“Safari” vs Hunting Trip?

[Doug Hamilton]

For some unknown reason, this question crossed my mind today. The longer I considered it, the less certain the answer became.

What is the difference between a “safari” vs a hunting trip?

The word *safari" means "journey" in Swahili. So to me a hunting trip in Africa is a safari. I am however, not impressed by the little old ladies that stay in a plush lodge and go out in a zebra-striped bus to see the park animals. Technically they are correct, but to me a safari involves dirt, African night sounds, campfires and hunting. When I'm in the states and telling people where a I've been, I usually say "hunting safari" to avoid confusion.

 

[Scott CWO]

To me, a safari is a trip to hunt in wild areas in Africa and in areas where it is possible to fly camp, if needed.

Photo safaris are not true safaris. In the old days, safaris were for hunting in wild areas, not photography.

 

[Hunter-Habib]

Safari makes me think of the plains of Africa

Shikar makes me think of the jungles of Asia

Hunting trip seems like a very generic term to me.

 

[Doug Hamilton]

Safari makes me think of the plains of Africa

Shikar makes me think of the jungles of Asia

Hunting trip seems like a very generic term to me.

Yep, a safari should be a hunt in Africa. A hunting trip involves travel to an area where you spend the night in your own country while hunting. I believe you're right about "shikar" but I've never been to Asia.

 

[wesheltonj]

Safari makes me think of the plains of Africa

Shikar makes me think of the jungles of Asia

Hunting trip seems like a very generic term to me.

I will second that.

 

[Doug3006]

Privilege is a word that gets tossed around a lot. Usually by those who haven’t sacrificed to achieve their goals to describe those who have. I know that the only times I have felt truly privileged is on safari. To have been able to participate in the world’s most exciting, rewarding and romantic obsession…safari…is the greatest privilege I have known. Safari is Africa.