Physical Preparation: Fitness Levels Required for Different Trails
Going on a walking safari in the greater Kruger area with Wildside Trails is an incredible way to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of South Africa. However, to fully enjoy this experience, it's essential to be adequately prepared, both mentally and physically. Walking safaris require a certain level of fitness to navigate the varied terrain, cover daily distances, and handle the demands of the trail. Whether you're considering a backpacking adventure, where you carry all your gear, or a slackpacking trip with lighter loads, your fitness level plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
When planning a Wilderness Trail, one of the first decisions is whether to opt for a backpacking or slackpacking trail. Each option comes with its own set of physical demands, and understanding these can help you prepare accordingly.
Backpacking Wilderness Trails are the more physically demanding of the two options. On a backpacking trail, you’ll need to carry everything you need for the duration of the safari, including your tent, sleeping bag, food, water, and other essentials. This can result in carrying a pack that weighs between 15 and 20 kilograms, depending on the length of your trip and the gear you bring.
The added weight requires a higher level of fitness, particularly in terms of strength and endurance. You’ll need to be able to walk for several hours a day, often covering distances of 5km to 15km, over uneven and sometimes challenging terrain. The weight of the pack can also affect your balance, so having a strong core and good stability is essential. Additionally, the physical demands can be heightened by the heat and other environmental factors, making overall stamina and cardiovascular fitness critical for a successful backpacking safari.
Slackpacking Wilderness Trail are less physically demanding than backpacking trips, as your main gear is transported between campsites, allowing you to carry
only a light day pack. This significantly reduces the strain on your body, making the trails more accessible to a wider range of fitness levels.
While slackpacking requires less strength and endurance than backpacking, it still involves walking long distances over varied terrain. The typical daily distances are similar, ranging from 5km to 15km, and the terrain can include anything from flat savannahs to rocky outcrops. Therefore, a reasonable level of fitness is still necessary, particularly in terms of endurance and the ability to walk for extended periods without fatigue.
Regardless of whether you choose backpacking or slackpacking, preparing your body for the demands of a Wilderness Trail is crucial. Here are some tips to help you get in shape before your trip:
As your departure date approaches, it’s important to assess whether you’re fit enough to take on the walking safari. Here are some signs that you’re ready:
A Wilderness Trail with Wildside Trails is a unique and rewarding adventure that allows you to connect deeply with the natural world. Whether you choose a backpacking or slackpacking safari, ensuring you’re physically prepared is key to fully enjoying the experience. While the demands of each option vary, both require a good level of fitness, and taking the time to train and prepare will pay off immensely on the trail.
Remember, it’s not about being an athlete; it’s about being prepared for the journey. Start with regular walking, build up your strength and endurance, and get comfortable with the gear you’ll be using. With the right preparation, you’ll not only be ready for the challenges of the trail but also able to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of the African wilderness.
No matter your current fitness level, there’s a Wilderness Trail experience that can match your abilities. By preparing adequately and choosing the right type of safari, you’ll set yourself up for an unforgettable adventure that’s as physically rewarding as it is mentally and emotionally enriching.
