General Activity Information
Area and Setting
Bush picnics are hosted in some of Southern Africa’s most evocative safari settings —
from dry riverbeds and shady acacia clearings in private reserves to designated picnic
sites inside national parks like the Kruger. These open, unfenced areas let you pause
in the middle of the wilderness, with views of distant ridges, river lines or open
savanna where antelope, elephants and other wildlife may drift past as you dine.
Depending on the lodge and reserve, bush picnics may be set up close to a waterhole,
on a rocky outcrop with panoramic vistas or beneath a canopy of trees that offer
welcome shade in the heat of the day. While the setting feels wonderfully remote,
every picnic is carefully planned and monitored by your guiding team, who choose
locations that balance atmosphere, comfort and safety.
What to Expect at a Bush Picnic
Most bush picnics are timed to follow a morning or afternoon game drive. After
tracking wildlife in an open 4x4, you’ll arrive to find tables, chairs or picnic
blankets already laid out, with beverages on ice and a spread of freshly prepared
dishes. Menus range from light brunch buffets and continental spreads to hot
breakfasts, grilled specialties and indulgent desserts.
Staff remain discreetly on hand to serve drinks, replenish platters and keep watch
on the surroundings, while your guide shares stories about the area, its wildlife
and the history of outdoor dining on safari. Picnics typically last between 90
minutes and three hours before you continue your game drive or return to camp.
In private reserves, lantern-lit evening setups may evolve into atmospheric
bush dinners under the stars.
Best Time of Day and Year
Bush picnics are usually scheduled for late morning, when game drives pause for
brunch, or late afternoon as a leisurely prelude to sunset. Midday gatherings
are often arranged in shaded spots to avoid the heat, while evening picnics
and dinners take advantage of cooler temperatures and star-filled skies.
They can be enjoyed year-round, though the experience changes with the seasons.
Dry winter months often bring clearer views and regular wildlife traffic to
nearby water sources, while green-season picnics unfold against lush scenery,
dramatic clouds and thriving birdlife. African Sky consultants can coordinate
bush picnics that complement your overall safari rhythm and any special occasions
you’d like to celebrate in the bush.
