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The Best Safari Destinations in the World (Updated 2022)

From seeing animals in their natural habitats to camping under the stars in open plains, discover the best safari destinations in the world!

A safari is an incredible way to encounter nature and wildlife in Africa or Asia . From seeking out the big five on a safari in Africa to immersing yourself in grassy plains in Sri Lanka and jungle terrain in India , it’s the experience of a lifetime. We share the best safari destinations in the world.

Travel on: a safari tour

1. Okavango Delta, Botswana

Head to northern Botswana for one of the world’s largest inland river deltas, the Okavango Delta . The wildlife encounters visitors will experience here are remarkable. Amid the grassy plains, the cry of hyenas, the roar of lions, the growl of leopards, giraffes, and rhinos will become the melody of your safari. The wetter pastures are home to hippos, elephants, and crocodiles. This is one of Africa’s most epic safari destinations.

2. Ranthambore National Park, India

Ranthambore ‘s wild jungle scrub is home to many creatures from the animal kingdom, but the fiercest by far is the tiger. You’ll be blown away by the crocodile-filled lakes, the ancient temples and mosques, the beautiful remnants left behind by maharajas that used to hunt here, once upon a time. But nothing will leave you as breathless than seeing as seeing a tiger in the wild for the first time.

Travel on: a Tiger safari

3. Kruger National Park, South  Africa

As one of Africa’s largest game reserves, Kruger National Park tends to get crowded, but there’s a reason for that. This stunning park in northeastern South Africa is one of the best destinations to live out your safari dreams. From big five animals like lions, leopards, and elephants to exotic birds soaring down from the sky, there are plenty of opportunities to spot beasts in their natural habitat here.

Travel on: a Big Five safari

4. Serengeti, Tanzania

The Serengeti is considered to be the land that inspired Disney’s Lion King, and it’s not hard to believe. From proud lions stalking across the open plains to beautiful breeds of birds flying above you, this national park is the quintessential safari destination. Every year, the Serengeti becomes the place of migration for over a million wildebeest and zebras in the hundreds of thousands. You won’t forget this trip in a hurry.

Travel on: a Serengeti safari

5. Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

There are many things in this beautiful conservation area of Tanzania that will take your breath away. Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of Africa’s many wonders. When you are seeking out lions or marvelling at the spectacle of thousands of wildebeests and zebras migrating, the rest of the world will fade away. Among the many things you will experience in this epic safari destination, the massive Ngorongoro Crater and Olduvai Gorge fossils are a must-see.

Travel on: a Ngorongoro safari

6. Yala Park, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s most famous park is located next to the Indian Ocean. Comprised of dense forest, lush grasslands, and blue lakes along with fascinating beasts like leopards, elephants, monkeys, and crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species, Yala Park is a dream safari destination alright. Travellers who go deeper into the park will be rewarded with a chance to explore pilgrimage sites, caves marked with century-old rock paintings, and the ancient Buddhist ruins of Magul Maha Viharaya. 

Travel on: a Yala safari

7. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s largest safari destination doesn’t disappoint. Sprawled across 14,651 square kilometres, you’ll encounter elephant herds, lions, and African wild dogs in the grasslands and mopane woods found in the area. While there’s plenty of wildlife to feast your eyes on (107 animal species and 400 breeds of bird), elephants are what make Hwange so magical; the park is home to one of the largest populations on the planet.

Travel on: a Hwange safari

8. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

There are lots of places to discover the wildlife in Africa, but the sheer density of animals makes South Luangwa one of the continent’s best safari destinations. The open plains are home to marching elephants, impalas, pukus, and buffaloes, meanwhile hippos take dips in the river and leopards hunt for their next meal. If that doesn’t delight, look up to the sky, and you’ll see hundreds of birds flying above you.

See Also: First Time Safari Tips: How to Get the Most Out of Your Trip

9. Masai Mara Reserve, Kenya

The wilderness of Masai Mara is stunning. The Mara and Talek rivers snake through grasslands, river woodlands, and acacia trees, while the animal kingdom’s finest go about their day. Lions, cheetahs, elephants, zebras, and hippos can be found in their natural habitat, and wildebeest too, as they pass through these lands for their annual migration. Along with the wildlife, visitors can explore the nearby Masaai villages and learn about their customs from locals.

Travel on: a Masai Mara safari

10. Etosha National Park, Namibia

Even if you’ve been on a safari in Africa before, Etosha National Park is a different experience altogether. Firstly, Namibia’s landscape in vivid colours is incredible as it is, but the sight of hundreds of animals flocking to the watering holes is spellbinding. In other parks, visitors go looking for animals, but here, they will make their way to you, lions, elephants, and other creatures will all come out to play.

Travel on: an Etosha safari

11. Chobe National Park, Botswana

Chobe is Botswana’s first national park and famed for being biologically diverse. Picture antelopes galloping across the plains, hippos seeking cool respite in the lagoons of Linyanti Marsh, and herds of elephants and Cape buffalo flocking to the Chobe riverfront. Even when you’re not watching for animals in the wild, camp under the stars and you have different ways to immerse yourself in the wilderness.

Travel on: a Chobe safari

12. Bwindi Impenetrable National  Park, Uganda 

Bwindi’s mountainous terrain is home to many of the world’s remaining gorillas. In this biodiverse region, this endangered species has some much-needed peace and can be observed feeding off ancient roots and trees native to the region. Make your way to the dense forests of Bwindi for a rare chance to experience something out of this world: gorillas in the wild.

13. Kalahari Desert, Botswana

Spread across three countries, a considerable mass of Botswana, parts of Namibia and South Africa , the Kalahari is an amazing and surreal safari destination. It’s home to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, which is one of the last unspoiled ecosystems on the planet. It may be arid, but it’s brimming with wildlife, roaring lions and cackling hyenas are just some of the creatures found here.

See Also: Last minute safari deals

Based in Toronto, Sahar is a full-time content editor for Days to Come and part-time travel junkie.

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The 22 Best Places to Go on Safari in 2022

I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a safari addict. There, I said it. I honestly don’t think there is anything more special or humbling than seeing lions, giraffe, zebras and all their buddies out there in the wild. Maybe it’s the fact you never thought it would happen to you? Or maybe it’s such a deep connection with nature that you feel a sense of wholeness you haven’t felt before? Whatever it is, going on safari is pure magic – it never gets old. So if you’re wondering where to go on safari, we’ve listed the best places to go on safari in 2022!

And Beyond Sandibe, Botswana

When I stepped off the 6 flights journey to Sandibe lodge in the Okavango Delta I would have been happy to rest my head on a pillow let alone the lush linens inside the spacious villa that awaited my arrival at And Beyond. This lodge is popularly regarded as one of the most unique luxury lodges in the continent, with a natural interior design focus to blend in to and compliment its’ surrounds. Check out this this post for a full look inside the lodge or watch the video to step inside a Botswana safari.

Singita Serengeti, Tanzania

If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing the great migration then look no further than checking yourself in to one of the Singita lodges on the border of the Serengeti, Tanzania. Click here to see inside Serengeti House , the most luxurious lodge in Tanzania (with a hefty price tag to match!) However if price is of no concern, you can’t get a more luxurious offering in Tanzania’s Serengeti.

And Beyond Ngala, South Africa

This timeless lodge in South Africa is a dream getaway for couples and the perfect honeymoon location if you prefer to take your trip at a slower pace. This is definitely a lodge leaning on the romantic side, so be sure to expect many couples in your midst. If you’re a solo traveler, you might wish to look elsewhere for your safari camp.

Londolozi Game Reserve, Sabi Sands

Located inside the exclusive Sabi Sands game reserve, Londolozi borders the western edge of Kruger National Park and thus has ample game viewing on offer any time of year. From the privacy of your suite and outdoor tub you can view animals as they pass by in the distance and the small size of this lodge makes it one of the most exclusive camps in South Africa.

Singita Boulders, Kruger National Park

Have you ever pictured yourself eating breakfast on your deck as an elephant passes by, stops in to drink from your swimming pool and then continues to carry on with his day? You have now! Click here to see inside Singita Boulders , one of our favourite luxury lodges in South Africa.

Giraffe Manor, Kenya

Chances are you’ve seen the instagram photos (who hasn’t!?) but regardless of the popularity, Giraffe Manor still exceeds expectations and is definitely one of the top “Bucket list” hotels on our list! Be sure to plan your stay ahead of time, as this is one of the most notoriously difficult hotels to book around the world.

Singita Ebony, Kruger National Park

With a unique treehouse vibe that will leave you feeling like a big kid who has stepped inside the  Tarzan  film in no time, Singita Ebony is one of the most sought after lodges in all of South Africa. If you can chance a booking (it is often booked out in the high season) then be sure to stay at least three nights to take full advantage of all this all-inclusive lodge has to offer.

Singita Sweni, Kruger National Park

As one of the smallest lodges in the Singita collection, Singita Sweni is the perfect private oasis you thought you could only dream of. The treehouse style rooms overlook a river below that is often frequented with hippos and predators passing by.

Royal Malewane, South Africa

As one of the oldest safari lodges in South Africa that welcomes back families year after year, Royal Malewane has a very long legacy that it continues to uphold with its regular clientele. Read this post to see more photos inside Royal Malewane and get the full experience on offer at this South African luxury lodge.

Jack’s Camp, Kalahari, Botswana

A safari destination that has long been on my list of must visit camps and hopefully will wangle its way on to my 2019 itinerary is the incomparable Jack’s Camp in the South of Botswana. This is the camp you should check yourself in to if you want to see meerkats up close, along with a huge range of wildlife in the atmospheric Kalahari desert.

Skybeds, Botswana

If you see yourself totally immersed in the bushlands of Africa or perhaps you’ve heard the now infamous tale of Prince Harry and Meghan’s magical second date in Botswana, then you’ll have all your hopes and dreams of staying in the bush come true at Skybeds Botswana . As part of an add-on package for Natural Selection properties in the Okavango Delta, a night in the bush on top of a sky bed is as surreal as it sounds (and in some ways, as scary!) But once the fear settles and the realisation sets in that you’re in safe hands, a night under the stars is the kind of story you’ll talk about over the dinner table for years to come.

andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, book yourself a stay in the ethereal and surreal Namib Desert. And if only the best will do, andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge is the best of the best. This soulful lodge in the heart of the Sossusvlei Desert offers an all-inclusive experience, with accommodation, food, drinks and a range of activities with experienced guides. Although not the ordinary safari experience, this is certainly a once in a lifetime lodge you’ll create memories to last a lifetime.

Cottar’s Safari Camp, Kenya

With a focus on conservation in the Greater Mara, Cottar’s Safari Camp is a World of Wanderlust favourite and also a favourite amongst celebrities. This vintage safari camp feels like stepping back in time, and no detail is overlooked! From the vintage tents to the antique details, this camp is a great way to feel the bygone era of safaris when they first swept across Africa.

Sasaab, Samburu, Kenya

Offering the ultimate safari experience in Samburu National Reserve, Sasaab is a part of the highly celebrated safari collection. With decadent tents and an outlook over the open plains, this camp is one of Kenya’s most luxurious. Featuring Moorish architectural touches and Moroccan antiques, the camp feels other-worldly and is certainly one of our top picks for the best safari camps in 2022.

Angama Mara, Kenya

As one of Kenya’s most celebrated safari lodges and one of Kenya’s newest additions, Angama Mara is a top pick for travelers in search of modern luxury. Situated on top of a hill overlooking the Maasai Mara below, you can’t beat this location for exclusivity and serenity overlooking the Mara.

Mahali Mzuri, Kenya

Mahali Mzuri is Sir Richard Branson’s 12-tented luxury safari camp in the Kenyan Bush and having won the #1 position for the best hotel in the world in 2021, we’re pretty certain you can’t beat this camp for a safari in 2022! Offering refined permanent tents across the savannah, the service is just as polished and unforgettable.

Gibb’s Farm, Tanzania

If you would prefer a safari camp that is more on the traditional side, Gibb’s Farm in Tanzania is the epitome of classic safari luxury. This idyllic lodge is located on the outer rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, one of Tanzania’s most sought after locations. A sanctuary for the senses, green thumbs will love spending time in the extensive gardens.

Singita Kataza, Rwanda

As far as safari camps go, many of the best camps are owned by tour operators who manage a number of camps. And in the luxury circuit, Singita is highly renowned as one of the most luxurious safari operators afross Africa. One of their newest camps, Singita Kataza, offers ultimate luxury in Rwanda. And if you’re looking for a safari camp in 2022 to experience mountain gorillas in Rwanda, this is it!

Thorntree River Lodge, Zambia

Zambia has its fair share of safari lodges to offer visitors, but if you ask us, Thorntree River Lodge is the cream of the crop! This beautiful and ethereal lodge sits quietly and serenely on a river, with just eight rooms making this one of the most exclusive lodges to check in to. Activities include a visit to Victoria Falls, village visits, safari and sunsets on the river.

andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

Ngorongoro Crater is one of Tanzania’s most sought after destinations. And if you find yourself making your way to the crater’s rim, you can’t beat andBeyond’s Ngorongoro Crater Lodge. This luxury all-inclusive lodge is one of the most romantic and serene safari lodges you will ever encounter, so be sure to stay a few days to make the most of the serenity.

One&Only Nyungwe House Rwanda

If you’re looking for ultimate luxury in Rwanda, One&Only offers the ultimate journey into Rwanda’s rainforests and jungle terrain. Nyungwe House is set on a tea plantation, offering unreal landscapes to wake up to and feel the private serenity of Rwanda’s rolling hills.

Sable Alley, Okavango Delta, Botswana

Last but not least, Sable Alley is one of the many lodges located in the heart of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. But what makes this lodge such a great choice in 2022 is the rustic appeal of the lodge, which truly makes you feel as if you’re staying in the heart of the bush. This is also a great camp to base yourself if you fancy a night in the Skybeds Botswana, as it is part of the same group.

Safari Style

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Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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I just posted a question about which countries you recommend where one is most likely to see “the Big 5” and the most cats. I then read your story on The Ultimate Africa Bucket List, and found my answer: Botswana and Tanzania, along with Zimbabwe! Thank you!

I just follow this page and I already fell in love with the interesting articles which take you to the places described.

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The 12 best safari destinations in the world

Recently updated on April 30th, 2024 at 03:46 pm

A safari is one of the most exhilarating bucket list experiences in the world, getting you up close to some of the world’s most remarkable wildlife and landscapes. From the iconic plains of the Serengeti to the lush wetlands of Okavango and the desert wildlife of Etosha, here are 12 of the best safari destinations in the world to inspire your safari adventure.

1. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Passionate Guides Tanzania (@passionateguidestz)

Serengeti National Park is an icon of Africa and one of the best safari destinations in the world for spotting the Big 5 and so much more. Located in northern Tanzania, this UNESCO-listed national park is one of the oldest ecosystems on earth. It’s filled with plants and animals that have barely changed over the past million years. 

The park is an epic expanse of plains and grassland, dotted with all of the Big 5 and other safari favourites like giraffes, zebra, hyenas, cheetah and the rare African wild dog. 

The Serengeti is also famed as the home of ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’ – the Great Migration. Over two million wildebeest, zebra, impala and gazelle cross the Mara River in a thundering mass each year in search of greener pastures. The migration sets off annually around July towards the Masai Mara in Kenya. The herd then makes the 1,000km journey back to Tanzania around October or November when the rains set in. 

The wildebeest must dodge stalking predators like lions and leopards on their journey, while huge clouds of migrating birds fly overhead. As the largest terrestrial mammal migration in the world and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, it’s an astonishing sight to behold. 

Explore the Serengeti on: African Safari Adventure

We think you’ll also like: Our 6 Most Memorable Experiences to have in Africa

2. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

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Venture over the border of the Serengeti into the Maasai Mara National Park in Kenya, the other half of the mighty Mara-Serengeti ecosystem. As one of the best safari destinations in the world, the Maasai Mara dishes up extraordinary wildlife viewing, including all the Big 5. 

You’ll also likely spot giraffes, hippos and crocodiles lurking in the rivers, along with more than two million wildebeest, zebra and gazelle that arrive in a thundering mass during the Great Migration.

Besides the incredible wildlife, the Maasai Mara is renowned for its rich culture. You can visit a traditional Maasai village where you’ll meet the Maasai people and witness their colourful traditions.

Explore the Maasai Mara: African Safari Adventure

3. Kruger National Park, South Africa

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Kruger National Park is the oldest and most iconic national park in South Africa. It’s also one of the top bucket list experiences on the whole continent. Covering a staggering two million hectares (the size of Israel or Slovenia), you’ll have a good chance of spotting the famous Big 5, the unique Little 5 , and everything in between.

There’s also reliable sightings and a high density of animals in the private reserves around the Kruger National Park. One of our favourite areas is the Karongwe Private Game Reserve. Here you can spot all the Big 5 and learn about the traditions and local deliacies of the Shangaan people at a local village.

Explore Kruger National Park on: Best of South Africa

Is Kruger or Serengeti better?

One of the most common questions we get from our guests is whether to visit Kruger or Serengeti. They’re two of the most iconic safari destinations in the world, and most people usually only have time to visit one of them on a safari trip, due to the large distance between them.

While you can’t go wrong with either Kruger or Serengeti, the best choice for you will depend on what you want to get from your safari. With Kruger, you can spot a wild range of wildife including the Big Five, and it’s more easily accessible, with a range of accommodation options. It’s ideal for those seeking convenience and flexibility, however it can also be more crowded for this reason. On the other hand, the Serengeti is more remote and typically more expensive as travel logistics are more complex. The pay off is that you can see an abundance of wildlife including the Big Five, and the breathtaking Great Migration. The park offers a more pristine wilderness experience and has unique activities like hot-air balloon rides. Ultimately, your choice should be based on the types of wildlife and activities you’re interested in, your budget, and the amount of time you have.

4. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

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As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of the continent’s best safari hotspots. Located in the Crater Highlands of northern Tanzania, Ngorongoro is an ancient volcanic crater spanning 260 square kilometres. The crater is surrounded by a 600-metre high wall, and it’s the largest intact and unfilled caldera in the world. 

It’s home to over 25,000 large game animals, including all the Big 5. The conservation area protects Tanzania’s last remaining population of the endangered black rhino. You can also spot cheetah, zebra, wildebeest, gazelle, spotted hyenas and the critically endangered African wild dog. The crater is also dotted with sparkling soda lakes where you can see hippos and massive pink flocks of flamingo. 

Ngorongoro has also been home to humans for around three million years and occupied by pastoralist tribes, like the Maasai, for the past 2,000 years. You can visit a Maasai village and even see casts of the fossilised footprints found at Olduvai Gorge. These famous footprints prove humans were walking on two legs at least 3.7 million years ago.

Explore Ngorongoro Crater on: African Safari Adventure

5. Etosha National Park, Namibia

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Etosha National Park ORG (@etoshanationalpark)

Etosha is the greatest national park in Namibia, famed for its striking desert landscapes and abundant wildlife. You’ll have the chance to spot four of the Big 5 as there are no buffalo in Etosha, however you can spot them in the nearby Waterberg Plateau and Caprivi Strip. Meanwhile, the huge populations of lions and elephants make up for it. 

Etosha is also one of the best places in Africa to see the white rhino and critically endangered black rhino. These precious creatures have been poached to near extinction on the continent, but you can still find them around the waterholes of Etosha.

The waterholes are also a great place to spot lurking lions, leopards, cheetah and hyena. You can also spot herds of elephants coming to get a drink and bathe in the water. With its unique desert-adapted animals, Etosha is undoubtedly one of the best safari destinations in the world. 

Explore Etosha National Park on: Namibia Adventure

6. Chobe National Park, Botswana

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It’s all about elephants in Chobe, and this national park is one of the best safari destinations in the world to see these majestic creatures. There are around 120,000 elephants in the park and we love spotting them on a Chobe River cruise.

You’ll have the chance to see elephants, buffalo, lions and leopards come to the river bank to drink, while birds like the kingfisher hover over the water. The best time to spot the huge elephant herds is the dry season from May to October. Wildlife viewing is at its absolute best from August to October.

Unfortunately, rhinos are extremely rare to spot in Chobe after having their population decimated over the years. The good news is they are slowly being reintroduced to private areas of the park.

GET INSPIRED BY: Victoria Falls Experience

7. Samburu National Reserve, Kenya

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Take a journey into the wild bushland of the Samburu National Reserve on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River. Here you’ll have the chance to spot a unique kind of Big 5 – the ‘Samburu Special 5’. These five rare animals can only be found in the Samburu ecosystem and include the Reticulated giraffe, the Grevy’s Zebra, the Beisa oryx, the Somali ostrich and the gerenuk. 

You might even get to spot some of these animals on a special guided nature walk. You’ll be accompanied by an expert naturalist, who will share their wealth of wisdom on the plants and animals found in the area. 

Along with the Samburu Special 5, you’ll also have the chance to see more famous animals including elephants and lions just like Elsa, the lion cub made famous in the award-winning book and movie ‘Born Free’. Samburu National Reserve was one of two areas where conservationists George and Joy Adamson raised the lion cub. 

You can get to know more about the region’s conservation and anti-poaching efforts in the nearby Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa.

Explore Samburu on: Wonders of Kenya

8. Okavango Delta, Botswana

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The Okavango Delta in Botswana is a unique mosaic of islands, waterways, and lagoons, creating a rich environment for an abundance of wildlife. Known for its remarkable seasonal flooding, which contrasts against the dry Kalahari desert, the delta becomes a lush animal habitat. Travelers can explore this biodiverse world by mokoro (a traditional dugout canoe), with close-up encounters of animals like hippos, elephants, leopards and an incredible variety of birds.

9. Solio Game Reserve, Kenya

Located between the foothills of the Aberdares and the slopes of Mount Kenya, this privately-owned conservancy is one of the most successful rhino breeding reserve in the world. Founded in the 1970s, Solio Game Reserve provides a safe haven for both black and white rhinos, housing the largest population of white rhinos on earth. It’s a relatively hidden gem on the safari circuit, offering guests the rare chance to see not only large numbers of rhinos but also buffalos, zebras, giraffes, leopards, and lions among the grassland and acacia forests.

10. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

South Luangwa National Park may be off the beaten track but it’s undoubtedly one of the world’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries. It’s home to endemic animals like Thornicroft’s giraffe, Cookson’s wildebeest and Crawshay’s zebra, found nowhere else on earth. You’ll also find the world’s highest naturally occurring population of leopards. As the ‘birthplace of the walking safari’ visitors can also embrace the unique experience of tracking and spotting animals on foot. 

11. Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

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With its unusual landscapes dotted with giant baobabs, flat-topped acacias and termite mounds, Tarangire National Park is unlike anything you’ll see in Tanzania. The wildlife is just as captivating as the landscapes, as the park is renowned as one of the best places to view elephants. You can also see adorable tree hyraxes and over 300 recorded species of birds. The park is particularly spectacular during the dry season when animal concentrations are among the highest in Tanzania, driven to the Tarangire River.

12. Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mana Pools (@manapools_nationalpark)

Located in northern Zimbabwe along the lower Zambezi River, Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its wildlife and natural beauty. The name “Mana” means “four” in the Shona language, referring to the four large pools formed by the Zambezi River. The pools attract a high concentration of wildlife, making it a spectacular spot for game viewing. The park also offers some exciting experiences such as walking safaris and canoe safaris, so you can watch the wildlife from every angle, including elephants, hippos, lions and over 350 bird species.

Have you visited any of the best safari destinations in the world? Let us know in the comments below!

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17 unforgettable African safaris

Set off into the wild and see the world like never before with this guide to the best experiences in 11 countries.

Chobe National Park in Botswana holds one of Africa’s largest elephant populations.

What images come to mind when you hear the words “African safari”? Sitting in the bush on a moonlit night, so close to a lion that you can feel the rumble of its roar in your chest?

Many travelers might conjure up visions of tented camps, gourmet meals under a baobab tree, game drives through golden savanna, and sundowners at the end of the day. But safaris can also involve self-guided rental cars , game walks, and fly-fishing. Safaris can be as varied as the continent of Africa itself.

One recent trend: expeditions that enlist travelers in the fight to save endangered wildlife. Tourists make a difference by joining rhino or lion conservationists at work in South Africa or accompanying researchers working on a chimpanzee habituation project in Kibale National Park in Uganda . ( Read about the dark truth behind wildlife tourism. )

Three zebras line a waterhole in South Africa's Kruger National Park.

No matter where you go and what type of safari you choose, timing is key. Once you’ve narrowed your options, look into the best time to visit. South Africa’s summer (December through February), for example, is prime safari season in that region. You’ll still see wildlife if you go during South Africa’s winter (June through August), but pack a jacket, as temperatures can be chilly, especially before the sun rises.

Set off into the wild and see the world like never before with our guide to top safari experiences in 11 African countries.

Spot animals in these natural wonders.

South Africa

Kruger National Park: South Africa ’s largest game reserve, Kruger National Park makes a perfect home base for self-guided and first-time safaris. Stay in one of the park’s fenced camps, such as the Crocodile Bridge Rest Camp on the northern bank of the Crocodile River. Head into the bush early to explore the Southern Circle, famous for its competing lion prides and their varied hunting practices. Don’t miss the nearby hippo pool, but be sure to stay in your car outside of the camp. ( Take a solo safari through South Africa’s wild grasslands. )

Hazyview: Not far from Kruger’s southwestern Phabeni Gate, Hazyview is a family-friendly hub for horseback safaris, zip-lining, safari golf, and trout fishing. Check in to one of the lodges, such as Hippo Hollow Country Estate , and then head out into the Kruger before sunrise on a self-guided game drive to scout lions and white rhinos. Break for lunch in the town of Skukuza.

Timbavati Private Nature Reserve: The rugged Timbavati is one of the private nature reserves that make up the greater Kruger area. Guests can choose from eight lodges there. An upscale chalet at fence-free Simbavati Safari Lodges , for example, is perfect for families. Wake up early for game drives, perhaps to search for African wild dogs . Mid-morning, kids head into the bush for a scavenger hunt with a guide.

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve: Animals aren’t the only sights to track on safari. In South Africa’s Western Cape region, wildflowers provide the dazzle. The two lodges at Grootbos , part of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World , sit amid the smallest of the world’s six floral kingdoms, home to some 800 plant species. Watch for sharks and southern right whales from your suite’s deck. ( See the world’s best places for flowers. )

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, located in South Africa’s Western Cape, offers a "flower safari" to guests.

Hlane Royal National Park: Head to Swaziland , a country landlocked between South Africa and Mozambique , to see Hlane ’s fiercely protected rhinos and marabou storks. Stay in one of the park’s two lodges, Ndlovu Camp or Bhubesi, and enjoy self-guided drives on the safe game-viewing roads that crisscross the park’s flat terrain. Spot lions, hyenas, giraffes, and vulturess, then picnic at the Mahlindza water hole.

Central Kalahari Game Reserve: Black-maned Kalahari lions roam this reserve in central Botswana . Stay just north of the reserve at Deception Valley Lodge , where you can watch magical sunsets dip into the horizon from the deck of your chalet.

Chobe National Park: To the north of Central Kalahari, Chobe National Park is home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations. And Chobe Game Lodge boasts the only all-female safari guide team in Africa. ( Meet the all-female anti-poaching unit saving rhinos and other wildlife. )

Elephants enjoy a sunny day in Botswana’s Chobe National Park.

Hwange National Park: All aboard the Elephant Express to tour the Ngamo Forest Area and Hwange National Park, known for its pachyderms and 400-plus species of birds. The two-hour safari rail trip is easily accessible to Imvelo Safari Lodges’ Bomani Tented Lodge or Camelthorn Lodge . Check out the game-viewing underground hide at nearby Stoffie’s Pan. North from Hwange, a four-hour drive or a one-hour flight gets you to regal Victoria Falls, a thundering natural wonder you can hear long before you first catch sight of it.

Mana Pools National Park: Try a river-based safari in a kayak at this remote park. The best time to go may be in April, when large herds of elephants, buffalo, kudu, and the elusive eland return to the four (or mana in the local language) large permanent pools along the south bank of the Zambezi River after the rainy season. Accommodations in the park include lodges, thatched chalets, and campsites.

Namib Desert: A safari here means brilliant stargazing, silky sand, age-old views, and resilient desert animals such as oryx, bat-eared foxes, Burchell’s zebras, and loads of lizards. Stay at & Beyond’s Sossusvlei Desert Lodge , located at the desert’s eastern edge. Explore the Namib dunes on a quad bike, and hike a craggy slope to see ancient rock paintings in a nearby cave, making sure to pack water, a hat, and sunscreen. ( See eerie photos of a Namibian ghost town. )

Gorongosa National Park: Located in central Mozambique , Gorongosa has been brought back to life after suffering the devastations of many years of civil conflict. Today, when you visit, you become a part of one of Africa’s most successful wildlife restoration stories. Home to floodplains and preserved palm forests, Gorongosa has an amazing diversity of wildlife, from antelope to primates and huge Nile crocodiles, as well as lions, elephants, and hippos.

A female crocodile guards her nest of eggs beside the Mussicadzi River in Mozambique's Gorongosa National Park.

Selous Game Reserve: Visit this off-the-beaten-track and tranquil reserve in southern Tanzania for walking safaris and traditional game drives. Then cruise the Rufiji River to watch for elephants, hippos, lions, leopards, and brindled gnu. Stay at Beho Beho , a hilltop lodge that also has secluded tree-house accommodations for the extra adventurous.

Serengeti National Park: At Asilia’s Namiri Plains camp in northern Tanzania, visitors become part of the migration as they travel in a luxury mobile camp alongside herds of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles. Walking safaris get you closer to the action, with veteran Serengeti safari guides giving the play-by-play. The animals—often stalked by big predators, such as lions and cheetahs—follow one of Earth’s most ancient routes. And if you come too close to an animal, never run. Move away quietly.

Olare Motorogi Conservancy: Cross the border from Tanzania into southern Kenya for an iconic East African lodge experience at the Mara Plains Camp. About a 2.5-hour drive from the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve, the eco-friendly camp was built by National Geographic Explorers-in-Residence Dereck and Beverly Joubert with their partners at Great Plains Conservation . From camp, you’ll head out on safari to watch migrating zebras and wildebeests make exciting and risky river crossings. You may even see a few big cats. ( Experience an air safari through Kenya. )

A lioness takes in the view of Kenya's Olare Motorogi Conservancy.

Ragati Conservancy: Kenya may be a great place to see the migrations, but it’s also a surprisingly fantastic spot for fly-fishing. On the southern slopes of Mount Kenya (Africa’s second highest peak), the Ragati Conservancy has mountain streams stocked with glistening rainbow trout. What makes the Ragati worth the trip? Nat Geo photographer and fly fisherman Pete Muller says that while Idaho fishing is amazing, “anglers won’t encounter an elephant along the Lochsa!” Fishing in Kenya, he says, also gives fishing enthusiasts the chance to visit locations such as Aberdare National Park.

Rwanda/Uganda

Volcanoes National Park/kalinzu Forest Reserve: Rwanda ’s Volcanoes National Park allows a limited number of visitors per day to hike into the jungle to view endangered mountain gorillas up close, as they groom each other, play, and eat bamboo shoots and fruits. Keep your eyes open for golden monkeys too. Nat Geo Expeditions offers an itinerary that includes a gorilla trek, then heads north into Uganda for a chimpanzee trek through the lush Kalinzu Forest Reserve near Queen Elizabeth National Park. ( Here’s how to visit the endangered mountain gorillas of Uganda and Rwanda. )

Zakouma National Park: Intense wildlife experiences await at this park known for the number of animals that make it their home. A herd of more than 500 elephants and flocks of birds, such as the black-crowned crane, in the tens of thousands, congregate here. Zakouma had a tremendous comeback after enduring civil unrest in the region. Visit between December and April, and stay at traditional Camp Nomade, its tents decorated with local carpets and brass bells.

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Safaris Destinations

Where in the world to go on safari.

Africa is the home of the safari, and without a doubt offers the best safari destinations in the world.

Elsewhere – particularly India , Sri Lanka and Brazil – there are national parks that offer safari-style experiences and incredible wildlife spotting opportunities in hotspots. But nothing comes close to Africa for variety, quantity, and density of wildlife, nor for the scale of the national parks – some of which dwarf many European countries in size.

Southern and East Africa tend to be the best regions in Africa for wildlife viewin g, as the countries in these regions have huge areas of protected savannah, bushveld, and desert that provide sanctuary for large numbers of wildlife.

Take a browse of our country guides below which give the basics per destination, and pick out wildlife highlights and top national parks for each country.

Botswana Safaris

Mostly covered in arid desert – and home to some of the largest national parks in the world  – the highlight of any safari in Botswana must be the Okavango Delta in the far north. Read more about taking a safari in Botswana .

Kenya Safaris

Kenya is a premier safari destination with world-famous reserves including the Masai Mara . In particular, the annual wildlife migrations that take place between August and November are not to be missed. Read more about taking a safari in Kenya.

Malawi Safaris

Malawi is dominated by the tranquil azure waters of Lake Malawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site stretching580 kilometers from north to south. The under-explored country has several national parks to enjoy decent amounts of wildlife.

Mozambique Safaris

Far from the tourist crowds, Mozambique is not as hot as other African safari destinations for plains animals, but does have two fantastic aquatic national parks offering a different take on the traditional African safari.

Namibia Safaris

Less known than other Southern African countries, but the huge open spaces and variety of eco-systems make Namibia a truly  stellar – if under-the-rader – safari destination. Particularly lends itself to self-drive safaris.  Read more about taking a safari.

Rwanda Safaris

Rwanda is a compact country with good infrastructure and national parks home to both habituated gorilla and chimpanzee families. A top safari destination for primates.  Read more about taking a safari in Rwanda.

South Africa Safaris

Eminently accessible national parks packed full of wildlife, including the Kruger National Park, world famous for viewing  the big five . South Africa also offers alternate eco-systems to traditional savanna such as the Drakensberg mountains or the Kalahari desert.  Read more about taking a safari in South Africa.

Tanzania Safaris

Tanzania is home to the classic East African national parks of the Seregenti and Ngorongoro crater – both offering prolific wildlife. Read more about taking a safari in Tanzania.

Uganda Safaris

The rain forests of the Uganda – the ‘Pearl of Africa’ – are among the best places to take a gorilla safari. Murchison Falls National Park in the far north is also home to the big five, making Uganda one of the best all-round safari destinations in Africa.  Read more about taking a safari in Uganda.

Zambia Safaris

Zimbabwe Safaris

A top class safari destination that’s seen some tough times in recent decades, though now has increasing wildlife numbers and a resurgent tourist trade. You can also enjoy the best views of the impressive Victoria Falls from Zimbabwe.

African safari companies

Botswana safari companies

Kenya safari companies

Namibia safari companies

Rwanda safari companies

South Africa safari companies

Tanzania safari companies

Uganda safari companies

Planning a safari in 2021? From the charms of Kenya to glorious South Africa, from Botswana to Uganda, there are dozens of world-class safari destinations to explore in Africa. Here’s our pick of ten of the very best safari destinations:

1. Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is one of the largest parks in Africa with an area of 12,070 square kilometers. Located in South Africa, it is bigger than the smallest country in the world (Vatican City). It has nine entry gates, and in order to roam around, you will need to hop on a vehicle. Speed is limited to 50 kmph in this area. On a yearly basis, there are over one million people visiting this place.

The park opened in 1927 and, since then, it has become the most popular African reserve, filled with many different species. “The big 5” animals (lions, rhinos, leopards, buffaloes, and elephants) call this part of the world their home. Moreover, over 500 bird species, up to 120 reptile species, and more than 80 mammal species also live here, ready to be explored.

If you are a fan of classic safari tours, consider visiting Kruger National Park. This is the perfect way to see them in their natural environment.

2. Maasai Mara

The name ”Mara” means ”spotted,” meaning that you can see very far away from almost any point of the reserve.

With an area of 600 square miles (965 square kilometers), it’s one the biggest national parks in Africa. Kenyans are very proud of it, and they have good reasons to be!

”The big 5” can be seen here as well, but this place is best known for the hyena research and lion monitoring centers. If you loved the BBC’s ‘Big cat diary’ documentary you’ll know how stunning the Maasai Mara National Park is.

Maasai Mara is home to one of the world’s largest natural phenomena’s that occur from July to October –  the Great Migration . Around 1.8 million of wild creatures, zebras, and gazelles hit the road, which makes the Maasai Mara the perfect place to be if you want to see this spectacle.

3. Arusha National Park

This astonishing park lies on the Mount Meru active volcanic prominence in the Arusha region of Tanzania. It is the second highest peak after Mount Kilimanjaro , which is almost 40 miles (60 kilometers) away. With an area of 50 square miles (80 square kilometers), it was established in 1960 by the Tanzanian Government and, since then, it has had around 60,000 visitors per year.

Much smaller than other national parks in the safari league, it’s the best place to see many beautiful and fascinating birds. Prepare your safari gadgets for this trip, and enjoy the charm of those feathery friends.

You can choose between hiking tours or canoe rides, but no matter what your decision is, you will most probably encounter giraffes, too. This is the world’s largest home for the  tallest animals on the planet.

The great thing about this place is that you can see all there is to be seen in one day, which is a rare experience when it comes to safari.

4. Okavango Delta

A large, swampy river that encompasses almost 8,850 square kilometers of the Kalahari Desert is the life source to all wildlife in this area.

From March until July, frequent floods help animals and plants thrive in this habitat. The very challenging and complex circle of high temperatures, rains, and consequential evaporation was first fully understood at the end of the 20th century. The Okavango Delta is essential to sustaining life in this part of Botswana. During winter, this river is around three times bigger than during summertime, producing much-needed water.

In 2014, the Okavango Delta was recognized as one of the 1,000 world wonders, and it is now on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

5. Victoria Falls

Located on the Zambezi River between Zambia and Zimbabwe, 360ft (110m) tall, this beauty is listed as one of the seven world wonders by CNN.

Over 400,000 tourists visit Victoria Falls annually. If you are visiting somewhere between September and December, and you are adventurous, you will be able to see the ”Devil’s Pool” or the naturally formed ”Armchair.” These phenomena appear due to lower levels of water during this period and, as a result, swimmers can reach stones that act as safety holds on the edge.

6. Etosha National Park

With almost 9,000 square miles (14,500 square kilometres), the Etosha National Park  is home to the  black rhinoceros , one of the world’s engaged species. Europeans discovered these lands, and the original name that translates as ”Great White Place.”

Large populations of animals became extinct due to uncontrolled hunting during the 19th and 20th centuries. After the government has officially proclaimed Etosha a national park, some species recovered. Unfortunately, some species, like the  cape buffalos and cape wild dogs, cannot be seen anymore.

Fortunately, the African bush elephant, mountain zebras, Angolan giraffes, African lions, and leopards frequently show up, followed up by an enormous diversity of birds.

With more than 100 mammal species, around 300 species of birds , followed by 100 reptile species, this is one of the largest reserves of wildlife.

7. Chobe National Park

Established in 1967 on a large area of 4,500 square miles (7,240 square kilometers), it’s one of Botswana’s three largest National Parks. Conventionally, the park has four areas, and it’s divided like this because of the very different ecosystems in each of them. From May through October (dry season), the Chobe River floods the area, which becomes a place of gathering for elephants, giraffes, buffalos, the very rare puku antelope, and many bird species.

It is very popular among tourists because it’s not far from Victoria Falls. The other section, called the Savuti Marsh, has savannahs and rolling grasslands. Here you can see lions, rhinoceros, cheetahs, and zebras, as well as a conglomeration of more than 400 species of birds. Every part of this park has one unique beauty trademark.

Mainly, the park is known as home to the Kalahari elephants, the largest elephant species in the world. More than 40,000 elephants live here, the elephant population with the highest density in Africa. During the dry season, they migrate to the Chobe River and the Linyanti River.

8. Western Cape

One of the largest and most populated provinces in South Africa , with four great African rivers that flow into the Atlantic and the Indian Ocean, the Western Cape is one of the world’s seven ”floral gardens,” with incredible diversity and endemic species. The Western Cape has four universities and the highest number of highly educated young people in Africa.

Cape Town stands at the foothills of Table Mountain, and you can visit it using the cableway that will take you to the top of the mountain (1,066 meters). If you are a fitness fan, maybe you can hike up there, it’s up to you. Rock climbing and mountain biking are also very popular among tourists, as are Cape Town walking tours .

Table Bay on the Atlantic Ocean has one more secret – a famous prison in which Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, now a museum. Annually, more than 25 million tourists come here to enjoy different mountain activities.

This combination of urban environment and wild nature will make you fall in love with Cape Town and this province.

Bonus safari… in India! Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park was established as an Indian national park by the government in 1973 as a project with one simple goal – making a sanctuary for tigers. In 1980, it became the world’s largest home of Bengal Tigers, known as ”the biggest tigers of all.”

Early in the morning, before sunrise and after riding through the forests, you can see large numbers of different species coming to the riverside. It will be impossible to miss seeing Padam Talao Lake, as well as marvellous Jogi Mahal – great places for tourists to take a break while on the road.

Ranthambore offers a rich variety of wildlife species, not only when it comes to the wild cats, but also for the birds and reptiles. For example, the most famous and largest Indian tree species,  the Banyan, can also be found in forests covering this area.

Finally, we suggest that you take some time and go visit the old Ranthambore Fort high in mountains. It will take your breath away.

Still after inspiration? Here are a few articles that might help you in finding your next safari destination:

Africa’s 20 best malaria-free safari destinations

The best safaris locations outside Africa

If you’re planning a safari then our friends at It’s All Bee have written this great post on how to plan a trip to Africa . And of course there are plenty of other things you could put on your African bucket list too, like sampling various local cuisines, visiting some of the world’s best beaches and enjoying the many and varied music on offer across the continent.

Top countries for safaris

• Botswana safaris
• Kenya safaris
• Namibia safaris
• South Africa safaris
• Tanzania safaris
• Uganda safaris

Safari basics

• Safari animals
• How to find the right safari company
• When to go on safari
• What to take on safari
• Safari clothing – what to wear
• Safari rules & etiquette
• Wildlife spotting tips

Most read articles

• All about the ‘big five’ animals
• Collective nouns for animals
• Safari movies to watch before you go
• The world’s fastest land animals
• Apex predators
• 10 Fascinating African tribes
• The biggest animals in the world
• 17 Epic hybrid animals
• The world’s ugliest animals
• Why are flamingos pink?

Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
• Etosha National Park, Namibia
• Kruger National Park, South Africa
• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
• Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
• Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Where to go on your first safari in Africa

Feb 20, 2024 • 17 min read

Botswana is an excellent choice for a well-rounded, first-time safari – though it can be a pricey one © Getty Images

So you want to see a lion in the wild? Terrific. Now comes the tricky part: choosing where to go on your first safari.

Which countries offer the easiest introduction to the continent for first-time travelers? Which countries are best for wildlife?

Let us help you cut through the overwhelming options and plan your first safari to Africa for blockbuster wildlife watching – without feeling overwhelmed.

Planning a safari in Botswana

Why botswana.

Water-based safaris, exclusivity, privacy and high-quality camps in captivating areas: Botswana is one of Africa’s premier wildlife-watching destinations. Its prolific wildlife inhabits extraordinary landscapes, including the Chobe River, the Okavango Delta  and the salt pans of Makgadikgadi .

The easiest choice for your trip,  Chobe National Park is home to the world’s largest concentration of elephants, as well as a host of easy-to-spot big cats, buffaloes, giraffes and zebras, making it perfect for first-timers. The best way to see Africa’s elephant capital is to board a boat and cruise the Chobe River’s wildlife-rich shores. From here, you can travel into the Okavango Delta, where you can splurge on a luxury safari and take a mokoro  (dugout canoe) through the wetlands, before forging on into the Makgadikgadi salt pans to mingle with meerkats.

Botswana’s appeal and ease, however, come with a (big) caveat: the cost. To avoid the pitfalls of mass tourism, most luxury lodges and camps lie in concession areas rented out by the government to enforce a high-value, low-volume responsible-tourism strategy. The best reserves sit in the swamps of the Okavango Delta, and visitors fly in on small bush planes from Maun or Kasane. Mobile safaris – group trips that take you from site to site, often involving camping along the way – are a more cost-effective alternative: you can combine time in  Moremi Game Reserve  with Chobe National Park.

Best time to visit for a safari in Botswana

The high and dry season from June to October is the best wildlife-watching time , and also when water levels are generally at their highest in the Okavango Delta, allowing you to glide along the channels in a mokoro .

Where to stay on safari in Botswana

In and around Chobe National Park, we recommend  Chobe Game Lodge , Chobe Safari Lodge  and Chobe Bakwena , with Chobe Game Lodge being the only one inside the park. For photographers, Pangolin Chobe Hotel has specialist boats with swivel seats and gimbal mounts to snap that Attenborough moment on the Chobe River.

You can combine Chobe with the Okavango Delta through scheduled group mobile safaris with Bush Ways or Letaka . If you’re after a luxury experience in an exceptionally wild, isolated area, Mombo Camp is probably the Okavango’s most exclusive and legendary lodge, with predators galore (and a pretty price tag). Mma Dinare Camp (which offers affordable road transfers), 4 Rivers Camp , Shinde Camp and Camp Moremi are well situated for spotting excellent big game. Xugana Island Lodge , Setari Camp and Mopiri Camp are wonderful for experiencing the waterways, and offer fishing and birding opportunities by boat. Mogotlho Safari Lodge is also accessible for self-drivers, and occupies a lovely position on the Khwai River near Mababe. Want a more adventurous, budget-friendly option? Try a fully catered, accommodated mokoro campout excursion that departs from Sitatunga Camp , south of Maun.

Trips to meet the cute meerkats of the Makgadikgadi salt pans can be arranged through San Camp, Jack’s Camp or Camp Kalahari, with Planet Baobab as the best budget-friendly option with self-drive access.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Botswana

Stays at isolated camps in the Okavango Delta start at roughly $650 per person, per night and can go up to an eye-watering $4000 a night. At approximately $300, Chobe National Park lodges are more affordable – so stretch out your days here to keep costs down. For better pricing on accommodations, travel during the shoulder season (April to May and October to November). Finally, check the distance between your luxury lodge and Maun to reduce the return-ticket cost. Some camps offer road transfers or boating access between camps to minimize travel costs.

Planning a safari in Kenya

Kenya ’s wildlife offering is outstanding, with the Great Migration in particular at the top of many bucket lists – so it’s no surprise that safaris have been a thing in Kenya since the very concept was invented (indeed, safari translates to “journey” in Swahili). Do keep in mind, though, that this track record does make Kenya one of the busiest, most popular wildlife destinations on the continent.

A renowned annual phenomenon, the Great Migration sees millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River from the Serengeti in southern Tanzania into Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve . The country’s semi-nomadic Maasai communities and their time-honored warrior traditions are another source of fascination. Visitors can support community-powered tourism by visiting the private reserves surrounding the Mara, which are leased to different safari companies. A guided bush walk with a Maasai warrior will let you experience this culture’s deep connection with the land.

The main safari circuit couples Lake Nakuru with the Masai Mara and Amboseli (where Mt Kilimanjaro provides a staggering backdrop). Tsavo West , Tsavo East and Samburu are popular add-ons, if you have extra time. Any combination of these parks should ensure ample sightings of big cats, plenty of elephants, a few rhinos and all of the plains animals, such as buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and all manner of gazelle and antelope species. Want even more? Extend your stay by another week and scale Mt Kenya , Africa’s second-highest peak (after Kilimanjaro).

Most travelers just pass through Nairobi , staying long enough to visit Nairobi National Park . An extraordinarily well-stocked park on the cusp of one of Africa’s largest cities and easily accessible, Kenya’s original game reserve has wildlife in abundance, from lions, leopards, and buffaloes to the endangered black rhino and around 400 species of birdlife.

Generally, Kenya is viewed as a better choice for family safaris, those on a budget and those on a tight timeline.

Best time to visit for a safari in Kenya

July to October and January to February are the best times to see the Great Migration, when a million-plus wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, cross the crocodile-infested Mara River to graze on the lush grasses of the Masai Mara. With unrestricted visitor numbers, some areas can get crowded.

Where to stay on safari in Kenya

Kenya has hundreds of excellent lodges and tented camps, standards of service from local staff are generally high, and tour operators are experts at the logistics of moving between national parks for each leg of your safari itinerary.

Cottar’s 1920s Camp has entertained guests in high style for over 100 years, while “gentle on the earth” takes on a whole new meaning at Emboo River Camp , whose team will have you floating through the grasslands of the Masai Mara in the region’s first electric game drive vehicles.

Good value but still luxurious, Ol Tukai Lodge sits within Amboseli Park, with views of Kilimanjaro from the bar; nearby Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is a comfortable family-friendly option. In Nairobi,  Giraffe Manor  provides a memorable breakfast spread before a visit to the city’s park; all accommodations in the upmarket Karen and Langata areas are close to the main entrance.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Kenya

Masai Mara National Reserve is the most wallet-friendly location for seeing the wildebeest migration. Despite having a shorter migration season, Kenya has more flights, more tourists, stiffer competition and a greater variety of affordable accommodations than next-door Tanzania. Expect to pay anything from $150 to $1000 per person, per night.

For a cheaper safari, book between the short and long rains (January to March), when prices are usually lower than during the peak season. Nairobi National Park charges $40 to non-residents for entry, while admission to Masai Mara is $80 for 24 hours if you stay outside the reserve, and $70 if you stay inside.

Planning a safari in Namibia

Why namibia.

Two reasons: self-driving independence and dramatic desert scenery. While a 4WD African safari is always an ambitious undertaking, Namibia has good roads, well-equipped campsites and reasonably priced rental vehicles. This is one of the easiest Southern African countries to explore from the driver’s seat.

The classic circuit starts in Windhoek , where you’ll rent a fully equipped 4WD camper van or a decent gravel-road car. From there, you’ll head to Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert for incredible vistas, circle up to Swakopmund for coastal adventures and end at Etosha National Park , where elephants, rhinos and giraffes strut their stuff.

Etosha is Namibia’s version of South Africa’s Kruger National Park, with roads and facilities suitable for a self-driving budget safari. Each public camp overlooks a busy water hole, where game moves in and out to drink during the dry season. The camp is floodlit by night, which means you won’t need to leave once you settle in.

Best time to visit for a safari in Namibia

Etosha is well-known for its productive water holes, and peak game viewing is from June to October, when wildlife flocks to these oases dotted throughout the park. This is also a cooler time of year to climb the dramatic dunes such as  Dune 45 at Sossusvlei.

Where to stay on safari in Namibia

Arranging everything through the  Gondwana Collection is hands-down the easiest and best way to organize a self-driving safari. This group has a portfolio of accommodations in all the key tourist spots, ranging from well-serviced campsites to glamping tents and swank lodges filled with character. Favorites include the quirky Desert Grace and Namib Dune Star Camp (with its alfresco beds) near Sossusvlei, and The Delight in Swakopmund. A sister company,  Namibia2Go , offers car rentals with comprehensive insurance.

As an alternative, you can book campsites and chalets inside the parks with the government-run Namibia Wildlife Resorts . Okaukuejo Rest Camp lies inside the perimeter of Etosha and is the place to watch at the water hole.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Namibia

At about $800, a full week’s vehicle rental is cheaper than a single night’s stay at a luxury lodge in the Okavango Delta. Due to the vast distances between destinations in Namibia, however, fuel expenses can add up fast. National parks and private campsites offer affordable camping fees, though luxury accommodations will (understandably) be more expensive. For camping, expect to pay $20 to $50 per person, per night for camping; for lodges, $100 to $300.

Planning a safari in South Africa

Why south africa.

Expect bush, beach and fine wine. From iconic Kruger National Park to the picturesque landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal , South Africa offers a safari experience that caters to all levels of adventurers. 

Kruger is the easiest and most rewarding safari destination for first-timers and budget travelers. You can see the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes), as well as cheetahs, giraffes, African wild dogs and hundreds of bird species. Drive the park’s paved roads yourself if you’re on a budget, or visit private reserves like Sabi Sands or Thornybush for exclusive guided experiences, plus a better chance to see the Big Five in a short period.

Lesser-known reserves in KwaZulu-Natal are equally impressive. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is just as accessible as Kruger from the city of Durban , and has excellent facilities for travelers on all budgets; expect to spot rhinos, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes and wildebeest. (The big cats are a little more challenging to see here.) Nearby Phinda Private Game Reserve offers stunning high-end stays – plus the possibility of a beach day or scuba diving at Sodwana Bay .

Madikwe Game Reserve in North West Province is close to the Botswana border and a four-hour drive from Johannesburg , making it popular for South Africans looking for a safari. It’s also a malaria-free option for families with young children.

Combine any of these safari parks with a flight south to Cape Town , and you’ll add fine wine, world-class restaurants and a seaside safari – visiting the  African penguins of Boulders Beach – to your itinerary.

Best time to visit for a safari in South Africa

While South Africa is a year-round destination , most visitors love the cooler, dry season between May and August. During these months, wildlife is easier to spot as vegetation is more sparse and animals gather around water holes.

Where to stay on safari in South Africa

There are plenty of affordable self-catering rest camps in Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi run by SANParks , the government parks agency. Kruger’s southern zone is prime game-viewing territory, with Skukuza , Lower Sabie and Letaba rest camps all favorites. Hilltop Camp in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi has terrific views, while Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge is a superb, privately run option that supports the local community.

Plush camps and lodges in the private reserves come with highly trained guides who can take you out on foot or by vehicle. You can’t go wrong at Saseka in Thornybush, Dulini in Sabi Sands, Tanda Tula in  Timbavati , Jaci’s Safari Lodge in Madikwe or any of the &Beyond accommodations in Phinda.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in South Africa

Rates range from $100 to $200 per person, per night in government-run camps. Mid-range prices start at $300 to $700 per person, per night, with a corresponding bump in accommodation and guiding quality.

Planning a safari in Tanzania

Why tanzania.

Limitless plains, the epic migration and relaxing dips in the Indian Ocean. Tanzania ’s northern safari circuit includes the amazing  Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater . Exploring these places for 10 days to two weeks is a sure way to fall in love with Africa. You should consider adding a few days on the island of Zanzibar  (officially called Unguja) to make your dream trip even more memorable.

Tanzania and Kenya share similarities, both having plentiful wildlife parks and excellent safari operators. Tanzania’s vibe, though, is generally less stressful – perhaps due to the fact that the Serengeti is nearly 10 times bigger than Kenya’s Masai Mara, offering endless horizons and greater habitat variety.

In the heart of the Serengeti, the Seronera River provides big-cat and herbivore sightings year round, making it popular with visitors. Kogatende and Lamai, on the Mara River, are ideal for observing river crossings – with fewer tourists. Private reserves such as  Grumeti allow viewings of the migration without the crowds (and for a price).

The Ngorongoro Crater is only a short drive to the east from the Serengeti. In this giant collapsed volcano (or caldera), animals like lions, elephants and black rhinos are enclosed as they prowl a complete ecosystem of pretty plains and dramatic forests. Note that such assets do draw the crowds in peak season.

Best time to visit for a safari in Tanzania

Plan a visit between January and March to witness the migration of wildebeest – and their newborns – passing through the Ngorongoro and Ndutu regions. (Get as early a start as possible to avoid day-trippers.) The best time to witness the famous wildebeest river crossings in the Serengeti is during the peak season, from July to August.

Where to stay on safari in Tanzania

Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge is an upmarket accommodation inspired by traditional Tanzanian architecture; its popular mobile-safari offering is Kiota Camp. Run entirely by women,  Dunia Camp is a luxury tented property situated in prime lion territory. Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is a great value-for-money permanent lodge conveniently located near the entrance to the Ngorongoro Crater. For an even more budget-friendly option, consider  Bougainvillea Safari Lodge . For a different kind of stay, book a stay  Gibb’s Farm , which is situated on a working coffee farm and offers campfire storytelling and other fun extras.

On the coast, Chumbe Island in Zanzibar/Unguja is a highly rated, ecofriendly property that offers sensational snorkeling in a protected marine reserve. In the historic heart of  Stone Town , the best-value stay is Zanzibar Coffee House , dating from the 19th century.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Tanzania

Expect to pay anything from $250 to $950 per room, per night, during your stay in Tanzania. Entry fees at Serengeti National Park for foreign tourists are $70 (peak season) and $60 (low season). To visit the Ngorongoro Crater, you’ll pay $250 for a vehicle, in addition to the same entry fee. These fees are typically included in organized safari packages.

Planning a safari in Zambia

Why zambia.

Track rhinos, witness an awe-inspiring cascade and join a walking safari to experience nature up close. Indeed,  Zambia is celebrated worldwide as the birthplace of the safari on foot, during which, under the guidance of two armed rangers, rhino tracking in nearby Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park will bring you close to these magnificent animals – only a taste of what’s to come at South Luangwa.

Livingstone , the tourist capital of Zambia, lets you gaze at another (non-living) marvel: mighty Mosi-oa-Tunya, better known as  Victoria Falls . If the 935 cu meters (33,000 cu ft) of water that pours over the falls each second is not heart-pumping enough, there are plenty of other thrilling activities to enjoy , such as white-water rafting on the Zambezi River and bungee jumping (also available on the Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls). During July and August, you can even take a refreshing dip in the natural infinity pool at the edge of the falls.

Several small and rustic camps in the Luangwa Valley cater just to walking safaris – a thrilling alternative to traditional game drives. These camps are mainly located in South Luangwa National Park .

Best time to visit for a safari in Zambia

Peak game viewing is from June to October, and Victoria Falls is at its best on the Zambia side from March to May.

Where to stay on safari in Zambia

Flatdogs Camp in South Luangwa National Park offers family-friendly luxury. In Livingstone, Jollyboys Backpackers provides a vibey base from which to explore town. The Victoria Falls Waterfront provides a free shuttle to the main event – but if you want to stay at the falls with unlimited access, the swish Royal Livingstone Resort is top-notch; the three-star Avani Victoria Falls Resort is next door.

Green Safaris operates a great circuit of camps in Zambia if you want to combine Victoria Falls with South Luangwa. Live the Robinson Crusoe life at Sindabezi Island Lodge on the Zambezi, and then head into the bush at Shawa Luangwa Camp . You can’t go wrong with walking-safari operators Time + Tide (its  Kakuli is a classic camp that’s been open since 1950), or Robin Pope .

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Zambia

Consider getting the KAZA UniVisa , a special $50 pass that allows for unlimited crossings between Zambia and Zimbabwe, plus a one-day trip to Botswana (via the Kazungula border crossing), within 30 days. Budget $250 to $700 per person, per night for lodging.

Planning a safari in Zimbabwe

Why zimbabwe.

The adventurous choice for a first-time safari, Zimbabwe has arguably the best guides in Africa. The easiest way to experience it all? Spend three days in Victoria Falls. Since it’s one of the country’s most popular tourist towns, you’ll find plenty to see, do and eat.

The meandering rainforest walkway in Zimbabwe is where the majority of Victoria Falls viewpoints lie. This is a better option for experiencing the falls during during the dry season (May to October), when water levels on the Zambian side lessen. On some evenings and during the full moon,  Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe remains open at night for dazzling stargazing.

After a day of adrenaline-fueled bungee jumping, white-water rafting, zip-lining or hovering in a helicopter above Batoka Gorge, afternoon tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel , served every day between 3pm and 6pm, offers some refined relaxation, as you share a tiered stand of pretty sandwiches and delicate pastries beside the manicured lawns. If this lies beyond your budget, enjoy a simple gin-and-tonic sundowner – or head to the Wild Horizons Lookout Café .

The wildlife around here is less prolific than nearby Chobe National Park in Botswana (which you can visit on a day trip or easily combine with Victoria Falls). Yet a boat cruise allows for spottings of hippos, crocodiles and the occasional elephant. A 45-minute flight or two-hour drive away,  Hwange National Park is where you’ll find bigger game.

Best time to visit for a safari in Zimbabwe

There is fantastic wildlife viewing during the dry months, from May to October. Victoria Falls is at its peak from March to May.

Where to stay on safari in Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge sits on a ridge and overlooks a water hole frequented by buffaloes and other beasts. Nkosi Guest Lodge is a pretty, upmarket inn, while Ilala Lodge Hotel is just a 10-minute walk from Victoria Falls. The Victoria Falls Hotel, the iconic grande dame, offers perhaps the best views. Further afield, you can ensconce yourself in the bush at  Mpala Jena , about 40km (25 miles) upstream. In Hwange, The Hide , Camp Hwange  and Somalisa are all visitor favorites.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Zimbabwe

Entry to Victoria Falls is $50. With the wide range of accommodation options, you can spend $150 to $700 per person, per night.

This article was first published Oct 17, 2019 and updated Feb 20, 2024.

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13 of the best safaris in Africa

From big-name parks to lesser-known, wilder reserves, these are africa’s top safari destinations.

T here’s a lot to consider when it comes to deciding where to go on safari. If you’re keen to see the Big Five — lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos and rhinos — South Africa is a solid choice, with options for all budgets, good tourism infrastructure and family-friendly properties in malaria-free areas. If you’re more seasoned or just keen to avoid the busier spots, you might be tempted by walking safaris in Zambia or southern Tanzania . Timing is a factor, too — most safari areas are at their driest between June and September, but the wet season can be great for birding, it’s cheaper, and those lush landscapes are ideal for photographers. With all that in mind, read on for the best African safaris.

Main photo: Giraffes in Ngorongoro, Tanzania (Getty Images)

1. Okavango Delta, Botswana

This inland delta is one of the most beautiful and wildlife-rich areas in Africa. Located in northern Botswana, it is fed by floodwaters from neighbouring Angola between May and October. This is the time when visitors can explore the reed-lined waterways by mokoro— a traditional canoe — which is a particularly special experience. There are a number of reserves in the delta and tourism is controlled so it feels wild and remote; it’s also the most expensive place to go on safari. But the wildlife viewing is exceptional — think buffalo-hunting lions, wild dogs sprinting through the bush, hippos cooling off in the water, elephants browsing acacias. And it’s a great birding destination.

Best base camp Vumbura Plains is one of the fanciest camps in the delta and in a really good spot for wildlife sightings, particularly big cats.

go2africa.com/accommodation/vumbura-plains

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Best safari camps and lodges in Botswana

Okavango Delta guide: when to go and where to stay

2. Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

The Masai Mara in southwest Kenya is famous for the beauty of its rolling savanna grasslands, the density of its wildlife populations, and, between July and October, the great wildebeest herds that thunder across the Mara River. Big cats — lions, cheetahs and leopards — are prolific. Wildlife is habituated and easy to find. The key to enjoying your time in the Mara is avoiding the crowds — that means finding a great guide or paying a little extra to stay in one of the private community-run conservancies around the edges of the national park.

Best base camp The high-end Cottar’s 1920s Camp is in a private conservancy – great for uncrowded wildlife sightings – and is one of the most long-established camps in the Mara.

yellowzebrasafaris.com/kenya/accommodation/lodges/cottars-camp

The best time to visit Kenya

3. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

This inactive, ancient caldera is — at 2,000 feet deep and 100 square miles in area — one of the world’s most dramatic landscapes for viewing wildlife. There are elephants, critically endangered black rhinos, lions and flocks of flamingos. It’s not just safaris that you can do in and around the crater, but also hikes and visits to nearby Masai villages. The crater does get crowded, especially at the peak of the dry season from June to September. Wetter weather during the low season means smaller crowds and better rates, though of course conditions are not as favourable.

Best base camp Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge is a smart, comfortable hotel with 20 cottages, a pool and a spa — and it’s just five minutes away from the entrance gate of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

The best safari camps in Tanzania

4. Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

In the southwest of Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is made up of savanna, forests and lakes, and it holds a diverse range of wildlife from elephants to chimpanzees. It’s perhaps best known for its lions that have an unusual penchant for climbing trees, but it’s also a great place for boat trips and birding. Given its proximity to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, it’s an excellent safari partner to mountain gorilla trekking.

Best base camp With beautiful views and only a few minutes from the park entrance, Buffalo Safari Lodge is a great option for Queen Elizabeth visitors.

5. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Hwange National Park is one of Zimbabwe’s best and most popular safari destinations, with a diverse range of wildlife across its savanna and forests. Animals you might spot include lions, wild dogs, leopards and cheetahs; Hwange’s also home to one of Africa’s largest population of elephants. In private concessions, you can take walking safaris in addition to game drives. And the park benefits from Zimbabwe’s famously excellent guides (due a rigorous qualification programme). Hwange is easily combined with Victoria Falls, which is only around three hours away by road.

Best base camp In a private concession, the nine-tent, simple but comfy Davison’s Camp is set by a waterhole often visited by elephants.

6. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

South Luangwa’s wildlife viewing is among the best in Africa, particularly for big cats and elephants. You can spot rare subspecies unique to the area, such as Thornicroft’s giraffes, too. The park — and Zambia generally — is renowned for walking safaris. So, if you’re keen to explore the bush on foot, whether just for the day or on an epic fly-camping adventure, this is the place for you. The Luangwa River attracts large numbers of animals during the dry season, the most popular time to visit. Be aware that many lodges close for the wettest months, between December and March.

Best base camp A popular little spot just outside South Luangwa National Park, Flatdogs Camp used to be a backpackers and it retains a relaxed, friendly vibe.

7. Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve), Tanzania

In southern Tanzania, Nyerere is Tanzania’s largest — and newest — national park. It was the northern section of the massive Selous Game Reserve, until 2019 when the area was designated a national park. The best wildlife viewing is around the Rufiji River — leisurely boat safaris are a highlight — and the park has populations of lions, elephants, hippos, critically endangered black rhinos and wild dogs. As an added bonus, Nyerere — and the south of Tanzania generally — receives a mere fraction of the tourists who visit the northern parks.

Best base camp Serena Mivumo River Lodge sits on the banks of the Rufiji River, with just 12 elevated chalets overlooking the water.

8. Kruger National Park, South Africa

In the far northeast of South Africa, the Kruger is the most popular safari destination of them all. In addition to the wildlife viewing being superb — especially for leopards, which tend to be extraordinarily nonchalant around vehicles — it’s got great tourism infrastructure, including good roads for self-driving safaris. There are basic self-catering facilities or super-luxury lodges in the Kruger’s private reserves, so something for most budgets. It can be very busy, but travelling in shoulder or low seasons will help, as might venturing to the less-visited north of the park, where there are great walking trails, big baobabs, and fever tree forests.

Best base camp Amongst the sleekest luxury lodges on the continent, Singita Lebombo is for the stylish safari-goer. 15 suites overlook the bush or river. The food and wine offerings are excellent, too.

Where should I go in South Africa?

Best safaris in South Africa

9. Etosha National Park, Namibia

While the density of its wildlife is much lower than other parts of Africa, Namibia makes up for it with its breathtaking desert landscapes. In the north of the country, Etosha National Park is its most popular safari destination. The best time to visit are the dry months when animals gather at water — there are lots of elephants, plus giraffes, lions — and it’s possible to see black rhinos, too. The Etosha Pan, the focal point of the park, is a salt flat, where mammals and birds such as flamingos gather. You can drive up from the capital Windhoek or take a scenic light aircraft flight — either option reveals some of Namibia’s huge, open landscapes.

Best base camp On the edge of Etosha National Park, Ongava Tented Camp is in a private reserve, where you can go on after-dark game drives and bush walks.

10. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The vast plains of the Serengeti, in northern Tanzania, are featured in dozens of nature documentaries for good reason. Not only is it a striking landscape, but it’s home to incredible wildlife, most of which is extremely habituated to tourists. Watch cheetahs scan for prey from atop a termite mound or park up next to a leopard chowing its kill in a tree. The Great Migration wildebeest herds stop to graze and give birth to their young in the south of the park from November to February; from June, you can see them crossing the river as they move between the Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara on their cyclical migration.

Best base camp In the south of the park, Elewana Serengeti Pioneer Camp has glorious views across the plains. The 12 tents each have private decks and side panels that can be rolled up to take in the surroundings.

11. Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe

On the banks of the Zambezi River, Mana Pools feels wilder and quieter than most safari destinations in Southern Africa. The name means “four” in Shona, referring to the four main pools that make up the park. As well as lions and wild dogs, Mana Pools is known for elephants that have learnt to stand on their hindlegs to reach the higher branches. Explore the river by canoe, or take a bush walk during the dry season (in the wettest months, January to March, parts of the park are inaccessible and lots of properties close).

Best base camp With ten tented suites and being in a private reserve, Ruckomechi Camp gives guests a sense of exclusivity and remoteness. Don’t miss the opportunity to sleep under the stars.

yellowzebrasafaris.com/zimbabwe/accommodation/lodges/ruckomechi-camp

12. Laikipia, Kenya

In central Kenya, the Laikipia plateau is a less-visited alternative to the Mara, with a different appeal. The landscape is open and rolling, with views of Mount Kenya’s jagged peaks. The various reserves in this area are home to the Big Five — including many black rhinos and the last two northern white rhinos, which live in Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The region also has wild dogs and rare subspecies such as the reticulated giraffe and Grevy’s zebra.

Best base camp A mid-range option in Ol Pejeta, Sweetwaters Serena Camp is a solid choice for travellers looking for comforts but without blowing the bank.

The best Kenyan safaris

13. Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa

Close to the border with Botswana, Madikwe is a scenic reserve, with rolling hills and rust-orange sand. It’s home to the Big Five and other charismatic animals, such as wild dogs. Madikwe is a great option for families, as it’s malaria-free and many of the properties are geared to hosting children, with fun activities and private villas. You can also drive from Johannesburg , which cuts down on the expense of light aircraft flights.

Best base camp Madikwe Safari Lodge is a luxury option in the reserve, with 20 rooms including family suites with bunkbeds (and special turndowns for the kids).

When is the best time to go on safari?

In most of southern and eastern Africa, the dry season runs from June to October. The advantage of the dry season is that wildlife tends to congregate around waterholes and the foliage is sparser, making animals easier to see. This is typically considered the best time to travel. But the rainy season can be better for landscape photography and birding (as migratory birds are in the south), as well as it being a quieter and generally cheaper time to travel.

What should I bring with me on safari?

Pack comfortable clothes in relatively neutral shades (very bright colours can frighten animals) and layers — mornings and evenings can be chilly enough for a hat and gloves, but by 10am, it’ll be T-shirt weather. Bring sturdy, closed-toe footwear if you’ll be walking, a hat, sunglasses and suncream. Photographers will want their longest lenses, but plenty of people do fine with their smartphones. Binoculars are very useful, although guides usually have pairs to share.

Do I need a guide on a safari?

A good guide will definitely enhance your safari experience — and in many places, you need them. Places like Kruger are great for self-driving (even without a 4×4) and the wildlife is prolific enough to find without a professional. But for walking or night driving, you will always need a qualified guide.

Take me there

Inspired to go on a safari but yet to book your trip? Here are the best options from Virgin Holidays* and Exodus Travels* . These are the best safari tours from our trusted partners* .

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

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The Best Safari Destinations In Africa: A Complete Guide 2024

Over the last 25 years, we have traveled extensively in Africa and have taken countless safaris. We’ve seen some incredible sights in some of the best safari destinations in Africa.

An African safari is like nothing else you will ever experience. Once you go, you will be hooked for life. Nothing beats the thrill of seeing a wild animal in its natural habitat or hearing a lion roar in the distance as you drift off to sleep.

Africa is an incredible continent and Ernest Hemingway’s quote sums up exactly how we feel about it.

“I never knew of a morning in Africa when I woke up that I was not happy”.

It is no coincidence that we named our first child Ernest. We’re happy to say that he loves to go on safari as much as we do!

His thirst for knowledge of African wildlife is incredible. Honestly, if you didn’t think you could take an African safari with kids , we can tell you that you absolutely can and should.

Not only is educating the next generation on the importance of wildlife and habitat conservation crucial, they will absolutely LOVE it.

Africa will take your breath away and the great thing about it is that it is vast and there is so much to see. With so much choice, though, comes the question. Where is the best place in Africa for a safari? 

We have compiled a list of some of the best places in Africa to go on safari.

Most of these African safari destinations are places that we have personally visited and offer Africa’s top wildlife experiences. The rest are on our list to visit as soon as possible!

Whether you want to see the “Big Five” (Elephant, Rhino, Lion, Leopard and Buffalo) or encounter incredible bird life, there is the perfect African safari destination waiting for you.

This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one and book or buy something, we may earn a small commission but this is at no extra cost to you.

Need help planning the ultimate African safari?

Before we cover the best safari destinations in Africa, we want to mention that Go2Africa has helped us plan and book many safaris.

They are the leading luxury safari tour operator in Africa and have won lots of awards. They are also an ethical company, ensuring that your safari gives back to the local community and wildlife projects. You can read more about their Positive Impact initiative here .

They ensure that 100% of your money stays in Africa. This is something that is really important to us and we hope that it is for you too.

They have a great section on their website where you can say when you want to travel and their recommendations for each month come up.

Or you can just speak to a consultant after completing a quick enquiry form here .

One important thing to consider is whether you want to go for a safari in a large National Park like the Serengeti or Maasai Mara or whether it is better to go to a private game reserve.

The large National Parks can sometimes get incredibly busy with lots of independent safari guides jostling for the best view of an animal sighting.

This is what you can experience (photo below). You don’t get this in a private game reserve, but you will pay more for the experience.

In a private game reserve, you also have the opportunity to ‘off-road’ to get closer to the animals.

Best safari destinations in Africa for the ultimate safari experience

With the sheer number of fantastic places in Africa to visit for a safari, deciding where to go can be overwhelming.

To help you make the best choice, we’ve created a list of our favorite African safari destinations.

For each safari destination, we have mentioned the best time of year to visit and also recommended where to stay.

Table of Contents: Best Safari Destinations in Africa

1. Serengeti National Park in Tanzania 2. Kruger National Park in South Africa 3. Etosha National Park in Namibia 4. Okavango Delta in Botswana 5. Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya 6. Mana Pool National Park in Zimbabwe 7. Sabi Sands Game Reserve in South Africa 8. Amboseli National Park in Kenya 9. Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania 10. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda 11. South Luangwa National Park in Zambia 12. Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda 13. Hwangwe National Park in Zimbabwe 14. Damaraland in Namibia Preparing for your first African safari African Safaris Frequently Asked Questions Conclusion: The Best Safari Destinations in Africa

1. Serengeti National Park in Tanzania

We’ll start our list of the best safari destinations in Africa with The Serengeti National Park as it is probably the most famous safari destination in Africa.

It is a huge national park in Tanzania spanning over 3 million hectares.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is most known for its annual migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest who migrate to the Serengeti each year to give birth.

This great migration is known as one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World.

It can also provide a setting for dramatic animal encounters as the predators descend. There are over 3000 lions in the serengeti and they tend to follow the herd.

There are also river crossings for the wildebeest to contend with which are frought with danger.

To get an idea, you can watch this underwater crocodile ambush clip from David Attenborough .

Best time to visit the Serengeti National Park

Most people visit the Serengeti from July to September as this is when the great migration occurs. This is also the busiest season in the park.

There are two short rainy seasons in the Serengeti: March to April and November to December. These are generally the quietest times to visit.

See here for more detailed information on when to visit the Serengeti.

Where to stay in the Serengeti National Park

Did you know that you can also stay in mobile safari camps that follow the wildebeest migration? Spaces on these camps is limited and you need to book around a year in advance. See Kimondo Migration Camp or Olakira Migration Camp to find out more.

Or see here for all of the accommodation in the Serengeti recommended by Go2Africa .

Serengeti National Park safaris

See here for safaris in the Serengeti National Park.

2. Kruger National Park in South Africa

The Kruger National Park is one of the best safari destinations in Africa for first timers. It is a huge 7500 square miles and is home to the Big 5.

The Kruger National Park is one of the most accessible wildlife viewing areas in the world, with paved roads and lots of rest camps with excellent facilities. It is the perfect place for a self-drive safari.

You also have the Greater Kruger area where you will find the private game reserves.

Many of these private game reserves open out onto the Kruger and the animals are free to come and go.

The Southern end of the Kruger is known for the best wildlife viewing, but this is also where most visitors will go.

If you want game viewing away from the crowds, northern Kruger is the place to be.

Also keep an eye out for news on the new Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park . It is a huge conservation initiative to create a 100,000km² park spanning South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe where animals will be free to roam.

As well as the big five, other animals include:

Cheetah Hippo Crocodile The elusive Honeybadger (we’re quite proud of that sighting!)

Best time to visit the Kruger National Park

The best time to visit the Kruger Park is from April to October. See also our guide on the best time of year to safari in the Kruger .

Where to stay in the Kruger National Park

We have stayed outside of the park and done a self-drive safari and we have stayed in private game reserves on the fringes of the Kruger.

If you are visiting the Kruger with kids, see here for our recommendations for accommodation for families in the Kruger .

We also have posts on the best accommodation for families in Timbavati as well as reviews of Jackalberry Lodge and Thornybush Game Lodge .

We have also stayed in AfriCamps if we want to stay somewhere affordable just outside the park.

There are municipal camps within the Kruger National Park, but we find the accommodation there to be fairly expensive for what you get.

We have stayed at a couple of them in our tent when doing a cheap safari holiday . It was probably the most uncomfortable night’s sleep we’ve had.

It was in December and the daytime temperature was 45 °C. The ground heated up so much during the day and gave it all back during the night. It was like sleeping in a sauna.

Kruger National Park safaris

See here for safaris in the Kruger National Park.

3. Etosha National Park in Namibia

Etosha means ‘great white place’. It gets its name from the salt-laced mud found in the large salt pan in the centre of Etosha National Park.

This Namibian National Park is home to one of the most unique sights you will see on safari in Africa: The Ghost Elephants of Etosha National Park.

These enormous elephants wallow in the mud of the salt pan and when the mud dries, they are almost entirely white and are a sight to behold.

Honestly, take a look at the photo we took below. Even their eyelashes are coated. You can see why they are called Ghost Elephants of Etosha.

Etosha was proclaimed a national park in 1907. Like the Kruger, it is one of the most accessible game reserves in Southern Africa and is perfect for self-drive safaris.

It is accessed by four gates which are open from sunrise to sunset. See here for more info on Etosha entrance fees .

Wildlife is abundant and sightings of wildlife are made easy in the dry season when animals gather around the waterholes to drink.

The landscape is arid and flat and you can see for miles around.

One of our favorite spots was Okaukuejo Camp where we watched black rhino come to the floodlit waterhole in the evening.

Etosha has one of the largest black rhino populations in the world and thankfully has been realtively unaffected by poaching for the last 20 years.

The other great thing about Etosha that will appeal to families on safari is that it has a low risk of malaria. The Eastern Cape in South Africa is also good for family-safaris that are malaria free .

If you are interested in visiting Namibia, read all about how to plan an epic 2-week Nambian itinerary .

Best time to visit Etosha National Park

The best game viewing in Etosha is during the dry season (winter) which is from May to October.

During the summer months, the park transforms into a lush green landscape and wildlife viewing is a bit more difficult. Read more here on the best months to visit Etosha .

Where to stay in Etosha National Park

There are six camps within Etosha National Park . We have personally stayed at Okakuejo in our tent when we were doing budget safaris .

We have also stayed at Onguma Fort , Onguma Tented Camp and are about to stay at Onguma Forest Camp .

Etosha National Park safaris

See here for safaris in Etosha National Park. You might also like to read about our favourite wildlife tours in Swakopmund .

4. Okavango Delta in Botswana

Our safaris in the Okavango Delta were (and are still to this day) the best safaris in Africa for all round incredible animal sightings.

The Okavango Delta is the world’s largest inland Delta and one of the most remote places on the planet for a safari with fly-in access only to many of the camps.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 2014).

One of the unique things about the Okavango Delta is that you can take to the water for your game viewing.

The Okavango Delta is also an excellent destination for bird sightings with the possiblity of seeing some rare birds.

We didn’t know we were birders until we visited the Okavango Delta!

The safari adventure begins on your flight to camp as you can spot wildlife below. Elephants look like tiny specs in the huge wilderness.

You also get to appreciate how much of the land is under water.

One of the highlights of our safari from Nxabega was taking a mokoro (canoe) trip and a full-day boat safari.

The full-day boat safari involved a picnic stop on a tiny island and a chance to jump into the water for a swim. This could only be done under close supervision by the guide due to the proximity of crocodiles and hippos. A truly once in a lifetime experience.

It felt like we were getting lost in the many channels but our guide knew exactly where we were going.

This is probably a good place to mention that safari jeeps can be quite noisy. If you like the idea of floating along with just the sounds of nature, then a safari in the Okavango Delta is for you.

You also get the chance to spot things like minute reed frogs. Test your guide’s skills as they are incredibly difficult to spot. They are no bigger than a finger nail.

Animals you can expect to see in the Okavango Delta are:

Cheetah Leopard Crocodile Lion Hippo

(Pretty much everything)!

Best time to visist the Okavango Delta

The best time to visit the Okavango Delta is June to October. Read more here .

Where to stay in the Okavango Delta

We stayed at two luxury camps in the Okavango Delta and would highly recommend either of them.

Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge was great for birdlife. It is an open camp and we had the incredible experience of elephant wandering past our tent at night and giving it a little bump! Sandibe was also great for leopard spotting.

Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp was perfectly placed for exploring the Okavango by boat. They offer the most amazing mokoro safaris.

Okavango Delta safaris

See here for safaris in the Okavango Delta.

5. Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya

The Maasai Mara National Reserve (also known as the Masai Mara or the Mara) is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa and certainly one of the best safaris in Kenya.

Located in the Great Rift Valley in Kenya, it is made up of 700 sq mi (1800 km²) of grassy plains and rolling hills.

This is the iconic African landscape with savannah dotted with Acacia trees that might spring to mind when you think of an African safari.

If you visit between August and November, you will witness the wildebeest migration – one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.  They cross to the Serengeti in Tanzania from the Maasai Mara in Kenya.

If you are visiting during this time, make sure to book well in advance because it is a very busy time of year. Note that due to changing weather patterns, the exact times change each year.

Animals you would expect to see in the Masai Mara are:

Lion Leopard Cheetah African Bush Elephant Plains animals (Wildebeest and Zebra)

The Maasai Mara has plenty of family-friendly lodges if you are looking for the best safari holidays with kids.

Best time to visit the Maasai Mara

The best time to safari in the Maasai Mara is between August and November if you want to see the Wildebeest migration.

However, it is actually one of the best African safari destinations for year-round safaris.

January to March is usually the quietest time to visit.

Read here for more information on the best times to visit the Masai Mara.

Where to stay in the Maasai Mara

Angama Mara is widely regarded as one of the best safari lodges in Kenya. We will let you know as we’re aiming to test it out shortly.

Maasai Mara safaris

See here for Maasai Mara safaris.

6. Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe

Mana Pools National Park is located in the north of Zimbabwe and runs along the Zambezi River and is one of the least developed national parks in Africa.

Mana means ‘four’ in Shona and refers to the four large permanent pools formed by the twisting and turning of the middle Zambezi.

It is one of Africa’s best safaris for elephant spotting with a huge population of elephants. Also prevalent are hippos and Nile Crocodile.

Mana Pools National Park offers one of the most beautiful safari destinations in Africa.

It’s known for its huge elephant population, many of which you can see in and around the water.

One of the unique offerings at Mana Pools National Park is a canoe safari.

You can explore Mana Pools without a guide but you would need a 4×4. This is not recommended for beginners.

For similar wildlife viewing, see also Lower Zambezi National Park which is just over the border in Zambia.

This one is on our list. We have not yet visited but will update this section when we have.

Best time to visit Mana Pools National Park

August to early November is the best time to visit Mana Pools as the water in the surrounding area has mostly dried up and animals flock to Mana Pools to drink.

Read here for a guide to visiting Zimbabwe at different times of the year.

Where to stay in Mana Pools National Park

Kanga Camp is situated in a private concession in Mana Pools. It is a rustic camp with the most incredible game viewing from the camp.

Mana Pools National Park safaris

Read here for safaris in Mana Pools National Park

7. Sabi Sands Game Reserve in South Africa

Sabi Sands Game Reserve is a private reserve located near the southern end of the Kruger and is home to the Big 5.

Sabi Sands is one of the best African Safaris for leopard sightings. We were lucky enough to spot one with its kill. He was trying to drag it up a tree but it was just too big so he settled for a hill in front of our jeep instead.

The game reserve is also known for its excellent birdlife. Make sure to bring your binoculars along for the ride.

Best time to visit Sabi Sands Game Reserve

The best time to visit Sabi Sands Game Reserve is during the winter months (April to October) when the bush is sparse. It makes it much easier to spot the animals.

Where to stay in Sabi Sands Game Reserve

We actually stayed in Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge which is within Sabi Sabi Game Reserve. This is one of the best safari lodges for kids because they have a fabulous children’s centre .

Sabi Sands Game Reserve safaris

See here for Sabi Sands safaris.

8. Amboseli National Park in Kenya

Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s most popular national parks.

For me personally, this is one of the best safari destinations in Africa because it was the first safari I ever took in 2002.

I will never forget seeing the plain animals grazing as far as the eye could see with the silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro in the background.

It has to be one of the most iconic safari destinations in the world.

The great thing about a safari in Amboseli National Park is that you can easily combine this with a relaxing beach break afterwards.

We opted to visit Zanzibar by driving across the border into Tanzania and flying from Arusha. But you could equally drive on through Tsavo National Park towards Mombasa and the Kenyan beaches.

If you are feeling adventurous, why not join an expedition to climb Mount Kilimanjaro ? This has been on my bucketlist since seeing this view all those years ago.

Best time to visit Amboseli National Park

The best time for a safari in Amboseli National Park is between June to October.

This is the dry season and the grass is shorter. Read more about Amboseli here .

Where to stay in Amboseli National Park

I visited Amboseli National Park in 2002 and stayed at Porini Amboseli Camp . Obviously I can’t vouch for what it is like these days but we loved it. It was a true African tented camp. We even had someone come and pour hot water into a bucket outside our tent to feed our shower!

If this is a bit too basic for you, Go2Africa can recommend some excellent safari lodges in Amboseli.

Amboseli National Park safaris

See here for Amboseli National Park safaris.

9. Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania

The Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.

It is an incredible place for wildlife viewing and in our view, one of the best ssafari destinations in Africa to see the Big 5.

It is one of the best places to see black-maned lions and black rhinos and is famed for being one of the most reliable Big 5 safari destinations in Africa.

There are around 30,000 animal species in the Ngorongoro Crater but no giraffe because the walls of the crater are just too steep for them.

When we went, there was a lake in the center of the Crater where huge flocks of flamingo congregated and the occasional cheeky hyena would try their luck to catch one.

Best time to visit the Ngorongoro Crater

The best time of year to safari in the Ngorongoro Crater is April to May. This is the rainy season and there will be far fewer visitors. Read all about the best months to visit the Ngorongoro here .

Where to stay in the Ngorongoro Crater

We stayed at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge . We couldn’t fault it and the views from the hotel were incredible. It is perched just on the crater rim. You can see in the photo below just how amazing the views are.

For a more upmarket Ngorongoro hotel, we also recommend andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge .

You can also find these Serena Safari Lodge on Booking.com and Expedia. It is worth comparing prices if you are booking independently.

Ngorongoro Serena Safaro Lodge on Booking.com

Ngorongoro Serena Safaro Lodge on Expedia.com

Ngorongoro Crater safaris

See here for Ngorongoro Crater safaris.

10. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda

A safari doesn’t have to all be about the Big-5. A Gorilla safari is an incredible experience and will leave lasting memories.

There are fewer than 1000 Mountain Gorillas in the world, although conservation efforts seem to have been working. Numbers are slowly increasing but they are still endangered.

The Mountain Gorillas can be found in three locations: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is has more than twice the number of habituated mountain gorillas than Uganda and it is easier to get Gorilla permits to see them.

It is also only 2 hours drive from Kigali Airport, making it the most accessible location for gorilla trekking in world.

Depending on where the group is you are tracking, your walk to reach the gorillas can be 30 minutess or a few hours.

You are advised to stay a few metres from the gorillas. This isn’t just for your own safety but also to try to prevent spreading human disease to these endangered animals.

During our gorilla trek, we encountered some playful babies who seemed to find it amusing to drop down right in front of us. They obviously didn’t understand the 6-metre rule!

Gorilla trekking safaris should be organised well in advance because only a certain number of permits are available per day.

Best time to visit Volcanoes National Park

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Rwanda is between December to early March and June to September. This is the dry season in Rwanda.

Read more about the best time to visit Rwanda here .

Where to stay in Volcanoes National Park

Bisate Lodge is one of the best places to stay in Volcanoes National Park. Not only does it offer exceptional luxury, it also teamed up with the local community to re-forest an area with 2000 trees. It is committed to eco-friendly tourism.

The hotel looks like gorilla nests in the trees. There are only 6 suites, accommodating up to 12 guests. It is a truly an incredible experience staying here.

Volcanoes National Park safaris

See here for Gorilla trekking safaris in Rwanda.

Photo Credit: Go2Africa

11. South Luangwa National Park in Zambia

South Luangwa National Park is Zambia’s top wildlife destination.

In terms of best safaris in Africa, South Luangwa is a relative newcomer and much of its 5600 sq mi (9000 km²) is unexplored.

This makes it a great place for more experienced safari-goers who are looking for something wild with a bit more of an edge.

This park is where walking safaris all started and are one of the best ways to see wildlife still. Among the animals you will see in South Luangwa are the Big 5 as well as endemic species such as Crawshay’s zebra and Thornicroft’s giraffe.

Best time to visit South Luangwa National Park

The best time to visit South Luangwa National Park for wildlife viewing is July to October (dry season). November to April is the wet season and the park will be quieter. This is a better time for bird-watching.

Where to stay in South Luangwa National Park

Billed as South Luangwa’s most luxurious lodge, Time and Tide Chimzombo is a must see.

South Luangwa National Park safaris

See here for safaris in South Luangwa National Park.

12. Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda

The Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in western Uganda. It’s one of the most diverse parks in the country with mountains, swamps, tropical forests, savannahs and wetland areas.

It sits between Lake George and Lake Edward which are connected by the Kazinga Channel. Here you can take boat cruises for some leisurely wildlife spotting along the riverbanks.

It has the highest bird diversity in all of Africa making it one of the best safari destinations in Africa for birders. It also has one of the largest variety of animals in any Ugandan park.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is also famous for its tree-climbing lions which can be found in the Ishasha sector in the south.

If you are looking for chimpanzees, you will find them in the forests of the Kyambura Gorge.

If you are flying into Kampala or Entebbe for your safari, why not incorporate a trip to Jinja, the source of the Nile?

The area is great for white water rafting.

Best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park

The best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park is between January and February and June to July. This is the dry season when animal viewing is at its best.

Where to stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Wake up to the sounds of hippos in the morning at Ishasha Wilderness Camp , a small camp set on the banks of Ntungwe River.

Queen Elizabeth National Park safaris

See here for safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

13. Hwangwe National Park in Zimbabwe

Hwangwe National Park is located in the far north west of Zimbabwe. It is the largest nature reserve in Zimbabwe at 5600 sq mi (14,600 km²).

It is made up of grasslands and mopane woods which are home to elephant herds, lions and African wild dogs.

It is home to 30,000 elephants which is the second largest elephant population in the world after Chobe National Park in Botswana.

Of course, you can’t come to this part of Zimbabwe and not visit one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and World Heritage Site – Victoria Falls.

Hwangwe has suffered hugely in the past from poaching. Whilst it has not been eradicated, a large population of African Wild Dogs is said that have aided in the reduction of poaching.

Best time to visit Hwangwe National Park

The best time to visit Hwangwe National Park is between August and early November. This is the dry season when animal viewing is at its best and the risk of malaria at its lowest.

Where to stay in Hwangwe National Park

See here for all recommended accommodation in Hwangwe National Park.

Hwangwe National Park safaris

See here for safaris in Hwangwe National Park.

14. Damaraland in Namibia

Damaraland is a region located in the north-central part of Namibia.

The apparent near-barren landscape is home to a surprising number of desert-adapted animals. Most notably the rare desert-adapted elephants.

The red rocky, mountainous scenery is breathtaking (reminding us slightly of Wadi Rum ). Make sure to climb high to catch a sunset with sundowners.

We can personally vouch for it being a great spot for a proposal! We last visited in 2010 and are very excited to be visiting again in 2023.

We didn’t go on a safari in this region but we will be seeking those elusive elephants on our next trip.

While visiting this region of Namibia, you should visit the rock art at Twyfelfontein, Namibia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you will find 5000 cave paintings and carvings dating back 6000 to 10,000 years.

Best time to visit Damaraland

The best time to visit Damaraland is May to October as this is the dry season. Wet season becomes very humid.

Where to stay in Damaraland

We have previously stayed in Camp Kipwe and Mowani which were both absolutely incredible.

Camp Kipwe – the rooms are built into the landscape so you can barely see them. Take a look at the photo below of our suite.

Mowani Mountain Camp – thatched suites that blend seemlessly with the surrounding landscape.

If you are travelling independently, you can check prices and book on Booking.com which is sometimes cheaper.

Mowani Mountain Camp

Damaraland safaris

See here for safaris in Damaraland.

Preparing for your first African safari

To ensure you have the best African safari experience, there are a few things you need to work out before you book anything:

• Which animals would you really like to see? Some destinations are better than others for elephants, for example or leopards.
• If you are looking to save money on your safari, you might want to consider a destination where you can do self-drive safaris.
• Another tip for booking cheaper safaris is to travel in the off-season or shoulder season. This is usually the wet season. It doesn’t necessarily rain all the time and game viewing may not be as good but there will also be less crowds.
• If it is your first safari, consider getting a guide. See below our reasons for hiring a guide.

Reasons to hire a guide

If game drives aren’t included in your accommodation, it’s a good idea to hire a safari guide as they will find the best wildlife for you.

There have been times when I couldn’t even see an animal when the guide pointed it out. So there would have been no chance of me spotting it without a guide.

Either that or take kids. They seem to spot everything!

The guides are also extremely knowledgeable and you can ask them any questions you like. This is great if you have kids who love asking non-stop questions.

If you’re lucky, they might have some fantastic safari tales to tell. If you want to know what I’m talking about, I recommend reading ‘ Whatever You Do, Don’t Run ‘ by Peter Allison.

You are also giving back to the local community by hiring a local guide.

Things to take on safari drives

Don’t forget to bring a camera with a decent zoom lense and binoculars.

If you are going on safari with kids, you might find our guide to things to take on safari with kids helpful.

If you are taking game drives through your luxury safari lodge, they will pack a lot of essential items into the safari jeep, including snacks and drinks.

If you are self-driving, make sure to take these with you as there will be nowhere to grab them once in the National Parks (except Etosha and the Kruger).

Waterproof coat in rainy season and a lightweight fleece top in the dry, winter season. It can get very cold on evening game drives.

Think about colours. You shouldn’t wear navy blue or black if you are travelling to an area with Tetse flies. White is also a bad colour to wear on safari. Bright colours are generally a no-no.

Try to go for neutral colors like beige and khaki green. Avoid camo though as it is banned in certain countries.

Even if you are staying in a luxury safari lodge, you will not be expected to dress for dinner so no need to pack your most fabulous evening dress.

Other things to take on safari include:

Insect repellent Anti-malarials (if applicable) Sturdy shoes in case of a walking safari Sunglasses Hat Sunscreen Flashlight

African Safaris Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions by travelers who want to experience the best safaris in Africa:

Which is the best month to go on an African safari?

Africa is a very large continent and climates differ greatly by country. We have given detailed information on the best times to visit each of the best safari destinations in Africa to help you decide.

Which country is best for a family safari?

South Africa and Namibia would be ideal safari destinations in Africa for families given the malaria free safari options they offer. After that, we would suggest Kenya.

Which is the best safari in Africa to see the Big 5?

All of the above recommendations will offer the chance to see the Big 5 (with the exception of the Volcanoes National Park). In our experience, however, your best chance of seeing the Big 5 is in the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania.

What is the average cost of a safari?

There isn’t really an average cost of a safari. There are luxury safaris costing many thousands of dollars and then there are budget, self-drive safaris. You need to think about how much you would like to spend and work from there.

The best thing to do is to speak to a safari consultant at Go2Africa and they can work something around your budget.

Don’t forget to budget for tips and have some (preferably) USD for this. This is our rough guide for tipping on safari although it is a personal choice at the end of the day:

Ranger : $20 per day per suite.

Tracker : $15 per day per suite.

Butler : $10 per day per suite.

General staff : $10 per day per suite.

How many days on safari is enough?

We are often asked ‘how many days should you spend on an Africa safari?’

The most popular duration for a safari holiday is between 7 and 14 days. Obviously, how much time you spend on safari is a personal choice. What we would say is that the longer you have, the more places you shouuld visit.

Remember that you will be going out on safari in the morning and evening and if you are doing this in the same place every day for 2 weeks, it can get a bit much.

Take the opportunity to try out a few lodges. We recommend spending 3 to 4 nights in a lodge before moving on.

If you are on safari with kids, we also recommend breaking up the safari holiday with a stay somewhere on the coast or somewhere completely different.

This is why South Africa is a great safari destination for families because it has so many beautiful places to visit.

Conclusion: The Best Safari Destinations in Africa

With so many amazing safari destinations in Africa to choose from, it’s very hard to go wrong with any of the above recommendations.

If you do find any other amazing African safari destinations, let us know!

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The 9 Best Countries in Africa for a Safari in 2024

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Where To Go and What To See on a Safari in Tanzania

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While Kruger National Park in South Africa is one of the most popular destinations on the African continent to see the Big 5 — lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo — many other African countries offer incredible safari experiences and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife sightings, assuming you’re willing to think a bit outside the box and get off the beaten path.

These are some of the best places to go on a safari in Africa, from Botswana’s Okavango Delta to fan favorites like the Serengeti and Kruger to a safari you can do just outside of Kenya’s capital at Nairobi National Park.

1. How To Plan a Tanzania Safari

Most people planning a safari trip in Tanzania should head to Serengeti National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its massive migrations of zebra and wildebeest . Start by organizing travel to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK). From there, you can travel by land to the Serengeti or fly to one of the park’s 7 airstrips and transfer to your desired safari lodge.

Most people take a safari trip to Tanzania to see the wildebeest migration, but you can also expect to spot the Big 5, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards in the Serengeti.

Some of the best lodges in the Serengeti National Park are the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti (which can even arrange a hot air balloon safari) and various tented camps and luxury lodges from Singita , a company focused on sustainable exploration of the region. But start saving up Marriott Bonvoy points, as Marriott announced the opening of JW Marriott Serengeti Lodge in 2026 , an ideal spot to view the Great Migration between the Grumeti and Mbalageti rivers.

Travelers can also head to the Ngorongoro Crater , one of the world’s largest intact volcanic calderas, where you can also view the Big 5, zebras, impalas, hippos, and more. You may also spot flamingos there.

Birders or those who want to avoid larger crowds should consider Tarangire National Park , which has one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, more than 500 bird species, and a wildlife migration that’s not as large as the Serengeti’s but impressive nonetheless.

Besides taking more traditional safaris, visitors can go chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania in Gombe Stream National Park , one of Africa’s smallest national parks (and only accessible by boat).

The best time to visit Tanzania for a safari is June to October, the dry season in the Serengeti . This is when the bush is thin and you can see more wildlife, including the Big 5. However, May through June is when visitors can see the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti. Those who want to view wildebeest calving should visit in January and February . And if you’re looking for a Tanzania safari on a budget, months like April and early May can offer better prices and fewer crowds.

See the most wildlife at Ngorongoro Crater from December to February and June to September, which are the months with the driest weather, when you can spot herds out in search of water. For Tarangire National Park, the best time for migrations is the June to November dry season , where you can spot many different animals grazing around and drinking from the Tarangire River.

When it comes to chimpanzee trekking, it’s best to go between May and October in the dry season, when the forest flora is short and trails are less muddy. Keep in mind these experiences require permits, and most companies require visitors to be over the age of 15 .

2. How To Plan a Kenya Safari

Some of the best African safaris in Kenya allow you to see the Great Migration and the Big 5 (just as you can in Tanzania). Masai Mara National Reserve is probably the most popular spot . Start by flying into the main airport, Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO) in Nairobi , then pop over to the nearby Nairobi Wilson Airport (WIL) for shorter, domestic hops to airstrips closer to the park.

Besides the Big 5, you can also expect to see animals like cheetahs, hyenas, gazelles, and wildebeest on a safari. Our top pick for lodging would be the  JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge , one of the few safari accommodations in Africa you can book using points and miles. The all-inclusive property features 20 luxury tents overlooking the Talek River.

Another iconic riverside camp is the Governor’s Camp , a collection of luxury tents overlooking the Mara River, where you can spot hippos and crocodiles. Both hot air balloon safaris and walking safaris are popular in the region, offering unique ways to enjoy the region’s flora and fauna. As the Maasai are one of the largest tribes in Africa, don’t forget to visit local villages and experience some of the tribe’s unique cultural practices.

Amboseli National Park at the base of Kilimanjaro is another Kenyan destination to experience a safari. Here, you can see the Big 5 and more than 600 types of birds. You can also get close-up views of large elephant herds. Samburu National Reserve  is another popular safari destination, known as one of the best Kenyan destinations to spot leopards.

And if you’re extra short on time, remember that Kenya is one of the only countries in Africa where you can spot wildlife just a short drive from a capital city. Nairobi National Park is just a few miles outside of Nairobi, home to animals such as leopards, lions, black rhinos, and giraffes.

If you’re dying to stay at the famous Giraffe Manor (a hotel where the resident giraffes poke their heads into your bedroom window each morning) but it’s too expensive or fully booked, you can visit the Giraffe Center instead.

In most cases, the best time to take a safari in Kenya is between June and October, the dry season . You’ll be able to catch the wildebeest migration in Masai Mara in September . November and December can offer lower prices and fewer crowds. March through May is also a more affordable time to visit, but heavy rain or flooding may disrupt your trip.

There aren’t many opportunities to use your points and miles for safari lodges, but if the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is on your list (or you want to start saving up for the JW Marriott Serengeti for a 2026 safari), building up a stash of Marriott Bonvoy points is a great plan. Consider getting a co-branded Marriott Bonvoy credit card . Amex Membership Rewards points from a card like The Platinum Card ®  from American Express  and Chase Ultimate Reward points from cards such as the  Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  or the  Chase Sapphire Preferred ®  Card transfer to the Marriott Bonvoy program at a 1:1 ratio.

‌3. How To Plan a Botswana Safari

Those looking for a more remote, intimate safari experience should consider Botswana. The country is a bit more difficult to get to, making it feel far-flung and offering an authentic African safari experience. As tour operators need to adhere to strict conservation requirements, safaris in Botswana are often smaller and more exclusive, which is why safari prices in Botswana can also be more expensive . Anyone in the market for a water safari will likely appreciate Botswana, as some of the best ways to spot wildlife are by boat or even canoe.

If you’re coming from abroad, you may fly into Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE), just outside of Gaborone. Still, many safari camps are much closer to the Maun Airport (MUB) or Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI), which you can get to from hubs in South Africa .

One of the most unique and popular destinations for a Botswana safari is the Okavango Delta , grassy flood plains home to the Big 5 and more. Here, you can explore the area by water safari on small boats or even canoes, as well as on land — both walking safaris and driving safaris. Make sure to keep an eye out for African wild dogs. There are less than 6,600 left in the wild, and many reside in this area. Stay at Xigera Safari Lodge in Moremi Game Reserve, an intimate lodge with just 12 suites and the stunning 32-foot baobab treehouse suite.

Chobe National Park is another emblematic destination in Botswana for a safari, especially if you’re in the market to support female guides. Guests at the Chobe Game Lodge can book a female guide as part of an all-female safari guide team, the Chobe Angels . Boat up and down the Chobe River, spotting lions, buffalo, elephants, and more along its banks.

For something different, consider a safari in the Kalahari Desert. Here, you can ride horses through salt pans, sand dunes, and savannas, go fishing, ride camels, hike, or even take a cycling safari. Keep an eye out for oryx, giraffes, and meerkats.

Similar to the aforementioned countries, the dry season in many areas of Botswana runs from May to October and is one of the best times to visit, as much of the wildlife comes out in search of watering holes. However, December to April is the rainy season, turning the Kalahari Desert into a green and blossoming paradise , making it the perfect time to visit this unique region.

‌4. How To Plan a Namibia Safari

Namibia is a special place for a safari because not only can you see 4 out of the Big 5 in places like Etosha National Park, but you can also see a distinct collection of wildlife in the Namib Desert in Namib-Naukluft National Park. Namibia is more difficult to get to than many other safari spots, especially from Europe and the U.S., so most visitors come from destinations like South Africa first.

The most popular place in Namibia for a more traditional safari is Etosha National Park . One of the largest game reserves in Africa, it’s home to large populations of elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, leopards, black rhinos, and black-faced impalas, among many others. There are several accommodations within the park, but the more luxurious, like Mokuti Etosha and Ongava Lodge (built into a rocky enclave), can be found just outside the park. Ongava Lodge is also home to an airstrip, and you can fly there from Namibia’s capital airport, Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), in Windhoek.

Sossusvlei is where the landscape changes , so don’t expect a traditional experience in this red-dune salt and clay pan. Part of Namib Naukluft National Park and Desert , it’s so vast you may want to explore it by hot air balloon to take it in from above. Hike dunes like Big Daddy, explore the ancient trees at clay pan Deadvlei, or traverse the entire area by 4×4 or quad.

While this desert landscape may seem barren, keep an eye out for wildlife like hyenas, jackals, foxes, ostrich, and geckos. Sossusvlei offers accommodation for all budgets, but luxury travelers should plan to stay at the andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge , home to 10 glass suites from which you can admire the sparkling, starry night sky (the NamibRand Nature Reserve is an International Dark Sky Place ).

And don’t discount Namibia’s barren Skeleton Coast — you may spot desert elephants, cheetahs, black rhinos, ostriches, lions, hyenas, and more. Named for the whale and seal bones once scattered on its beaches but now known for its numerous shipwrecks, it’s also home to Cape fur seals, too. Explore the area on foot, boat, surfboard, or quad.

June through September is the driest and best time to visit Etosha , as animals are crowding around sparse watering holes. The same goes for Sossusvlei when the dry season (May to October) brings crisp, blue skies that juxtapose beautifully against the ochre desert sands. However, those heading to the Skeleton Coast may prefer to travel between May and December . Although November and December bring some showers and fog, the weather also gets warmer at this time of year.

There’s a lot to know when planning a safari. Our safari adventure guide has updated tips on finding accommodation, booking travel, and packing for your upcoming African safari.

‌‌5. How To Plan a Uganda Safari

Although visitors can see animals like elephants, hippos, and lions on a Uganda wildlife safari, the main call of this African country is gorillas in the wild . About 400 mountain gorillas call Uganda home , which is about half of the mountain gorilla population left in the world. Gorilla safaris are different from more traditional safaris. In lieu of driving around in a Jeep-style vehicle, gorilla trekking is all about getting up into the hills to see these giant creatures in their natural habitat .

Chimpanzee trekking is also popular in Uganda, as are birding safaris. Most travelers start their adventure by flying into the Entebbe Airport (EBB) and then taking a quick domestic flight to smaller airports. However, visitors planning to gorilla trek in Uganda may find it faster to fly to Kigali International Airport (KGL), Rwanda’s capital, then drive to the national parks .

The most popular location for a safari in Uganda is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park , known for birding, forest elephants, chimpanzees, and, of course, mountain gorillas. There is some gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park , but your chances of spotting gorillas are higher in Bwindi, as this park has more gorilla groups.

For gorilla trekking in general, many visitors are stuck between Uganda and Rwanda. When it comes to Rwanda versus Uganda for gorilla trekking , budget travelers ready for an adventure should select Uganda , where gorilla trekking permits for either park cost $800 per person per day . (It’s nearly double in Rwanda, as we’ll outline below). You must be at least 15 to get a permit.

However, those heading to Uganda should be ready for an adventure, as the treks can be tougher and longer . Always book permits well in advance .

If you go to Bwindi, stay within the park at cozy lodges like Buhoma or just outside the park at Mahogany Springs , perched along the Munyanga River. Birders may want to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park , home to more than 600 bird species, plus tree-climbing lions .

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking between June and September and December and February . Since you’ll be hiking along hilly, forested trails, it’s better to go during the dry season, when it’s less muddy and slippery . The same times of year are best for visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park, though March through May are some of the best times for birding.

6. How To Plan a Rwanda Safari

Rwanda safaris can be on the expensive side , and they’re best for adventure travelers who are also ready to splurge. The country offers some of the most accessible gorilla trekking but also some of the most costly.

Start with a flight into Kigali (KGL), then take the 2.5-hour drive to reach the country’s most renowned destination for viewing mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park . The park itself is stunning, home to 5 volcanoes and a lush, hilly rainforest, home to mountain gorillas, elephants, buffalos, and nearly 200 bird species. Permits start at $1,500 per person per day , and they only issue 96 per day, so it’s important to book in advance. Stay at one of the 6 conical, luxury bird nest villas at Bisate , which overlooks an amphitheater formed by volcanic cones.

And yes, if you’re in the market to see the Big 5 after you’ve spotted the elusive mountain gorillas, head to Akagera National Park . It borders Tanzania and is one of the largest protected wetlands in Africa. Spot elephants, lions, black rhinos, buffalos, hippos, hyenas, zebras, antelopes, and more than 500 different types of birds, including the shoebill stork.

Down south, aid in rainforest conservation by visiting Nyungwe National Park , a UNESCO-listed site that’s home to 13 of Africa’s primates (including chimpanzees) and a stunning canopy bridge where you can walk amid the towering treetops

The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park is during the dry seasons, which run from mid-December to early February and June to mid-September . However, if you find yourself there from March to May, make sure to view the many butterfly species that come along with the heavy rains . The dry periods are also the best times to visit Nyungwe National Park and Akagera National Park.

Some countries on this list require U.S. citizens to obtain a visa. Others, such as South Africa, require 2 full, consecutive blank pages in your passport per entry. Some require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months after your visit. Some require you to have certain vaccines, or you may need to take malaria medication. Check passport, permit, visa , and vaccination requirements before booking travel.

7. How To Plan a South Africa Safari

South Africa is the most popular African country for a safari, but that doesn’t necessarily make planning any easier. With so many different game reserves, tour companies, and other options, it can be difficult to decide exactly where to go. The good news is, because there are so many choices, it’s easy to find a safari that fits your budget and travel style. Start by flying into either Cape Town (CPT) or Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo Airport (JNB). From there, many safaris have private airstrips, but you can also fly into smaller airports like Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) or Hoedspruit (HDS) and be on your way to viewing the Big 5.

Start by deciding if you’d like to visit a state-run or private game reserve. Popular state-run game reserves include Kruger National Park and Addo Elephant National Park , which is actually home to the Big 7 (the Big 5 plus the great white shark and the southern right whale, found within the park’s marine section). Pilanesberg National Park also features the Big 5, while Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is known for its big cats . These larger parks often offer more budget-friendly safaris, though they can get crowded during peak season.

Luxury travelers may prefer a more exclusive safari experience, where a lodge or tented camp on a private game reserve includes all the safari excursions. Some of the best private game reserves for a luxury African safari experience include Sabi Sand, Phinda, Timbavati, Kwande, MalaMala, Amakhala, and Phinda, among many others. Choosing a game reserve and safari lodge may come down to where you want to base your trip: You can start in Johannesburg or Cape Town. While Johannesburg is the most convenient hub for visiting Kruger, Cape Town is known for its immense beauty and unique cultural offerings and is a favorite among seasoned travelers.

‌Go on a South African safari during the dry season, where less vegetation makes it easier to spot animals, which you can often find gathering near rivers and watering holes. Most of the country’s wildlife parks see their dry season between May and September. However, this is when the Western Cape sees rain , so if you’re heading to that area of the country, it may be best to go to this region in the other months.

‌8. How To Plan a Zambia Safari

If you’re in the market for something a bit more off the beaten path, consider a safari in Zambia. Start by flying into the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in the nation’s capital, Lusaka. Then, catch a short flight to Mfuwe Airport (MFU), which is the hub for South Luangwa National Park , the most popular area in the country for a Zambia safari, where you can spot wildlife such as leopards, hippos, and rare Thornicroft giraffes. Or, fly to the Royal or Jeki airstrips to visit Lower Zambezi National Park .

‌South Luangwa National Park is the ideal destination for walking and driving safaris, as the Luangwa River can be unpredictable, so boat safaris aren’t common. Those who want to see wildlife by boat should visit Lower Zambezi National Park, where you can paddle through the Zambezi River via canoe with expert guides who can help you spot all kinds of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and birds.

The nice part about a safari in Zambia is that it’s appropriate for any budget . Stay at cozy river lodges, in luxury tents, or open-air villas. The Old Monodoro camp in Lower Zambezi has 5 chalets — and don’t be surprised if you find an elephant sipping water out of your outdoor tub in the morning. Elephants also regularly walk through the open-air lobby at Mfuwe Lodge in South Luangwa.

Most lodges in South Luangwa National Park and Lower Zambezi National Park are only open during the dry season between March and October. To have the full Zambia safari experience, booking your trip during this period is best.

‌9. How To Plan a Zimbabwe Safari

Most travelers combine a visit to Victoria Falls with a Zimbabwe safari . The best way to do this is to fly to Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA), which is about a 20-minute drive to the falls .

Just a short drive from Victoria Falls, you’ll find Zambezi National Park (a completely different park than the aforementioned Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia ). This park features the Big 4 (everything but rhinos). You can also cross the border into Zambia via a quick drive to visit Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park , where you can spot elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and white rhinos.

If you’re hoping to spot the Big 5, Hwange National Park is just over an hour’s drive away , though you’ll have to look hard to find rhinos, as they’re few and far between. You can even do horseback safaris through this park, getting up close and personal with wildlife on your horse. Plan to stay at Davidson’s Camp , where the en suite tents look out over a watering hole for prime wildlife-watching from your room.

Victoria Falls is also just an hour’s drive from Chobe National Park in Botswana , home to one of the world’s largest elephant populations.

June to September is the best time for a safari in Zimbabwe , and June is an especially beautiful time to see Victoria Falls , as you may catch the tail end of the rainy season, bringing powerful sprays and cascades. However, those visiting Hwange to birdwatch should visit from November to April , when the migratory birds return from the north.

When planning a safari, you have endless possibilities to consider. But knowing you can visit other countries besides just Tanzania or South Africa may make it easier to create a safari trip that fits your timing, budget, and travel style. Whether gorilla trekking, birdwatching, or a traditional safari searching for the Big 5, these African countries have got you covered.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Which african country has the most wildlife.

Tanzania has an estimated 4 million animals, but countries like South Africa, Botswana, and Kenya are also excellent places to view wildlife or take a safari vacation.

Which African country is the safest for safaris?

Botswana is considered one of the safest African countries. It’s politically stable and has low crime rates. Rwanda is also safe for tourists, and Namibia is also a safe country for a safari.

What country in Africa has the most safaris?

South Africa has numerous public and private game reserves, making it an easy place to find a safari, no matter what part of the country you’d like to visit. The top safari destination in South Africa is Kruger National Park.

Is Tanzania or Kenya better for safaris?

Both Tanzania and Kenya are excellent destinations for a safari. Tanzania is often considered better because it has so many animals, but Tanzania safaris can often be very expensive. However, seeing the Masai Mara villages and embracing Kenyan culture is a wonderful addition to seeing wildlife in Kenya. You can’t go wrong with a safari in either destination!

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About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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25 Epic Places to Have the Best Safari in Africa

Many travelers dream of witnessing the African plains, of seeing herds of elephants marching through the savannah, of lion prides sunning on rocks or wildebeest making their great cross-country migrations.  The best safari in Africa will draw on all the romanticism that the continent has to offer, and will deliver to its travelers not only the majesty of the unique wildlife but the beauty of epic landscapes and diverse local cultures.

Each country, from South Africa to Uganda has its own special national parks, its own iconic natural attractions, and its own great safaris. It can be difficult deciding which is really the best safari because truly, the competition is fierce.

We’ve spent a total of 6 months traveling throughout the African continent, visiting many of the best national parks and conservation areas on offer.

To help you decide which is the one for you, we’ve broken it down by country, highlighting the best safaris on offer in each one to help you figure out which is right for you. 

Don’t leave home without:   Lonely Planet Africa (Travel Guide)

Quick Guide to the Best Safari in Africa

Table of Contents

(click to jump ahead to select park)

• South Africa: Kruger National Park
• South Africa: Addo Elephant Park
• Namibia: Etosha National Park
• Namibia: Skeleton Coast
• Namibia: Sossusvlei
• Botswana: Chobe National Park
• Botswana: Okavango Delta
• Botswana: Moremi National Park
• Botswana: Central Kalahari Game Reserve
• Zimbabwe: Hwange National Park
• Zimbabwe: Mana Pools National Park
• Zimbabwe: Nyanga National Park
• Zimbabwe: Matopos National Park
• Tanzania: Serengeti National Park
• Tanzania: Lake Manyara National Park
• Tanzania: Saadani National Park
• Tanzania: Ngorongoro Conservation Area
• Kenya: Maasai Mara National Reserve
• Kenya: Mount Kenya
• Kenya: Lake Nakuru National Park
• Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park
• Rwanda: Nyungwe Forest National Park
• Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Uganda: Murchison Falls National Park
• Uganda: Queen Elizabeth National Park

South Africa

South Africa is one of the most accessible countries to visit to go on safari, especially for first-timer safari-goers. With a huge diversity in wildlife and scenery, many of the national parks here will allow you to see all of the famous Big Five animals – lions, rhinos, elephants, leopards, and buffalo – in one location. A great chance to use your best safari camera and capture a photo.

While the country has great international flight connections, domestic transport, and accommodation. The best time to visit is in the pleasant dry season between May and September.

Kruger National Park is the largest national park in South Africa, and one of the largest on the entire continent. Found in the northeast of the country, you can easily reach the boundaries from the big city of Johannesburg, while inside the protected limits you will find everything from basic camping areas to luxury glamping experiences. You can find all of the Big Five animals in Kruger, as well as almost every other African animal imaginable.

• Kruger National Park Safari from Johannesburg
• Big Five Afternoon Game Drive in Kruger National Park
• Kruger Park Safari: Guided Day Tour from Nelspruit

Addo Elephant Park is found along the Eastern Cape, and this is the best safari in Africa for elephant lovers. The park is dedicated to the preservation and study of the species, and with a small population of just 11 elephants in the 1930s, Addo Elephant Park now supports over 600 of these majestic animals, alongside a whole array of other local wildlife too, including buffalo, lions and even a few rhinos.

• 7-Day Garden Route, Winelands and Addo Safari from Cape Town
• 5-Day Small-Group Garden Route Tour from Cape Town including Addo National Park

Check out:   South Africa (National Geographic Adventure Map)

The deserts of Namibia may not seem like the best location on which to embark on a safari, but actually, despite the waterless landscapes and endless sand dunes, this makes for one of the most unique and potentially the best safari in Africa.

Visit Namibia in the dry season, between June and October, when the weather and is cool and it’s easy to find wildlife congregating around the sparse watering holes.

Etosha National Park is the most famous park in Namibia , encompassing vast areas of the Etosha Salt Pan. This arid landscape is almost surreal to see, but actually, it is full of life. Here you can find rhinos – and even the extremely rare white rhino – alongside giraffe, leopards, lions, and elephants, all of which are uniquely adapted to the dry environment.

Sossusvlei is more commonly overlooked for safari due to it being primarily a desert landscape. However, it is a place for some very cool sightings, like the one we had of the Oryx on a massive sand dune pictured above. While it’s not a place to see the big five or more traditional safari animals, Sossuvlei is a place to have unique opportunities at animal spotting.

Skeleton Coast conjures images of barren landscapes and empty deserts, and that’s not wrong. This sparsely populated and windswept land is full of shifting sand dunes, lifeless shipwrecks on the coast but a surprising amount of wildlife too.

• 10 Day Namibian Explorer

Botswana is a vast and varied land, encompassing huge areas of the Kalahari Desert, that then blends into the green, verdant deltas of the Okavango. It’s an excellent country for a safari, especially for those looking for real diversity in landscapes and wildlife.

The best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is dry, the roads are passable and the wildlife is waiting along the rivers.

Chobe National Park is one of the greatest national parks on the African continent. Famous for its huge herds of elephants, this area in the north of Botswana comprises every conceivable environment, from wetlands to open plains. It is a great place to safari if you’re looking for high concentrations of herd animals like elephants, giraffe, and zebra.

Okavango Delta is a unique safari experience in that you mostly explore by foot or in a traditional mokoro canoe . Comprised mostly of dense wetlands, you can have some incredibly exciting hippo encounters in this park. On foot, safaris are filled with adrenaline as you follow your experienced guide through the bush in search of animals. 

Moremi Game Reserve can be found along the banks of the Okavango Delta in the north of Botswana. By no means the largest reserve, Moremi is one of the most diverse, and here you can find all Big Five animals as well as incredibly distinct wet and dry regions that contrast spectacularly.

• Botswana Delta Experience
• Moremi Game Reserve, Khwai village,  Okavango Delta  and Savuti
• Okavango Delta Fly-In Safari

Central Kalahari Game Reserve is the portion of this great desert that is found in Botswana. This is a safari for the experienced, as this is a remote wilderness, with long expanses of nothingness and sparse wildlife. It is, however, a completely unusual destination to explore.

• Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Rakops Village, Makgadikgadi Pans and Nxai Pans
• 7 Days Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Khama Rhino and Lekhuba

Zimbabwe is perhaps better known for its politics than for its safari opportunities, but actually, this is an accessible landscape of beautiful vistas and top quality wildlife spotting chances. May to October is the best months to experience the outdoors when it’s dry and cool.

Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest conservation area, and it’s perfect for those looking to experience a taste of Africa’s vast beauty. Hwange is one of the last remaining locations where you are likely to find the African Wild Dog, a species that has long been endangered across the continent. 

Mana Pools National Park is Zimbabwe’s most charming and scenic safari location. Here you can find beautiful lakes, surrounded by grassy wetlands that are teeming with wildlife that flock here to refresh themselves in the cool waters.

Nyanga National Park makes for a more offbeat location when it comes to safaris. This is predominantly a highland mountain range, but it’s spectacular, and the area is full of wildlife. Although you may not be guaranteed sightings of lions or hyenas or elephants as you may in game reserves, when you do see them at Nyanga, it’s all the more rewarding.

Matopos National Park has to be one of our favorite places to safari in all of Zimbabwe, maybe even Africa for that matter. Why do you ask? It’s a unique place where you can, in fact, take a walking safari among huge Rhinos. A healthy population of heavily guarded Rhinos lives in the confines of this park and it is a magical experience to see them.

Tanzania is not only the quintessential safari destination but also makes for an excellent holiday destination at the same time, as this is a wonderful country to experience both the great African plains and the sunny coastline of the Indian Ocean. Travel here between July to October, and you will witness the epic Great Migration of wildebeest.

Serengeti National Park is Tanzania’s premier conservation zone . This is the Africa of your imagination, with stampeding herds and brutal crocodiles. Visit the Serengeti to see the Great Migration, when millions of zebra and wildebeest move through the plains every year in search of new grazing grounds.

• Tanzania Camping Adventure
• 5 Days Predators In Action Northern Tanzania Budget Camping Safari

Lake Manyara National Park is a completely different safari experience from the Serengeti, which is why we like it. Instead of vast open plains, you will be searching for animals in a heavily forested area. You have the opportunity to see many of the classic safari animals here but for us, it was all about the rarities. Nowhere else in Africa have we had the chance to see a huge Green Mamba hunting on the top of a termite mound!

Saadani National Park is found on the eastern coast and is where the Tanzanian bushland meets with the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. This is a small national park, but it’s the only national park in Tanzania where you can snorkel in the morning before embarking on a game drive in the afternoon. And if you are lucky, you might just see lions frolicking int he waters too.

• 3 Days / 2 Nights – Bagamoyo Town / Saadani National Park
• 2 Days / 1 Night – Saadani National Park / Bagamoyo Town

Ngorongoro Conservation Area gives you an opportunity to not only explore the inside of a gigantic volcanic crater but to do so in one of the top safari places in Tanzania. For whatever reason, the wildlife of Tanzania is drawn to this massive pan, meaning the safaris there are incredible. You can see the whole spectrum of African safari animals on a one-day safari here. This conservation area is commonly included in a larger safari package that includes the Serengeti and Lake Manyara.  

The great savannas and mountains of Kenya have long been a firm favorite for safari-goers. From the herds of the Maasai Mara plains to the mountainous scenery of Mount Kenya, there’s a lot to see. Visit in the dry season, from June to October, for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Maasai Mara National Reserve is the most famous park in Kenya, and for good reason. This is the traditional domain of the nomadic Maasai Mara people, and it’s a vast savanna that’s perfect for huge herds of animals to graze.

• 4-Day Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru Safari from Nairobi
• Kenya Safari Experience National Geographic Journeys

Mount Kenya is the second tallest mountain in Africa, but you don’t need to visit to climb the high peak. This is a huge game reserve that protects not just the mountain, the flora and fauna and that surround it. Here you can see a great array of wildlife, all int he glorious shadow of the mountaintop.

• 7D/6N Mount Kenya: Nelion – Batian Route
• 5 Days Mt Kenya Climb Sirimon – Chogoria Route
• Mount Kenya Ascent

Lake Nakuru National Park is a weird phenomenon as it’s one of the only parks where you can be on safari and see a cityscape in the background. But don’t let that deter you from checking out this park. It is not far from Nairobi and has a large population of Rhinos, along with giraffe, zebra, buffalo and an enormous salt lake that attracts flocks of pink flamingos. 

Despite its traumatic, recent past Rwanda is now emerging as one of Africa’s top travel destinations because here you can find everything from volcanic peaks to gorilla sanctuaries. Make sure to visit Rwanda in the dry season between June and September to avoid heavy rains.

Volcanoes National Park as the name would suggest protects a beautiful area of land that surrounds five volcanic peaks. As well as rugged, dreamlike scenery though, this national park is one of the best places to spot Gorillas in the wilds of Rwanda.

• Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda
• Gorilla Safari

Nyungwe Forest National Park is not a traditional safari destination, but it is an astoundingly biodiverse location to visit. This vast forest is teeming with life and is the oldest rainforest in Africa.

• 3 Days Nyungwe National Park Visit
• 7 Day Wildlife Viewing In Rwanda (Akagera And Nyungwe National Park)

Uganda is famed for the vast lakes and rivers that are found within its borders. Add to this a complex ecosystem comprising high mountains and dense rain forest and you have an excellent location for an alternative African safari.

The best time to visit Uganda is June through to August when the dry season gives you the best chance to see gorillas.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that comprises an enormously diverse rain forest ecosystem. Here you can hike through the jungle and perhaps even find the elusive gorillas that call the park home.

• Gorilla Trekking- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
• 3 Day Gorilla Fly-In Safari at Bwindi National Park
• Gorilla Trek Independent Adventure

Queen Elizabeth National Park is by far the best place in Africa to see chimpanzees. Safaris are organized to visit this unique species both by truck and on foot. This park is also a fantastic place for the incredibly rare and endangered Golden Monkey. These two attractions alone make this park one of the best safaris in Africa. 

Murchison Falls National Park provides an opportunity to explore the abundant and lively waterways of the Nile River as it makes its way through Uganda. Aside from the plentiful crocodiles, you will be in awe of the Murchison Falls, a dramatic sight to behold.

More on Africa:

• Ultimate Vaccination Guide for Africa Travel
• African Safari Animals and Where to Find Them
• Best Sleeping Bag for Cold Weather From Africa to Greenland
• 25 Photos That Will Make You Want To Visit Africa
• Africa Overland Trip Budget-Oasis Overland
• Oasis Overland Trip Through Africa-What to Expect
• Preparation Guide for Gorilla Trekking in Africa
• Day in the Life of an Overland Trip through Africa
• Cape Peninsula Photo Tour in South Africa With Viator

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

2 thoughts on “25 Epic Places to Have the Best Safari in Africa”

Lina, Embarking on a safari is a dream come true for many travelers. I can vouch for a safari in South Africa since I was there sometimes back. There are beautiful parks, roads are smooth, and you get to see all the big five. The road trips are fantastic and the scenery; breathtaking!

Sounds great, Lydia

I have been in South Africa twice, the Kruger National park is absolutely scenic.

Have you tried Tanzania? It is another destination I found so unique when it comes to safari.

I am looking to try Namibia in my coming holidays. After I had watched Vanishing Lions of the Desert Document by Dr Philip in Nat Geo wild I promised myself I would go there to pay my tribute to the vanished 5 musketeers

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Best Places for an African Safari

Africa is a continent teeming with diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures, making it a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It’s one of my favorite places to visit and I continually feel an ache to go back to explore more, whether it’s going on a safari in Kenya or exploring the temples of Egypt . When people ask me what is the one trip that I recommend people take, it’s always a safari. Seeing animals up close is life-changing. Choosing a place to go can be overwhelming, so I’ve compiled a list of the best places for an African safari to make it a little easier.

So whether you want to see the big 5 safari animals, observe the Great Migration, or go trekking to gorillas, this list has you covered!

Don’t forget, you can book a time with me to get customized travel planning!

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Botswana stands out as one of the premier destinations for an African safari, offering a unique and unforgettable experience. The country’s commitment to conservation and low-impact tourism ensures visitors can witness wildlife in their natural habitat while minimizing environmental impact.

Botswana is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including the Okavango Delta, the Kalahari Desert, and the Chobe National Park, each offering a distinct safari experience. The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of waterways, islands, and lagoons teeming with wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. Chobe National Park is famous for its large herds of elephants and buffalo. At the same time, the Kalahari Desert offers a unique desert safari experience with a chance to see adapted wildlife like the meerkats and Kalahari lions.

While the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino) can all be found in Botswana, the country is especially renowned for its prolific birdlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. A typical safari in Botswana should ideally last 7-10 days to appreciate its wildlife and landscapes’ diversity fully.

For a safari in Botswana, it’s important to pack lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen for sun protection. Bringing insect repellent and malaria prophylaxis is also advisable, as mosquitoes are prevalent in some areas.

Regarding safety, always follow your guide’s instructions and stay inside the vehicle unless instructed otherwise. Tipping is customary for guides, trackers, and camp staff, and it’s recommended that you check with your safari operator for specific guidelines. With its stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife, Botswana offers a safari experience, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Embarking on a safari in Kenya is a journey into the heart of Africa’s most iconic wildlife experiences and breathtaking landscapes. The highlight of a Kenyan safari is undoubtedly witnessing the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in a dramatic display of nature’s cycles. The migration happens between the end of June and early November. We went at the beginning of August (for my birthday!) which is also when the wildebeest move en masse into the Maasai Mara.

Kenya is also renowned for its Big Five safari animals—lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses—offering unparalleled game viewing opportunities in renowned national parks like Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo. Beyond the wildlife, Kenya’s diverse landscapes, including savannas, mountains, lakes, and beaches, provide a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveler. A typical safari is done with a 4×4 safari vehicle and an experienced guide to keep you safe and learn about the animals.

Additionally, you can visit a Maasai village and learn about Maasai culture, with their colorful attire, traditional dances, and warm hospitality, adds a cultural dimension to the safari adventure.

Be sure to pack sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of memory cards for your camera!

Namibia is one of the best countries for an African safari due to its unique landscapes and abundant wildlife. It is located on the southwestern coast of Africa, bordered by Angola, Zambia, Botswana, and South Africa.

Etosha National Park is its most famous game reserve, covering an area of more than 22,000 square kilometers. It is known for its vast salt pan, the largest salt pan in Africa. Thanks to its barren terrain, animals are drawn to watering holes scattered throughout the park, making it ideal to spot various herds at one time.

Namibia is home to the Big 5. In Etosha National Park you can spot four out of five: lion, rhino, leopard, and elephant. Water buffalo can be spotted at a nearby Waterberg Plateau National Park. It is also home to unique wildlife that have adapted to the harsh environment, including desert elephants, black rhinos, and oryx.

There are several other game reserves you can visit in Namibia including the Namib-Naukluft National Park, Skeleton Coast National Park, and Waterberg Plateau National Park.

A typical safari in Namibia is done with a 4×4 and an experienced guide. This allows you to get close to the wildlife while also learning about their behavior and habitat. Namibia is also a popular destination for self-drive safaris.

With several game reserves, you should plan on spending at least 1 week in Namibia, and 3-4 days in Etosha National Park to have a more immersive experience with the wildlife.

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water on safari in Namibia. Being one of the driest countries, the sun can be intense, so it is important to cover up and stay hydrated while in the desert.  

Rwanda has quickly become one of the best places for an African safari due to its commitment to protecting its gorillas. Gorilla trekking is one of the most common things to do in Rwanda. Volcanoes National Park, which is in both Rwanda and the Democratic Republic is home to the Eastern lowland gorillas. Visitors with permits can trek to get close to these gentle giants.

Other monkeys that you can see in Rwanda include chimpanzees and golden monkeys. All of the monkeys are protected and you can expect a decent hike to them. The golden monkeys were our easiest hike, and it was so much fun to watch them try to steal potatoes. (They got yelled at by the guards and our guides though).

Beyond monkeys, Rwanda boasts diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, scenic volcanoes, and picturesque lakes, creating a stunning backdrop for safari adventures. Explore Akagera National Park for classic savanna safaris, where you can spot the Big Five, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses, among other wildlife. Rwanda is nicknamed the land of 1000 hills, so be sure to pack non-drowsy Dramamine . Even with it, I was struggling in the safari vehicle. I can’t imagine how I would have been without it!

Rwanda’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism ensures that safaris protect its natural heritage and local communities. Be sure to immerse yourself in Rwanda’s rich culture and history, from vibrant markets and traditional performances to poignant memorials commemorating the country’s past. You can also visit a tea farm and learn how tea leaves are picked and processed. There’s a tasting at the end too!

With well-trained guides, comfortable accommodations, and a focus on responsible tourism, a safari in Rwanda promises unforgettable encounters with wildlife and a deep appreciation for this remarkable country.

South Africa

Taking a safari in South Africa is an extraordinary adventure that combines incredible wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. It was my first African safari, so it will always have a special place in my heart. We got to see the big 5 safari animals, including the elusive leopard who seemed to pose for us, allowing our guide to shine the light on her bottom half.

One of the best places to safari in South Africa is Kruger National Park. It’s one of Africa’s largest game reserves and has so many animals. You can go on your regular game drives in a 4×4 safari vehicle, guided walks, and even hot air balloon safaris. Keep an eye out for giraffes, zebras, elephants, and lions.

Safari drives take place at sunrise and sunset. This is when the animals are most active. Drives can last for up to three hours and usually include a break for drinks and snacks.

Be sure to bring mosquito repellent as there can be a decent amount of bugs in this area depending on the time of the year (when we visited in May, we didn’t see any, but we were prepared anyway!)

With 22 national parks and diverse ecosystems,  Tanzania  is an excellent African safari destination, offering the chance to encounter the iconic Big Five and other safari animals like the giraffe, cheetah, and hyena, to name a few. Tanzania’s Northern Circuit is the most popular safari route in Tanzania, which includes the renowned Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The Ngorongoro Crater is a protected area with about 25,000 large animals living inside the crater, such as lions, black rhinos, buffalo, hippo, wildebeest, zebras and our popular pink friends, the flamingos. Because of the enormous concentration of animals, you will most likely see 3 or 4 out of the Big Five! The Serengeti is the oldest park in the country and is home to the entire Big Five, however, rhinos are more difficult to spot due to poaching in all of Africa. One of the best experiences when traveling to Tanzania is witnessing and capturing the Great Migration, where vast herds of wildebeest and zebra navigate the Serengeti and Mara River.

For a unique adventure, I highly recommend booking a hot air balloon safari to experience the magical Serengeti and its free-roaming animals from the sky! Drifting above the African Savannah plains, while watching Tanzania’s untamed wilderness beneath you, is without a doubt a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Other highlights in Tanzania are the famous tree-climbing lions at Lake Manyara National Park and the baobab-dotted landscape of Tarangire National Park where large herds of elephants often pass several lodges around the park.

Consider exploring Tanzania’s Southern Circuit, including Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) and Ruaha National Park, for a unique off-the-beaten-path experience. Although wildlife sightings may be fewer than in the northern circuit, this hidden gem of Tanzania promises rewarding adventures.

Tanzania’s stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and interesting cultural experiences like meeting the Hadzabe and Maasai tribe, make it a perfect destination for travel and wildlife photographers. If you love to learn more about wildlife photography while being out in the bush, consider booking a Tanzania photo safari.

The duration of a typical safari itinerary in Tanzania is between 7 to 10 days. If you prefer a little more relaxing time after your safari, I highly recommend extending your Tanzania holiday with a visit to the tropical paradise of Zanzibar or Pemba, known for their white sandy beaches.

Embarking on a safari in Uganda promises a unique and unforgettable adventure filled with diverse wildlife encounters and stunning natural landscapes. One of the top reasons to visit Uganda is for the incredible gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you can face these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The opportunity to observe gorillas up close and witness their intricate social behaviors is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience that leaves a lasting impact. Being within 20 feet of gorillas was literally breathtaking. The baby gorillas were comfortable putting on a show for us too!

Beyond gorilla trekking, Uganda is home to a rich array of wildlife, including chimpanzees, elephants, hippos, and an impressive variety of bird species, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The country’s diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests and majestic mountains to scenic savannas and tranquil lakes, offer a captivating backdrop for safari adventures. Explore iconic national parks like Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo Valley, where thrilling game drives and boat safaris await, providing ample opportunities to spot the famous Big Five and other wildlife in their natural habitats.

We had an amazing time traveling with Africa Adventure Vacations , a locally-owned company, that really knows Uganda and all the beauty the pearl of Africa has to offer!

Zimbabwe is one of the best places for an African safari, with its unique and diverse wildlife experience. The country’s vast landscapes and abundant national parks make it a great destination for safari enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Most well-known and visited national parks include Hwange and Mana Pools, or Chobe and Zambezi National Park near  Victoria Falls  – game viewers will be excited to know that Zimbabwe has a rich biodiversity for is the home to many iconic African wildlife, including the Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos. In addition to the Big Five, visitors can view other animals including giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Zimbabwe is also renowned for its exceptional bird-watching opportunities, with over 670 bird species recorded in the country

A typical safari in Zimbabwe can last anywhere from 7 to 10 days, allowing for a full immersion in the untamed African wilderness. While planning your safari, consider incorporating both walking safaris and canoeing safaris for a diverse view of the wildlife and landscapes.

When it comes to tips for safari-goers in Zimbabwe, it’s advisable to wear neutral-colored clothing to blend into the surroundings and ensure you’re up to date on vaccinations as recommended by health professionals. Safety is taken very seriously, with experienced guides ensuring your experience is not just memorable, but also secure.

For safaris in Zimbabwe, it is customary to tip your guides and camp staff for their excellent service. In general, they are very friendly and always try to make sure your journey is a safe and amazing one. Always follow their safety instructions and avoid approaching wild animals too closely.

By respecting nature and local customs while on safari in Zimbabwe, you can truly appreciate the wonders of this magnificent country. Get ready to immerse yourself in the country’s rich landscapes, witnessing the powerful flow of Victoria Falls, and encountering diverse wildlife on your African safari!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, the best places for an African safari – no matter what type of wildlife you’re hoping to see! No matter where you decide to go, I can guarantee that seeing these animals up close in the wild is a humbling and powerful experience that you won’t forget.

Read More about Africa

23 Best Places to Visit in Africa

How to Spot the Big Five Safari Animals

30 FAQ for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Ultimate Guide to Visiting Amboseli National Park, Kenya

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10 Best African Countries to visit for an ultimate African safari

Wondering where to go in Africa? Here are the best African countries to visit for the best wildlife encounters in Africa.

Africa is the 2nd largest continent in the world with a vast number of cultures.

It is a continent with so much diversity that can never be overlooked — from tribes, and languages to religions.

Africa has so much to offer to any kind of tourist. Whether you long to see the famous mountain gorillas in Uganda , the great Giza pyramids in Egypt , or just looking for the best holiday destination in Zanzibar, they are so many places to visit in Africa to choose from.

It is no surprise that everyone would want to travel to Africa at least once in their lifetime – the beauty in Africa is indescribable.

But faced with hundreds of countries to visit in Africa, how is one supposed to choose which country to travel to?

This post narrows it down for you by listing the best African countries to visit.

If you’re traveling to Africa for the first time,  here is everything you need to know  before you embark on an African safari.

Best African countries to visit

Located in the Eastern part of Africa, Uganda tops the list of the best African countries to visit and is also one of the safest African countries to visit .

And it’s not because it’s where I come from but because of the beauty it harbors –  no wonder it is called the Pearl of Africa.

It was also named the friendliest country in the world by BCC from its annual expat insider survey .

The survey was made on 14000 expats from 191 countries which gave Uganda a 57% mark on its friendliness, the highest ever.

Kim Kardashian called it another heaven and the most beautiful country in Africa during her short visit to Uganda in October 2018.

If you want to get up close and personal with the mountain gorillas, Uganda harbors most of the remaining mountain gorillas in the world making it a perfect location for gorilla trekking.

Gorilla trekking is actually one of the major reasons why tourists fly into this lesser-known country yet incredibly beautiful. ( You can book your gorilla tracking experience in Uganda from here .)

Some of the best places to visit in Uganda include the source of the Nile, Bwindi impenetrable forest for gorilla tracking, Queen Elizabeth National Park for an ultimate African safari, Murchillions Falls National Park to be blown away by the thunderous Murchison Falls, Lake Bunyonyi and the famous Lake Victoria.

With so many amazing places to visit , now you know why Uganda is one of the top African countries to visit.

Visiting Uganda will leave you wondering why you might not have heard so much about this beautiful landlocked country.

And if you need to learn more about Uganda before you visit, grab this Uganda travel guidebook .

Not sure where to stay in Uganda, check out the best rates on hotels either here  or here .

Related posts:  Things to know before traveling to Uganda Best things to do in Kampala, Uganda

Located in Northern Africa, Egypt is mostly famous for its historical monuments of the Giza pyramids and the Pharaohs.

With an outstanding history of ancient Egypt and artifacts that are over 7000 years old, it is not hard to see why Egypt is almost on everyone’s Africa bucket list .

It is actually one of the most visited countries in Africa receiving over 9 million tourists every year.

Though most tourists travel to Egypt to see the magnificent Pyramids, there is more to Egypt than just that.

Whether you want to cruise along the Nile – something you should actually do, go snorkeling in the deadly blue hole in Dahab , immerse yourself in ancient Egypt history by visiting the Egyptian museum which houses over 120, 000 artifacts, or just get to know how the Egyptians live by going to the Khan el-Khalili, you’re bound to have the time of your life in Egypt.

With so many landmarks in Egypt , a trip to Pharaoh’s land will be rewarding and the memories you’ll create will be forever.

You can enjoy all these tours on your own or book a tour company through GetyourGuide to show you around. Book your stay in Egypt here and if you are a backpacker on a budget, check out this great hostel  in Cairo.

Related posts: Things to know before traveling to Egypt Best places to visit in Cairo What to do in Cairo if you have only 2 days

3. Seychelles

Situated on the Indian Ocean and the northeast of Madagascar, this small country with the least number of people in Africa has a total of 115 beautiful islands that receive over 300,000 visitors every year.

The Seychelles islands are believed to have been discovered by a Portuguese admiral Vasco Da Gama.

Seychelles is a tropical country with amazing weather all year round to let you hit the beach almost daily.

The beautiful beaches, the sand so soft and the water crystal clear makes Seychelles one of the best holiday destinations in Africa.

The beauty of this place made the royals Prince William and Kate Middletown choose Seychelles as their perfect safari honeymoon getaway and this is exactly why it makes it to the list of the best countries to visit in Africa.

Lying on the beach is not the only thing to do in Seychelles, going on a safari is one other thing to do as part of the country’s land is protected in the form of game reserves and national parks.

If you are looking for a romantic getaway or a honeymoon destination in Africa , Seychelles is the best African country to visit just for that.

Tip : Traveling to the Seychelles island doesn’t come cheap, you might want to start saving right away to be able to afford it and you can also compare prices on flights with Skyscanner  for best flight deals.

Zambia is a landlocked country located in the south-central part of Africa.

It is on the list of top tourist countries in Africa as it not only offers some of the best wildlife and game reserves in Africa but also harbors the mighty Victoria Falls.

The glorious Victoria Falls located at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe is the major tourist attraction in the country and also one of the top tourist places in Africa receiving 1 million visitors (annually) that want to experience the Mosi-oa-Tunya translated as the smoke that thunders.

Victoria Falls is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest waterfall in the world with a height of 108 meters (354 ft) and a width of 1,708 meters (5,604 ft).

Victoria Falls is one of the best places to visit in Africa that should be on every tourist’s bucket list.

The best experience at Victoria Falls is paying for a helicopter flight commonly known as the Flight of Angels to enjoy the view of the falls and River Zambezi from above.

You can also swim in the devil’s pool — an experience that is not for the faint-hearted. Click here to book some of the amazing activities at Victoria Falls .

On top of visiting Victoria Falls, there are other places to visit in Zambia including South Luangwa National Park which is considered to be the birth of a walking safari, Lower Zambezi National Park which is just next to River Zambezi, Living Stone Island to learn more about Dr. Livingstone who was the first European to discover Victoria Falls.

Related post:  A comprehensive guide on how to get to the Victoria falls

5. Zanzibar

Can we talk about Zanzibar? Just the thought of Zanzibar warms my heart.

Located 15 miles off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is a perfect place to disconnect from the busy city life and soak in the fresh views and breeze of the ocean – making it one of the best African vacations.

The dazzling beaches and coral reefs of Zanzibar make it a perfect destination for snorkeling lovers and one of the most beautiful places in Africa.

Though Zanzibar is commonly known for beautiful beaches, it’s not just lying on the beach all day long every day (well unless you want to), there are some other cool things to do in this honeymoon destination.

From Island hopping, snorkeling/diving, taking a village tour, and wandering around Stone Town to trying out local foods – you can’t fail to get what to do in Zanzibar.

So if you are wondering what the most beautiful African country is and where to travel next, then Zanzibar is your ultimate African destination.

The only downside of this paradise is that it’s always full of tourists who can’t get enough of the tranquillity Zanzibar offers.

Torn between which hotel to make your home during your stay in Zanzibar, look out for the best offers on Booking.com or Hotels Combined .

Related post: Things to know before backpacking Africa

Kenya is one of the best African safari countries for travelers who want to get up close to African wildlife.

Kenya is home to Masai Mara National Reserve which is regarded as the best place for safari in Africa.

It is famously known for being highly populated with lions, cheetahs, and leopards, and the annual migration of wildebeest zebras, and gazelles, to and from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania annually from July to October known as The great migration .

The great migration is one of the most amazing experiences in wildlife with over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and 350,000 gazelles making their way across the Mara river in search of greener pastures.

It is a sprint of survival, from crossing the “deadly” Mara River to walking a total of approximately 1800 miles. 

Unfortunately, a whopping 250,000 wildebeest don’t make it through the Mara river as they get attacked by the hungry Crocodiles that are always eagerly waiting for easy prey.

The great migration can also be experienced when you visit  Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

While Masai Mara is one of the most beautiful places in Africa for an incredible safari, they’re other national parks in Kenya that shouldn’t be missed including Tsavo National Park which is Kenya’s largest national park, Lake Nakuru National Park which is famous for huge flocks of pink flamingos, Lake Naivasha for bird lovers, get to know how Kenyans live by visiting Nairobi which is its capital and the largest city followed by Mombasa.

Visiting some of these places is much better when using a tour company though doing it solo can also be fun.

But if you want to know all about Kenya before your Kenyan safari, this Lonely Planet Kenya travel guide will give you all the information you need.

Related post: Things to know before going on an African safari

Morocco has the 5th largest economy in Africa which is derived from majorly phosphate and tourism as the second largest foreign exchange earner.

Being geographically located near Europe, most of Morocco’s tourists come from Europe especially Spain which is close to it.

From visiting the small beach towns to the beautiful landscape of the Sahara desert, Morocco is one of the best African countries to visit.

Apart from the Sahara desert which is the highlight of visiting Morocco for almost every traveler and also one of the major landmarks in Africa , there are so many things to do and see including; Marrakech which is one of the most famous cities in Morocco that you shouldn’t miss on your adventures in Africa, the Blue Village of Chefchaouen – a popular town with buildings covered in blue paint.

If you’re Instagram savvy, you’ve probably seen many pictures of this town.

Other places to visit in Morocco are Rabat, the country’s capital, and Casablanca.

All these amazing places make Morocco one of the top African countries to visit.

8. South Africa

South Africa is sometimes referred to as another city in Europe because it is highly developed compared to other African countries making it the best country in Africa to visit in terms of development and also one of the coolest African countries.

South Africa has so much to offer that you would want to stay there forever, from the beautiful landscapes, friendly locals, amazing wildlife, and great food, the list as to why South Africa is one of the best countries to visit in Africa is literally endless.

You can check out more activities and sightseeing in South Africa from here .

One of the best places to travel in Africa for a great safari is South Africa’s Kruger National Park which is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and the largest in the country.

Other than enjoying amazing game drives in Kruger National Park, most tourists travel to this beautiful country to hike the table mountain — which is one of the top The table mountain is a flat-topped mountain overlooking the city of Cape Town offering 360-degree panoramic views of the city.

You can opt to hike your way up the Table Mountain or take a cable car

Other things to do on your visit to South Africa include exploring Cape Town a port city with so much to offer, and visiting Hermanus village – a small town known as the whale-watching destination. 

Explore Cape Point, a beautiful place to see African penguins on the beach — this is truly an amazing experience.

You can also go Bungee Jumping off Bloukrand Bridge which is the highest bungee jumping bridge in the world.

If you want to up your adrenaline, this is a must-do activity in South Africa

Traveling to Cape Town during the winter season? Read this comprehensive post by “What the saint did next” that details the cool things to do in Cape Town in winter .

Grab yourself this copy of the South Africa Travel guide to satisfy your wanderlust and to also get to know why it features in the top African countries to visit.

9. Botswana

Botswana is one of the best places in Africa to visit in order to enjoy wildlife.

Northern Botswana has the largest number of the remaining most dangerous wild dogs in the world plus the world’s largest concentration of African elephants.

Botswana is also a perfect destination for a self-drive safari.

With amazing wildlife and beautiful scenery, it is an ideal safari getaway for travelers who want to experience an African safari like no other.

The most famous places to visit in Botswana are the central Kalahari game reserve which takes up the largest part of Botswana, the great safari at Chobe National Park, and the Okavango Delta.

You can book your spot in Chobe National Park from here to go with a tour guide or opt for a self-drive safari which is not only fun but also a cheaper way to enjoy Botswana.

Other incredible places not to miss while traveling around Botswana include the Nata Bird Sanctuary for bird watching, especially the Flamingos since it is the largest breeding site of Lesser and Geater Flamingos in the world, Kharma Rhino Sanctuary to get up close with the Rhinos, and Moremi game reserve which also has a high concentration of wildlife.

So if you’re looking for nice places in Africa that offer amazing wildlife, Botswana should be on your list.

Related posts: Everything you need to know about camping in Botswana Botswana self-drive itinerary for 3 weeks

Rwanda is a beautiful mountainous landlocked country that has evolved from the dark side of genocide to one of the best African countries to visit.

Regardless of how the genocide impacted the country, It is now regarded as one of the safest countries as well as one of the best countries in Africa.

The tourism sector has been predominantly low in the past couple of years but thanks to the mountain gorillas in Volcano National Park, many tourists are starting to travel to Rwanda and it has been one of the leading foreign exchange-earners.

Just like in Uganda, gorilla trekking is also the highlight of traveling to Rwanda, though the activity is a bit more expensive in Rwanda.

Unlike other East African countries, Rwanda’s capital city Kigali is one of the cleanest and most organized cities.

There are strict laws and orders that you can barely see garbage on the streets.

Other than tracking gorillas, some other things to do in Rwanda include visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn more about this dark period, Climbing Mt. Kigali, visiting Nyamata church, and taking a self-guided tour around Kigali to learn more about the way of life of people in Rwanda as you interact with the locals.

Summary of the best African countries to visit

I agree, that was a lot to take in, and if you’re like some of my friends who want everything summarised, here is a brief of the best countries to visit in Africa.

• South Africa

So now that you know the best African countries to visit, why not go ahead and book that air ticket from here to what will be your greatest adventure?

But before you do, check out this post to know how to stay say while traveling .

These are some of the best countries to visit in Africa. Have you been to Africa or just planning your trip?

Let me know in the comment section with the African country you will be visiting first.

If you’ve already been to Africa, let me know your experiences and whether you agree that these are the best places in Africa to visit.

Things you should pack for Africa

Travel insurance.

It would be a mistake to travel to Africa without travel insurance. Anything can happen on the dusty road of Africa or in the chaotic cities.

So make sure that you and you’re items’ safety is guaranteed by buying travel insurance.

Most travelers love  World Nomads travel insurance  as it’s easy to get a quote and the claiming process is not a rat race.

The other advantage is that it works in over 130 countries including those in Africa.

Universal travel adapter

Instead of taking different adapters for each African country which is very impractical and expensive, you’re better off taking  this universal travel adapter .

Portable Power bank

Before going to Africa, make sure that you have a  power bank like this  so that you stay connected even on the go when your battery phone dies.

Microfiber travel Towel

I recommend taking  this microfiber travel towel since it is lightweight, dries quickly  and it is very absorbent. It’s much better than carrying the heavy cotton ones.

Africa Lonely Planet Guide book

Get a general insight into Africa from experts by getting yourself a copy of this Lonely Planet guidebook .

Personal water filter

Safaris in Africa can mean going to places where it’s hard to get clean drinking water. So carry your own  travel water filter  to purify the water before drinking it.

Collapsible water bottle

In that same manner, carry yourself a water bottle so that you can refill it every time it runs dry.  This travel water bottle  is collapsible and light which means that it won’t take up a lot of space in your backpack. Taking a water bottle will also reduce the use of disposable plastic bottles which is great for the environment.

You can check out the complete Africa packing list to know all the essentials to take.

Disclaimer*   This post contains affiliate links and I might earn a small commission if you purchase through them but with no extra cost to you. This commission helps to keep the lights on here. You can read our  privacy policy  for more details. Thank you for supporting the Adventurous feet

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73 Comments

Thanks a lot for sharing. Tourism in Africa is growing rapidly

How comes Tanzania is missing ? When you mention Zanzibar, zanzibar is not a country Zanzibar is a part of Tanzania. Uganda shouldn’t be on the top but because it’s where you come from you right to put it on the top . But Tanzania should be the leading on the list and it’s becouse of the following fascinating facts

1- Serengeti National park the best safari destination in Africa, according to booking.com, serengeti hosts the largest mammal migration on the planet making it to be one of the top ten natural wonders of the world.

2- Tanzania is the home of Kilimanjaro mountain the highest free standing mountain on the planet and the most famous and highest mount in Africa 5895M the GOAT of Africa.

3- Tanzania is the home of Ngorongoro Conservation Area the place where the skull of the first human being in the planet was discovered (Olduvai gorge) also the ngorongoro Crater the largest unbroken Caldera on on the planet. The place is simply know as the Garden of Eden

4 – The word Tanzania is combination of Tanganyika and Zanzibar so Zanzibar is region in Tanzania, Tanzania is the home of Zanzibar the best paradise in Africa, a heaven on earth.

5 – Tanzania is the home of three largest lakes in Africa lake Victoria , lake Tanganyika(the deepest in Africa) and Lake nyassa.

6- did you know also Tanzania has the largest concentration of animals per square km than any other country on the planet ?

7- Tanzania is the home of the largest game park in East Africa Ruaha National park, the hosts 10% of world’s lions.

8- Tanzania hosts more 120 different tribes, simply the best for culture experience in East Africa. (Uganda 56 and kenya 43)

9 – Tanzania is the home of the largest game reserve in Africa, Selous Game Reserve 54600km

10 – This Should be the first one, Tanzania is the most peaceful country in Africa no blood sheds in Tanzania l, the culture of the Tanzanians is amazing, people are so friendly in Tanzania than any other country in Africa, the have inherited the ujamaa life one of the forms of socialism so the life Tanzania is quit different than any other Africa country.

NOTE. There are more facts to make Tanzania the top on the list and it’s because of the media people don’t know about Tanzania, but it’s time to tell the world what Tanzania has to offer for them, Tanzania is the Honey and Milk country. I think it’s the Where the Garden of Eden was try to make a research on your own. And if you want more facts about Tanzania contact me. Thanks, “We are the Patriots of the world “

Wow, this is really an in-depth insight about Tanzania and after reading your comment, I am actually convinced that Tanzania should definitely feature on the list of the best African countries to visit.

Maybe to disagree with you a little, Uganda still deserves to be on this list and it’s not because that’s where I come from. There is so much beauty in Uganda, no wonder it is called the pearl of Africa. You can check out one of my previous post that showcases the best places to visit in Uganda ( https://theadventurousfeet.com/8-best-places-to-visit-in-uganda/ ) and perhaps you will come to agree with me that Uganda is indeed one of the best countries in Africa to visit.

But I am so happy you talked about Tanzania in detail, makes me want to visit your country again!

Thank you so much, Raymond, for taking the time to write such a detailed and useful comment. Perhaps you can send me a quick email and see how we can make all those amazing facts about Tanzania known to the world.

Respected Team

During my research for the article Best Honeymoon Destinations to visit in Morocco, We came across your website and find that really helpful for my article as well as the reader we are targeting. In order to provide the best available information over the internet.

Regards, Team FDS

Thank you so much for that! I am really glad my post was helpful to you.

Wow these are amazing recommendations. I’ve already been to Uganda (really loved South western Uganda), Kenya (climbed Mt Kenya point Lenana and went to safari), Rwanda (genocide museums are sad places, but Kigali super modern city), Morocco (climbed Toubkal and visited some cities) and Egypt (pyramids are definitely impressive). I still have a lot of countries to visit in Africa and I hope that in 2019 I will cross at least one out from your list 🙂 Thanks again for great post!

Wow Joseph, i am impressed!! You’ve been to almost half of the countries on the list. Here’s is to more African adventures in 2019! Yes, south western Uganda is amazing and Kigali is so modern and clean compared to other East African countries.

I guess the plastic-free law is working well for them, that’s why all the cities are clean in Rwanda 🙂

And it’s actually a crime to litter around the city!!

Great stuff, I like travelling and i hope i get the finances in future to go to all these countries. For now, let me enjoy travelling around Uganda

Thank you so much my dear. You will get to travel to other places, it’s just a matter of time

Great post- super info for those who haven’t been before and experienced the magic of Africa!

Great article you have here! I would love to visit these destinations in the future especially Egypt, Uganda, and Seychelles!

Best regard, Clement II http://www.bestspotsph.com

This is a great post. Would like to visit this beautiful places

I am dreaming to go to Kenya and lounge on the sandy beach of Zanzibar! So many place to go to and so little time (or money)! 😉

I am looking forward to eventually going to Africa some day. I appreciate getting some more information on each of these countries, there are some I never considered. I would love to tho to the Seychelles islands!

We are going to Ethiopia in December and we can’t wait. Maybe we will visit Kenya as well. Getting more and more excited after reading your blogpost.

Oohh yes that is amazing. I hope you enjoy Ethiopia and if you decide to go to Kenya, i am sure you will have an amazing time there

Well, Morocco, Kenya and Egypt are the ones, where I would like to go. First one is for streets and markets, Kenya for wildlife and startups, Egypt for history and some beaches. 🙂 I wonder if I can make one big African trip.

yes of course you could plan to make one round trip to Africa. Actually thats what most people do

I still didn’t visit any countries in Africa and I know I definitely need to change that after reading your post. Thank you for sharing

Wowza! These destinations are all on my bucket list and they all looking amazing! Morocco and Egypt top my list though!

I have personally been only in Morocco but it’s amazing: the culture, the food, the people, everything is so interesting

I always love visiting Africa, it’s such an interesting place. This is a great list of places that I haven’t really considered, so thanks for the very comprehensive list.

As African safaris are on my wish list since very long and it is great that you have shared a detailed post on them. Loved a list of best safaris in Africa and in that I would love to go for Rwanda and Kenya first. Thanks for sharing a great list with stunning photos.

I love this post! Fun fact: What inspired me to travel when i was young was seeing the wild in Kenya. From then on it has been on my top places to visit. I will definitely visit Kenya and the other places mentioned here.

Your post really shows how varied the African continent is. I’d love to go back to Morocco and I absolutely want to visit Zanzibar; hopefully soon 😀

It’s funny how Seychelles used to be where people were exiled to. Imagine being exiled to paradise – where do we sign up? haha

hahhha i know,, i would be begging the concerned people to exile me too

I came back from Morocco recently and I enjoyed my trip in the Sahara. All the mentioned countries are great destinations but for safety reasons I would not go there again next year.

Thanks for this guide, me and my husband are considering going to Africa next year. I would especially love to visit Victoria Falls in Zambia, and Madagascar

This is very inspirational as we want to see more of Africa! So far, I have visited two of these ten countries – Uganda and Morocco. Both were incredible experiences in very different ways! For some reason Rwanda has a HUGE appeal to me and it’s the country I’d most like to visit next in Africa. Glad to see it on this excellent list!

Great post. Summary of all places to visit in African countries is in one post. Thank you for sharing the details.

Great post. Summary of all places to visit in any country in one blog. Thanks for sharing the details.

Thank you for appreciating Rajat

I wish I could make it to all of these beautiful countries ASAP. I have only been to Uganda, and I loved it. Such beautiful people, animals, and views. Great post 🙂

you’ve been to Uganda?? That’s so amazing, i hope you had an amazing time in my home!!

I was sure about the places I want to visit in Africa, but now I added more thanks to your blog. Morocco and Zanzibar are at the top of my list!

Aaawww thats nice, thank you for for your kind words

wooow! i would love to go to africa one day! it is amazing all the places you can visit! i wish i could go there someday is on the top of my bucket list! i hope you can take a look at my blog and tell me what you think! http://www.travelsurlaroute.com

Good to see Uganda at number one, that was my favourite country in Africa so far but you’ve listed nine others I really want to visit:)

The continent of Africa is a bit overwhelming with so many countries to visit. Your list narrowed it down nicely, but has made me want to go to all of the locations. I hope to get there soon with my kids.

Yes, Alison Africa has so many countries to choose from. I hope you and your kids get to see this amazing continent one time

wow, you’ve been on all that places? I envy you. I wanted to see live animals in Africa, they are so awesome in pics. And wanted to go to Morocco too for camel ride. Next time 🙂

If you want to see animals, Africa is the perfect place. With so many national parks in most countries, you will definitely be in to see a lot of them.

Well curated list of African destinations for travel and safari. I have visited most of these and immensely proud of being there.

wow, its good to know you’ve visited most of them. Which one was your favorite when you traveled to Africa?

Very informative post and lovely pictures! We’ve visited some of these countries on your list but there’s always room for more next time we travel!

That’s nice that you’ve been to some countries. I hope you enjoyed your trip to Africa

WOW! what a great list of destinations, including some that were never on my radar but certainly are now! Zanzibar looks like a slice of heaven! thank you such an informative post!

zanzibar is like a little paradise in Africa. I hope you go to some of the countries on the list

Africa is definitely on my bucket list! That’s pretty cool that Uganda people are considered some of the friendliest people in the world. Good to know tourists feel welcomed there.

Yes (we) Ugandans are very friendly people. You can basically start out a conversation with anyone. And people will always smile at you which is really welcoming.

Africa has always amazed me. Unfortunately because of our health I don’t think we’ll ever get to to- my sons and I can’t handle the vaccines we’d need. I hope someday we can because I would love to see Africa!

Africa simply fascinates me but because of our heath, I don’t know if we’ll ever make it there. My sons and I can’t risk the extra vaccines we’d need. I hope someday we can handle them because I would LOVE to go!

I hope you get a chance to see how beautiful Africa is one time

I could never think of going to Africa on my own as a woman but after hearing some good stories from other solo female travelers, my mind stopped worrying. How was your experience regarding safety?

I am personally from Africa, Uganda. And it is definitely safe to travel to these countries but just like any country you’ve got to be cautious of your personal belongings. But Africa is definitely safe to travel to even as a solo female

This is an amazing list of destinations in Africa and thank you so much for including them all in one single post Esther! We’ve only been to Egypt but we are sure to keep coming back to this excellent guide of yours for our future trips to Africa!

You are welcome Maria, that is so nice of you. Yes iEgypt is amazing, i hope you enjoyed your trip there.

Yes, Egypt was one of the best trips ever and we would love to go back!

I’ve never been to Africa, though it’s been on my list for a long time. But all your suggestions sound so great that I want to go EVERYWHERE! Do you have a favourite out of all of these? Or something you would recommend for a first-timer?

Yes Zenja, all these countries are beautiful. Uganda is a great choice(oh maybe that’s where i come from.. lol) . Egypt is another fascinating country with so much history and culture. I’d recommend it for first time travellers to Africa. But if you are interested is relaxing and beach life, i say Zanzibar all the way

Amazing post!!! Id love to go to those countries. Although I am also a travel blogger, I´ve never been to Africa. Thinking about going next year to Morocco and maybe to Seychelles and I would love to go to Kenya someday soon also!!!

Oh yeah Morocco is an excellent choice. If you go to Kenya, you can incorporate Uganda in your travel itinerary since they are neighbors

I so desperately want to visit Uganda and Rwanda. My husband and I spent our honeymoon in Mauritius and Madagascar, it was a fascinating trip

oh wow- i am sure you had an amazing time on your money. Mauritius and madagascar are perfect honeymoon destination. And yes please come to Uganda, i promise you will love it here

Oh! This made me want to book the next flight to all those places… I wish to go the explore at least some of these places in 2019 🙂

Ooh that’s nice, i really hope you go to some of them in 2019, you will be amazed by the beauty of Africa

UMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM CAN I GO TO ALL OF THEM??? I don’t even know where to start

hahahahah yes you can, with a bit of planning and money- you definitely can.

I visited Kenya a few years ago, and have been itching to go back ever since! Rwanda is at the top of my list, I’ve been learning more about the country recently and it seems like it would be a wonderful place to experience.

Yes i agree with you, Rwanda is such a beautiful place, i hope you like it when you go. I hope you enjoyed your stay in Kenya. did you get a chance to see the great migration in kenya the time you were there?

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Best places to visit in africa for 2023-2024.

Africa may not always register on the average traveler's radar, but those who visit have the chance to experience the perfect blend of ancient and modern, wild and urban, and East and West. From Cape Town's coastal beauty to Tanzania's game reserves, choosing your adventure on the second-largest continent can be difficult. To help you start planning, U.S. News ranked the best places to visit in Africa based on accessibility, affordability and the variety of things to do, as well as user votes and expert opinions. Help us choose next year's top spots by voting for your favorite destinations below. 

Serengeti National Park

Victoria falls, masai mara national reserve, kruger national park.

If you're enamored with the prospect of coming face to face with elephants, giraffes, zebras and wildebeests, then a safari tour through Tanzania's Serengeti National Park is the bucket-list adventure for you. The price will be steep, but a journey here affords an unforgettable African savanna experience. To save some coin, book one of the park's campgrounds instead of staying at a high-end safari lodge or luxury tented camp. Plan on arriving in January or February (calving season) or between June and October (dry season and prime migration time) for the best game-viewing conditions.

Outdoorsy types travel far and wide to admire this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site. Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe in Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, Victoria Falls is roughly twice as deep and wide as Niagara Falls, making it one of the world's most jaw-dropping waterfalls . To see this natural wonder at its prime, plan a visit in April or May when the region's rainy season has concluded. Popular vantage points include the Knife-Edge Bridge, Livingstone Island and Devil's Pool. When you're not enjoying the view from above, go whitewater rafting in the Zambezi River to admire the falls from a different angle.

Most tourists head to Tanzania to go on safari, but you'd be remiss if you didn't save time for the country's other must-see treasures. In addition to its animal-filled plains, Tanzania boasts otherworldly natural wonders, including red-hued Lake Natron, Ngorongoro Conservation Area's expansive crater and Mount Kilimanjaro – the tallest mountain in Africa (and largest free-standing mountain on Earth). For the ultimate adrenaline rush, book a climbing excursion up the continent's famous mountain through a local tour operator.

Mauritius appeals to vacationers in search of a bit of everything. Though its main draws are its powdery sands and luxe beach resorts , this small island nation east of Madagascar also charms visitors with its mix of cultures; friendly locals; lively festivals and tasty teas and rums. After a day of exploring some of the island's nature reserves and soaking up the sun, retreat to one of its premier properties to savor fresh seafood while watching a traditional sega dance performance or the sun set over the Indian Ocean.

Home to cheetahs, elephants, lions, wildebeests, hippos and more, Masai Mara National Reserve is one of Kenya's premier spots to see wildlife. Sign up for a safari to explore this protected area's 373,000-plus acres of rolling grasslands. (Tip: Look for companies with guides certified by the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association.) For an extra dose of adventure, opt for a horseback riding excursion or hot air balloon safari. To increase your chances of spotting the big five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes) and other migrating animals, time your visit between July and October during the Great Migration.

Zanzibar offers something for everyone, whether you're in search of beautiful white sand beaches or an unforgettable adventure. After trekking to this Indian Ocean archipelago off the coast of East Africa, you'll instantly feel at ease as you lounge on quiet beaches like Matemwe and Kiwengwa. Next, visit UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stone Town, where you'll find the ruins of a 19th-century palace and a graveyard with ties to Zanzibar's former Arab royals. And no trip would be complete without taking a spice tour in the countryside and exploring Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park. As an added bonus, you'll find this is a surprisingly cheap tropical destination .

A grouping of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles has long attracted those looking for a truly relaxing, off-the-beaten-path getaway. Spend your days lounging on pristine, crowd-free beaches like Anse Lazio and Anse Source D'Argent, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Or, head deep into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Vallée de Mai nature reserve to gaze at its unique flora and fauna. Keep in mind that lodging here is expensive (especially at the luxury resorts), so it's best to save up and book in advance.

With numerous hiking trails, miles of dramatic scenery and stunning beaches (including one with wild penguins), this South Africa hub caters to both adventurous and laid-back travelers. Getting to Cape Town won't be cheap, but your dollar will go far once you arrive. Make sure you take the aerial cableway up Table Mountain, visit Nelson Mandela's jail cell on Robben Island and explore the world-renowned Constantia Valley wine region. You'll also want to save time to trek through the Cape of Good Hope, which lies 40 miles south of Cape Town on the southern tip of Africa.

Cairo can be overwhelming, as there's so much to see and do everywhere you turn. From Islamic Cairo's bustling Khan El-Khalili bazaar to the ancient Pyramids of Giza to the picturesque Nile River, you'll be immersed in this Egyptian city's history and culture before long. Though winter offers the most pleasant weather of the year (with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s), it's also the busiest season, so consider visiting in spring or fall when room rates are lower, temps are bearable and crowds thin out.

Like other historic Moroccan cities, Marrakech buzzes with life: Performers vie for your attention in Jemaa El Fna (an open-air square in the heart of the Medina of Marrakesh) while vendors hawk aromatic spices, homemade textiles, ornate lanterns and more at the bazaars along the alleyways. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, unwind at a hammam, visit the Jardin Majorelle or head to a rooftop bar and relax before retiring to your riad. During your visit, keep an ear out to hear the striking tones of the nearby mosques' calls to prayer.

You'll spot plenty of animals – ranging from lions to rhinos to elephants to giraffes – in this massive game preserve in South Africa. Kruger National Park's network of paved roads makes it easier to navigate than Serengeti, and it tends to be cheaper to visit. However, its popularity (especially from May to October, which are the best months for wildlife viewing) means you're more likely to encounter hordes of visitors during game drives. Consider visiting one of the park's private game reserves for a more exclusive experience, and to ensure lodging, flight and tour availability, you'll likely want to finalize your trip at least a year in advance.

The habitat on the island of Madagascar is unlike any other in the world: Most of the landscape is unspoiled, giving visitors a chance to see animals in their natural environment. Travelers should look out for the country's signature animal: the lemur. Madagascar is home to more than 100 species of these creatures, as well as 11,000-plus plant species, including majestic baobab trees. Some of the best places to see wildlife and Madagascar's geological wonders include Isalo National Park and Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve. Be sure to save some time to island hop to Nosy Be for its world-class beaches.

Despite its small size and landlocked location in southeastern Africa, Malawi draws visitors with its gorgeous lake, diverse wildlife and friendly people. At Lake Malawi, one of the deepest lakes in the world, travelers can enjoy water sports activities like kayaking and sailing, soak up some sun on a white sand beach or dive beneath the lake's surface to look for colorful cichlid fish. The tiny country also features nine national parks and wildlife reserves, making it an excellent less-crowded option for a self-drive or a guided safari. For the best wildlife viewing, arrive during the dry season, which lasts from May to October.

Adventurous travelers who dream of spending their vacation surrounded by nature will love Botswana. A less crowded alternative to nearby safari destinations like South Africa and Tanzania, Botswana has a strong conservation focus and offers ample opportunities to spot rhinos, elephants and more in protected areas like Khama Rhino Sanctuary, Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve, the oldest reserve of the Okavango Delta. Plus, adrenaline junkies can participate in all kinds of heart-pumping activities, including quad biking, mokoro (canoe) safaris and helicopter tours.

Kenya's capital city offers the perfect blend of urban pursuits and natural splendor. With museums highlighting its pre- and post-colonial heritage, bustling street markets and a thriving nightlife scene, Nairobi is a cultural hub. But its proximity to (and preservation of) wildlife is what makes Nairobi one of the world's most unique cities. The city boasts its own national park – Nairobi National Park, whose grassy plains host 100-plus mammal species including black rhinos – as well as wildlife conservation parks such as the Giraffe Centre and Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. What's more, scenery seekers can also visit the urban Karura Forest or hike the surrounding Ngong Hills.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Alexandria, Egypt

Addis Ababa

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The Best Safari Destinations in South Africa

Addo elephant national park.

Great For : Natural safari while exploring the Garden Route.

Highlights : Elephants; three of the big five; very low cost of safari.

The Garden Route is Africa’s most traveled tourist route, a coastal stretch leading from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth . Addo Elephant National Park is the best place to do a safari along the way .

It’s more authentic and much cheaper than the private reserves in South Africa, and although it can’t rival Kruger or destinations further north, Addo is easy and accessible for those who want to glimpse the safari experience.

Best Time to Visit Addo Elephant National Park : This is a year-round destination.

Also Consider : Extending the holiday to visit Kruger.

Combine With : Cape Town and the Garden Route.

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi National Park

Great For : White rhinos and old-world safari.

Highlights : Accessibility, price, and the complete big five in their natural habitat.

Africa’s oldest conservation area provides an authentic glimpse at what the continent must have looked like in the 19th century. Great numbers of white rhinos roam here , along with the rest of the big five and a superb variety of antelope.

It’s rugged and it’s wild , with different habitats meaning there’s lots of life in a relatively compact area. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi  is an unsung hero of both safari and conservation, with great guides , good prices , and less of the razzmatazz found at other South African destinations.

Best Time to Visit Hluhluwe-iMfolozi National Park : All of the year although it’s wise to avoid South African school holiday season in December and January.

Also Consider : Addo Elephant National Park if you’re staying in the south of South Africa.

Combine With : Other attractions in Zululand and northwestern South Africa, such as Kruger.

Kruger National Park

Great For : Wild, self-guided safari; getting lost in the wilderness; people with lots of time.

Highlights : Over half the world’s rhinos; impressive big cat scenes; good-value national park accommodation.

A legend of the safari world , Kruger is an enormous wilderness bigger than many European nations . You could spend a month here and not go everywhere.

The southern half of the park has the most animals and most visitors, while the northern section is for really wild adventures with far more than the big five .

Kruger is accessible and there are even paved roads along the main routes, so you could drive yourself. But such an iconic destination is best with a guide and with plenty of time .

Spend four days and you can escape into the bush, where prowling predators are just the start of the legend. Wild side? You’ll do more than connect with it, you’ll live it in the Kruger.

Best Time to Visit Kruger National Park : Dry season is best for wildlife viewing, typically between March and October. December and January is very busy with local visitors.

Also Consider : One of the private concessions sharing borders with Kruger.

Combine With : Typically with Cape Town and South Africa’s none-safari destinations.

Mala Mala, Lion Sands, Thornybush and Other Greater Kruger Private Reserves

Great For : Luxury Kruger safari.

Highlights : Everything…apart from the price.

A string of private concessions share unfenced borders with Kruger National Park. All these occupy prime land, where rivers attract an incredible concentration of animals.

In places like Mala Mala you’ll find more life per square mile than almost anywhere else in Southern Africa. And that life is diverse too! The big five are more easily spotted here than anywhere else in Africa and you could see 20 different species on a single drive.

Access is restricted to guests staying at one of the concessions’ properties, all of which are upmarket and pricey: think plunge pools being visited by elephants and luxury rather than really wild experiences.

These destinations are great for a varied program of activities, particularly nighttime drives and exhilarating game walks .

Best Time to Visit Greater Kruger’s private reserves : Pretty much anytime of the year, with the winter dry months being best for game viewing.

Also Consider : Kruger National Park is a cheaper safari in the same area.

Combine With : Other South African destinations, including the coast and Cape Town.

Sabi Sands Private Reserve

Great For : Wildlife abundance and a luxury private safari; first-time visitors to Africa.

Highlights : The sheer number and diversity of animals; very relaxed safari programs.

Sabi Sands is the most famous and popular of the Greater Kruger’s private concessions . Life is attracted to the Sabi and Sands rivers, meaning it’s impossible to miss the big five as they congregate in large numbers.

If it’s your first time in Africa then Sabi Sands ticks all the boxes . Compact and charming, it’s elevated by the scenes you can experience around the lodges, all of which are more like boutique hotels than rustic camps.

Just note that the Sabi Sands is very popular and there are some restrictions on activities, such as not driving off road. It’s more like a halfway safari , with lots of luxury and plenty of animals, just not the really wild experience that some people may be looking for.

Best Time to Visit Sabi Sands : Dry season April to September is best. The rest of the year is good but December and January can be uncomfortably crowded.

Also Consider : Kruger National Park for something wilder: Mala Mala for a more exclusive experience.

Combine With : You can now fly straight from Sabi Sands to Cape Town for the ultimate safari and city combo.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Great For : The beach and safari in one destination.

Highlights : Hippos, boat safaris, monkeys and the Tonga tribe.

A World Heritage Site and one of the world’s greatest wetlands, iSimangaliso is where safari meets the beach . One moment you’re on Indian Ocean white sands, the next you’re canoeing past hippos and elephants.

Monkeys call from the trees, kudu and nyala occupy the river fronts, then you go snorkelling to see an entirely new wildlife cast. Encounters with the traditional landowners, the Tonga tribe , add another layer of intrigue.

This park is best on a guided safari and you can choose between staying in the park, or staying on the beach and visiting on day trips.

Best Time to Visit iSimangaliso Wetland Park : March to October: it’s hot, humid and often wet from November to February.

Also Consider : Diani Beach and Tsavo for an East African beach safari combo.

Combine With : Kruger National Park.

8 Most Charming Places in Tanzania

Found along the coast of East Africa is the great nation of Tanzania . Not the most well-known country in Africa, Tanzania has quietly become one of the upstart places in Africa, boasting a burgeoning and booming tourism industry. Known for its breathtaking landscape, white sand beaches, and vibrant culture, Tanzania is surely to make a good first impression.

Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is the largest nature reserve in Tanzania. In 2008, it merged with the neighboring Usangu Game Reserve, now covering more than 20,000km². There are campsites located all over the park, which make for perfect vantage points from which to see the wildlife up close.

Going on a safari here is like no other. There are endless ways to explore the park, all with a warm and helpful guide to help along the way. Most of these safaris are done from the safety of a car, whereas others are conducted on boats. The animals that you will see and the people that you will meet are going to create memories that last a lifetime.

Mahale Mountains National Park

Another one of Tanzania's stellar national parks, the Mahale Mountains, is located along the tranquil shores of Lake Tanganyika in eastern Tanzania. Initially created to protect a large segment of Tanzania's chimpanzee population, the park has become a world-class tourist destination.

The Greystone Mahale Camp is particularly stunning. This one-of-a-kind lodge is the perfect place to go on a romantic getaway with your significant other. There are, of course, plenty of guided tours inland to observe and occasionally interact with the various groups of chimpanzees that call the park home.

Nyerere National Park

Located on in Eastern Tanzania, the Nyerere National Park transports its guests into the thick of the African savannah . Guests can enjoy this park any way they want. There are traditional safaris, boat safaris, and even the option to survey the park from a hot air balloon.

Tours into the bush are also available. This allows guests to observe the wildlife up close and personal. It also gives visitors the chance to visit some of the remote villages that are located within the park. The locals here are famous for their warm demeanor and hospitality .

Mafia Island

Despite its name having a somewhat foreboding name, Mafia Island couldn't be further removed from any semblance of violence or organized crime. Located along the east coast of Tanzania, Mafia Island's pristine beaches and crystal blue water are nothing short of magical.

Mafia Island's beaches are a hotspot for nesting turtles, and its shallow waters teem with marine life. For those daring enough, the best months to spot whale sharks are from October to February. Even if aquatic life is not to your taste, the laid-back and peaceful nature of the island is enough to make this a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Mount Kilimanjaro

Sitting along its northern border with Kenya is Mount Kilimanjaro , the largest mountain in Africa. Sitting at roughly 5,895 meters (19,340 feet) tall, Kilimanjaro looms over the vast plains of the African savannah.

Climbing to the summit of the mountain is no easy feat, but reaching the top is certainly worth it. For those who have no interest in hiking up Kilimanjaro, there is a fantastic national park available. The park offers tons of tours led by accommodating and friendly guides.

Lake Manyara National Park

Found in the north of Tanzania, Lake Manyara National Park is another great destination for those wanting to get a closer look at the spectacular African wildlife. There are numerous tours available that grant visitors the chance to observe herds of elephants , curious giraffes, and even lion pride.

Aside from the traditional methods of looking at wildlife, there is also a tree-top canopy walk in some places. This gives the park's guests a new and unique way of viewing different kinds of primates and exotic birds. It is a great place to take friends and family.

Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world's largest inactive volcanic caldera . The surrounding area is teeming with wildlife and is the perfect place to go if you want to experience a more traditional safari. The land is home to all the stable animals one would expect, along with the semi-nomadic Maasai nomads who still live and hunt in the area.

There are dozens of high-end resorts guests have to choose from. If staying at a resort is not to your liking, then there are various campsites set up throughout the park that all come with a surprising amount of comfort despite being in the middle of the wilderness. The staff who work at these accommodations are more than happy to help and assist wherever they are needed.

The Zanzibar Archipelago is located off the east coast of Tanzania. There is a lot to do in Zanzibar, and it has quietly become one of the most prominent tourist destinations in Tanzania. Whether you are looking for a relaxing time at the beach or want to explore the city itself, there is something here for everyone.

The Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve is a great place to visit, especially for wadding in the warm turquoise blue water and shallow sandbank that the island is famous for. The old quarter of Zanzibar is another great attraction. Filled with a rich history and Arabian-infused architecture and culture, the city of Zanzibar is one of the more unique places in Africa. Its charm and energy are apparent the moment you arrive.

Discover Tanzania’s Hidden Charms

Tanzania is one of the best-kept secrets of Africa. Home to an endless amount of attractions and entertainment, it is no wonder more people are deciding to come and visit every year. No matter if you want to explore the county's wildlife or take a relaxing vacation on the beach, Tanzania has all of its bases covered.

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