Discover The Best African Safari Destinations For Your Next Adventure
I’ll never forget my first African safari. The raw beauty of the African landscape took my breath away, and I was hooked. The magic of a safari isn’t just in the wildlife—it’s in the way Africa makes you feel alive.
Whether you’re after the thrill of spotting the ‘Big Five’, or seeking a more intimate connection with nature, Africa has something for everyone, but it can be tough deciding on the best destination to pick.
So, here are my personal top picks for the best African safari destinations, to help you decide on your next adventure.
1. Kenya
The Roots of Safari
Kenya offers one of the most iconic safari experiences in Africa, renowned for the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara and its incredible diversity of wildlife.
Whether you’re watching elephants roam across the plains or spotting big cats in their natural habitat, Kenya’s safaris offer unforgettable moments.
- Best regions: Maasai Mara, Amboseli National Park
- When to visit: Late June to October (especially during the migration)
The Maasai Mara is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise, with endless plains providing ample opportunities for spotting elephants, zebras, lions, and cheetahs.
The lesser-known Laikipia region is also ideal for those looking for quieter, more exclusive game viewing.
2. South Africa
A Land of Diverse Wonders
South Africa offers a blend of luxury and accessibility, with safari options to suit every type of traveller. Home to the famous Kruger National Park, it’s one of the best places to spot the Big Five. The country’s infrastructure also makes it easy to combine a safari with other activities such as exploring Cape Town or the Garden Route.
- Best regions: Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, Marataba
- When to visit: May to September
The Sabi Sands private reserve offers unrivalled wildlife viewing, while Marataba in Marakele National Park provides more intimate, crowd-free safari experiences with stunning mountain backdrops.
3. Tanzania
The Ultimate Wilderness and Coastline Escape
Tanzania is famous for the Serengeti and the annual migration of wildebeest, which is one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world. It’s also home to the Ngorongoro Crater, which boasts an incredibly high density of animals, all within the caldera of an ancient volcano.
- Best regions: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park
- When to visit: June to October (wildebeest migration from November to July)
Tanzania’s vast landscapes offer incredible opportunities for game drives, hot air ballooning, and even walking safaris. The Tarangire National Park is particularly famous for its large elephant populations and diverse bird species.
4. Botswana
The Heartland of Safari Exploration
Botswana’s untamed wilderness is ideal for those looking for a more rugged safari experience. The Okavango Delta is one of Africa’s most breathtaking natural wonders, and Botswana’s commitment to conservation ensures that its parks remain pristine and unspoiled.
- Best regions: Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Kalahari
- When to visit: Varies depending on wildlife movements
The Chobe National Park is home to one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Africa, while Jack’s Camp in the Kalahari offers a unique desert safari experience.
5. Zambia
The Birthplace of Walking Safaris
Zambia is a lesser-known safari destination, but its remoteness makes it perfect for those seeking a truly authentic and immersive experience. Victoria Falls is an added draw, offering a breathtaking backdrop for any safari trip.
- Best regions: South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park
- When to visit: May to October
South Luangwa is famous for its walking safaris, allowing travellers to get up close to the wildlife. Lower Zambezi National Park offers a range of unique safari activities, including boat safaris along the Zambezi River.
6. Namibia
A Wilderness Sculpted by Time
Namibia’s stark landscapes and vast open spaces offer a safari experience unlike anywhere else in Africa. The Etosha National Park is the heart of Namibia’s wildlife tourism, while the remote Skeleton Coast provides a truly off-the-beaten-track experience.
- Best regions: Etosha National Park, Caprivi Strip, Skeleton Coast
- When to visit: June to August
Namibia’s Skeleton Coast is a surreal place where the desert meets the ocean, while Etosha National Park is great for self-drive safaris, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.
Conclusion
Africa offers a diverse range of safari destinations, each with its own unique wildlife and landscapes.
Whether you’re after luxury or adventure, a family-friendly trip, or a romantic getaway, there’s a safari destination to suit everyone’s needs. Plan your dream safari and experience the magic of Africa’s wilderness!
