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    Everything you need to know about Easy Travel’s safari vehicles

    10 minutes read
    Fleet the ultimate safari tour operator Easy Travel Tanzania

    The roads in the Serengeti are rough, but you needn’t worry—you’ll be entirely comfortable inside Easy Travel’s modern safari vehicles.

    Safari vehicles

    It’s like an SUV on steroids: a fully customized Land Cruiser complete with a pop-up roof, seven individual bucket seats, multiple device plugins, and its cooler—yes, a built-in cooler full of water.

    The camera battery from your personal outlet beeps. It’s fully charged. 

    You load your camera, then turn to the Canadian friend sitting behind you and ask for a water bottle. Sure! He pries open the vehicle’s cooler full of ice-cold beverages. After a sip, you stand up and stick your head out of the pop-top just before the driver spots three lionesses hunting wildebeest to your right.

     The camera is in hand, fully charged, and you are ready. You are in the game. You are in the mix, surrounded by the wildest place on Earth and watching predator-prey drama unfold from the comforts of your personal, four-wheeled safari stronghold. You think to yourself: This is life fully lived.

    Driving in Tanzania can often resemble a video game. Day and night, you never know what obstacles you might find: road closures, traffic jams, herds of unmoving cattle. 

    Roughly one-third of Tanzania’s 54,000-mile public road system is asphalt, making the other two-thirds an adventurous amalgamation of dirt and gravel. So, for this reason alone, it is necessary to have reliable and safe transportation.

    Introducing the Easy Travel Safari Vehicle Fleet​

    Tanzania - our vehicle - everything you need to know about easy travel’s safari vehicles

    Easy Travel has been developing an impressive fleet of 50 customized Land Cruisers for over two decades to navigate Tanzania with exceptional performance and safety records. Let’s first take a quick look under the hood of your typical Easy Travel vehicle and then cover three reasons why Easy Travel’s rigs consistently rank as some of the best in the business. Vroom vroom!

    Under the Hood: A Quick Tour of an Easy Travel Safari Vehicle

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    What does it take for an automobile to endure weeks on the road in Tanzania? A lot. It requires a fully-loaded, fully-maintained four-wheel drive SUV with all the extra bells and whistles. That’s precisely what every Easy Travel safari comes with. Some specs:

    • 4×4 Custom-built Land Cruisers
    • Heavy-duty wheels
    • Extra fuel tanks
    • Opening, sliding windows
    • Power sockets for cameras, smartphones, etc.
    • Pop-up hatch
    • Sits 7 individual chairs plus a driver
    • Refrigerator full of cold waters and soft drinks.

    Three Reasons Why Easy Travel's Safari Vehicles are Industry Leaders:

    1 – The Best In-House Auto Shop in Arusha.

    Tanzania - easy travel tanzania safari vehicles maintenance repair - everything you need to know about easy travel’s safari vehicles

    Because Easy Travel takes great pride in its 50 safari vehicles, it’s invested in its full-service auto repair shop to ensure every SUV is 100% ready when the rubber meets the road. Only a handful of tour operators share this level of commitment.

    With veteran mechanics managing state-of-the-art machinery, everything is completed in-house: the painting, welding, tailoring, and electrical work. They even have their fuel pump!

    2 – Every Driver is Multi-Talented and Top-Notch

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    Imagine a professional ecologist, botanist, anthropologist, multilingual diplomat fluent in five languages, and master automobile mechanic rolled into one person. This is the quality of driver and guide that Easy Travel commits to each safari expedition. Take a close look at our guide profiles.

    3 – Obsessive Safety Checks

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    Before embarking on a safari, every vehicle undergoes a “head-to-toe” inspection to ensure no compromising imperfections remain for you, the traveller. We call it obsessive because, well, it is. 

    Easy Travel mechanics are experts in their field, keeping each vehicle at top performance so that no mechanical errors occur while on safari. If anything unfortunate does happen on the road, each Land Cruiser includes high-frequency radios and first aid kits. Learn more about Easy Travel’s vehicles here.

    Everything you need to know about safari vehicles in-game drive or wildlife viewing

    Types of Safari Vehicles: Safari vehicles come in various types, including open-top jeeps, safari minibuses, and specialized off-road vehicles. Each type offers distinct advantages, with open-top jeeps providing unobstructed views and minibuses offering more group space. Specialized off-road vehicles are designed to navigate rugged terrain efficiently, ensuring an immersive safari experience.

    Features and Amenities: Modern safari vehicles have various features and amenities to boost comfort and convenience during wildlife excursions. These may include comfortable seating, pop-up roofs for optimal game viewing, charging ports for electronic devices, and onboard refreshments to keep passengers hydrated and energized throughout the journey.

    Customization Options: Many safari operators offer customization options to cater to their clients’ preferences and needs. These may include private safaris for personalized experiences, customizable itineraries to visit specific destinations, and the option to upgrade vehicles to include luxury amenities for a more indulgent safari adventure.

    Safety Measures: Safety is paramount during safari excursions, with safari vehicles equipped with safety features such as seat belts, roll bars, and first aid kits. Drivers undergo rigorous training to navigate wildlife encounters safely, and strict adherence to park regulations ensures the well-being of both passengers and wildlife.

    Environmental Considerations: Responsible safari operators prioritize environmental sustainability using low-impact vehicles that minimize carbon emissions and ecological footprint. Additionally, guides educate visitors about conservation practices and the importance of preserving fragile ecosystems to reduce the impact of tourism on wildlife habitats.

    Driver and Guide Expertise: Experienced and knowledgeable guides ensure a memorable and informative safari experience. They possess in-depth knowledge of local flora and fauna, wildlife behaviour, and conservation efforts, enriching the safari experience with fascinating insights and expert commentary.

    Maintenance and Care: Regular maintenance and thorough inspections of safari vehicles are essential to ensure optimal performance and passenger safety. Safari operators adhere to strict maintenance schedules, conducting regular checks and servicing to address any mechanical issues promptly and maintain the vehicles in top condition.

    Booking and Reservation Process: Booking a safari vehicle is a straightforward process facilitated by reputable safari companies. Clients can make reservations online or through travel agencies, with options to customize their safari experience based on budget, preferences, and travel dates. Transparent pricing and flexible booking policies enhance the convenience of securing a safari vehicle for an unforgettable adventure.

    Accessibility and Comfort: Safari vehicles prioritize accessibility and comfort, with features such as step bars and handrails to facilitate easy boarding and disembarking. Comfortable seating and ample legroom ensure a delightful journey, while adjustable seating configurations accommodate passengers of all ages and mobility levels.

    Safari Vehicle Etiquette: Respecting wildlife and fellow travellers is essential when embarking on a safari adventure. Safari vehicle etiquette includes:

    – Following the instructions of guides.

    – Avoid making loud noises or sudden actions that may startle animals.

    – Adhering to park regulations regarding wildlife interactions and vehicle behaviour.

    Bottom Line?

    East Africa is notorious for unrelenting roadways challenging even the most experienced drivers and vehicles. Yes, Tanzania’s government has been investing heavily in infrastructure (source), but worry not: you’ll get your ruts and bumps.

    Because you will spend considerable time inside your vehicle (no getting out in the Serengeti!), reliable, safe cars are essential for lasting comfort on safari. Easy Travel is known for having the most professional and modern fleet of Land Cruisers on the road. So fasten your seatbelts, grab your binoculars, and sniff out some life-changing experiences together.

    Getting You There?

    Whether your sights are set on Mount Kilimanjaro, the beaches of Zanzibar, or a weeklong safari, chances are you will spend some time in an Easy Travel vehicle. Contact us today, and let’s design your adventure together.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What does a tour operator do?

    Tour operators organize travel experiences, handling logistics like accommodations and transportation for seamless journeys. Leveraging expertise and partner networks, they craft customized itineraries tailored to client preferences. 

    Their role ensures memorable and enriching travel experiences for individuals and groups. Tour operators also provide valuable support throughout the travel process, assisting with visa applications, travel insurance, and pre-departure preparations. 

    During the trip, they oversee logistics, coordinate activities, and provide guidance and support to ensure travellers have a smooth and enjoyable experience. With their knowledge, resources, and dedication to customer satisfaction, tour operators play a pivotal role in creating unforgettable travel experiences that exceed expectations.

    What types of vehicles are commonly used for safaris in Southern Africa?

    Safaris in Southern Africa often utilize a variety of vehicles tailored to different terrains and preferences. Open safari vehicles like Land Rover Defenders and Toyota Land Cruisers are popular choices. 

    They offer unobstructed views and a close-to-nature experience. These vehicles are ideal for game viewing and photography, providing ample space for passengers to observe wildlife comfortably.

    What are the advantages of an open-sided safari vehicle?

    Open-sided safari vehicles offer unparalleled visibility and connectivity with the surrounding environment, allowing passengers to intimately experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the wilderness. With no windows or barriers obstructing views, travellers can capture stunning photographs and observe wildlife behaviour from all angles. Additionally, the open design enhances the sense of adventure and immersion, creating memorable and authentic safari experiences.

    How does seating arrangement impact the safari experience?

    The seating arrangement in safari vehicles can significantly influence the experience, with each position offering unique advantages. The coveted window seat provides unobstructed views and prime photography opportunities, allowing passengers to capture stunning wildlife moments easily. Meanwhile, the middle seat balances views and comfort, providing a central vantage point for observing wildlife and interacting with fellow travellers.

    What are game drives, and how do they enhance the safari experience?

    Game drives are guided excursions conducted in safari vehicles. They allow travellers to explore vast wilderness areas and encounter wildlife in their natural habitat. Led by experienced guides, game drives allow passengers to venture into remote and pristine landscapes, increasing the chances of spotting elusive animals and witnessing thrilling wildlife interactions. 

    Whether tracking lions on the prowl, observing elephants at a watering hole, or marvelling at a herd of wildebeest during migration, game drives provide unforgettable wildlife encounters and photo opportunities.

    How do river crossings enhance the safari experience?

    River crossings are exhilarating wildlife encounters when animals traverse rivers or water bodies during migration or daily activities. Witnessing river crossings during a safari offers travellers a front-row seat to nature’s most dramatic spectacles, as herds of wildebeest, zebra, and other species navigate treacherous waters while avoiding predators such as crocodiles and lions. These thrilling events provide unique wildlife observation and photography opportunities, creating lasting memories of the African wilderness.

    What are some environmental considerations when embarking on a safari?

    Safaris prioritize environmental sustainability and conservation, with tour operators and guides emphasizing the importance of minimizing ecological impact and respecting wildlife habitats. Measures such as adhering to designated trails, avoiding off-road driving, and practising responsible wildlife viewing techniques help preserve delicate ecosystems and minimize disturbance to wildlife populations. 

    Additionally, eco-friendly safari camps and lodges implement sustainable practices like waste management, energy conservation, and community engagement to support conservation efforts and protect the natural environment for future generations.

    How do closed safari vehicles compare to open-sided ones?

    Closed safari vehicles offer protection from the elements, providing shelter during inclement weather conditions such as rain or extreme heat. While they may limit visibility compared to open-sided cars, they offer passengers a comfortable, climate-controlled environment. Closed vehicles are also equipped with large windows, allowing for unobstructed views of wildlife while maintaining a barrier between passengers and the outside environment.

    What role do national parks play in the safari experience?

    National parks serve as vital sanctuaries for wildlife, preserving biodiversity and habitats for various species. Travelers benefit from safaris within these parks, exploring diverse ecosystems and observing wildlife in their natural surroundings.

    With controlled access, national parks facilitate sustainable tourism, minimizing the impact on delicate ecosystems. Ultimately, these protected areas play a crucial role in conserving endangered species and their habitats for future generations.

    How does the expertise of safari drivers and guides enhance the safari experience?

    Through their extensive knowledge of local wildlife, ecosystems, and conservation efforts, Safari drivers and guides play a crucial role in enhancing the safari experience. Their expertise allows them to navigate vast wilderness areas safely while maximizing wildlife sightings and providing insightful commentary on animal behaviour and habitat dynamics. 

    Additionally, experienced guides are skilled at interpreting animal tracks, calls, and signs, increasing the likelihood of memorable wildlife encounters and educational experiences for travellers.

    What are some safety measures implemented during safaris?

    Tour operators prioritize safety during safaris by adhering to strict safety protocols and guidelines designed to protect passengers and wildlife. Safety measures may include providing safety briefings before each excursion, equipping vehicles with first-aid kits and communication devices, and maintaining a safe distance from potentially dangerous animals. Additionally, trained guides are prepared to respond to emergencies swiftly and effectively, ensuring the well-being of all participants throughout the safari experience.

    How does the reservation process for safari vehicles work?

    Reserving safari vehicles typically involves contacting a reputable tour operator or company to inquire about availability, pricing, and itinerary options. Once a suitable safari package is selected, travellers may be required to make a deposit or full payment to secure their booking. It’s advisable to book safari vehicles well in advance, specifically during peak seasons, to ensure availability and avoid disappointment.

    What amenities are available in safari vehicles?

    Safari vehicles have various amenities to enhance passenger comfort and convenience during excursions. Common amenities may include comfortable seating, refreshments such as bottled water and snacks, and storage compartments for personal belongings and equipment. Some safari vehicles may also feature onboard charging stations, Wi-Fi connectivity, and multimedia systems for entertainment and educational purposes.

    How can travellers ensure accessibility and comfort during safaris?

    Travelers can ensure accessibility and comfort during safaris by communicating their specific needs and preferences to tour operators or safari guides in advance. This may include requesting vehicles with wheelchair accessibility, adjustable seating arrangements, or climate control features to accommodate individual comfort requirements. 

    Additionally, travellers should dress appropriately for the safari environment, wearing lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy footwear for optimal comfort and mobility during excursions.

    Are there age restrictions for participating in safaris?

    The age limitations could differ based on the tour operator and the particular safari adventure. Although numerous safaris are open to participants of all ages, some might impose minimum age prerequisites due to safety concerns or the nature of the activities. It’s crucial to verify with the tour operator in advance to confirm the suitability of the safari for all group members.

    What types of wildlife can be encountered during safaris in Tanzania?

    Tanzania is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including iconic species such as elephants, lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, and buffaloes, known as the “Big Five.” Additionally, travellers may encounter an array of other mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects, each contributing to the region’s rich biodiversity.

    How should visitors prepare for safaris in terms of clothing and equipment?

    Visitors embarking on safaris should pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for warm weather and sturdy walking shoes or boots for outdoor activities. It’s also advisable to bring sun protection such as hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent for protection against mosquitoes and other biting insects. Additionally, travellers may want to carry binoculars and cameras to enhance their wildlife viewing experience and capture memorable moments during the safari.

    Musaddiq Gulamhussein - Owner - Easy Travel Tanzania

    About the author: Musaddiq

    Meet Musaddiq Gulamhussein, owner of Easy Travel Tanzania, a tour company creating life-changing safari experiences for over 35 years. Musaddiq has explored Tanzania, developing a deep understanding of the local cultures and traditions. Follow his journey and gain insights into the African Safari experience through Easy Travel's social media and blog.

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