Safari in the UK: Uncover Norfolk’s Secret Safari Experience

Safari in the UK? No Way.

“Safari? In the UK?!” I hear you cry.

No really.

It’s true.

It’s probably one of my favourite days out in the UK that I’ve had in a long time, and it’s suitable for the whole family.

I left with a new appreciation for antelope, as well as a buzz of excitement at seeing how wildlife-based attractions could look in the future.

The Future of Conservation and Zoos

For centuries, zoos have played a vital role in educating the general public on wildlife around the world and the struggles it faces. They have contributed vast amounts to our understanding of the living world, and they have helped to conserve species on the brink of extinction.

We all know, however, that zoos have also faced valid criticism. 

Questions have been raised as to the morality of keeping animals in captivity and created discourse between those who love to visit and those who claim that their contributions do not justify their means.

A few alternatives have been offered…but I think this one really has legs.

This unique opportunity to go on safari in the UK may be about to change the way we experience zoos.

Watatunga is Different

Watatunga Wildlife Reserve is the brainchild of farmer, Ed Pope, who has dedicated 170 acres of land to providing a habitat to antelope, deer and bird species from across the globe.

Visitors can marvel at the animals here as they roam areas of grassland, wetland, forest and lakes which closely mimic their natural habitats.

There are no fences within the reserve (except for one grumpy but charming bustard) so the animals have full range of the park and alongside one another.

The experience here is truly like being on safari. Each visit is different, depending on who decides to turn up and say hello that day!

Conserving Nature… Naturally

Here, animals are protected from predators and closely observed and monitored for health issues, but are otherwise treated as wild animals.

This means that many of the ethical issues surrounding traditional zoos are broken down. No animal is confined to a cage. No shows are put on for the amusement of guests. Vehicles stick to pre-defined tracks so the animals have plenty of space to hide if they wish.

Most of the food the animals consume is what grows naturally on the reserve, which helps keep them healthy. They only receive additional food in the winter when it’s absolutely necessary.

Ultimately, they aim to play a role in rehabilitating animals back into the wild, as well as facilitating breeding programs for endangered species.

Sustainability

The site is also home to a wide variety of plant life, including many wild flowers which grow in abundance.

This also supports some of our local, native wildlife, including insects, bats and some reptile populations. Regular surveys are carried out to monitor these populations.

The vehicles used to transport visitors are all electric, minimising the noise the animals are exposed to, and reducing the reserve’s carbon footprint.

Educating Future Conservationists

Watatunga even offers educational sessions on school children of all ages, teaching them about ecology and the natural world.

They also host students carrying out research projects, nurturing a new generation of ecologically conscious scientists and citizens.

What You’ll See

This might be a safari in the UK, but you can expect to see antelope, deer and birds from all across the world. Inside the visitor’s centre you’ll find a helpful map, demonstrating where all the different species come from.

Because the animals aren’t in enclosures, you won’t see them all on every visit. However, you’ll definitely spot plenty of interesting animals and each visit will be different. 

Antelope

The reserve is home to 24 different species of deer and antelope. 

Among them, you might spot chunky water buffalo, graceful chinese water deer, majestic white lipped deer or the rare eland. Each species has its own unique characteristics and knowledgeable guides give you loads of information at every stage.

Birds

The birds turned out to be an unexpected highlight of our trip.

Guinea fowl, Eurasian cranes and Javan peafowl were all fantastic to see, but the two Great Bustards really stole the show with their character and charisma.

What To Expect

So what should you expect from a safari in the UK? Let’s run through the experience itself.

Before we do though, just a note- the reserve offers rental houses on site, as well as opportunities for unique group visits for special events of corporate away days. 

Sadly, I have not been lucky enough to experience any of the above, so I’m focussing here on the experience of a regular day visitor.  

Types of Tours 

Your safari can take one of two forms- a trailer tour or a buggy tour.

A trailer tour means you are driven around by a guide whilst seated in a trailer of up to 14 people. These tours don’t happen every day, so be sure to check ahead.

A buggy tour can be for 4 or 6 people. You all pile in to a golf buggy for a self drive experience, following a guide in convoy around the reserve.

Both options give you a guided tour so you get all the information either way. Both last about 90 minutes. However, both book up in advance, so be sure to look at availability in the weeks before your visit and book ahead.

Bookings are available online.

All the Small Things

All the important practical things…

There’s plenty of parking on site so don’t worry about that.

It’s worth noting that tours don’t happen during the winter months so check the up to date opening days and times in advance.

There are toilets at the visitors centre, as well as a small gift shop and information area. They do serve drinks and buffalo burgers if the mood takes you, but don’t come expecting a large cafe or extensive eating facilities.

A safari in the UK can mean braving any weather type at any time. The vehicles have roofs but open sides, so come equipped with warm clothes and a raincoat.

When You Arrive

You can arrive at the visitors centre up to 15 minutes before your tour to check in with your guide. Take a minute to have a look at some of the information whilst you’re there if you have some time.

About 5 minutes before the tour is due to begin, load into your transport of choice, take a radio so you can hear your commentary, and away you go!

Your Tour

Your tour will take you around a pre-marked track. You cannot deviate from this track, nor can you leave the vehicle (although there are dedicated photography events where you can if this interests you).

The guide will stop for a while whenever you see something of interest and give you some information about the species and its time at Watatunga before moving on.

If you have one, I would recommend bringing a proper camera rather than just relying on your phone. The animals won’t necessarily be right near the vehicle and having the ability to zoom in was useful. 

Safari in the UK: The Future Zoo

I hope that the success of Watatunga will mean that in future, more zoos follow this model.

It was a very wholesome, educational and enjoyable day out, without compromising the wellbeing of any animal, and whilst making a positive contribution to worldwide conservation efforts.