7 Best Safari Destinations In Africa (2025)

Are you looking for the best safari destinations in Africa? Well, if you are then you have landed on the right blog post.

With tons of insects, birds, reptiles, mammals, and almost all types of living species, Africa is the world’s renowned safari destination with blends of tropical, desert, equatorial and temperate climates that favor the different kinds of vegetation.

When it comes to safari, most African countries have just enough to offer and definitely leave you in complete awe! Below are some of the most popular Safari destinations in different countries in Africa that you must try out the next time you think of a safari.

1. Botswana

Botswana is one of the best safari destinations in the entire world with diversity in what it can offer; ranging from the remote, wild, and immaculate sceneries which are perfect for game viewing.

The country is rich in Safari destinations, some of which include; –

a) Chobe National Park

Chobe National park in Botswana is inhabited by one of the largest elephant and buffalo populations in the entire world. The plain is also home to most of the world’s renowned predators, namely; lions, hyenas, leopards, cheetahs, and so many others.

There are also a variety of exceptionally beautiful natural views and spectacular bird species; qualifying it as an ideal birding zone as well.

Best time to visit

June to August, because the weather is favorable during this time and mosquitoes are less.

Accommodation

There is plenty of accommodation in Botswana ranging from open tent camps, lodges, and hotels. These cost between $450 and $600 for budget lodges and up to $2000 per night for luxury lodges depending on your budget and preferences. Sharing a room could however cost about $750usd.

Activities

Motorboat sunset cruises, mokoro excursions, bush walks, island camping, and much more!

b) Okavango Delta

The delta is a large low gradient inland delta located in the northwestern part of Botswana.

It is widely known for the massive ancient irrigation system within the delta and the fact that it is both a seasonal and permanent home for about 250,000 animal species.

This makes it stand out among the top seven natural wonders in Africa!

Best time to visit

Between June and August or September to October though since it is a permanent wetland, it is an ideal safari destination all year through!

Accommodation

There are just enough spectacular safari lodges/hotels and camps like Camp Okavango, chief’s camp, Mombo camp, and Duba plains camp, to mention but a few; the prices range from $500+ depending on your taste.

Activities

Mokoro canoeing in the delta, bush walks, game drives, and boat cruising.

 

2. Tanzania

It is profoundly known for its wildebeest migration. Each year, more than a million animals cross the planes of the Serengeti in search of greener vegetation, following the seasonal rains which follow a circular path throughout the year.

Serengeti is home to thousands of mammals and while there, you will catch a glimpse of wonderful wildlife like giraffes, hippos, and of course lions too.

The plains are also home to 500, or even more bird species including flamingos, ostriches, Fischer’s love bird, and the African fish eagle, to mention but a few.

Best time to visit

July to Oct in the dry season or January and February in the cubing season when thousands of different animals are bear cubs.

Accommodation

The Serengeti plains have quite many accommodations from 4-star hotels that cost about $737, to 5-star luxury hotels that cost approximately $1,037 per person sharing.

Accommodation can be either luxury or intense safari immigration, so you are assured of a great safari experience.

Activities

Hot air balloon rides over the Serengeti river, bush meals, nature walks, camping, and if you are so much into discovery; you can as well visit Olduvai Gorge, the Bologonja springs, and Tho Lobo valley.

b) Ngorongoro Crater

This is the world’s largest unbroken caldera with magnificent paranoiac views! It is not just big but harbors many bird and animal species.

The caldera is home to more than 25,000 wild animals and all the big 5 (that is; lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos) can be spotted in the caldera.

Depending on what time you visit, you may also witness the greatest wildebeest migration.

Best time to visit

Although the caldera gets too muddy and slippery during the rainy season, the period between April and May remains the best since the green pasture at the time is fully grown, adding beauty to the crater.

In addition, there are fewer tourists in that period, therefore guaranteeing that you experience each and every moment with clear peace of mind!

Accommodation

There is plenty of awestriking accommodation along the crater rim and there are also some lodges and open camp tents within the bushes. The prices range from $150 to about $1500 depending on the kind of services delivered.

Activities

Wildlife viewing, picnics, game drives, nature walks, birding and so much more.

 

3. Kenya

a) Masai Mara

Located on the edge of “unending plains” in Narok County, Kenya, Masai Mara is one of the biggest and best wildlife reserves in the country with the profound beauty of flora and fauna.

Best time to visit

The climax is usually July to October every year as the wildebeest cross from Serengeti to Masai Mara through the Mara river in search of food. Crocodiles in the river also take advantage of the moment to catch prey.

Accommodation

There is plenty of accommodation ranging from family-oriented tents for the typical safari experience to luxurious safari lodges. Accommodation prices range between $750 and $1300 per night depending on your selection.

These prices however tend to be exaggerated during the July- Oct period (the wildebeest migration session) which attracts tremendous numbers of tourists.

Activities

Birding, wildlife viewing, game drives and so much more.

b) Amboseli National park

The park is located in the Southern part of Kenya bordering Tanzania and has quite a number of wildlife like elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, and a variety of spectacular bird species!

While on the observation hill, you have a clear view of the mighty Mountain, Kilimanjaro (the highest mountain in Africa)

Best time to visit

June to October since at the time, there is usually less rainfall and most of the wild animals opt to cocoon around the swamps within the park.

Accommodation

There is plenty of accommodation in Amboseli and these include lodges, resorts, Sarova hotels, and camp areas. The accommodation prices usually range between $750 and $1300. There are some cheaper alternatives as well.

Activities

Guided nature walks, hot air balloon rides, birding, hiking on mountain Kilimanjaro, Masai culture tours, game drive viewing, and lots more.

 

5. South Africa

a) Kruger National Park

This park is the most exciting safari destination in South Africa and is one of the largest reserves in Africa, covering an area of 19,623 square kilometers. It is located in the Northeastern part of South Africa.

It is home to thousands of bird and animal species (the big five inclusive). The Kruger landscape also has tropical rainforests, mountains, and bush plains.

Best time to visit

The dry season, from May to October, is ideal since the views at the time are clear and the roads can easily be traversed at the time. During this season, the vegetation is sparse, and therefore it will be easy for you to spot animals in the wild.

Accommodation

The park offers camp run-up accommodation with each campsite having a unique accommodation type. Prices range from $100 onwards depending on the kind of treatment you would like.

Activities

Mountain biking, guided walks, back-packing and eco trails, game drives, golf, birding, wilderness trails, picnics and so much more!

b) Cape Town

With breathtaking coastlines, incredible mountains, and indescribably amazing weather. Cape Town ranks among the most beautiful cities in the whole world and is a number one stop on Johannesburg-Atlanta flights.

The port city is located on a peninsula beneath the famous table mountains on the southwestern coast of South Africa. The nearest safari destination near Cape Town is Aquila Game reserve.

Aquila Game reserve is a 2 hours drive from Cape Town. You could, however, opt for a helicopter to ferry you across if you’ve got some bucks to splurge.

This way, you will have spectacular aerial views of the entire city and the ocean. The accommodations in Aquila are luxurious and the food is great too.

South Africa is the best African safari destination to perfectly view the endangered white rhino and the Sabi Sand game reserve is best for those interested in seeing leopards.

Safari in the country is cheaper compared to other tourist destinations since they use the South African Rand.

The best option while in South Africa is to combine a Cape Town experience with a Kruger national park safari!

 

6. Zambia & Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is one of the biggest and most awestriking falls on the globe. It is made of 5 different falls and the curtains of water as the mighty falls descend into a narrow abyss between Zambia and Zimbabwe, powered by the Zambezi River.

The falls are a getaway to numerous wildlife parks inhabited by waterbucks, kudu, zebras, giraffes, antelopes, sable antelopes, elands, lions, the white Rhino, elephants, leopards, and so many other species, offering explicit safari experiences for everyone!

Best way to view the falls

The giant falls have 19 clear viewing points with 15 of them in Zimbabwe and 4 in Zambia, you can as well opt to hire a helicopter to take you above so that you can capture some superb aerial photographs.

Best time to visit

After the summer rains; that is, from January to May. At that particular time, the volumes of water oozing out of the falls is great.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available at the heart of the fall or a distance away and prices range from $213+ depending on personal preferences.

Activities

The Victoria falls offers a variety of activities for everyone in your family ranging from white water rafting, sunset boat cruises on the Zambezi river, helicopter flights over the falls, walks along the knife edge bridge in Zambia, footpath walks, and lots more!

 

7. Uganda

a) Queen Elizabeth National Park

Named after the late Queen Elizabeth II, the park is a wonderful safari destination with beautiful sceneries and abundant wildlife.

This includes cobs, African buffaloes, hippopotamuses, African elephants, leopards, spotted hyenas, forest dogs, chimpanzees, and waterbucks, to mention but a few.

The park is located in western Uganda between lakes Edward and George. The sights and sounds in Queen Elizabeth national park are simply exquisite.

Accommodation

Median class lodges outside the park cost 40–100USD per night per person. Those inside the park, however, cost about $70-$150. The luxury accommodation within the park costs between $120 and $140 per night.

Activities

Nature walks, chimpanzee trekking, game drives, boat cruises, bird watching, and more!

b) Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

This one is a perfect safari destination for nature lovers! Located in the southwestern part of Uganda, on the rim of the rift valley. The mountainous surrounding is covered with the Bwindi impenetrable forest.

Though famous for gorilla trekking, Bwindi is an exceptional diversity in terms of animal and bird species. Some of these include; elephants, bush pigs, duikers, jackals, civets, giant forest hogs, buffaloes, clawless otters, golden cats, various rodents and so many other animals.

The thick vegetation in Bwindi is so soothing making the area so ideal for meditation and simple hikes.

Best time to visit

June to August and December to February. These are definitely the driest months, therefore guaranteeing clear sunny days with less likelihood of soggy muddy roads

Accommodation

Bwindi is so vast when it comes to accommodation from budget, mid-range, and luxury in form of safari lodges and tents.

Activities

Mountain gorilla trekking, bird watching, hiking, and nature walks.

Note: If you are really into having a spectacular time on your safari vacation, there is a lot you need to do.

This starts right from the necessities you ought to carry along, what to consider before booking a destination, and safety precautions while out there.

Below is a brief guide that will help save your day’s effort.

Safari Must-haves

• Comfortable walking shoes
• A hut
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• A pair of long comfortable trousers
• A warm jacket
• Long-sleeved collared shirt for additional mosquito protection
• Potable first aid kit
• A foldable tent
• Protein bars.

What to Consider Before Booking a Safari

1. Look into your budget

To enjoy your little safari vacation, you need to perfectly sort out your finances. By doing so, you will be able to approximate the overall estimate of the money you will spend, and in so doing; you will be able to identify the perfect in-budget destinations

2. Choose a country

As humans, our personal interests usually differ. You may be a lover of jungles, bushes, waterfalls, birds, or just wild animals. Always base on your interests when it comes to spotting a perfect safari destination.

If you want to go beach bumming, consider Mozambique, Tanzania and the Victoria falls in Zambia, gorilla tracking and bird watching; Uganda and if you are into Savannah, bushes, and wildlife: Tanzania and Kenya are ideal.

3. Choose a right safari company

When it comes to nature and safaris, immersing yourself in the untouched beautiful nature is better than being in confused crowds of tourists.

Do adequate research and choose legit and authenticated safari companies that will guarantee that you experience breathtaking moments.

4. Pick a suitable time of the year.

Different seasons normally offer different scenery of nature and wildlife behavior. If you are a lover of birding, the wet season would be a perfect time and if you are more interested in wildlife; the dry season is the perfect season.

Avoid going in the hottest months of the year as this may not be ideal for you.

5. Pick specific parks for viewing particular animals.

If you are selective about the species of animals you want to encounter during your safari, do a little research before booking.

Tourists passionate about gorilla tracking should always consider Bwindi national park in Uganda, those interested in the big 5 can choose the Masai Mara game reserve and Serengeti, for those that want to try walking with rhinos; Mosi-oa-tunya national park in Victoria Falls has got you covered.

Most parks have at least something unique to catch your eye. Just do adequate research before hitting the road.

Important Safety Precautions

• Avoid cautiously putting your life in danger. You definitely would not want to stand among the starving lions in Masai Mara! What if you are the unlucky one? Safety starts with you, always.
• However tired you get, desist from sitting in shades under the trees. Trees are perfect inhabitants for insects like the Tampa tick that can give you encephalitis. Getting your skin in contact with some insects may as well cause horrible skin irritations.
• Drink plenty of fresh water to keep hydrated, the temperatures in Africa tend to get crazy, more so in the afternoons.
• Always listen to your tour guide! Seriously, do not be stubborn, these people know the place in and out and if they tell you not to do something, DON’T!!
• Secure yourself a first aid kit just in case things go wrong.
• If you are a foreigner in the safari destination you have chosen, you ought to learn and adapt to some African ‘kind gestures’. For instance; learn how to shake hands well (you are to use your right hand and it must be supported by the left). Your grip should however not be so hard since this is considered rude. The last thing you want to have is a dispute with an African native.

FAQs About Best Safari Destinations In Africa

1. What are the best safari destinations in Africa?

Some of the top safari destinations in Africa include Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, Kruger National Park in South Africa, Okavango Delta in Botswana, and Etosha National Park in Namibia.

2. What animals can I expect to see on a safari in Africa?

Africa is home to a wide variety of wildlife including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, zebras, giraffes, hippos, buffalo, wildebeest, hyenas, and many more.

3. When is the best time to go on a safari in Africa?

The best time to go on a safari in Africa depends on the destination and what animals you want to see. Generally, the dry season (June to October) is the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water sources. However, the wet season (November to May) can also be a good time to visit certain areas as the landscapes are lush and green, and many animals give birth during this time.

4. What kind of accommodations are available on safari in Africa?

There are a wide range of accommodations available on safari in Africa, from luxury lodges and tented camps to more basic camping options. Many of the lodges and camps offer all-inclusive packages that include game drives, meals, and accommodations.

5. Do I need a visa to go on a safari in Africa?

This depends on your nationality and the destination you plan to visit. It’s important to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit to see if you need a visa and what the requirements are.

6. How much does a safari in Africa cost?

The cost of a safari in Africa can vary greatly depending on the destination, the time of year, the level of luxury of the accommodations, and other factors. On average, a week-long safari can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 per person.

7. Is it safe to go on a safari in Africa?

Most safari destinations in Africa are safe for tourists, but it’s important to take certain precautions such as following the advice of your guide, staying in secure accommodations, and being aware of your surroundings. It’s also a good idea to check with your government’s travel advisories before planning your trip.

 

Final Thoughts

Safaris come with a number of experiences, both positive and negative, depending on where you choose to go. You therefore ought to do proper planning and research to get yourself a clear picture of what your small vacation should be like.

Being completely green about everything is dangerous and may cause you to incur excessive costs or even not explore maximumly.

Well, after reading all the above, you definitely got all you need for many wonderful experiences!

Karibu Africa!