Exmoor Wildlife Safaris
Discover Exmoor Wildlife Safaris’ relaxed 4x4 tours, with a local guide, red deer and pony sightings, and big-sky moorland views.
Exmoor Wildlife Safaris gives you a front-row seat to the moorland, valleys and wildlife that most visitors only glimpse from the road. Heading out in a classic 4×4 with a local guide, you’ll explore central Exmoor in a relaxed, commentary-led way – with a real chance of seeing red deer, Exmoor ponies and wide, open views.
What is Exmoor Wildlife Safaris?
Based around Exford in the heart of Exmoor National Park, Exmoor Wildlife Safaris runs small-group 4×4 trips along quiet lanes, tracks and moorland roads. Rather than racing from viewpoint to viewpoint, the pace is unhurried and conversation-led.
Your guide knows the farms, fields and valleys by experience, not by sat nav. Along the way you’ll hear about Exmoor’s wildlife, local farming, small villages, old stories and how the landscape has changed over time – as well as what’s happening on the ground right now.
What you’ll see on safari
No two safaris are the same, but a typical trip with Exmoor Wildlife Safaris might include:
Red deer grazing or moving across the hillsides, with a chance of stags during the autumn rut.
Exmoor ponies on the open moor, sometimes close to the road or track.
Birdlife such as buzzards and other moorland or valley species.
Steep wooded valleys, clear rivers, heather moorland and long views across central Exmoor.
Small farmsteads, hamlets and landmarks that are easy to miss when you’re driving yourself.
Wildlife is never guaranteed, but using local knowledge, time of day, season and weather, the route is adjusted to give you the best chance of good sightings and memorable views.
Who Exmoor Wildlife Safaris is for
These safaris work well for:
Visitors who want to see “real Exmoor” without tackling long or difficult walks.
Couples or friends looking for a relaxed but informative half-day out.
Families with older children who are happy in a vehicle and interested in nature.
Photographers who want help finding vantage points and likely wildlife spots.
First-time visitors wanting an overview of Exmoor before planning walks and drives.
If you’re staying in Lynton & Lynmouth, Exmoor Wildlife Safaris makes a straightforward half-day or day trip into central Exmoor. The drive to Exford itself takes you across classic moorland and valley scenery, so the experience really starts as you leave the coast behind.
Season, weather and time of day
Safaris generally run through the main visitor season, with trips timed around daylight, wildlife activity and safe driving conditions.
Deer Rutting
Autumn (typically late September into October) is a particularly popular time, with a better chance of seeing and hearing the stags.
Summer
Longer evenings, lighter conditions and more comfortable temperatures on the open moor.
Off Season
Spring and late Autumn can offer clearer air, quieter lanes and less traffic.
Whatever the time of year, it’s worth dressing for being outside on Exmoor – layers, a warm jumper or fleece, a waterproof and sensible footwear. Even from inside the vehicle, doors are opened frequently and the wind on the tops can be sharp.
How a typical safari works
A standard trip with Exmoor Wildlife Safaris usually:
Starts from central Exmoor around Exford (exact meeting details are confirmed when you book).
Lasts around three hours, morning or afternoon.
Follows a flexible route based on the season, weather and what has been seen recently.
Includes regular stops to get out, take photos and watch wildlife quietly from the roadside.
You’re encouraged to ask questions, share what you’re most interested in (wildlife, farming, history, photography) and help shape the focus of the trip. The guide will keep an eye on time, light levels and road conditions so you can simply concentrate on looking and listening.
Booking Exmoor Wildlife Safaris
For visitors staying in and around Lynton & Lynmouth, Exmoor Wildlife Safaris is an easy way to spend a half-day exploring the wilder heart of Exmoor with someone who knows where to go – and what you’re looking at when you get there.
1) Click the “View Tour Prices” button on this page to go straight to their tours and enquiry information.
2) You can then contact them by email or phone to confirm dates, timings and any specific needs.
You’re encouraged to ask questions, share what you’re most interested in (wildlife, farming, history, photography) and help shape the focus of the trip. The guide will keep an eye on time, light levels and road conditions so you can simply concentrate on looking and listening.