BackDiscover where you should go for your perfect African safari
An African safari vacation features on most travel bucket lists, but with so many incredible wildlife destinations, how do you know where to go for the best safari in Africa?
Your choice depends on what you’re looking for: a particular species you want to see in the wild, the type of safari vacation you’re interested in (walking, game drives, camping, luxury), and who you’re traveling with, especially if you’re planning on doing a safari with kids or want a safari vacation focused on conservation.
Here, we break down 12 popular places to go for the best safari vacations in Africa by country, with summaries of the kind of vacation you can expect to enjoy there, what to see and do, the best national parks and game reserves to visit, and the wildlife watching opportunities available.
Botswana Safaris
Africa’s Last Great Wilderness
Botswana has evolved as a safari destination free from fences and farmlands, resulting in a vast wildlife haven with high concentrations of big game, from prowling lions to herds of buffalo. The country’s natural landscapes are awe-inspiring too, from baobabs on the salt pans to stunning desert sands.
Learn about the bush from those who know it best, the San of the Kalahari, who have used the environment for thousands of years and run bushwalks for visitors. This safari destination is also known for wilderness camping (spend a night or two out of the lodge and sleep under the stars for a real treat), and flexibility for accessible and wheelchair-friendly safaris.
Botswana’s Best National Parks & Game Reserves
Chobe National Park, the Okavango Delta, Nxai Pan National Park, Makgadikgadi Pan, Moremi Game Reserve and Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
Botswana’s Wildlife
Botswana is home to over 130,000 elephants, boasting more of these creatures than anywhere else in the world, with herds numbering up into the hundreds. Other notable species to look out for include black-maned lions, big cats, herds of zebra, bathing hippos and a wide variety of birdlife.
Why we love it
Each time I go on safari, I am constantly reminded of the sheer size of wild animals, but flying to the barren landscape of the Makakgadi Pans, it was such a delight to sit and watch troops of meerkats popping up from their burrows, watching for predators, playing, and looking for food. They were no bigger than squirrels, but just as impressive as watching great herds.
Kenya Safaris
The Classic African Safari
Kenya is one of Africa’s best and most well-known safari destinations. It is famous for its colorful tribes, the Great Migration, Africa’s “Big Five,” and stretches of savannah lit up in golden sunset colors. When you think of safari, you think of Kenya.
Kenya’s Best National Parks & Game Reserves
- Masai Mara National Reserve
- Amboseli National Park
- Samburu National Reserve
- The Laikipia Plateau
- Lake Nakuru National Park
Kenya’s Wildlife
Kenya is a Big Five safari destination, with plenty of opportunities to see lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and the endangered black rhino. Kenya’s Masai Mara is also the home of the Great Migration, where millions of zebra and wildebeest move annually around Tanzania’s Serengeti and the Masai Mara. Other species to look out for include baboon, flamingo, and giraffe, with the latter being a special point of interest at the “Instafamous” Giraffe Manor.
Why we love it
One of my favorite safari experiences was fly camping in Kenya’s Masai Mara. I slept out under the vast, starry sky and heard a lion’s roar in the distance. Walking between the multiple fly camps takes the safari to another level, and chatting with my local Maasai guide gave me real insight into local life.
Madagascar Safaris
Lemurs, Lemurs Everywhere
Although an incredible 90% of Madagascar’s forests have sadly been destroyed, the flora and fauna of this unique island can be found nowhere else in the world. 5% of all known plant and animal species can be found here and only here - meaning that it’s more important than ever to protect the country’s 25 national parks and the endemic wildlife species which live in them.
Don’t miss the unique Malagasy culture, with influences from Borneo, Polynesia, France, and East Africa. The fusion cuisine and cultural mix here is truly one of a kind, with a focus on ancestral worship and local taboos called “fady.” Canoe along the river for the easiest access around the island, camping in remote spots, and meeting village communities along the way.
Madagascar’s Best National Parks & Game Reserves
- Amber Mountain National Park
- Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
- Andringitra National Park
- Ankarafantsika National Park
- Isalo National Park
- Ranomafana National Park.
Madagascar’s Wildlife
It’s believed that Madagascar’s diverse range of lemur species evolved after they floated to the island around 60 million years ago. Today, there are over 100 species of lemur, all of which are endemic to the country. You’ll most likely recognize the panda-faced ring-tailed lemur, the “dancing” sifaka, and the indri, which has a call much like whale song.
Other species to look out for in Madagascar include endangered chameleons, cat-like fossa, brightly colored frogs and insects, and a few pesky animals missing from the Central Park Zoo.
Why we love it
Madagascar is the country for lovers of the weird, wonderful, and marvelous! Venture into the parks to find some of the amazing animals that call this island home, but spotting chameleons in the garden of your lodge is just as thrilling as seeing lemurs bound through the trees. And the wildlife is not only on land - look to the oceans to see whales, dolphins, sharks, and pristine dive sites.
Malawi Safaris
Lakeside Relaxation & Laidback Locals
Little Malawi is one of southern Africa’s least visited countries, but this landlocked safari destination has abundant wildlife. The local culture is not to be missed, and many visitors comment on the friendliness of the people, who are renowned for being warm, happy, and always smiling.
Despite its diminutive size, Malawi is home to Africa’s third-largest lake (Lake Malawi), and lake activities such as diving, snorkeling, kayaking, island-hopping, and beach sunbathing are great ways to wind down after a safari.
Malawi’s Best National Parks & Game Reserves
- Liwonde National Park
- Nyika National Park
- Majete Wildlife Reserve.
Malawi’s Wildlife
Poaching was once rife across Malawi, but conservation initiatives led by African Parks have relocated animals back into the country, including the famous Big Five. Majete Wildlife Reserve was African Parks’ flagship project in 2003, and the organization has since introduced similar projects in many other African safari destinations, including Rwanda and Zambia.
Thanks to recent reintroduction programmes, Malawi’s specialties include hippos, crocodiles, the endangered black rhino, and lions. Birders will also love Malawi for the 400 species of feathery friends found here.
Why we love it
Likoma Island in Malawi is a hidden gem: a beach destination in a landlocked country. It is one of the most peaceful places to end your vacation, with calm, clear turquoise water and incredible food. The lovely people make you feel so welcome, and exploring the excellent workshops of Katundu shows you their exceptional talent.
Namibia Safaris
A Photographer’s Dream
Namibia is known for its otherworldly landscapes as much as its rich wildlife and excellent national parks. Photographers will love the Namib (the world’s oldest desert), the orange dunes of Sossuvlei, the barren clay pans of Deadvlei, shipwrecks off the Skeleton Coast, and the abandoned town of Kolmanskop, half-submerged in sand.
Though Namibia is one of the least populous countries in the world, it’s also home to diverse native groups, including the Herero, the San of the Kalahari, and the Himba, who are instantly recognizable by the ochre cream they use on their skin and hair.
Namibia’s Best National Parks & Game Reserves
- Etosha National Park
- Sossusvlei
- Skeleton Coast.
Namibia’s Wildlife
Namibia is another fantastic Big Five safari destination that boasts more wild animals than people. With well-maintained roads and well-mapped routes, Namibia is also popular as a self-drive safari destination (or even a flying safari destination, if you’d rather make the most of your time and enjoy bird’s eye views). Etosha National Park sees elephants, giraffes, zebras, jackals, lions, leopards, and endangered black and white rhinos.
Why we love it
I like being in Namibia’s wildlife areas because of the sense of space, peacefulness, and natural environment. There are miles upon miles of dunes and rugged landscapes, and the natural spectacle of seeing the dunes change color as the sun sets is unforgettable. It is always a surprise when I return to the relative hustle of Namibia’s capital city of Windhoek after a safari.
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Rwanda Safaris
Gorillas in the Mist
Tiny Rwanda is a much smaller country than other big African safari destinations. However, it makes up for size with astounding natural beauty: mountain ranges, shimmering lakes, and lush tropical rainforests.
Outside the jungle, Lake Kivu offers swimming, kayaking, and even scuba diving, while the capital, Kigali, is one of Africa’s safest and cleanest cities. Though Rwanda’s horrific past has not been forgotten, the country is looking to the future and has become a leader in conservation and responsible tourism
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Rwanda’s Best National Parks & Game Reserves
- Akagera Parc
- National des Volcans
- Nyungwe Forest National Park.
Rwanda’s Wildlife
Rwanda is a primate haven. Trekking through the country’s thick rainforests, you’ll meet native golden monkeys, colobus monkeys, chimpanzees, and some of the world’s last remaining troops of mountain gorillas, including powerful silverbacks.
Why we love it
A trek to see the gorillas here can be longer and more challenging than in Uganda, as the Volcanoes National Park has typically denser forest, and the families can be trickier to find. Consider the Nyungwe Forest National Park for bird spotting and primate tracking or the beautiful shores of Lake Kivu. Rwanda is off the beaten track, but it is absolutely worth it to go and see this fantastic region.
South Africa Safaris
Cool Cities & Epic Road Trips
Think of South Africa, laidback Cape Town, Table Mountain, surfers, scenic coastal drives, world-class wines, and stunning beaches. The country is all this and more, with diverse landscapes and activities to enjoy. It is one of Africa’s most popular vacation destinations for safaris and beyond.
Durban, Cape Town, and Johannesburg offer culture and excellent international cuisine. The Winelands are perfect for gourmet vineyard tours, while the dramatic peaks of the Drakensberg escarpment descend to beautiful tropical beaches. One highlight of South Africa must be a drive along the Garden Route, one of the world’s best road trip destinations
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South Africa’s Best National Parks & Game Reserves
- Kruger National Park
- Kwandwe Game Reserve
- Amakhala Game Reserve
- Hluhluwe Game Reserve
- Madikwe Game Reserve.
South Africa’s Wildlife
South Africa is a Big Five safari destination, with elusive black and white rhino found at national parks such as Kwandwe and Amakhala. Big cats such as lions and leopards are common, while the shy cheetah is most often seen in central Kruger. Outside the game-rich national parks, you can also go whale watching in Hermanus or join African penguins on the beach.
Why we love it
South Africa is a fantastic destination that screams diversity, from its amazing destinations to its people. Whether looking for a vacation in one of Africa's most cosmopolitan cities, tasting some of the best wines in the world, visiting wild animals in their most natural environment, or even enjoying a vacation along the coast, South Africa has it all.
Mozambique Safaris
Indian Ocean Escapes & Marine Safaris
Mozambique offers a different kind of safari, with turquoise waters, remote islands, and rich cultural traditions along its coastline. This southern African nation’s tranquil beaches and marine parks are the ideal retreat after a classic wildlife safari.
Mozambique’s Best National Parks & Marine Reserves
- Bazaruto Archipelago National Park
- Quirimbas Archipelago
Maputo Special Reserve
Gorongosa National Park
Mozambique’s Wildlife
Marine life is the main draw here. Divers and snorkelers spot whale sharks, manta rays, dolphins, turtles, and dugongs, one of the rarest sea mammals on Earth. Inland, Gorongosa National Park has elephants, lions, hippos, and diverse birdlife.
Why we love it
After a week of game drives, nothing compares to unwinding on Mozambique’s palm-fringed beaches or exploring its island chains. Kayaking alongside dolphins, watching humpback whales breach, or wandering through Maputo’s vibrant markets adds a refreshing dimension to a southern African journey.
Tanzania Safaris
Superlative Wildlife & Natural Landscapes
Tanzania’s geography includes the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro, the natural phenomenon of the Ngorongoro Crater, and a coastline of surprisingly quiet beaches (or, if you prefer, a hop over to neighboring Zanzibar).
Within those environments, you’ll find millions of mammals on the Great Migration across the Serengeti, the largest herds of elephants in East Africa, and an abundance of diverse wildlife living on the microcosmic crater floor. Tanzania is deservedly one of the best safari destinations in the world.
Tanzania’s Best National Parks & Game Reserves
- Serengeti National Park
- Tarangire National Park
- Selous Game Reserve
- Ruaha National Park
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Lake Manyara.
Tanzania’s Wildlife
Tanzania is another Big Five safari destination, but you’re spoiled for choice regarding national parks and wildlife. Observe tree-climbing lions, pods of bathing hippos, migratory birds, including flocks of pink flamingos, hyenas, cheetahs, giraffes, elephants, jackals, the critically endangered African wild dog (also known as painted wolf), as well as masses of zebra, wildebeest, and gazelle on their annual trip around the Serengeti into Kenya’s Masai Mara.
Why we love it
Tanzania is extraordinary for its unique topography, bountiful wildlife, and warm, welcoming culture. From a safari perspective, the infamous Great Migration in the Serengeti ecosystem draws safari enthusiasts worldwide. Couple this with the Ngorongoro Crater, and it’s easy to see why northern Tanzania is so popular as a safari destination. We believe safari purists should focus on the lesser-known safari parks in the south and to the west; Selous, Ruaha, Katavi, and Mahale Mountains are all must-haves on any aficionado's safari wish list.
Uganda Safaris
Dense Rainforest, Wild Primates & Big Five Safaris
Uganda has green mountains, gorgeous lakes and streams, and the source of the Nile, the world’s longest river. This lush landscape creates a multitude of different habitats for wildlife, making Uganda easily one of the best safari destinations in Africa.
Take a Nile cruise with the crocodiles, visit local tea and coffee plantations, chase waterfalls, go white water rafting, take a game drive to tick off your Big Five, and meet a mountain gorilla in their natural habitat.
Uganda’s Best National Parks & Game Reserves
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Kidepo National Park
- Bwindi National Park
- Murchison Falls National Park
- Lake Mburo National Park
- Kibale National Park.
Uganda’s Wildlife
You’ll see Africa’s Big Five here, as well as tree-climbing lions, Nile crocodiles, hippos, and endemic bird species such as shoebill, green-breasted pitta, and gray-crowned crane (Uganda’s national bird). Uganda is one of the world’s best birding destinations.
However, one of the main draws is the wide range of primates that call Uganda’s jungles home, particularly the endangered mountain gorilla. Trek to see families of gorillas in Bwindi or participate in the Gorilla Habituation Experience
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Why we love it
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is an awesome experience. It’s not only a physical challenge to reach the families of gorillas, but it's just so special when you do. I had one large female gorilla stop right in front of me and stare; it was so exhilarating! Their likeness to human behavior is just extraordinary.
Zambia Safaris
Walking Safaris & Wondrous Waterfalls
Zambia is more under-the-radar than big African safari destinations such as Kenya and Tanzania. However, the country’s game-rich national parks offer unique wildlife-watching experiences, such as walking safaris, night game drives, open-top game drives, and canoe safaris.
Aside from the safari attractions, there is also the legendary Victoria Falls, on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The falls are one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and there are many activities you can do here, from hikes up to breath-taking views, to helicopter rides above the spray, to a brave swim out to the edge of Devil’s Pool
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Zambia’s Best National Parks & Game Reserves
- South Luangwa National Park
- North Luangwa National Park
- Lower Zambezi National Park
- Kafue National Park.
Zambia’s Wildlife
Zambia recently regained its status as a Big Five safari destination, as black rhinos were reintroduced to North Luangwa National Park. Other big names, such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, lions, hippos, leopards, African wild dogs, and even cheetahs, can also be found here.
On a night safari in South Luangwa, you might also see nocturnal creatures, such as honey badgers, African wild cats, porcupines, civets, genets, and perhaps even the rare and critically endangered pangolin
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Why we love it
Instead of your typical bush brunch in South Luangwa, you can be taken to a clearing with a pizza oven and all these gorgeous ingredients. It becomes a competition to see who can make the most creative pizza. Such a surreal safari experience, eating pizza and drinking beer at 10 am whilst elephants wander past!
Zimbabwe Safaris
Safari Tourism Reawakening
Zimbabwe’s economic and political troubles have seen the tourism industry take a hit during the last decade or so. However, this wildlife wonder of a safari destination has always been a favorite and is embarking on a renaissance.
The country’s incredible national parks, plus the shared wonder of the world that is Victoria Falls (on the border with Zambia), make Zimbabwe one of the best African safari destinations. Hike the excellent network of trekking trails, challenge yourself with adrenaline activities at the falls, or go wildlife watching with the family.
Zimbabwe’s Best National Parks & Game Reserves
- Mana Pools National Park
- Hwange National Park
- Matoba National Park
- Nyanga National Park
- South Gonarezhou National Park.
Zimbabwe’s Wildlife
Zimbabwe is full of game and wildlife. The Big Five can be found here, as well as hippos, crocodiles, zebras, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, impalas, cheetahs, the critically endangered African wild dog, and diverse birdlife, among many other species.
Why we love it
Thinking of ticking off one of the world's seven wonders? Come to Zimbabwe for Victoria Falls, one of the world’s largest waterfalls, stretching roughly 0.87 miles (1.4 km) wide. Zimbabwe is also known to be the adrenaline capital of Africa, as there are plenty of awesome, adrenaline-filled activities to be done at the falls. The sights are excellent and are one of the reasons why travelers love Zimbabwe. The country boasts five UNESCO World Heritage sites and amazing safari destinations like Hwange National Park and Mana Pools.
More Safaris in Africa
Of course, your safari destination options aren’t limited to the 12 countries above, though here we have listed the 12 most popular places for the best safari in Africa. Up-and-coming safari destinations range from Botswana to Zanzibar, and we’re happy to help plan those trips, too.
Outside of Africa, you may wish to watch wildlife in India’s tiger habitats, see breaching whales and endemic bird species in New Zealand, or even venture to Antarctica to see emperor penguins in their only natural habitat.
Whatever your dream safari destination or wildlife favorites, Wayfairer Travel endeavors to create a luxury, tailor-made safari vacation customized to your needs and preferences. Chat with our friendly team of luxury travel specialists or fill out our enquiry form to start planning your journey today.
