zone, so using mosquito spray and taking anti-malaria medication is a good idea. I visited in October, so I only saw one mosquito during my entire trip, but better safe than sorry.

–  Take binoculars and a blanket on game drives.  The binoculars will help you see animals that are far away and the blanket will keep you warm on the early morning drives. Since the windows of our wheelchair accessible safari truck were so large, the wind really blew in and was a bit chilly in the mornings. By the afternoon drive, it was warm though and the wind actually felt good.  Bushnell binoculars  are top-notch and not too expensive.

wheelchair accessible kruger national park south africa

Bundled up for an early morning drive

–  Bring a flashlight.  The camps get dark at night and there aren’t really any lights along the pathways, so if you’re walking around the camps, you will definitely want a flashlight.

–  Bring the right adapter and converter.  South Africa uses 220 volts, so if you are American, you’ll need a converter or a 220 volt wheelchair charger. You’ll also need an adapter that will fit South African outlets.  These are the ones I ordered  and they worked perfectly.

As you can see, Kruger National Park is an ideal destination for wheelchair users that are looking for an adventure. It may take  a bit of planning , but I can promise that it will be well worth it in the end. From accessible accommodations to a wheelchair friendly tour company, there is no reason why wheels should stop you from going on the ultimate wheelchair accessible safari in Kruger National Park.

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We make it possible

We tailor make our safaris to suit individual needs and interests and give everyone the opportunity to explore the mysteries, magic and wonders of Africa

With our specialized safari services, we offer disabled and special needs travelers unprecedented freedom to travel to Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda

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Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda accessible safaris

  • Colorful Kenya Safari (K2)  
  • Northern Nomadic Trail Safari (K3)  
  • Kilimanjaro & Tsavo Experience (K4)  
  • Extended Kenya Trails Safari (K5)  
  • Best of Kenya and Tanzania Safari (KT1)  
  • Discover Tanzania Safari (T1)  
  • Eyes on Serengeti Safari (T2)  
  • Southern Tanzania Highlights (T3)  
  • Wonders of Uganda (U1)  

BABY ELEPHANT BORN IN TSAVO EAST

Camera and Editing by Louwrens & Rosita van der Voet Still picture cover by Henrik Bennetsen, CC License Flickr

Some good reasons

At Go-Africa we tailor make our safaris to suit individual needs and interests giving you the opportunity to explore the mysteries, magic and wonders of Africa...

wheelchair safari

Local Knowledge

Benefit from our local knowledge and experience. Pioneer in disabled travel since 2006 in making travel to East Africa possible for everyone . East Africa might not seem a likely destination for a traveler with limited mobility however we have been able to make a lot of progress during the last 13 years in making travel to East Africa possible for everyone. We know the destination, can give you first hand information on the best areas to visit during the different travel seasons, what to expect and give you upto date info on accessible facilities available. We visit the hotels, lodges and camps frequently to be able to inform you what you can expect. Depending on your disability we can advice you where best to go and which places might not be suitable. We work with agents and contacts all over the world, we happily put you in touch with travelers who have first hand experience with our services. Please read about how other travelers experienced their safari with us on our testimonial pages and https://wheelchairtravel.org

wheelchair safari

Personal Contact

Traveling with a disability involves a bit more preparation/planning. A personal contact , via email or phone call, will make such a difference, not relying on a hard to reach customer service or answering machine in case you have questions or need help. A phone call or email direct to the people on the ground can make all the difference. It is important for us to get to know you to be able to plan your dream holiday bearing in mind your wishes, mobility restrictions and budget. Each traveler is unique and so are your requirements and wishes. We will work together to make your Africa experience possible!

wheelchair safari

Responsible /Community

East Africa has its fair share of social and economic problems and as a Travel Company we are committed to support some of the local communities. We have our own charities of which one is the Diani Children's Village , home for children in need and Rescue Centre for new born babies abandoned by mothers with HIV . We are also support the Makobe School for Disabled , where children from the rural area can attend school and have the opportunity to an education. As a traveler you can be involved if you so choose , kindly get in touch with us for more information. We purchase some of our welcome gifts from the projects we support as a self-generating income initiative. As a company we do our best to reduce our carbon footprint. At the office we reuse and recycle paper where possible, we no longer use printed brochures as they consume a lot of paper. We don’t use plastic bottles at the office and for our clients on safari. All our travelers receive a refillable water bottle on arrival.

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Each traveler is unique and so are your requirements and wishes. We aim to make your Africa experience possible!

  • 1 Start with a glance on the Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda options
  • 2 Select your preferred safari among the many available
  • 3 Give us some details about date and participants

WheelchairTravel.org

We are proud to feature WheelchairTravel.org

“ Going on safari in Africa is a lifelong dream for many people, wheelchair users included. A number of companies across the continent are making these experiences accessible to people with disabilities, and I recently had the pleasure of exploring Kenya thanks to GoAfrica Safaris, the leader in wheelchair accessible African safaris. ” John Morris .

  • Mail us [email protected]
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  • Accessible Destinations
  • South Africa
  • Accessible Safari in South Africa
  • Flexible Wheelchair Accessible South African Safari & Wildlife Trip – 12 days

FLEXIBLE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE SOUTH AFRICAN SAFARI AND WILDLIFE TRIP – 12 DAYS

Hero visual Safari 12 day Holiday

Possible highlights

  • Interacting with elephants from the wild
  • Safari boat cruise with sightings
  • Accessible beach with beach wheelchairs
  • Game drives
  • Visiting a Cheetah Park
  • Visiting game reserves in Isimangaliso Wetland Park
  • Accessible viewpoints

Accessibility Information

  • All accommodations are accessible with roll in showers, shower seats, grab rails and hand showers
  • Accessible vehicles have been modified for the best views
  • Game drives are in accessible vehicles, which are adapted for wheelchair users and larger windows for excellent viewing
  • A personal guide will be with the guests at all times

What is included?

  • An epic wheelchair accessible holiday to South Africa
  • This itinerary is an example. Adjustable according to your wishes and requirements.
  • 2 nights in a 5* accommodation
  • 9 nights in a 4* accommodation
  • 3 safaris with personal ranger and guide
  • Accessible transport and transfers, incl all fuel and toll gates
  • All meals as indicated: 10 breakfasts
  • All activities and entry fees except for optional extra activities entry fees
  • Services of a personal field guide

What is not included?

  • Visa and flights
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Dinner, Lunch, Drinks and refreshments, where not indicated
  • Optional Extra activities entry fees

Beach days on Safari

About this wheelchair accessible South African Safari tour

It should be on everyone’s bucket list. Going on a South African Safari and spotting the big five. Impossible as a wheelchair user, you might think? Think again. We made it possible for you to enjoy a care-free 12 day trip of a lifetime. This is only an example of the itinerary. Your trip can be adjusted completely to your wishes, requirements, budget and timeline.

Accessible activities include interacting with elephants from the wild, safari boat cruise with sightings, accessible beach mat and beach wheelchair, game drives, visiting a Cheetah Park, and more. Furthermore, accessible activities include visiting game reserves in Isimangaliso Wetland Park a World Hertiage Site with accessible viewpoints.

Snorkling in a wheelchair on safari

Your South African Safari holiday starts with a warm welcome at the airport, with meet & greet and adapted transfer to your lodge. Here you have the opportunity to enjoy luxurious facilities and 30 acres of private botanical gardens. The grounds and buildings have a wheelchair friendly design with 18 ponds, waterways, and prolific birdlife.

There is a swimming pool with full access for wheelchair users. Located in the rolling hills of Kwazulu Natal and near the Valley of a Thousand Hills, this is the perfect place to unwind, relax, and to get enchanted by the gorgeous scenery. The beautiful gardens are an oasis of peace and serenity with indigenous and exotic plants, and provide the ideal backdrop to achieve the desired levels of relaxation for all who visit.

Enjoy strolls through the 30 acres of gardens incorporating artworks, sculptures, a magnificent Japanese garden, cycad gardens, ponds and meandering pathways leading to waterfalls.

Soak up your first day in Africa by spoiling yourself at the Health Spa with its unique refreshing and holistic treatment range. Besides, you enjoy the African sun next to the large fully accessible rock swimming pool.

  • 5 star lodge Durban, incl Breakfast

Checking out the elephants on safari

Spend the day in Durban Central at Ushaka Marine World that has accessible beach wheelchairs and snorkeling ponds with over 5000 fish. Included at Ushaka Marine World are attractions such as Shark Feeding, Turtle, Dolphin. Penguin and Seal shows.

In the afternoon you head along Durban Beachfront with its colorful markets to Moses Madiba Stadium, built for the World Cup in 2010. This stadium has a cable car with beautiful views of Durban and Coastline 40 stories high.

Accessible Beach wheelchair on Safari in South Africa

This day you head out to go on the African safari. The safari takes place in Isimangaliso Wetland Park which is a World Heritage Site and Africa`s second-largest Big Five Game Reserve.

Your accommodation is in a private game sanctuary, and your chalet with glass walls has its own private outdoor jacuzzi. Afternoon leisure at your lodge with its abundant bird and wildlife. Besides your safari, today’s adventures include a visit to a traditional Zulu Village. Here you learn about the African Zulu Tribe as you visit its cultural village. Be fascinated by the energetic Zulu Dancing with its excellent rhythm of drumbeats and African dancing!

  • 4 star lodge, incl Breakfast

On Safari in South Africa while in a wheelchair

These are the days where the spirit of Africa touches your soul. We embark on a laid-back extended game drive to all areas of Hluhluwe Game Reserve. Your experienced ranger helps you spot and identify many animals species. At the Elephant Coast, you can find over 500 bird species.

With a little assistance, most people can distinguish the more common families of birds in no time at all. Look out for the abundant animal life such as black rhino, nyala, kudu, hippo, crocodile, waterbuck, reedbuck, red duiker, baboons, monkeys, hyena, wildebeest, giraffe and the often to be seen elephant and buffalo.

You may also see lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, and other predators. Today you spend most of your time on the Hluhluwe side of the game reserve. Other days are spent enjoying the Umfolozi side of the game reserve.

Elephants on Safari in South Africa

Elephant Interaction – A unique and beautiful experience in the heart of Zululand where you get close and interact with these powerful but gentle creatures. Guests seeking more in-depth meaning to their visit have close contact and interaction with these elephants.

Although little can match the thrill of seeing wild elephants in Hluhluwe Game Reserve, guests are allowed to connect woth two mature elephants. These elephants were orphaned, and hand-reared but are now free to range in a private game reserve that is over 2500 hectares.

Every morning the two elephants come up to visit the viewing area for a welcome snack of game pellets. Here you get the chance to interact with them in a well-controlled situation. You also enjoy a superb explanation of the elephant species, which is enlightening and clearly shows the care and concern that is displayed. Lunch today takes place at a local restaurant.

Your South African Safari journey continues in the afternoon, with a visit to the Cat and Cheetah Rehabilitation Centre. Join us for an up-close and personal tour and learn more about South Africa’s endangered wild cat species. Come and be mesmerized by the beauty of the Caracal (Lynx), enchanted by the playful Serval, astonished by the speed and agility of the Cheetah and delighted by the African Wildcat.

There are educational tours daily, with feedings during the afternoon tour and informative talks about the animals. The Centre cares for the cats that are orphaned or injured in the wild and require care and rehabilitation.

Other attractions today include Ilala Weavers with its restaurant where you enjoy lunch and shops featuring traditional Zulu basket weaving and beading.

Adapted vehicle in South Africa

Today you enjoy a full day Safari Game Drive to Hluhluwe/Umfolozi side of the game reserve with your field guide with a picnic lunch overlooking the river.

You head to St Lucia, a picturesque village situated within a nature reserve which is surrounded by five distinct ecosystems and iSimangaliso Wetland Park. In the afternoon you go on a safari boat trip on an accessible boat with sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and birds in the estuary. This days dinner is at one of the numerous restaurants in town.

  • 4 star guest house, incl Breakfast

Zebra's on Safari in South Africa

Day 8 and 9

Explore markets in the village and the beaches. Safari at Cape Vidal Game Reserve with Rhino, Waterbuck, Kudu and many other wildlife species. Cape Vidal is part of the Isimangaliso Wetland Park – a World Heritage Site with beautiful game reserves and wild beaches.

  • 4 star Guest House, incl Breakfast

Day 10 and 11

Transfer to Durban to a hotel near the beach. You can spend your time relaxing on the beach and enjoy some shopping. The hotel is about 15 min drive from the airport.

Optional extra activities:

  • Visit Apartheid Museum, Cable Car Moses Madiba Stadium, Botanical Gardens
  • Madiba Stadium, built for the World Cup 2010. This stadium has a cable car with beautiful views of Durban and Coastline 40 stories high

This is the last day of your South African Safari! It ends with a goodbye from the people working on the premise and a transfer to the airport.

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What others say.

Sue B. - April 2019

Sue B. - April 2019

Accessible safari africa.

“One of my ‘bucket list’ trips was to do an African Safari but I really didn’t think this would be possible for us as… Read more

Elitsa B. July 2019

Elitsa B. July 2019

Mallorca, tours.

“…I can’t explain with words how much I enjoyed Alcudia and Siera Tramuntana! […] I just felt in love with everything here!…” Read more

Sally H. July 2019

Sally H. July 2019

France & spain, accessibility services.

“…She went above and beyond to get train tickets for us that I couldn’t book from home…” Read more

Susan B. July 2019

Susan B. July 2019

Athens - tour.

“I just finished a tour in Athens with Mirjam’s company, DAT. They were great. The guide was very knowledgeable…” Read more

Julie Lynne A. July 2019

Julie Lynne A. July 2019

Rome - hotel, tours, and transfers.

“…She knew all the routes for ramps/elevators/ accessible spaces and the best views…” Read more

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Giraffes at the Safari Park

Guests with Disabilities

Download San Diego Zoo Safari Park Accessibility Guide (PDF)

Website Accessibility Statement

Jambo! The San Diego Zoo Safari Park welcomes all guests. We have several services to help all our guests enjoy their visit.

We have a map that marks the stops for our ADA (American with Disabilities Act) shuttle. These maps are also available at our ticket booths and at Park Base. Restrooms and services—including many of our Safaris—are wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs and motorized scooters are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis near the entrance at Safari Outfitters.  Please refer to our Accessibility Guide for more information. The minimum age requirement to operate an Electric Conveyance Vehicle (ECV) is 16 years old.

Click here to download our Accessibility Map (PDF)

Guests who have difficulty standing in line at the Africa Tram may request an “Easy Access Pass” at the Tram Host podium, across from the Africa Tram ticket booth. The attendant on duty will provide a return time for the group based on the length of the line. Guests may continue exploring and return at their assigned boarding time. Up to four additional members of the guest’s party may accompany a guest with a disability.

We welcome guests with disabilities who choose to bring their trained service animal into the Safari Park. Emotional support animals as well as companion, comfort, or service animals in training are not allowed entry into the Safari Park. Our guidelines for service animals can be found by accessing the San Diego Zoo Safari Park Accessibility Guide.

Please see our Accessibility Guide (click the link at the top of this page) for Frequently Asked Questions and more detailed Safari Park information for guests with disabilities.

Mobility Assistive Device Policy

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is dedicated to providing all of its guests with equal enjoyment of the wonderful experience offered by its parks: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

The safety of our visitors is extremely important to us. The parks are primarily pedestrian environments. By “pedestrian,” we mean any individual who moves within walking areas with or without the use of walking-assistive devices such as crutches, leg braces, wheelchairs, etc. Park attendance is often at high capacity, resulting in busy pedestrian pathways. Our goal is to maintain a safe pedestrian traffic flow for all visitors while allowing for use of mobility-assistive devices that do not fundamentally alter the nature of the experience the parks provide.

In order to maintain a safe pedestrian environment and the desired pace and flow of visitor traffic, the parks do not allow guests to bring or use most wheeled vehicles within the grounds. Bicycles, tricycles, scooters, skateboards, roller skates, and similar modes of transportation are not allowed within the grounds. The parks allow strollers as well as the following mobility-assistive devices for use by guests with disabilities: wheelchairs, electric scooters, and Segways®. All Segways entering the parks must be operated in “turtle” mode so as not to disrupt the desired pace of the visitor traffic at the parks and disturb other guests.

The Safari Park provides accommodations to people who need mobility assistance while on our grounds. Shuttle service is available for guests with limited mobility and guests who use wheelchairs, running on a continuous loop stopping at Park Base and Okavango Outpost. The Park also offers a limited number of wheelchairs and electric scooters for rent. In addition, the Park provides free admission for a personal attendant/caregiver to accompany a guest who requires such help to access the Park's public programs, activities, and facilities.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance reserves the right to modify this policy at any time as it deems appropriate.

Additional Information

Wheelchair and ECV rental prices

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Accessibility Guide

For general questions not answered here, please email [email protected], or call 619-231-1515 after 8:30 a.m. PDT.

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Wheelchair Accessible Safaris, Holidays & Tours for Disabled Travellers - Africa, Latin America, India

wheelchair safari

This fabulous accessible wheelchair holiday vacation visits beautiful Cape Town, Hermanus & the scenic Stellenbosch winelands in South Africa . Ascend Table Mountain by cable car; explore Kirstenbosch Gardens; take the boat to Seal Isand; tour Cape Point & the Boulders Beach penguins & view whales in season (July-Oct). Accessible hotels, transfers & specified sightseeing included.

wheelchair safari

If you can transfer into the front seat of a game viewing vehicle, this wheelchair disabled safari combines Cape Town in South Africa with Big 5 game viewing in the malaria-free Pilanesberg Game Reserve & Sun City . Ascend Table Mountain, see penguins at Cape Point and visit Stellenbosch. If you can't transfer, ask about a fully wheelchair accessible safari, travelling with your own driver/guide.

wheelchair safari

This luxury wheelchair accessible safari combines Botswana & the incomparable Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. View wildlife on land & by river in Chobe, renowned for its elephants & river-based wildlife. You need some upper body strength, as there is no airport lifting equipment & you need to transfer into the front seat of the 4x4 safari vehicle. All transfers, game drives & disabled hotels included. Manual wheelchairs only.

wheelchair safari

This luxury safari to Kruger National Park in South Africa combines the Big 5 with beautiful Cape Town . View the Big Five, amazing bird life and so much more. Also view the Blyde River Canyon. Then fly to Cape Town to ascend Table Mountain by cable car, visit  Cape Point & the Stellenbosch Winelands. Disabled wheelchair lodges, game drives & transfers included.

wheelchair safari

This disabled safari holiday vacation explore the amazing wildlife & culture of South Africa . From Durban travel to the famous Hluhluwe Game Reserve in Kwa Zulu Natal & visit a Zulu Village & Wild Cat Sanctuary. Enjoy an elephant encounter, take a boat ride on Lake St Lucia estuary, & relax on the warm Durban North Coast. Wheelchair accessible hotels & transfers, game drives & sightseeing included.

wheelchair safari

On this safari to South Africa and Mauritius , view the Big Five & so much more in the malaria-free Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Then fly to the beautiful tropical island of Mauritius. You need some upper body strength to transfer into the front seat of the game viewing vehicle, but if you use a power chair enquire about our fully wheelchair accessible vehicles & hotels . All transfers & game drives included.

wheelchair safari

If you can transfer into the front seat of a game vehicle, our luxury Cape Town safari holidays can be combined with a malaria free game lodge in the Eastern Cape, for thrilling Big Five disabled wheelchair vacations . Ascend Table Mountain by cable car, visit the Boulders Beach penguins, enjoy seasonal whale watching in Hermanus & the Stellenbosch winelands. All game drives, accessible hotels & transfers included.

wheelchair safari

If you have upper body strength & are prepared to be transferred off the plane in an aisle chair, you can visit the mighty Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe on this wheelchair vacation , combined with beautiful Cape Town and a thrilling Big-Five Kruger Park safari holiday in South Africa. Accessible hotels, all transfers & game drives included. Manual wheelchairs only.

wheelchair safari

This wheelchair accessible safari in Madikwe, South Africa is malaria free . View the Big 5 in this wildlife sanctuary, renowned for its lions & endangered wild dogs, then relax at Sun City . Also visit the Apartheid Museum, Soweto & Lesedi Cultural Village. As you transfer into the front seat of game viewing vehicles, you do need some upper body strength for this safari. All game drives, accessible hotels & transfers included.

wheelchair safari

If you need to travel in a fully wheelchair accessible vehicle , enquire about this exciting Cape Town & Sun City Safari that combines the beautiful city of Cape Town with a Big Five safari in Pilanesberg Game Reserve & the holiday resort of Sun City. Ascend Table Mountain by cable car, visit Cape Point & the penguins of Boulders Beach, the Stellenbosch Winelands & Hermanus, with seasonal whale watching.

wheelchair safari

This tailor made wheelchair safari to Kruger Park in South Africa combines the thrill of viewing the Big Five and other amazing wildlife in their natural surroundings, with a visit to Soweto & the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg. Then end your holiday relaxing at the resort of Sun City . This holiday is disabled friendly.

wheelchair safari

This wheelchair safari to the magnificent Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe , combines with Big 5 game viewing by land & water in Chobe , Botswana . Coplete your holiday exploring beautiful Cape Town . You need some upper body strength for this safari, as you need to transfer into the front seat of a 4x4 game vehicle. All transfers, accessible hotels & game drives included. Not suitable for power chairs.

wheelchair safari

Our wonderful safari & beach holidays are adapted for disabled travellers and wheelchair users, and can be tailor made to your needs. This holiday combines the wildlife of the famous Kruger National Park in South Africa with the gorgeous tropical island of Mauritius . View the Big Five and so much more, before relaxing under swaying palm trees in warm Mauritius.

wheelchair safari

This wonderful wheelchair accessible safari holiday to Kenya visits the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, aas well as Lake Nakuru with its rhino & birdlife, Lake Naivasha where you can see hippos & the Masai Mara Game Reserve - home to all the Big Five & famous for its predator sightings. Private guide, accessible vehicle & hotels, park fees & game drives  included.

wheelchair safari

This disabled safari will take you to the red sands of the Kalahari in South Africa . Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is know for its desert adapted wildlife - including meerkats, springbok, oryx & magnificent black maned lions. Also visit the Augrabies Falls & the seasonal Namaqualand wildflowers (Aug & Sept). Then fly to beautiful Cape Town . Wheelchair accessible hotels & transfers, game drives & specified sightseeing included.

wheelchair safari

Combine South Africa & Mauritius on one of our thrilling accessible wheelchair safari holidays & vacations , which are malaria free & include the Big 5 . Visit Hluhluwe Game Reserve in Zululand, an Elephant & Wild Cat sanctuary, Lake St Lucia & Cape Vidal. Then fly to the tropical island of Mauritius, with its clear turquoise waters. All game drives, park fees, accessible hotels & transfers included.

wheelchair safari

If you have upper body strength & happy to transfer off the plane in an aisle chair, this wheelchair accessible safari holiday will take you to the thundering Victoria Falls and the amazing Kruger National Park in South Africa , which is renowned for its abundant wildlife - including all the 'Big Five'. Afterwards fly to the warm tropical island of Mauritius for some relaxation. Manual wheelchairs only.

wheelchair safari

If you have upper body strength & happy to transfer off the plane in an aisle chair, this fascinating wheelchair accessible safari holiday combines the amazing wildlife of the famous to Kruger National Park in South Africa , with a visit to the mighty Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. Then spend a few days relaxing on Mahe island in the stunning Seychelles . Manual wheelchairs only.

wheelchair safari

If you use a powerchair or need a fully accessible game viewing vehicle, our wheelchair accessible holidays to South Africa & Mauritius combine a thrilling Big Five safari in the malaria free Pilanesberg Game Reserve, with time relaxing at a luxury hotel on this gorgeous tropical Indian Ocean island, with its warm turquoise waters. All park fees, game drives, accessible hotels & transfers included.

wheelchair safari

This classic wheelchair holiday vacation visits Cape Town & then tours along the Garden Route in South Africa to Oudtshoorn, Knysna & Port Elizabeth. End with a thrilling safari in Addo Elephant Park, travelling with your own private guide in an accessible vehicle. Seasonal whale watching also available from June-October. Accessible hotels, transfers, game drives & specified sightseeing included.

wheelchair safari

This disabled holiday to Cape Town in South Africa includes a thrilling Big Five safari vacation to the spectacular Victoria Falls & Hwange Game Reserve in Zimbabwe. You need some upper body strength for this safari, as Victoria Falls airport doesn’t have any lifting equipment & you need to transfer into the front seat of the safari vehicle. All game drives & transfers included. Manual wheelchairs only.

wheelchair safari

This wheelchair holiday combines a thrilling Big-Five Kruger Park safari vacation with time exploring Johannesburg . Visit the Blyde River Canyon, an elephant sanctuary & wildlife rehabilitation centre, as well as the Apartheid Museum, Soweto, the Cradle of Humankind & Lesedi. End your vacation at Sun City in South Africa . Wheelchair accessible hotels, transfers, game viewing & sightseeing included.

wheelchair safari

This wheelchair safari to Namibia offers a diverse array of wildlife & spectacular scenery, from the red sand dunes of the Namib , to the stony plains of Etosha National Park . Experience the highlights of this wilderness, including viewing desert-adapted wildlife & tracking leopards. English speaking guide, accessible hotels , transfers & all game activities included on all wheelchair holidays & vacations .

wheelchair safari

This exciting wheelchair holiday & safari vacation combines a visit to Cape Town with a private tour along the scenic Garden Route in South Africa . Ascend Table Mountain by cable car, visit Cape Point, enjoy wine tasting in Stellenbosch & view whales in season (July/Oct). Then travel to Oudtshoorn & Knysna, before ending with a safari. Accessible hotels, transfers & all specified sightseeing included.

wheelchair safari

This exciting accessible wheelchair safari in South Africa starts with an elephant interaction, a visit to a wildlife sanctuary & the Blyde River Canyon, before entering the famous Kruger Park for thrilling Big 5 game viewing & birding. Finish your vacation in beautiful Cape Town , where you can see penguins, whales (July-Oct) & winelands. All transfers, disabled wheelchair accessible hotels, game viewing & sightseeing included.

wheelchair safari

On this amazing disabled wheelchair safari holiday to Kenya you will combine the wildlife of Amboseli , famous for its large herds of elephants and views of Mount Kilimanjaro, with Tsavo National Park, before relaxing beside a gorgeous beach on the Mombasa south coast. Also visit the Shedrick Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Sanctuary. English speaking guide, all park fees, accessible hotels & transfers included.

wheelchair safari

This wheelchair accessible vacation to Cape Town in South Africa includes a safari in the arid Kalahari . It is superb for whale watching & viewing the seasonal wildflowers of Namaqualand, which bloom from mid-August to mid-September each year & transform the barren landscape into a carpet of many colours. Also visit Augrabies Falls. Accessible hotels, all transfers, game drives & sightseeing included.

wheelchair safari

Our safari holidays suitable for disabled travellers & wheelchair users include this one, which combines the amazing Victoria Falls , one of the great natural wonders of the world, with a thrilling Big Five safari in Hwange , Zimbabwe . Then continue to Chobe National Park in Botswana for river-based game viewing. Okavango Delta extensions available, if you are able to board a light aircraft.

wheelchair safari

This wonderful Kenya safari & beach holiday is wheelchair accessible - visiting Tsavo East , the Elephant Relocation Centre at Voi, Amboseli National Park and Tsavo West . Enjoy game drives in your guide's accessible vehicle & view magnificent Mount Kilimanjaro, as well as wonderful birdlife. End your holiday relaxing on the shores of the warm Indian Ocean near Mombasa . All transfers & park fees included.

wheelchair safari

Our wheelchair safaris to Kenya will take you to the Masai Mara Game Reserve , famous for outstanding Big Five game viewing, especially the 'big cats'. Also visit Sheldrick Elephant Orphange, the Giraffe Centre, Lake Nakuru with its rhino and birdlife & Lake Naivasha. Complete your holiday relaxing on the beautiful Mombasa coast. Private guide, accessible hotels, transfers & game drives included.

wheelchair safari

This Kenya safari is wheelchair accessible. We start in Nairobi with visits to the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Centre. We then head to Ol Pejeta Conservancy for outstanding Big Five game viewing, including rhino & visit Sweetwaters Chimps sanctuary. We also visit Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha & the famous Masai Mara, before relaxing on the Mombasa coast. All transfers & game viewing included.

wheelchair safari

This wheelchair safari to Kenya visits three of its most famous game parks. After visiting the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage in Nairobi, see rhino & wonderful birdlife at Lake Nakuru , enjoy amazing ' big cats ' sightings in the famous Masai Mara , and elephants at Amboseli in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. All accessible hotels, transfers, park fees & game drives included.

wheelchair safari

If you have upper body strength & can transfer into the front seat of a game viewing vehicle, on this Cape Town safari & Garden Route private tour you can travel with your own guide in a wheelchair accessible vehicle. Explore Cape Town, ascend Table Mountain by cable car, visit Cape Point & Boulders Beach penguins, Then travel to Stellenbosch, Hermanus & pretty Knysna, ending with a Big Five safari in the Eastern Cape.

wheelchair safari

Encounter some of the best wildlife in the world on this thrilling Kruger National Park safari in South Africa , including the Big Five, amazing bird life, insects, retiles and so much more. Afterwards fly to the warm tropical island of Mauritius , with its crystal clear turquoise waters and sandy beaches. Wheelchair & disabled adapted hotels and transfers (Exclusive-use Kruger lodge price is based on min of 4 people)

wheelchair safari

This wonderful wheelchair disabled safari to Tanzania offers some of the best wildlife in the world, including the elephants of Tarangire & Big Five game viewing in the Ngorongoro Crater and on the open plains of Serengeti National Park - home to the famous wildebeest migration & an array of big cats and other predators. English speaking guide, all accessible hotels, transfers, & game viewing included.

wheelchair safari

This comprehensive wheelchair safari holiday & vacation visits five of the most famous national parks in Kenya , as well as the Sheldrick Elephant Orphange in Nairobi. Explore Samburu in the dry north, see the Sweetwaters Chimps near Mount Kenya, Lake Nakuru, the lush plains of the Masai Mara & Amboseli - with some of the best game viewing in the world. All accessible hotels, transfers & game drives included.

wheelchair safari

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10 wheelchair-accessible tour companies that are changing the travel industry

Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants 1

Planning a trip as a wheelchair user can be complicated, to say the least. Searching hours-on-end for the perfect accessible hotel, figuring out which modes of transportation are accessible , and compiling lists of accessible must-see attractions can certainly be stressful and time-consuming. But what if there was a way to eliminate a lot of the stress that comes with planning a wheelchair-friendly vacation? Well, there is and I'd love to tell you all about it.

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Around the world, there are a variety of tour companies that specialize in accessibility. They organize accessible transportation and accommodations and know which attractions are accessible so that you don't have to plan anything. Instead, you can simply look forward to your vacation and know that all of the planning is in good hands.

Whether you want to see waterfalls in Iceland , roll on the equator in Ecuador, go on a safari or something else, almost any experience is possible with the 10 companies that are featured below. Each one offers accessible tours, and while these are by no means the only accessibility-focused tour companies in the world, they are some of the best

Ability Adventures

If you have ever dreamed of visiting New Zealand , Ability Adventures can turn your dream into reality. They are New Zealand's outstanding accessible travel company and cater to all disabilities. Whether you are a wheelchair user, hard of hearing, blind or a slow walker, they have a plethora of tour options to suit your accessibility needs. You can explore national parks, see heritage sites, cruise fjords or even go bungee jumping if you're feeling particularly adventurous. (Note that New Zealand continues to be closed to foreign travelers in 2021 due to the COVID pandemic.) Learn more about Ability Adventures here .

Related: 5 tips for going on a cruise as a wheelchair user

Accessible Caribbean Vacations

wheelchair safari

After the past year and a half, the Caribbean has never sounded so great, right?! If relaxing on a Caribbean island sounds nice to you, consider checking out Accessible Caribbean Vacations. This company offers accessible tours and shore excursions in more than 20 Caribbean destinations. They can also book accessible cruises for guests and arrange fully accessible shore excursions for each port of call. Whether you're cruising the Caribbean or flying in to a destination, Accessible Caribbean Vacations can be sure that you have a fun and accessible experience. Learn more about Accessible Caribbean Vacations here .

Related: The most wheelchair-accessible beach destinations in the U.S.

Disabled Accessible Travel

Europe has so many destinations that are worth visiting, but no matter which part of Europe you're most interested in, there is a good chance that Disabled Accessible Travel offers tours there. The company offers accessible shore excursions, accessible land-based tours, and mobility equipment rental. From popular destinations like Italy and Spain to lesser-known places like Latvia, Disabled Accessible Travel can take care of all of your accessibility needs. Learn more about Disabled Accessible Travel here .

Related: 7 air travel tips for wheelchair users

Epic Enabled

wheelchair safari

Going on a safari is on most people's bucket list and Epic Enabled is making that once-in-a-lifetime experience possible for travelers with disabilities in South Africa. The company leads monthly group tours on safari in Kruger National Park and a private game reserve with an accessible safari truck, but accessible tours are also available in the beautiful city of Cape Town. If you want to see lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos and more in their natural environment, consider going on a safari with Epic Enabled. Learn more about Epic Enabled here .

Related: 12 Unusual Safaris You Can Try Around the World

Iceland Unlimited

wheelchair safari

Do you want to see the northern lights , swim in hot springs or view majestic waterfalls? If so, Iceland could be the ideal destination for you. Iceland Unlimited's founder and owner, Jón Gunnar Benjaminsson, is a wheelchair user himself, so he knows firsthand which activities to recommend to fellow wheelchair users. His company can organize accessible trips throughout the entire country. Learn more about Iceland Unlimited here .

Related: Best northern lights adventures for families

Il Viaggio Travel

wheelchair safari

Central America is known for not being the most accommodating for wheelchair users, but when it comes to Costa Rica , it's a whole different story. Thanks to Il Viaggio Travel, wheelchair users can experience all that Costa Rica has to offer. Adapted transportation is available and you can go on customized tours to the rainforest, in the capital city of San Jose, or even try adaptive surfing at the country's best beaches. Learn more about Il Viaggio Travel here .

Related: These are the most wheelchair-accessible cities around the world

Latin America for All

South America is full of remarkable destinations that are worth experiencing, and if you are interested in visiting Ecuador and the Galapagos, Peru or Argentina, you need to check out Latin America for All. This company plans everything for you so that you can fully enjoy these three destinations. While accessibility between the three countries does vary to some degree, Latin America for All can customize your trip and make your itinerary as accessible for you as possible. Learn more about Latin America for All here .

Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants

Morocco is a destination that I knew nothing about before visiting, but it quickly became one of my favorite places thanks to a phenomenal trip with Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants. The company has adapted transportation and can customize itineraries for each traveler, depending on the traveler's needs. You can explore popular cities like Casablanca, Fes, and Marrakech, or even stay in the Sahara desert. Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants also created an adapted camel saddle to give wheelchair users the ability to safely and comfortably ride a camel in the desert. Learn more about Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants here .

Related: 10 things to know before you go to Morocco

Saku Travel

wheelchair safari

Estonia is a European country that is often skipped over unless it falls on a cruise itinerary, but it is completely worth visiting whether you're on a Scandinavian cruise or not. The capital city of Tallinn is gorgeous, but there are accessible experiences outside of the city as well, including hiking/rolling on a smooth boardwalk trail in a bog in Lahemaa National Park. Saku Travel has accessible transportation that can get you around the country and the fantastic guides sure know how to show wheelchair users a good time. Learn more about Saku Travel here .

Wheel the World

Wheel the World has quickly become one of the leading companies devoted to accessible tours. They offer accessible tours in more than a dozen countries, providing transportation and plenty of accessible things to do, including some pretty adventurous and epic experiences. With Wheel the World, you can roll around Easter Island, soar on a zipline in Mexico or even go dune bashing in Qatar ... just to name a few. Learn more about Wheel the World here .

All photos courtesy of the author

  • The Okavango
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Accessible Wheelchair-Friendly Safari – Group Tour

A safari to the Okavango Delta is not out of reach for people with mobility issues and disabilities. This excellent mobile safari was born from an ethos of inclusivity – to ensure the wonders of the Okavango are open to all. Endeavour Safaris have pioneered this specialist service in Botswana, with custom built vehicles and other facilities ensuring a safe and comfortable safari experience for all guests. Operating right across Botswana and the surrounding region, this itinerary can also be tailored to include stops in wheelchair – friendly permanent camps along the way.

This 6 night itinerary explores the eastern Okavango, in the game rich Khwai area, in combination with central Chobe namely the famous Savuti area. These prime game viewing areas complement each other well- being so different they offer wonderfully varied and interesting game viewing experiences.

Endeavour offer a full range of services including wheelchair friendly 4×4 game vehicles with lifts and secure mounting, dialysis machines, spacious and well-designed tents and access to boating and medical facilities. Vehicles offer 8 window seats with another available for the guide.

These mobile safaris are designed to offer an authentic and adventurous safari through Botswana’s wilderness. Mobile safaris were the original form of safari, with simple light weight camps moving along with you as you explored the wilds of the African bush. This option from Endeavour captures the spirit of those first safari explorers’ adventures. Mobile safaris have the advantage of exclusivity and flexibility and with your own dedicated professional guide and camp staff included you are free to set the rhythm for your days and to focus on personal interests.

Scheduled Group Departure Dates for 2021:

3-9 April 24-30 April 30 May 5 June 9- 15 July 30 Aug 5 Sep 3-9 Oct 31 Oct – 6 Nov

While not necessary, it is recommended to have a pre-safari night in Maun before starting the safari to rest after your long journey and to be fully charged and energized for the adventure that lies ahead.

Day 1 - Khwai

On arrival at Maun Airport you will be met by your guide and settled into the game vehicle for your road transfer to your first camp, Khawi, situated in the eastern Moremi. You set off in your custom built 4x4 game vehicle, secure and comfortable – with great views enhanced by your elevated position thereby maximizing your chances for good game spotting!

All aboard and you depart for the Eastern Okavango, a gently -paced drive of approximately 5 hours in length. As we pass through Maun and the nearby rural villages, you will have a glimpse into rural Botswana life. Very soon there are fewer people and more animals and you can start enjoying some interesting sightings along the way. Arriving into camp in the late afternoon, your team will be ready to welcome you to your new temporary home base for a few days. Settle into camp where hot water will be available for showers after the long journey. Then, meet for refreshing drinks around the camp fire, a hearty dinner and bed for a much needed rest after your long first day. Hopefully you will not be too tired to take in the nearby sounds of the African bushveld at night….? Hippos honking in the bushveld background often make up the soundtrack to superb evenings in Khwai.

Day 2 and 3 - Khwai

We wake early with the dawn chorus – the best time for game viewing is in the cool early morning while the predators are often still active. We have a quick breakfast around the camp fire and then set off for our first morning game drive. Perhaps following up on the sounds heard in the night? Your professional guide will read the tracks in the bush like a newspaper for the news of animals movements in the night and interpret these for you. Every drive is different – there is always so much to learn.

We return for lunch as the day heats up, followed by a few hours of rest in the cool of the shade before setting off after in the mid-afternoon for another game drive, returning after sunset. Night drives are also possible from Khwai, offering the opportunity to see nocturnal animals rarely seen in the day such as genet, aardvark, bush babies and caracals – and of course the usual nocturnal predators like lion, leopard and hyena.

Game drives explore the dry-land habitats around the leadwood and camel-thorn woodlands and savannahs as well as the riverside and marshy back-waters of the Khwai river. These varied landscapes are home to a wild range of animals.

Khwai has impressive populations of elephants, both bull elephant as well as breeding herds. Predators numbers are excellent too, as well as lion and leopard there are good wild dog numbers here. Buffalo visit the area seasonally with large herds moving in during the summer rains. The swampy areas in the west are home to the aquatic adapted antelope such as red lechwe. Other species to look out for include tsessebe, blue wildebeest, giraffe, kudu, sable antelope, roan antelope and impala.

Evenings are spent around the camp fire and dinner table, sharing stories and discussing our experiences of today and the route ahead.

Day 4 - Savuti

This morning after breakfast we set off to Savuti in the southern reaches of Chobe National Park, where we will spend the following three nights. As before the camp staff drive ahead to set up camp while we spend the rest of the day making our journey at a more gentle pace, stopping to enjoy sightings along the way and indulge in a delicious picnic lunch.

This is an interesting drive. We pass evidence of the Paleo-Lake Makgadikgadi that dried up some ten thousand years ago. We continue on through to the Magwikwe Sand-ridge that formed the shoreline for this massive inland sea, this can be a challenging road when the rains arrive! The old lake bed now forms Mababe Depression and the thick clay floor of the depression yields grass high in protein for wildlife. As a result animals are abundant in the area after the rains. During the rainy season the depression is impassable due to the “cotton soil” and alternative routes must be used.

During this drive we cover a wide range of habitats typical of northern Botswana. It is certainly not all landscape to be seen, there is great game viewing to be had. This is good lion territory and very good cheetah country too. Elephant can be seen too though they are more commonly found at the end of the drive as we near the permanent waters.

Arriving into camp the team will be waiting for us. After a long day we will settle into camp, enjoy hot showers and dinner before retiring to our tents, ready for the next day.

Day 5 and 6 - Savuti

For the next two days we arise early with the dawn chorus and enjoy early morning game drives, returning to camp for lunch and a rest before setting off as the day cools in the late afternoon for another drive. The rhythm of safari will be very familiar to you by now!

Unusually for Botswana, Savuti is not completely about the dramatic landscape, despite first appearances! Large rocky outcrops lift up out of the Kalahari sands and savannah. These hills create a very unique habitat attracting a variety of different animals. The most famous feature of this area is the Savuti Marsh, which has been the setting for many of the most dramatic wildlife documentaries in Africa. The large Marsh Pride of lion have learn to hunt elephant and hippo, making for explosive viewing - this is rarely seen during the day as lions prefer to hunt at night. Saying that, even during the day these lions are a formidable sight.

The Savuti Channel runs through this landscape linking the dry sand-veld, the waterholes, the hills and the grassland that was the Savuti Marsh. This channel is usually dry- its water flowing rarely and unpredictably.

The waterholes, the only permanent source of water, are always an interesting spot for game viewing. These are pumped by the Department of Wildlife and provide a major attraction for birdlife.

Day 7 - End of Safari

This morning we rise early for breakfast and bid farewell to the team as we make our way to the Chobe Riverfront and Kasane, where the safari ends.

This is an interesting drive, with lovely game viewing along the way, though we will be aiming for an arrival into Kasane for around midday. Beautiful Sable and Roan antelope live in the woodlands. Leopard too. Elephant are abundant, even as we enter the town of Kasane it is not uncommon to see elephant causing a traffic jam!

This safari ends at Kasane Airport. For those interested, extensions can be arrange to include a stop on the Chobe riverfront, where Chobe Game Lodge is suggested as a suitable accommodation option. Victoria Falls is only 1.5 hours away and can also be included in the itinerary with a number of suitable hotel options. Please speak to us for more details.

wheelchair safari

Endeavour Safaris

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At Okavango Delta Explorations we specialise in crafting safaris to this unique ecosystem.

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Extensions to this safari

Chobe game lodge.

One of Botswana’s most famous and much-loved safari lodges, Chobe Game Lodge boasts the finest location in Chobe being the only lodge located within Chobe National Park itself. The Lodge lies on the banks of the mighty Chobe River in a particularly pretty setting and offers a luxurious base for exploring Chobe. This smart, slick but immensely friendly and welcoming lodge has a full range of facilities and a fantastic team to look after you.

Victoria Falls Hotel

Known fondly as the “Grand old lady of the Falls’’ the luxurious Victoria Falls Hotel is a stone’s throw away from the thundering Victoria Falls. Built in 1904 and steeped in history, the hotel epitomises the elegant splendour of the early 1900s with rich teak furniture and sophisticated décor. With spectacular views into Batoka Gorge, an unrivalled location and a full range of facilities to suit everyone, this remains a top choice for many visitors.

  • Duration 6 Nights
  • Rates Mar 2022 USD 3,735 Apr 2022 USD 3,735 May 2022 USD 3,735 Jun 2022 USD 4,230 Jul 2022 USD 4,230 Aug 2022 USD 4,230 Sep 2022 USD 4,230 Oct 2022 USD 4,230 Nov 2022 USD 3,735 Dec 2022 USD 3,735

wheelchair safari

Featured Properties

A guest with Endeavour Safaris enjoying watching elephant on safari

Endeavour Safaris is a specialist safari outfit best known for their accessible safaris for persons with disabilities. Endeavour offer a variety of safari options which can be tailored to individual needs. Passionate about inclusive tourism and opening up the wonders of safaris to all guests, they offer a full range of safari altwith services including dialysis machines, wheelchair friendly vehicles, access to boating and medical facilities. Other safaris include Trans-Okavango boating safaris.

Experience the Okavango Delta

Contact us for more information and to start planning your Okavango safari

WE HAVE REBRANDED

Safariseat is now a product made by the accessibility institute, or tai for short. .

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Woman brings dead man in wheelchair to bank, tries to get loan

wheelchair safari

Moscow Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 60 most popular moscow trips. compare tour itineraries from 45 tour companies. 308 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating., popular moscow tours.

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Winter

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Winter

  • Explore the majestic St Petersburg & Moscow on private city tours
  • Admire the rich Russian history, art and architecture
  • Travel to Moscow on a highspeed train
  • Enjoy the local cuisine in stylish restaurants

Lower Volga Voyage

Lower Volga Voyage

  • Visit magnificent Red Square and Kremlin and examine the collection at theKremlin’s State Armory.
  • Experience Russia’s diverse musical traditions at lively folk music performances
  • Explore Volgograd, the site of the decisive battle of World War II’s eastern front

Volga Dream Russian River Cruise

Volga Dream Russian River Cruise

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Summer

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Summer

White Russian - 7 days

White Russian - 7 days

  • Discover Moscow's UNESCO-listed Red Square, home to spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum and the historic GUM Department store
  • Explore the grounds of Moscow's mighty Kremlin, with its numerous governmentbuildings, gold-domed cathedrals and the giant tsar bell
  • Celebrate New Year's Eve in Moscow!
  • Take in the highlights of St Petersburg including a guided tour of the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Cathedral
  • Take a guided tour of the remarkable Hermitage Museum at the Winter Palace

Vodka Shot - 6 days

Vodka Shot - 6 days

  • Explore the beautiful city of St Petersburg, including the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt
  • Marvel at the dazzling array of art and exhibits in the world-famous Hermitage Museum, at the Winter Palace in St Petersburg
  • Discover a lavish residence of the tsars on a day trip to Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo (winter: mid-October to April) or Peterhof Palace and gardens (summer: May to mid-October)
  • Take in the highlights of the capital on a walking tour, visiting Moscow's famous Red Square, home to the historic GUM Department Store, Lenin’s Mausoleum and spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral
  • Take a guided tour of the Moscow Kremlin, Russia’s political power house. Stroll around the grounds of this fortified complex, visit the Kremlin's cathedrals and see the mighty Tsar Bell

Route of the Romanovs - 10 days

Route of the Romanovs - 10 days

  • Learn about the last days of the Romanovs in Yekaterinburg, visiting the sites where Tsar Nicolas II and his family were assassinated and buried
  • Straddle two continents at the famous obelisk Europe/Asia border marker in Yekaterinburg
  • Experience the Trans-Siberian railway on an overnight train journey from Moscow to Yekaterinburg

New Year's in Moscow - 9 days

New Year's in Moscow - 9 days

  • Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo on Christmas Day and marvel at the incredible Amber Room
  • Spend a night in Novgorod, an ancient city by the Volkhov River - explore the kremlin, cathedral and other sights and enjoy a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

All Moscow , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Moscow

wheelchair safari

Small Group Moscow Tours

Small Group Moscow Tours

Back in the USSR - 7 days

Russian Revolution - 9 days

Russian Revolution - 9 days

  • Visit historic Novgorod, an ancient city which straddles the Volkhov River. Explore the attractive riverside kremlin and experience a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

The Snowball - 6 days

The Snowball - 6 days

  • Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo and marvel at the incredible Amber Room

Mood for Moscow - 4 days

Mood for Moscow - 4 days

  • Head underground to visit a Stalinist-era Soviet Bunker on an optional excursion
  • Stroll to the vibrant Izmailovo Market, which lies behind the walls of an ancient Kremlin, and shop for an array of souvenirs

Best Moscow Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

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Top Moscow Attractions & Experiences

Moscow Tours & Travel Guide

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Moscow reviews & ratings, capitals of the north.

some hotels could have been better

It was jam packed with every place I wanted to go and see. I especially love my photo of us setting out on the night time river cruise in St Petersburg and the Peter...

I really did not buy much and what I did buy was small gifts for others .

Johanna-Marie

Good hotels, some better than others. Interesting itinerary

Too rushed. Optional tour rather too short

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4. What does ‘Stride Preferred’ mean?

THE 5 BEST Moscow Safaris

Safaris in moscow.

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  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • District Central (TsAO)
  • 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
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  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

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1. Rybokhotsoyuz

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2. Easy Russia Tour Guide

alizain1985

3. UTS GROUP

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4. 365AltaiMongolia

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5. #1 Russia -Tanzania | Zanzibar, Serengeti Safari & Kilimanjaro Agency | BURIGI CHATO SAFARIS CO LTD

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6. Aviashop.Ru

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7. Transsib Moscow

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8. BASK TOUR

  • Easy Russia Tour Guide
  • #1 Russia -Tanzania | Zanzibar, Serengeti Safari & Kilimanjaro Agency | BURIGI CHATO SAFARIS CO LTD
  • 365AltaiMongolia

Wheelchair Travel

Moscow Public Transportation

The public transportation system in Moscow is moderately accessible, much to the surprise of many. Use of this transportation network will require some planning for disabled travelers, especially those in wheelchairs. An ability to understand and recognize the Cyrillic alphabet will also make its use much easier for travelers of all abilities. The city’s subway system is not accessible to wheelchairs. The vast majority of city buses and trolley buses offer step-free access.

Metro Subway

The Moscow Metro Subway is spread across 12 lines and serves 196 stations throughout the city. While some stations have recently had elevators installed, the system cannot be considered wheelchair accessible. Large gaps of up to 6 inches exist between the subway train and station platforms. Trains are often not level with the platform and require a step up of a similar distance.

Stations without elevators require travelers to ascend or descend long flights of stairs. I strongly recommend that you use the accessible city bus network and avoid the subway.

City Bus and Trolleybus System

Moscow is served by an increasingly modern city bus system with hundreds of routes/lines. Every major city street is served by at least one bus line. Busses are numbered and lettered with route information. The network consists of normal, gas-powered city buses and the largest electricity-powered trolleybus system in the world.

The majority of city buses and trolleybuses now have lowered floors and are wheelchair accessible. The door at the center of the bus is equipped with a manual ramp which the bus operator will extend for wheelchair users. These ramps can be quite steep, but the bus operator can assist with pushing the wheelchair up the ramp. Wheelchair accessible buses are equipped with a securement space for wheelchairs with tie downs/straps and a seatbelt. Priority reserved seating is available for seniors and persons with disabilities.

All wheelchair accessible buses are marked with the international symbol of access (the wheelchair icon) at the center door or on the front of the vehicle. Wheelchair entry is possible only through the center door, where the retractable or fold out ramp is located. Wheelchair travelers ride the city bus and trolleybus free of charge. You should flag down the approaching bus if wish to ride, so that the operator can maneuver the bus close to the curb for ramp deployment.

On-street rail trams

The City of Moscow is served by 44 on street tram lines, which run on recessed rails and are powered by electricity. All trams require riders to climb several steps in order to access the passenger cabin. There are no implements which make wheelchair access possible. Disabled travelers should plan to avoid any routes which require the use of a tram. City buses adequately serve all parts of the city in which the trams operate.

City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-on/off Tour Bus

Although it is not managed by the city, the City Sightseeing Moscow tour bus travels to all of the major sights in Moscow and allows patrons to hop-on and hop-off at nearly 40 stops. The bus stops at or near all of the sights I have reviewed on this website. The next bus is available 30-40 minutes after the one before and the entire route circle takes 60 minutes to complete. Buses are wheelchair accessible, with fold-out ramps at the rear doors. One dedicated wheelchair space is available on each bus.

Passengers are provided with a set of headphones which can be plugged in to the at-seat ports. An audio guide is available in multiple languages, including English. Tickets for adults, good for 24 hours from the time of purchase, are available for 700 RUB. They can be purchased online with credit card, or onboard the bus with cash.  Tickets are provided free of charge to wheelchair users and for other persons with proof of disability. Discounts are also available to seniors with identification. For additional information on the Moscow City Sightseeing Bus or to download route maps, visit  city-sightseeing.com .

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  1. Africa Wheelchair Safari Guide (Travel Tips & Accommodation)

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  2. A Wheelchair Accessible Safari Guide to Kruger National Park

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  3. Wheelchair Accessible South African Safari

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  1. Safari

    signature wheelchair safaris. Private & Personalised Game Viewing. Embark on an ultimate safari journey at Ximuwu, nestled in a private South African reserve. Firstly, experience personalized safaris amid lush landscapes and wildlife. Ximuwu prides itself on offering an exclusive, fully accessible game viewing experience.

  2. This Wheelchair-Accessible Safari in South Africa Should Be the Future

    Ximuwu Lodge (pronounced Shi-mu-wu) was born: a five-star lodge and wheelchair accessible safari open to the ambulatory and non-ambulatory public. Like all things forged out of urgency, pressure ...

  3. A Wheelchair Accessible Safari Guide to Kruger National Park

    Out of the many camps that Kruger Park has, Skukuza is the largest, which makes it the most popular. It's in a great area and is wheelchair friendly with smooth paths and accessible bungalows. There are quite a few wheelchair accessible safari bungalows at Skukuza, but I stayed in bungalow number 131.

  4. A Wheelchair Accessible Safari Guide To Kruger National Park

    At more than 7,500 square miles, it is the ultimate wheelchair accessible safari destination in South Africa. With more than 12,000 elephants, among many other animals, you'll be able to spot the Big 5 in Kruger (elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, and rhino) and a whole lot more.

  5. Go Africa Safaris & Travel for disabled people: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda

    " Going on safari in Africa is a lifelong dream for many people, wheelchair users included. A number of companies across the continent are making these experiences accessible to people with disabilities, and I recently had the pleasure of exploring Kenya thanks to GoAfrica Safaris, the leader in wheelchair accessible African safaris.

  6. Wheelchair Accessible South African Safari

    Day 1. Your South African Safari holiday starts with a warm welcome at the airport, with meet & greet and adapted transfer to your lodge. Here you have the opportunity to enjoy luxurious facilities and 30 acres of private botanical gardens. The grounds and buildings have a wheelchair friendly design with 18 ponds, waterways, and prolific birdlife.

  7. Wheelchair & Disabled Accessible Safaris & Tours in Tanzania

    For expert advice on disabled and wheelchair accessible safaris, holidays, and tours to Tanzania and Kenya, contact our experienced team today via calls or WhatsApp at +255 755 880 881. We can tailor-make a holiday to your exact requirements and needs. At Signature Safari, we are committed to providing accessible and unforgettable safari ...

  8. Introduction: Planning A Wheelchair Accessible Kenya Safari

    Going on safari in Africa is a lifelong dream for many people, wheelchair users included. A number of companies across the continent are making these experiences accessible to people with disabilities, and I recently had the pleasure of exploring Kenya thanks to GoAfrica Safaris, the leader in wheelchair accessible African safaris. Wheelchair ascending ramp into Land Cruiser on safari.

  9. Guests with Disabilities

    The Safari Park provides accommodations to people who need mobility assistance while on our grounds. Shuttle service is available for guests with limited mobility and guests who use wheelchairs, running on a continuous loop stopping at Park Base and Okavango Outpost. The Park also offers a limited number of wheelchairs and electric scooters for ...

  10. Wheelchair-Friendly Holidays & Safaris

    Wheelchair-friendly safari vehicles Accessible vehicles can be sourced for many of our holidays, including safaris. In our recent wheelchair-friendly Tanzania safari holiday, we used a private vehicle and guide for the safari and booked a larger vehicle type (a seven-seater for three guests, plus guides) to ensure there was plenty of space and ...

  11. Wheelchair Accessible Safaris, Holidays & Tours for Disabled Travellers

    As specialists in wheelchair accessible safari holidays for disabled travellers, let us take away the logistical pressure and allow you to have the trip of a lifetime. For expert advice on wheelchair accessible safaris, holidays & tours to Africa, Latin America & India for disabled people, contact our experienced team on 01582 766122 today.

  12. 10 wheelchair-accessible tour companies that are changing the travel

    Epic Enabled. Epic Enabled -- South Africa. Going on a safari is on most people's bucket list and Epic Enabled is making that once-in-a-lifetime experience possible for travelers with disabilities in South Africa. The company leads monthly group tours on safari in Kruger National Park and a private game reserve with an accessible safari truck ...

  13. Accessible Wheelchair-Friendly Safari

    Endeavour offer a full range of services including wheelchair friendly 4×4 game vehicles with lifts and secure mounting, dialysis machines, spacious and well-designed tents and access to boating and medical facilities. Vehicles offer 8 window seats with another available for the guide. These mobile safaris are designed to offer an authentic ...

  14. Specialist Types of Safaris

    Birdwatching Safaris. Many destinations in Safari Africa are fabulous for birdwatching. From bee-eaters to ostrich, the range of species is astounding! There may be times when big game is scarce, but you can always enjoy scanning the skies, swamps, and seas for birdlife.

  15. SafariSeat

    SafariSeat is a revolutionary, low cost, all-terrain wheelchair, designed for people in rural environments. WE HAVE REBRANDED SafariSeat is now a product made by The Accessibility Institute, or TAI for short. VISIT OUR NEW SITE ...

  16. Woman brings dead man in wheelchair to bank, tries to get loan

    A Brazilian woman brought a 68-year-old man in a wheelchair into a bank branch and tried to get him to sign for a loan, police said. Bank staff became suspicious and called the police, who said he ...

  17. Top Moscow Tours & Vacations 2024/2025 [reviews & photos]

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  18. THE 5 BEST Moscow Safaris (Updated 2024)

    Safaris in Moscow. 1. Rybokhotsoyuz. 2. Easy Russia Tour Guide. An excellent and reliable service which made my trip mesmorizing with easy moscow. Especially Anna is a wonderful... 3. UTS GROUP.

  19. Wheelchair Accessible Public Transportation in Moscow, Russia

    The public transportation system in Moscow is moderately accessible, much to the surprise of many. Use of this transportation network will require some planning for disabled travelers, especially those in wheelchairs. An ability to understand and recognize the Cyrillic alphabet will also make its use much easier for travelers of all abilities.

  20. Moscow is back to Normal Life

    A week and a half ago, self-isolation, which lasted for the last two months, finally stopped and people can again move around Russia without e-passes. Moscow...