Look up the word “safari,” and you’ll find that it’s derived from the Swahili for “long journey.” How appropriate! After all, going on safari for most people means taking a lengthy journey, usually to Africa, in search of something new and exciting, whether that’s wildlife, scenery, culture, or even the experience of overnighting in the wilds, in a tent—albeit, perhaps, a luxurious tent. A safari is the type of memorable experience that can forge lasting bonds between couples, friends, and family members traveling together. We guarantee you’ll be talking about your adventures around the dinner table for years to come!

So, who’s best cut out for the rigors and rewards of a safari? According to Hideaways’ Travel Services Manager, Darcy Allen, you should be an independent-minded traveler, flexible, reasonably fit, and willing to rise early (no later than 6 a.m.) to hit the dusty road, as this is often the best time to view game. The more off-the-beaten-track your safari is, the more important it is to be in good health, primarily because you’ll be so much farther out in the bush from any medical services, including hospitals. Of course, you’ll probably enjoy yourself more if have an interest in wildlife, unique scenery, photography, and different cultures as well.

Darcy also suggests you should be a “go with the flow” type of person. “We often have people say, ‘I want to see elephants’ or ‘I’d really like to see the migration of the Wildebeest and zebra between Kenya and Tanzania,’ which usually happens during the summer months,” says Darcy. “We’ll do our best to get you there at the right time, but you have to keep in mind that these are wild animals, so we never can predict exactly where they will be or when. But you’ll always see something fantastic, no matter when you go.”