Choosing the right seat on a game drive can significantly impact your experience, depending on what your preference is. Are you looking to snap great photos, or are you after a comfortable seat that won’t cause back pain? Perhaps, you’d like to engage with your guide easily. It all depends on your personal preferences and needs. Let’s explore where the best place to sit on a safari vehicle is, for these different priorities.
Image: Unsplash / Simon Hurry
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Where to sit for the perfect shot
For photography enthusiasts, locking down a prime spot for capturing wildlife is crucial.
Front row seats offer unobstructed views and quick access to both sides of the vehicle, making them ideal for capturing sudden wildlife appearances.
Sitting at the back corners allows for a wider range of angles and the ability to shoot from either side, which can be particularly useful when following moving animals.
The middle row provides stability and a good vantage point for shots, especially if you’re using a longer lens.
Remember to consider the direction of sunlight when choosing your seat, as it can affect the quality of your photos.
Where to sit if you have back problems, or long legs
Comfort is key for safari-goers with physical considerations.
The middle rows tend to have less bumpy rides compared to the front or back, making them a good choice for those with back problems.
If you’re sporting a pair of longer legs, a front-row seat may be the perfect spot. Some safari vehicles do not offer ample legroom towards the middle and back rows.
If you have any other physical considerations, the passenger seat may be your best best – you won’t need to climb down from the vehicle when getting on and off.
Where to sit to engage with others
For social butterflies who want to interact with fellow travellers and their guide without shouting across the vehicle, middle seats allow for easy conversation with passengers on both sides, putting you at the center of discussions. Sitting near the guide can spark up conversations about wildlife and the local ecosystem, however, you must be mindful of other guests. Better not to divide your guide’s attention.
Where to sit if you prefer a quiet experience on safari
For those seeking a more solitary and immersive experience, there’s a perfect spot for you, too. The back row is often quieter and less crowded, which allows you to soak up the views and sightings without being actively engaged in conversation.
No matter where you choose to sit, be respectful of others and follow the guide’s instructions for the best and safest safari experience.
ALSO SEE: WWF reports ‘catastrophic’ 73% decline in average size of monitored wildlife populations
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