September has been another busy month here at Bradt!
Our 2027 New Travel Writer of the Year Competition is still open, with around one month to go until entries close. This year’s theme is ‘An Animal Encounter’, with a five-night South African adventure for two, courtesy of Safari.com, up for grabs.
Africa has also been in focus elsewhere, with the launch of our annual best safaris in Africa round-up. Read on for our first two spotlights: safari classics Kenya and Tanzania.
There’s been plenty to celebrate, too. Helen Watson’s Tea and Grit has been shortlisted for the Ilse Schwepcke Prize, while our Languedoc-Roussillon and Northern Ireland guides have been nominated for 'Guide of the Year' at the 2026 Travel Media Awards.
This year’s theme is ‘An Animal Encounter’ - and the winner will receive an unforgettable five-night trip to South Africa for two, courtesy of Safari.com.
The prize includes three nights at a luxury safari lodge in the Sabi Sands or Greater Kruger, followed by two nights in Cape Town, plus flights, transfers, game drives and safari-lodge meals.
Got a first-hand animal encounter worth writing about?
Tanzania almost has too much to offer. It delivers the quintessential safari and so much more. Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar…the list of iconic destinations goes on. It’s no surprise that one of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to cram too much in.
On the northern safari circuit, the Serengeti offers abundant big cats and the world-famous wildebeest migration, while the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater is one of Tanzania’s best places to see rhinos. In the dry season, huge elephant herds gather along Tarangire’s rivers, while Lake Manyara showcases the dramatic geography of the Great Rift Valley, with its striking escarpment, diverse habitats and abundant birdlife.
But less is more on safari. Spend a couple of nights in each destination, head deeper into the parks to escape the crowds, and leave time to connect with the people you meet along the way, including the Maasai.
Shah Tours has showcased Tanzania’s finest safari experiences for over 40 years, offering expertly guided private and small-group journeys through the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire and Lake Manyara.
Featuring experienced local guides, handpicked lodges and authentic Maasai cultural encounters, their popular 9-day Northern Tanzania safari (from £3475 per person) delivers unforgettable wildlife adventures.
Kenya: Safari With Tradition
Kenya is where the African safari was born, and its safari industry has an appealing old-school confidence. Kenyans also have a knack for making you feel genuinely welcome. In safari terms, the country has it all: big landscapes, abundant wildlife, a beautiful coastline and accommodation to suit every traveller.
The Masai Mara is on most people’s bucket list, but consider staying in one of the conservancies bordering the reserve for a more exclusive experience. Amboseli National Park, with its iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, is another highlight. To get off the beaten track, head to Laikipia Plateau, where wildlife viewing combines with a broader wilderness experience.
Further north, the arid landscapes of Samburu offer a completely different side of Kenya, with unusual species such as Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe and the wonderfully odd-looking gerenuk.
Beyond the Plains Safaris is a local Kenya-based safari operator specialising in private, fully customised Kenya safaris.
With expert local knowledge, they create unforgettable wildlife and luxury experiences tailored to your interests, travel style, and schedule. Prices start at £300 per adult per day for a mid-range tour.
SHORTLISTED
We’re thrilled to announce that two of our titles have been shortlisted for 'Guide of the Year' at the 2026 Travel Media Awards:
From the beaches and birdlife of Kenting to the 3,000m peaks of Shei-Pa, the coral shores of Xiao Liuqiu and the turtle-nesting beaches of Penghu, Taiwan offers remarkable variety for such a compact country.
Explore Taroko Gorge, hike and raft in the East Longitudinal Valley, or discover Taipei’s museums, Tainan’s temples and Lukang’s historic streets.
Now available on the Bradt App, it’s a practical guide to keep in your pocket as you explore one of Asia's most fascinating places!
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The prize is in...win a five-night South African adventure for two We’re delighted to reveal the prize for our 2027 New Travel Writer of the Year Competition - and it’s one for the books. The winner (and a guest of their choice) will be heading to South Africa for five unforgettable nights courtesy of Safari.com! ENTER HERE Your prize awaits… Your South African adventure begins with three nights at a luxury lodge in a private reserve in the Sabi Sands or Greater Kruger, where you’ll have the...
