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!
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Botswana
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.
Kenya
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
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
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!)
Tanzania
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.
Uganda
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
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
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30 FAQ for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Ultimate Guide to Visiting Amboseli National Park, Kenya
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