the safari in africa

Protect Your Trip »

12 Top African Safari Tours

Cross this must-do activity off your bucket list.

Courtesy of Micato Safaris

Spot the big five on your safari adventure.

Safari tours in Africa are just as diverse as the continent itself, though these types of trips typically require a large sum of money. Whether you want to spend a few days gorilla trekking in Uganda or a couple weeks spotting the "big five" – lions, leopards, African elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalos – in South Africa, you'll find an array of tours to best suit your needs. To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News compiled a list of 12 can't-miss African safari tours. Read on to find your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Note: Some of the African countries in this article may require travelers to get an entry visa and certain vaccinations in order to visit. Jump to the list of visa and vaccination requirements by country at the bottom of this page for more information.

&Beyond

Courtesy of &Beyond

Visitors who don't want to sacrifice creature comforts while on safari will appreciate &Beyond's offerings. During the tour operator's 10-day Kings of the Jungle safari – which starts at $11,340 per person – travelers will see breathtaking natural wonders like the Ngorongoro Crater and the Maasai Mara savanna. But the highlight of this journey is its four-night stay at Tanzania's Serengeti National Park . After watching animals like wildebeest and zebras partake in the great migration while also spotting lions, giraffes and more, vacationers retreat to high-end tents and lodges with private bathrooms.

[See more of Serengeti National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Wilderness Safaris

Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris

For some of Africa's most jaw-dropping scenery, opt for the seven-night Namibian Adventure Safari tour offered by Wilderness Safaris. This weeklong trip features visits to the Namib Desert's dune-filled Sossusvlei region (which you may recognize from the film "Mad Max: Fury Road") and the mountainous Palmwag Concession – a protected area with springboks, giraffes, black rhinos and more. The package's per person fee starts at $6,725, which covers most meals, park entrance fees, and transfers from Namibia's capital Windhoek and between the safari destinations. It also covers your stay at properties like the fully solar-powered Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp and the five-star Little Kulala lodge amid the stunning desert.

Wild Rwanda Safaris

Courtesy of Wild Rwanda Safaris)

Adventurous travelers sticking to a more conservative budget should consider Wild Rwanda Safaris' Bwindi Gorilla Safari. The three-day package features a full day in southwestern Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (a haven for silverback gorillas) and an adjacent Batwa Pygmy community. Wild Rwanda Safaris allows guests to choose between midrange, luxury and super luxury accommodation, which can help keep costs down if necessary. The company's packages include the $700 permit required to visit the gorilla park. The round-trip journey by safari vehicle to and from Kigali, Rwanda, and English-speaking guide services are also covered in all rates. The tour can begin from Kampala, Uganda, as well, although you'll spend longer on the road to the park.

Nomad Tanzania

Courtesy of nomad-tanzania.com

Sign up for Nomad Tanzania's Southern Tanzania safari and you're bound to get an up-close look at Tanzania's diverse wildlife. Offering eight days of activities, including game drives and boat trips in Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park, this safari gives you prime opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards and elephants, among other species. What's more, lodging at the company's campsites, select meals, and flights to and from Dar es Salaam are factored into the package's prices. Expect to pay a minimum of $5,700 per person; prices vary depending on the time of year, and the tour isn't offered in April and May.

Micato Safaris

If you want to explore multiple destinations while on safari with plenty of comfort (but a price tag to match), book the 15-day Micato Grand Safari. This outing by Micato Safaris starts with a two-day visit to Nairobi, Kenya, before continuing to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and the Amboseli and Serengeti national parks for wildlife-viewing excursions. During your trip, you'll see Mount Kilimanjaro as zebras, gazelles and more roam in the foreground. The package costs at least $22,450 per person (based on double occupancy rates) and includes a hot air balloon ride, a camel tour led by members of the Samburu tribe, and lodging at upscale properties like Serengeti's Four Seasons outpost. The company also offers various extensions allowing you to explore other parts of Africa, from the island paradise of Zanzibar to the deserts of Namibia.

Rothschild Safaris

Courtesy of Rothschild Safaris

If your ideal safari vacation consists of customizing your trip from start to finish, consider an outing with Rothschild Safaris. The company offers itineraries in locales like Zambia and Madagascar , but if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the big five animals, the Essence of Tanzania safari is a good bet. This nine-day experience, which embarks from Arusha and returns there by plane, includes game-viewing drives in Tarangire National Park and accommodations like canvas tents and farmhouse lodges. Elephants, zebras and lions are just some of the animals you may spot during your journey. You'll also have the opportunity to go on a nighttime safari to spot nocturnal wildlife.

Lion World Travel

Courtesy of Lion World Travel

As the trip name implies, Lion World Travel's 10-day Best of Cape Town & Botswana vacation package combines sightseeing in Cape Town, South Africa , with a classic safari in Botswana. During the latter half of the itinerary, visitors will explore Botswana's Okavango Delta (home to cheetahs, crocodiles, hippos and more) and Chobe National Park, which is believed to have Africa's largest elephant population. Prices start at $4,299 per person and cover game drives; many of your meals; and stays at luxury hotels, camps and lodges. You'll need to pay an extra charge for the flights within the tour (Cape Town to Botswana as well as Botswana to Johannesburg ).

[See more of Cape Town: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Bearded Heron Safaris

Neil Heron | Courtesy of Bearded Heron Safaris

Travelers keen on seeing South Africa's Kruger National Park through the eyes of a local naturalist will appreciate the 15-day safari with Bearded Heron Safaris. Led by Neil Heron, a nature guide and wildlife photographer and writer, Bearded Heron Safaris' longest option features small game drives that may include lion, rhino, zebra and leopard sightings throughout all corners of Kruger. Rates are inclusive of in-park cottage accommodations and all breakfasts, dinners, snacks and drinks. Flights and park fees are not included. For a 15-day safari, expect to pay 76,900 South African rand (about $4,500) per person.

[See more of Kruger National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Discover Africa

Getty Images

For an inside-out trip through the natural wonders of Botswana, Discover Africa's nine-day Epic Botswana Adventure is a formidable option. You'll start out at a riverside lodge on the Chobe River – a great location for elephant spotting – before moving onto the marshy Okavango Delta, a wildlife-rich area where you can spot a huge range of animals from leopards to rhinos. The safari ends at the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, a good place to admire wildlife like zebras and buffalo on the savanna as well as salt pans from a former lake. You'll stay in upscale lodges and campsites within close reach of the wilderness. All meals and transport along the tour are included in the price tag (which starts at $4,800 per person), but international flights are excluded.

Wild Wings Safaris

If you're looking to have a broader experience that mixes in some history and beach time, consider Wild Wings Safaris' eight-day Battlefields, Bush and Beach Safari. You'll start off visiting some of South Africa's historic sites from the Boer wars, before moving on to the Phinda Private Game Reserve, which doesn't allow day visitors, so you should be able to look out for the big five without too many crowds. The tour wraps up at Thonga Beach Lodge, where you can snorkel or scuba dive near coral reefs in the Indian Ocean. As far as safaris go, this one is an affordable option, starting at about $2,795 per person with all meals included as well as a rental car; for the cheapest price, you will need to drive yourself between the destinations, but it's possible to pay an additional fee for a driver to guide you instead.

Cuckoo Safaris

This tour company kicks off its tours from the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, with a host of safaris that range from two days to nine, across Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana, including some family-friendly choices. For an affordable option, there's the four-day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe and Hwange Park safari, which will take you on two full-day tours to Chobe National Park (across the border in Botswana) and to Hwange, Zimbabwe's largest national park, where you should keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants and more. This safari also includes a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. The price starts at $900 per person, which includes the tours plus breakfast, lunch and lodging in Victoria Falls; travelers will need to pay for entrance fees to the parks and dinner.

Compass Odyssey

Courtesy of Compass Odyssey

Explore the savanna and deserts of southwest Africa with Compass Odyssey's eight-day Namibia Wildlife Safari. You'll visit a community-based conservation area in Damaraland – known for its desert-adapted elephants, oryx, giraffes and other wildlife – while staying in the rustic-chic Doro Nawas Camp. You'll also spend two days in Etosha National Park, seeking wildlife at the park's bustling waterholes by day and embarking on an evening game drive as well. Starting at $3,750 per person, the tour includes most meals and all park entry fees, but not flights; the company does allow the tour to be customized on request.

Vaccination and visa requirements for African countries

Some popular safari destinations may require you to have received certain vaccinations in order to enter the country as a tourist. Inoculation requirements can include vaccination against COVID-19 and yellow fever, and you'll need to get these vaccines before departing on your trip. Be sure to bring proof of vaccinations with you. If you are transiting through another country en route to your safari tour, you must check that you also meet immunization requirements for the stopover location.

Note that, outside of what's required, there are a number of other vaccinations that are recommended, so ensure you're up to date and fully protected before you travel. In addition, many safari locations are prone to malaria; you should consult with your doctor to see if you need to bring anti-malaria medication on your trip.

Safari countries have varying visa requirements for travelers from the U.S. – these are detailed below. Depending on your itinerary, you may need a single- or multiple-entry visa, and some visas require you to apply in advance of traveling and/or have a certain number of blank pages in your passport. Regardless of your destination, your passport should be valid for at least six months before you leave for your trip.

Here are the vaccine and visa requirements for major safari destinations as of November 2022:

Botswana: If you have recently visited a country where yellow fever is common, you will need to be vaccinated against this illness. This does not include the U.S. but does include a number of countries in Africa, Central and South America. Consult the World Health Organization's website for a list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, including Kenya and Uganda.

U.S. citizens and nationals can stay in Botswana for 90 days without a visa.

Kenya: Travelers to Kenya must have been vaccinated against COVID-19 with the last shot administered more than 14 days before arrival in the country. Unvaccinated visitors can enter with a negative PCR test, conducted no more than 72 hours before departure. Proof of COVID-19 tests or vaccines must be uploaded to an online system called Panabios. Kenya is a country where you'll be at risk of yellow fever transmission; it also requires those traveling from other places with yellow fever or cholera outbreaks to be vaccinated against these illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you protect yourself against yellow fever before your trip here.

Americans need an e-visa to enter Kenya. You should apply online at the eVisa government website no more than eight weeks before your trip, as visas are not available upon arrival in Kenya. See more on the U.S. Department of State's website .

Namibia: Those traveling from a country where yellow fever is common need to be vaccinated against it. No visa is required as long as you're staying for 90 days or less.

Rwanda: If you're coming from a country where yellow fever is endemic, a yellow fever vaccination is required before departure.

U.S. citizens and nationals can be issued a 30-day visitor visa on arrival in Rwanda or through the Rwandan Embassy in Washington, D.C. A single-entry visa costs $50, and it's recommended you bring sufficient cash in U.S. dollars to pay for this (although credit card payment may be accepted at Kigali International Airport). Consult the State Department website for more information.

South Africa: A yellow fever vaccination is required if you're traveling from a country with a risk of transmission. No visa is required for stays of 90 days or less.

Tanzania: Travelers must be able to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination with a QR code to enter Tanzania. Unvaccinated travelers must take a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure, and the test results should be accessible by QR code. Yellow fever vaccines are mandatory if you're traveling from a location where yellow fever is present – including if you spend more than 12 hours in transit in such a country.

Visas are required for tourism in Tanzania. You can apply for a single-entry, 90-day visa online for $50 – and be sure to print a copy of the approval to bring with you. The processing period takes up to 10 days. You can also obtain a visa on arrival for a $100 fee; it's recommended you bring cash to cover this. Find more Tanzanian visa information on the State Department website .

Uganda: To enter Uganda, you must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or present a negative test taken no more than 72 hours before departure. Like Kenya, Uganda is a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. All visitors must show proof of vaccination against yellow fever to enter Uganda, regardless of where you're traveling from.

American visitors to Uganda must apply online for an electronic visa before departure; arriving in Uganda without completing this process could result in your detainment. Visit the State Department website to learn more.

Zambia: Visitors who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must show proof of vaccination but do not need a test to enter Zambia; unvaccinated travelers must undergo a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure. Yellow fever vaccines are only required if you're coming from an area considered at risk.

Visas are required to visit Zambia, but these can be obtained online before your departure or at a port of entry. Check the State Department website for more details.

Zimbabwe: To enter Zimbabwe, travelers must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or must take a negative PCR test no more than 48 hours before your departure. As with other countries on this list, visitors from countries with yellow fever outbreaks also require a vaccine against this illness.

U.S. visitors can obtain a 30-day, single-entry visa upon arrival in Zimbabwe for $30. If you're taking a tour that requires you to leave and reenter Zimbabwe, be sure to get a double-entry visa for $45. You can learn more from the State Department website .

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Wallets (That Also Hold Vaccine Cards)
• The Best COVID-19 Travel Insurance Options
• The Best International Travel Insurance Plans
• The Best Zoos in the U.S.
• The World's Best Places to Visit

Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best vatican tours.

Lyn Mettler May 17, 2024

The Best Rome Tours

Kyle McCarthy and Ann Henson May 17, 2024

The Best Beach Chairs

Sharael Kolberg May 16, 2024

The 16 Best Chicago Tours for 2024

John Rodwan May 16, 2024

Best Chicago Boat Tours

Holly Johnson and Marisa Méndez May 16, 2024

15 Best Nashville Tours

Lyn Mettler May 16, 2024

Alaska Cruise Packing List

Gwen Pratesi May 14, 2024

Beach Packing List

Holly Johnson May 14, 2024

12 Cheap Fourth of July Getaways

May 14, 2024

The Best Baseball Stadium Trips

Rachael Hood May 13, 2024

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.

Explore related stories

Wildlife & Nature

Feb 27, 2024 • 6 min read

April is the ideal time of year for mild-weather hikes, cherry blossom festivals, fresh produce and more.

Oct 16, 2023 • 9 min read

Aug 16, 2023 • 6 min read

Aug 4, 2023 • 6 min read

Jan 2, 2023 • 12 min read

Sep 8, 2022 • 7 min read

Dec 11, 2019 • 5 min read

May 17, 2024 • 14 min read

Apr 25, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 30, 2024 • 4 min read

Deals of the Week   All of Europe's finest   Up to 50% OFF

African Safari Packages

• Kenya Safari
• Tanzania Safari
• South Africa Safari
• Southern Africa Safari

Best African safari tours based on 6,519 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Big Five Luxury Safari in Tanzania **Sustainable Approach to Travel

Our guide Muddy was excellent. He knew where to find his animals and he was patient and accommodating. Thank you Muddy for an amazing safari experience. The safari lodge was great but the hotels were average. Knowing that we cannot drink out of the tap, I don't appreciate having to pay extra for drinking water at the hotels. Food was one item that they can improve on, especially the boxed lunch. The overall experience was great....we saw all of the big 5 plus more. I would recommend this tour....just be realistic with the accommodations and the food.

Premium Kenya & Southern Africa Highlights

Road to Zanzibar

The tour was fantastic! Everything was according to itinerary but we got so much more!) Saw the big 5, a lot of lions and other wild animals at a very close distance, had a night in the rainforest under Kilimanjaro, visited a lot of cool places and welcoming local communities. Thanks for everything to Intrepid, our guide and leader Jacob and the awesome cook Sylvia!)

14-day Kruger to the Delta, Chobe & Victoria Falls (Accommodated)

The countries we visited were amazing, Liz was always happy to help out and was so welcoming and organised. Felt very well looked after!!

Nairobi to Zanzibar: Serengeti & Sunsets

Amazing sights and locations to experience. Tour logistics- plans for the day, accommodation details, special considerations, etc. could have been better communicated, both in advance and during the tour itself. Time in Zanzibar could be better scheduled, but otherwise it was a great experience. Fellow travelers were also good company.

• Wildlife Trekking
• Gorilla Trekking

Premium Eastern and Southern Africa

Masai Mara & Gorilla Adventure

Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire (with Materuni waterfalls, coffee tour) - 6 Days

Good The guides, food, and accommodations were amazing! Thank you very much our guide Abu and our chef Richard. In advance thank you very much Serengeti African Tours for making this experience the best of all moments I have ever had in this world. I am really happy also with the company coming at the Hotel to get feedbacks from the customers thank you very much Lucas for coming by the hotel for the feedbacks I appreciate.

6 Days Kenya Budget Tours (with FREE NIGHT at Nairobi Hotel)

Very well managed and laid out tour. Saw many animal up close and all of the Big 5. Guides were spectacular as well. Food was topical and variety was present. Weather was great.

18-Day Best of East Africa Safari – Visit 4 Countries

10 Days Uganda's Gorillas Encounter, Wildlife & Kigali City Tour ( Private tour)

This was an amazing trip. I am so glad I chose Mukisa. It was a trip of a lifetime and I will cherish the memories. Every stop was better and better. The gorilla tracking was incredible. We saw so many animals on our safari. The white water rafting was thrilling! Our guide Joan and driver John took great care of us and made sure that we had an amazing trip.

16 Days of Intensive Adventurous Safari through Magical Uganda and Rwanda ( Private tour)

Excellent, amazing, memorable. Solo female Travelor and had the best experience with this company. The owner Richard was terrific and very supportive throughout the whole booking process including packing recs. The driver John and Guide Mabel/Giraffe were the best.

11 DAY COMBINED KENYA & TANZANIA WILDLIFE SAFARI

It was a great and unforgettable stay. Very well organised

• Great Migration

15 DAYS ESSENTIAL KENYA & TANZANIA EXPEDITION

Great experiences in the National Park We had a super great, well organized two weeks in the Serengeti National Park, as well as in the Ngorogoro Crater. We were picked up on time at the airport in Arusha at the very beginning and had perfect service from then on. We were together with Jerome D. Swai and the driver Cypiars which both can only be recommended. Jerome cooks wonderful food!!! We did a trip in tents, was just great the feeling to be so close to the wild nature. Can only say: Top people, top quality, top food and super much seen. It was just great, thank you again to meet you. Greetings from Switzerland P.S: Since spontaneously write here, only photos of photos from our safari photo book :-), hope that still gives an approximate impression of the experienced.

16 Days Best Of Kenya & Tanzania Luxury Safari

Our 14-day Kenya and Tanzania Migration Lodge Safari was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived in Nairobi to the final farewell, every day was filled with awe-inspiring moments and unforgettable experiences. Our adventure began with a warm welcome in Nairobi,Transfer to hotel Ole Sereni where our knowledgeable guide briefed us on the journey ahead. The luxurious accommodations provided a perfect blend of comfort and immersion in the African wilderness.African Brekafast was great!!! Amboseli National Park in Kenya was our first stop, and the sight of majestic elephants roaming against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro took our breath away. We witnessed thrilling wildlife encounters during our game drives, including close encounters with lions and cheetahs.Sopa lodges so magnificient. Crossing into Tanzania,border abit slow but was well organized with changing guides from Zack the genius to John M. Lake Manyara National Park enchanted us with its diverse landscapes and abundant birdlife. Spotting tree-climbing lions was a highlight, and the boat safari on Lake Manyara offered a serene perspective of the park's beauty. The Serengeti National Park was the epitome of safari magic. Witnessing the Great Migration firsthand was a dream come true as we watched thousands of wildebeests and zebras thunder across the plains. Our lodge perched on the edge of the Serengeti provided uninterrupted views of the vast savannah and unforgettable sunsets.Serena lodges are super ! Descending into the Ngorongoro Crater felt like entering a lost world teeming with wildlife. We marveled at the sheer abundance of animals in this natural amphitheater, from graceful gazelles to mighty rhinos. The grand finale awaited us in the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The Mara River crossings were the highlight of our safari, as we held our breath watching the dramatic spectacle unfold before our eyes. Our expert guide John , ensured we had front-row seats to nature's greatest show. Each evening, we gathered around the campfire under the starlit sky, sharing stories of the day's adventures and listening to the sounds of the African night. The hospitality of the lodge staff made us feel like family, and the delicious cuisine was a delightful surprise. As we bid farewell to Kenya and Tanzania, we carried with us memories that will last a lifetime. This safari exceeded all expectations, thanks to the impeccable planning and personalized service. It truly was the journey of a lifetime, and I cannot wait to return to Africa's wild embrace.Masai Mara crowned all the taste of an Africa Photo Safari - Sopa Lodges tastifully located at great views of sunset thank you Zack again for picking us from the other border point for this gtreat encounter with wildlife . I would recommend thsi tour to many who really want to see the great diverse landscape and lakes plus plains in Africa - Serenegeti and Mara plains.

African Safari Tour Reviews

Alles in allem war die Reise absolut großartig! Die Organisation war top, von Anfang bis Ende. Die Unterkünfte waren ebenfalls hervorragend ausgewählt und haben den Aufenthalt noch angenehmer gemacht. Besonders möchte ich unseren Fahrer loben – Iddi war einfach unglaublich! Seine Kenntnisse über die Region, seine Freundlichkeit und seine Fahrkünste haben die Reise zu einem unvergesslichen Erlebnis gemacht. Dank ihm haben wir alle Tiere gesehen, die wir sehen wollten, und er war immer darauf bedacht, auf unsere Bedürfnisse einzugehen. Wir hätten uns keinen besseren Fahrer vorstellen können. Ich kann diese Rundreise nur empfehlen und bin sicher, dass auch andere Reisende genauso begeistert sein werden wie ich.

The Intrepid travel Road to Zanzibar was absolutely fantastic. The organisation of the whole trip was very good. I would highly recommend.

A bit late with the review... The trip was November 2019 and it was the best trip ever!!! Simon best guide, stunning places, welcoming locals and amazing experiences! the flight over the Okavango Delta is highly recommended.

Safari Tours

• Wildlife (1452)
• Big Five (719)
• Great Migration (277)
• Gorilla Trekking (170)
• Elephant (16)
• Flying Safari (15)
• Honeymoon Safari (11)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Safaris in December 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in August 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in January 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in November 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in October 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in September 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in July 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in June 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in May 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in April 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in March 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in February 2024/2025
• 10 Best Luxury African Safari Tours 2024/2025
• 10 Best African Camping Safari Vacations 2022
• 10 Best Walking Safaris 2024/2025
• 10 Best Beach Safaris: Places & Packages 2022
• Compare Hot Air Balloon Safaris in Africa 2022
• Complete Safari Packing List: Clothes, Medicines, Gear & Essentials
• Wildebeest Migration in Africa 2022 (incl. Migration Map)
• 10 Best African Photographic Safaris 2024/2025: Tour Deals & Tips
• 10 Best Self-Drive Safaris 2024/2025
• 10 Best African Wildlife Safari Deals 2024/2025

Discover TourRadar

• See All Tour Operators in Africa
• Namibia Safari
• Sailing in Greece
• Cotopaxi National Park Budget tours
• Guatemala 7 day tours
• 21 days Balkans Group Tour from Sofia
• Mera Peak Climbing
• TourRadar and TruTravels Team Up to Launch Free Week-Long Virtual Vacation in Asia

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

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.

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Related Topics

• WILDLIFE WATCHING

You May Also Like

Free roam safari: a self-guided campervanning trip through South Africa & Eswatini

20 of the coolest travel adventures for 2024

For hungry minds.

5 game drive alternatives, from cycling to horse-riding

How locals are protecting the wildlife of the Queen Elizabeth Conservation Area

First-ever photos show humpback whales mating—and they’re males

Desert hikes and camping under the stars on a budget safari in Namibia

See any moose on your ski vacation? Here’s how to share the slopes with wildlife

• Environment
• Perpetual Planet

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• History Magazine
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

• Australian Dollars
• British Pounds
• Canadian Dollars
• New Zealand Dollars
• South African Rands
• Swiss Francs
• U.S. Dollars

Talk to an expert +44 203 405 6666 Lines now closed

Wildlife safaris

Find the best wildlife safari in Africa for you

Whether you want to witness the Serengeti’s Great Migration, track rhino on foot or gently approach some of the world’s last mountain gorillas, use our expertise to find the best wildlife safari in Africa for you. However, there is such a variety of options – about 90% of our trips are wildlife focused – that making blanket recommendations for what we think are “the best wildlife safaris in Africa" would be impossible. Spotting a magnificent black-maned lion on a Kalahari dune, relaxing to watch elephants mud-bathing in the midday sun, or following a pack of wild dogs at high speed as they hunt – all have figured amongst our travellers’ best wildlife experiences in Africa. Choosing the wildlife safari which is best for your trip to Africa depends enormously on you – what you want to see, how you like to travel and what kind of experiences you want. If there's a specific species you really want to see, check out the interactive map on our Wildlife page . This summarises the tens of thousands of species sighting reports sent to us by hundreds of our travellers to give some very precise ideas about the best areas and camps to see wildlife across Africa, or get in contact to speak to a member of our team. Meanwhile we hope that the ideas below will offer inspiration. We’ve tried to highlight the strengths of the various countries so click below for our recommendations on some of the best camps and lodges for great wildlife experiences. These lists are far from exhaustive; many excellent camps aren’t included here – but you will find the crème de la crème of places which offer outstanding wildlife experiences, as well as some which excel for very specific species or activities.

Our top wildlife safaris

The thunder of a million wildebeest hoves crossing the Serengeti, meeting a mountain gorilla and walking with rhino. Get inspired for your safari to Africa.

Duiker Safari

10 days • 3 locations LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

US$8,060 - US$10,020 per person

Chongwe River Camp

Chongwe’s location near the foothills of the Zambezi escarpment allows sightings of species that you may not see elsewhere on your wildlife safari in Zambia. Such species include the Samango monkey ( Corcophithecus mitis ), and the crested guineafowl ( Guttera pucheroni ).

Kakuli Bushcamp

On a bend of the Luangwa River at the confluence of the Luwi River, where elephants regularly congregate, Kakuli Bushcamp is in an area with a high density of game and bird life. Combine this with great guiding, and the result a superb wildlife safari experience.

Mchenja Bushcamp

Zambia’s South Luangwa is one of Africa's top safari destinations, with high densities of wildlife; Sightings of lion and leopard are particularly common on night drives. On one of our drives from Mchenja Bushcamp during the dry season, we saw many antelope – including impala and puku – a slender mongoose, a genet and a bushbaby, before an exciting hour or more following a pride of three lion out hunting.

Bat-eared Fox Fly-in Safari

3 days • 1 location DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

US$2,470 - US$3,090 per person

Lake Manze Camp

A stay at Lake Manze allows you to feel close to the wildlife - a wide variety of game including elephant, impala, hippos and buffalos can be seen from your own tent, or you can go on a game drive or boat safari from here.

Dwarf Mongoose Fly-in Safari

6 days • 2 locations DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

US$4,450 - US$5,320 per person

Mdonya Old River Camp

You'll find all of the usual big game species in Ruaha, including elephant, large herds of buffalo, wildebeest, lion, leopard, cheetah and even wild dog. Ruaha also has a few species associated with the parks further north, including Grant's gazelle and lesser kudu.

Jackal Fly-in Safari

8 days • 2 locations DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

US$9,060 - US$12,080 per person

The wildlife in this area of Nyerere National Park is usually good, but can be a little elusive at times. There is a permanent population of lions and frequent sightings of more transient wild dogs. Among much other game, there’s usually an abundance of giraffe, wildebeest and the odd buffalo.

Ikuka Safari Camp

Ikuka is located in one of the best game-viewing areas in Ruaha, making it a great choice for wildlife safaris in Tanzania. The park is known for its particularly good numbers of lion and elephant and guests staying for several nights can expect some excellent wildlife sightings.

Topi Fly-in Safari

7 days • 2 locations DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

US$6,540 - US$6,870 per person

Nyerere National Park has a good population of wildlife throughout the year. There is always an abundance of giraffe and impala as well as a number of lion. The fortunate might see leopard, as well as wild dogs that occasionally move through the area around Siwandu.

Jongomero Camp

You'll find all of the usual big game species in Ruaha, including elephant, large herds of buffalo, wildebeest, lion, leopard, occasional cheetah and wild dog. Ruaha also has a few species associated with the parks further north, including Grant's gazelle and lesser kudu.

Boehm's Zebra Safari

7 days • 2 locations LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

US$7,130 - US$9,410 per person

Kaingo Camp

Kaingo is in an area of South Luangwa National Park with high densities of more common species, as well as endemics such as Crawshay’s zebra, Cookson’s wildebeest and Thornicroft giraffe, making this an excellent spot for wildlife safaris in Zambia.

Mwamba Bushcamp

The game hides at Mwamba camp are one of its main attractions, and they allow you to see some fantastic wildlife. The game-rich area and high-quality guides make this a great camp for wildlife safaris in Zambia.

Robin Pope Walking Safari

7 days • 3 locations LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

US$6,500 - US$7,870 per person

Nkwali camp has first-rate guides, most fully-qualified to lead walking safaris as well as 4WD safaris, and South Luangwa allows night drives, and some off-read driving. These factors make for a superb wildlife safari experience in one of Africa's best game areas.

On a wide bend of the Luangwa River, where elephants regularly cross, Nsefu is in an area with a high density of game and birdlife – but relatively few visitors. This, along with top-notch guides, results in excellent Zambian wildlife safaris.

Robin Pope mobile

Immersed in nature, this temporary mobile walking camp offers the ultimate in a truly remote safari – a time to connect with the bush and the wildlife in one of Africa’s top safari areas, by simply walking around with an expert guide and naturalist.

Azura Beach Holiday

6 days • 1 location VILANCULOS AIRPORT TO VILANCULOS AIRPORT

US$5,250 - US$6,880 per person

Azura Benguerra

Azura Benguerra offers some of the best marine wildlife encounters in Mozambique, be it diving and snorkelling with a multitude of fish, finding Dugong in the mainland's mangroves or getting up close with the largest fish in the sea, the whale shark.

Greater Bushbaby Safari

8 days • 2 locations LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

US$9,400 - US$12,260 per person

Chongwe River House

Chongwe River House comes with a private expert safari guide who is fully qualified to lead walking safaris, boat trips and 4WD safaris. Hence you can expect a first-class wildlife safari experience in one of the best areas of the Lower Zambezi Valley.

Luangwa Safari House

Luangwa Safari House comes with a private 4WD safari vehicle and an expert guide. With night drives and some off-road driving also allowed in the park, Luangwa Safari House offers a really superb wildlife safari experience in one of the best areas of the South Luangwa.

Kwandwe Self-drive Safari

3 days • 1 location PORT ELIZABETH AIRPORT TO PORT ELIZABETH AIRPORT

US$2,840 - US$4,420 per person

From the family-friendly Ecca Lodge you can go on 4WD wildlife safaris and guided walks in the Kwandwe Game Reserve. You have a good chance of seeing rhino, as well as lion and cheetah. Even small children can participate in spoor tracking or drives to see hazard-free wildlife.

Wildlife holidays in Africa

Browse trip ideas by country.

Botswana's wildlife safaris are perhaps the best in Africa: the vast reserves are usually un-fenced, ...

Kenya is the country where the word 'Safari' (Swahili for 'journey') actually comes from. Close ...

Don't expect spectacular game on a wildlife safari in Malawi, instead come for a relaxed safari ...

Mozambique is best known for its wonderful beaches and marine life, not its 4WD safaris. There ...

Wildlife safaris in Namibia can be outstanding. The country has Africa's highest cheetah population, ...

Having walked since dawn, you're tired but your senses are alive. You hear them grunt before you ...

South Africa

Expert Africa covers only the western side of South Africa, including the Cape and Kgalagadi. Within ...

Tanzania offers a winning combination: some of Africa's best wildlife safaris plus stunning tropical ...

For all of the Zambia specialists at Expert Africa, wildlife safaris are the core of what we do: ...

If watching wildlife from a 4WD is not close enough for you, then go on a wildlife safari in Zimbabwe! ...

Africa trips to appeal to many different interests

Click below for ideas, then call us to discuss what you want. We will design a trip perfectly for you, around your interests.

Beach holidays

Discover Africa's coast and tropical islands.

Birdwatching

Diverse habitats, discreet hides and superb guiding.

Cultural experiences

Get an insight into Africa's cultures and history.

Diving & snorkelling

Find captivating marine life beneath the waves

Family holidays

Hand-picked camps for an incredible family safari.

Romantic safaris and castaway island retreats.

First-class service, scenic vistas and unparalleled comfort await you during these carefully selected luxury holidays. 

Photography holidays

Great holidays to suit the keen photographer.

Private villas & houses

Enjoy Africa with just your friends & family

Riding holidays

Explore Africa's wilderness on horseback.

Solo Travel

Trip ideas ideally suited for a solo traveller.

Explore Africa's most scenic trails on foot.

Walking safaris

Explore Africa's untouched wildernesses on foot.

Wellness escapes in stunning locations

Need inspiration?

Let our trip chooser narrow down the options for you

Login to Expert Africa

Sign in with password

Sign in with email link

New to Expert Africa? Create an account

Forgotten your details?

It's free & quick to set up

• Save your wish-list
• Send us an enquiry
• Pay online for your trip
• Subscribe to our newsletter
• Give us feedback on your trip
• Full site benefits of the site

Need some help? Talk to our team

Welcome to Safaris Africana

Helping you research and plan your next african safari, welcome to safaris africana.

At SafarisAfricana we have a passion for all things safari-related – whether camping out on the plains of the Serengeti to see the great migration , hitting the road on a self-drive safari with a two-man tent for company, enjoying a guided game drive , or soaking up the ambiance during a stay at one of Africa’s most luxurious safari lodges . But ultimately it’s the safari animals that are the star of the show – both when on safari, and we hope when browsing this website!

We’re here to help you find your perfect safari – whatever your budget, wildlife wishlist, or preferred travel style. Take a minute to have a browse around and see what takes your fancy.

You’ll find lots of resources on safari inspiration , a selection of  safari information by country , and a fast-growing directory of safari companies by country. These are either companies we’ve used, been recommended, or are accredited by the national tour or safari organisation of the country they’re based in.

We’re also in the process of creating and launching our guide to African animals , giving full, in-depth information on each of the animals you might expect to spot on an African safari. Whilst big cats and the big five animals are on pretty much everyone’s ‘to see’ list, the beauty of safari is often in finding the lesser-known – and ever lesser-seen – animals, ranging from the little five to the elusive shy five .

Where to go on safari

Most countries in Africa offer some type of safari experience. Browse our safari destination guide to research what’s on offer where .

Inspirational safari ideas

After inspiration? Browse a range of specialist safari types , from self drive and fly-in safaris to walking safaris and hot air ballon safaris .

Planning a safari? Brush up before you go…

Read our articles on all areas of the safari basics, so you’re in the know and properly prepared before you hop into your game drive jeep for the first time. Anything you need to know that’s not here? Let us know !

• When to go on safari

Time of year will play a big part in how many and which types of wildlife you’ll see on safari, and how accessible certain national parks are. Read all about the best time to go on safari by country.

What to pack for a safari

The golden rule of packing for any trip is that less is more. However, when going on safari there are certain things that you shouldn’t be without. So here’s our list of the 10 things to take on safari.

• Safari clothing – what to wear

What types of clothing to take on a safari holiday will depend on where you’re going and when, and much more. However, there are a number of fundamental principles around what to wear on safari .

• Safari rules & etiquette

Safaris are pretty accessible these days and open to all… However, there are still a number of unwritten (and written) safari rules that should be observed to ensure you’re preserving safari etiquette .

What are ‘the big five’ animals?

The big five animals of Africa are Cape Buffalo, Elephant, Leopard, Lion, & Rhinoceros. These five types of animals were named ‘the big five’ by big game hunters from African’s colonial era.

Safari photography guide

Photographing wildlife is always challenging. We’ve put together these tips on how to take a steady stream of great wildlife photos to capture high-quality memories whilst on safari.

Find a safari company

Experienced, local knowledge of an area – and the local wildlife – is a key factor in having a great safari.

Search safari companies across Africa

Latest safari articles.

Check out our blog for the latest on travelling Africa, experiencing the world’s best safaris, tips on saving money, and spotting that elusive wildlife wishlist.

The Safaris Africana blog is where you’ll find most of the fun stuff – like seeing the world’s fastest land animals , viewing the world’s largest national parks (and Africa’s largest national parks ), understanding which are Africa’s most dangerous animals … and the most endangered .

Facts About Elephant Musth

Apex predators, 13 of the world’s rarest animals, the six greatest animal migrations in africa, the smallest animals in the world, collective nouns for animals of africa, endangered animals in africa, discover the 78 african antelope species, turtle vs tortoise: how to tell the difference, bioluminescent animals: 11 incredible glowing species, the 17 most impactful invasive species, the largest birds of prey in the world, understanding keystone species, african animal baby names, why do flamingos stand on one leg, most venomous spiders in the world, debunking the ostrich head in sand myth, pssst… we’re on instagram.

Follow on Instagram

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
• What to take on safari
• 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

• 1 800 970 7299
• Live Chat (Online) Live Chat (Offline)
• My Wishlist
• Find a Trip

Your browser 'Internet Explorer' is out of date. Update your browser for more security, comfort and the best experience on this site.

Africa Safari Tours & Vacations

• Africa Safari Tours & Holidays

Take a walk on the wild side on an African safari.

The word “safari” means “journey” in Swahili. And a safari in Africa is all about the journey. While seeing a leopard munch on a freshly caught gazelle or spying a curious lion cub venture away from its mother’s protective embrace will be highlights of your trip, you’ll discover the journey is as much a part of your trip as the destination.

The road-trip games you play with your new travel mates, the feeling of the wind (and maybe a little dust) in your hair when you’re travelling down long, winding roads, and the young Maasai boy who waved at you as you passed him along the road will stay with you long after you return.

Our African safari tours

Okavango experience, 10 days from 1728.

Tour through Johannesburg, Maun, Chobe National Park, the Okavango Delta and Victoria...

Explore Southern Africa

18 days from 3416.

Spend some time exploring Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe with included safari...

Gorillas & Game Parks

16 days from 3995.

Encounter the wildlife of Kenya and Uganda on this adventure including a gorilla trek...

Cape Town to Vic Falls

22 days from 2750.

Spend three weeks exploring South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, from Cape...

East Africa Highlights

10 days from 3148.

Travel through East Africa from Kenya to Tanzania, stopping at the Masai Mara, the...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Kenya Wildlife Safari

8 days from 1404.

Experience Kenyan wildlife on an eight day trip travelling from Nairobi to Lake...

Botswana Highlights

9 days from 2650.

Discover the culture, wildlife and waterways of Botswana on this upgraded adventure...

Road to Zanzibar

12 days from 2288.

Experience the beauty of the Ngorongoro and Serengeti, Usambara Mountains and Zanzibar...

The Masai Heartlands

15 days from 3996.

Uncover Kenya and Tanzania on a 2 week trip with Serengeti safaris, Ngorongoro, Nakuru,...

Serengeti Trail

8 days from 1887.

Roam the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Amboseli National Park to spot Africa's Big...

Vic Falls to Kruger

9 days from 1422.

Take on a safari adventure through Hwange National Park, Matobo National Park, Kruger...

Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches

27 days from 6592.

Go deep in East Africa on this epic trip, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Botswana Adventure

10 days from 4544.

Visit Africa and travel through Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe on a tour from Windhoek...

Namibia Discovery

13 days from 3765.

Travel from Cape Town in South Africa to Namibia’s Windhoek through coastlines, sand...

Amazing Southern Africa

22 days from 7695.

Jump onboard an exhilarating journey from Cape Town to Victoria Falls through the...

Vic Falls to Cape Town

22 days from 2768.

Discover the unique and contrasting lands of Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and South...

Remarkable Rwanda & Gorillas of Uganda

9 days from 4786.

Travel through Rwanda and Uganda in search of natural beauty and the gentle mountain...

Garden Route Adventure

14 days from 1751.

See Africa from Durban to Cape Town on a 14-day adventure. Tour Tsitsikamma, Addo...

Best of East Africa

20 days from 4469.

Step out onto the Serengeti and keep your eyes out for rhinos, lions, leopards and a...

Cape Town to Zanzibar

41 days from 5785.

See Africa on this incredible overland adventure from South Africa to Tanzania. Soak up...

Serengeti & Kilimanjaro

15 days from 6084.

Explore the wonders of Tanzania and Kenya, including a trek to the summit of Mt...

Okavango & Beyond

9 days from 2555.

Travel from Zimbabwe to South Africa via Botswana. The Okavango and Beyond trip is the...

Vic Falls to Stone Town

17 days from 2370.

See East Africa in 17 days including Victoria Falls, Matobo, South Luwanga, Lake Malawi...

Southern Africa Adventure

30 days from 4800.

Take a month long southern African adventure from Cape Town into Namibia, Botswana and...

Essential East Africa

10 days from 1790.

Hit the (dirt) road through Kenya and Tanzania. Safari in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro...

Africa Encompassed Northbound

64 days from 12940.

This epic journey with explores Southern Africa in detail including Botswana, Kenya,...

Johannesburg to Kenya

37 days from 6959.

Travel the waterways of Botswana, the beaches of Zanzibar and the savannahs of the...

Cape Town to Kenya

49 days from 8230.

Experience the ultimate African adventure on this epic trip including Kenya, Botswana,...

Kruger & Coast

9 days from 1212.

Explore diverse southern Africa on this nine-day adventure, including Kruger National...

Gorillas to Vic Falls

42 days from 8602.

Explore Kenya, Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe on this epic trip that included a...

Safari to Kilimanjaro - Machame Route

16 days from 6125.

Explore the wonders of Tanzania and Kenya including a trek to the summit of Mt...

Africa Encompassed Southbound

63 days from 11259.

Set out on a mighty African adventure through Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe...

Vic Falls to Kenya

28 days from 5027.

Discover East African wilderness and the animals that call it home on an adventure...

Zanzibar to Cape Town

40 days from 5164.

Explore Africa on an epic wildlife-rich adventure from Tanzania to South Africa while...

Kenya to Cape Town

48 days from 7916.

Tour Africa's best from Kenya to Cape Town through Tanzania, Zanzibar, Malawi, Zimbabwe...

Stone Town to Nairobi

9 days from 2012.

Explore Tanzania on this trip travelling to Nairobi via the Serengeti and the Usambara...

Stone Town to Vic Falls

16 days from 1924.

Track rhinos on foot and embrace the sights and sounds of Eastern Africa on this unique...

Johannesburg to Gorillas

52 days from 11780.

Experience the waterways of Botswana, the beaches of Zanzibar, the savannahs of the...

Kenya to Vic Falls

27 days from 4722.

Explore the wilds of East Africa on a trip from Nairobi to the Serengeti, Usambara...

Kilimanjaro & Serengeti Adventure

15 days from 6696, beaches, game parks & gorillas, 27 days from 7620.

Spend 27 days exploring the wonders, wildlife and tribal cultures of East Africa to...

Zanzibar to Vic Falls

19 days from 2265.

Explore East Africa from Zanzibar's beaches to the roar of Victoria Falls, seeing...

Johannesburg to Zanzibar

29 days from 4785.

From Johannesburg to Botswana, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Lake Malawi and...

Zanzibar to Nairobi

12 days from 2360.

Get a true taste of eastern Africa on a 12-day trip to Zanzibar, the Serengeti,...

Vic Falls to Zanzibar

20 days from 2825.

Travel from the thundering Victoria Falls to the spice plantations of Zanzibar via...

Vic Falls to Gorillas

43 days from 9990.

Take an epic trip through eastern Africa, via Victoria Falls, the Serengeti and...

Africa safari h ighlights

Spot the Big 5 in South Africa

Go on safari through Kruger National Park, one of the largest game reserves in Southern Africa . This massive park is one of the premier safari spots in all of Africa and for good reason; it’s home to over 500 bird species, 100 species of reptile and 150 mammal species, including the Big Five and the endangered African wild dog.

Go gorilla trekking in Uganda

Venture deep into the steamy jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in search of the rare mountain gorilla. With a local guide to lead you, you’ll trek into the forest to spend one unforgettable hour watching and hanging out with a family of gorillas. A close encounter with these gentle giants is an extraordinary African experience that will always stay with you.

Float over the Serengeti

The only thing more magical than witnessing the great wildebeest migration across the Serengeti? Seeing it from the sky in a hot air balloon. As the herds of wildebeest and thousands of other animals travel from Serengeti National Park to the greener pastures of the Masai Mara National Reserve, you can watch their journey and enjoy incredible views from a unique perspective.

Canoe in the Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta has a unique system of waterways that are home to an immense array of wildlife. The best way to explore it is in a mokoro, a traditional dugout canoe. Visit in May to September, when animals are confined to small islands created by the annual flood, making it easy to spot great herds of elephant and antelope, hippos, crocodiles, lions, cheetahs and more. 

Popular safari destinations

Kruger National Park

Serengeti National Park

The Okavango Delta

Region comparisons

Chobe or Okavango?

Serengeti or Masai Mara?

View our range of gorilla treks

Where we stay on safari.

On our safari trips you’ll stay in billion-star accommodation. That’s our way of saying you’re sleeping under the night sky, camping in the great outdoors. On our Basix and sections of Original trips, you’ll stay in two-person canvas tents that our crew will help you set up. And on our Comfort trips, you’ll be staying in permanent tented camps and lodges (think glamping instead of camping).

Campsite facilities can sometimes be basic, but wherever possible, we make sure there are Western-style toilets and warm water available. But you’ll find it’s worth sacrificing a warm shower or two when you’re waking up to sunrise over the Masai Mara.

How we get around

On our safari trips, your main mode of transport is an overland truck, a purpose-built vehicle made for driving through Africa’s winding, and sometimes bumpy, country roads. While the trucks don’t have air conditioning, they do have sliding windows which let in the breeze and make it even easier to take spectacular snaps of the local wildlife. The trucks are also equipped with power outlets to charge your camera, phone and other devices on the go.

For more info on our overland trucks, see our Africa overland page .

African Safari FAQs

When is the best time to go on safari.

Generally speaking, January, February and June to October are the best times to go on safari in Africa. This is the dry season, so animals tend to come out into more open spaces in search of water, making them easier to spot. However, you’ll be able to spot animals all year round and you’ll enjoy fewer crowds if you travel outside peak season.

Read more about the best time to go on safari .

Where is the best place to go on safari?

The best place to go on safari depends on what kind of animals you’d like to see and what other activities you’d like to do in destination. We offer safaris to some of the best safari destinations in eastern and southern Africa, like Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and more.

Read more about how to choose your ideal African safari . 

Am I guaranteed to see animals on safari?

While we can’t guarantee you’ll spot the Big 5, you’d have to be profoundly unlucky to see no animals at all. On our trips, you’ll explore some of the best game parks and national reserves in the world. These protected areas are filled with a huge variety of different species and your expert driver and local leader will help you spot animals.

What are the “Big 5”?

The “Big 5” used to refer to the five big game animals that were the most difficult to hunt. Now that most shooting is done on a camera, the Big 5 are the most exciting animals to spot while on safari: the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo.

What should I pack for safari?

Loose, light clothing in neutral colours is the best attire for a safari (dark colours will get hot in the sun and can attract the Tsetse fly). You’ll also want a sun hat, some good walking shoes, a camera, sunscreen and bug spray. For more details, check out our ultimate Africa packing guide . 

What type of food will be served on safari?

On our Basix trips you’ll have a cook travelling with you while you are on safari who will whip up a variety of local flavours and Western-style dishes. Along your route, your cook will stop to purchase fresh, locally sourced food for your meals. You can expect a variety of things for breakfast like fruit, eggs, toast and cereal; lunch is often sandwiches and salads; and dinner is usually a hearty meal like pasta, curry or a BBQ.

On our Original and Comfort trips there will be more meals at camps and lodges along the way. No matter what you’re craving, you definitely will not be going hungry on safari.

What are the toilets and showers like on safari?

Most of the permanent tented camps will have a private bathroom with flushing toilets and showers with warm water. 

Many of the campsites we stay at have communal facilities with flushing toilets and showers with warm water. However, in some of the more remote areas, there may only be basic facilities (toilets and cold running water). 

Can you accommodate accessibility requirements on your safari tours?

We are committed to making travel accessible to everyone, so we will work with you to assess whether you will be able to complete an existing itinerary, or whether we will be able to make reasonable adjustments to meet your needs before you book. Please see our accessible travel page for more information. 

What is internet and phone access like on safari?

Some of our hotels and campsites will have Wi-Fi, however Internet and phone access may be limited in more remote areas. But you won’t miss it when you’re watching a pride of lions prowl through long grass or enjoying a drink around the campfire with your group. 

Responsible travel

Our stance on Animal Welfare

This world and the animals that call it home are precious, and we believe it’s our responsibility to help preserve them. We do not include or condone any activities that exploit animals on our safari trips, including hunting, feeding or interacting with animals in any way. We believe that wild animals should be observed in the wild, from a respectful distance. 

Some tips for being a wildlife-friendly traveller include never buying animal products, not participating in activities that include contact with the animals, and not including location tags on social media posts (some poachers have gone high-tech and use social media to track rare animals’ locations).

Read more about our Animal Welfare Policy here . 

Read more about African safaris

• // // // //

Luxury African Safaris

With Micato Safaris, the Only Travel+Leisure 10-Time #1 Winner

Why Safari with Micato

From our 24-hour Concierge Team to paying for a child’s education to no tipping ever, we’ve thought of every luxury.

Familiar Faces on Safari

Here are just a few of the travellers who have chosen Micato for their luxury safari. We bet these faces will be familiar.

Micato Safaris Reviews

We love hearing from our travellers. And here’s a collection of 425-plus Five Star reviews our guests have been kind enough to share online.

Find Your Popcorn

One of the next best things to joining Micato on safari is perusing our treasure trove of captivating, joyful videos.

Recent Press Articles

Travel+Leisure Micato Hits #1 Historic 10th Time

Fortune For African Safari, Choose Micato

Forbes Micato Safari Is A Dream Trip

Elite Traveler Responsible Luxury Travel

The pinto family.

AmericaShare

As an African-born company we have a special responsibility to our homeland. Luckily, it’s a joyous, fruitful duty.

Private Safari Villas & Estates

Unabashedly but thoughtfully luxurious, our exclusive-use Private Villas and Estates are enchanting get-aways into Africa’s ancient calm and its unique excitements.

Micato Safaris treat their guests like well-loved, out-of-town relatives. Travel + Leisure Magazine

Our Luxury Safaris

The planet’s greatest game lands, Africa’s warmhearted people, and its mesmerizing landscapes, revealed gracefully, thoughtfully, and joyously by the world’s greatest luxury safari company.

It’s Lonely at the Top

These awards inspire us to work even harder as stewards of Micato’s esteemed reputation and of your safari. Here is a small sampling of our proudest moments.

Travel+Leisure

Unprecedented Ten-Time Winner of Travel+Leisure’s Award for #1 World’s Best Safari Outfitter

Condé Nast Traveler

Unprecedented Five-Time Winner of the Condé Nast Traveler World Savers Award for Education and for Doing It All

National Geographic

National Geographic Traveler and National Geographic Adventure Best Outfitters on Earth

Best VAST (Active) Operator, Best Escorted Tour Operator, Virtuoso Performance Award

India Journeys

Swirlingly colourful, endlessly enchanting India, in the company of a company with deep roots in “the most extraordinary country the sun visits on his rounds.”

The 2023 Micato Hot List

Very Private African Safari Retreats

A Safari Primer: Where to go, What to Expect

4 Great Countries in Africa for Your First Safari

These experiences and operators offer a range of price points and embrace sustainable tourism practices..

• Copy Link copied

If you’ve never been on safari in Africa before, rest assured that no wildlife documentary can capture the awe of experiencing the region’s vastly contrasting landscapes and cultures in person. There are the sweeping savannas of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in East Africa, home to the world’s largest migrating animal herds, while green Central Africa is a habitat for the last remaining mountain gorillas on Earth. Southern Africa is home to such famous natural wonders as the Okavango Delta and the otherworldly Kalahari Desert. And in West Africa, forthcoming infrastructure in destinations like Pendjari National Park in Benin, where West African lions roam, is opening up lesser-explored areas for wildlife viewing.

Africa is composed of 54 countries with varying experiences ranging from thriving urban scenes to sublime landscapes. The continent’s seemingly endless wilderness experiences can be especially hard to navigate for the first-time safarigoer.

With that in mind, AFAR has picked four countries to get them started. Experiences include the fenceless savannas of Kenya, where such groups as the Maasai own and manage private conservancies; South Africa, with its family-friendly, malaria-free reserves and impressive rewilding projects; the wildlife-filled rivers of Zambia, known for family-owned camps and walking safaris; and Tanzania, home to sprawling, fenceless savannas and Mount Kilimanjaro.

These countries are only scratching the surface of nature-based experiences in Africa—and the beginning of a lifetime of return trips to explore. While we won’t cover the vibrant metropolises of these countries this time, you’ll regret skipping them, so ask your outfitter to work an urban experience into your trip. Here are four of the best places to go on safari if you’ve never been before.

Asilia Jabali Ridge

With nearly two dozen national parks , Tanzania contains some of Africa’s largest remaining unfenced wilderness areas. It’s home to wildebeest who roam together in numbers upwards of a million and make dramatic crossings through the country’s river systems. Those who want to see the river crossings should aim for July to September, but the November-to-March green season can be even more appealing—the rains are short, there are fewer crowds, and you can catch the excitement of calf birthing season.

Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem

Tanzania’s most famous park gets the lion’s share of attention for being the site of the seasonal Great Migration of wildebeest. andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge is well situated right in the path of a major river crossing area. A 2022 refurbishment transformed the camp into a design-driven retreat with sustainably sourced local hardwoods and colorful kitenge fabrics inspired by the region’s craft traditions. The camp, which now runs on 80 percent solar energy, offers plenty of ways to get outside of the safari vehicle, whether you’re tracking elephants on foot or visiting fishing communities on nearby Lake Victoria.

Sitting within the greater Serengeti-Mara ecosystem on its own 350,000-acre reserve, Singita Grumeti operates five lodges and camps, each with their own approach to the safari experience. There’s the hilltop Sasakwa Lodge, with its chandeliered guest rooms featuring four-poster beds, deep soaking tubs, and plunge pools that overlook the savanna. The lodge doubles as a museum, with rare artifacts from all over Africa and photography by the likes of Peter Beard. The recently renovated Sabora Tented Camp—an AFAR favorite—offers a more intimate connection with nature, thanks to outdoor showers and canvas walls that let all the noises of the bush lull you to sleep (or keep you awake).

Ruaha National Park

Ask a seasoned safari hand what their favorite wilderness area is in Tanzania, and there’s a good chance they’ll tell you it’s Ruaha National Park. Less-visited Ruaha happens to be the country’s second largest national park, and you could spend an entire trip exploring its widely varied landscapes, which range from miombo forests to sprawling wetlands. Asilia Africa’s camps offer a variety of experiences.

Located on a boulder-filled hill near the Mwagusi River, Jabali Ridge is a prime spot for sightings of lion prides and leopards, as well as elephants who dig beneath dry riverbeds in search of water. The design-driven camp itself features eight suites with a soothing palette of grays and natural woods; a massage in the airy spa comes with a soundtrack of birdsong. For those who want a hands-on conservation experience, the new Asilia Usangu Expedition Camp in the remote Usangu Wetlands offers that. It’s located in a former hunting block that the government is now researching and monitoring; Asilia stepped in as a partner to help raise tourism funds to go toward those efforts. Guests can help monitor wildlife by setting up camera traps and studying animal behavior through thermal monocular lenses—and any data they collect supports the research work happening here.

How to book

andBeyond puts together custom trips that include andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge and other andBeyond and non-andBeyond camps. Niarra Travel can create individualized itineraries that include andBeyond, Singita, and Asilia camps.

Safari operators like Micato send guests to community-owned conservancies, which are sustainably operated and limit visitation.

Courtesy of Micato / Giuliana Provenzano

Kenya is a mosaic of contrasting landscapes and home to more than 40 distinct tribes and communities . In the arid hills to the northeast, the Laikipia Plateau is the historical land of the Samburu and Kikuyu among others; to the south, a safari in the Tsavo and Amboseli national parks means large elephant herds, self-drive safaris, and views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The iconic savannas of the Maasai Mara National Reserve are where millions of wildebeest known as the Great Migration roam, with hungry predators like lions and cheetahs in tow.

The Maasai Mara

The Mara fills with visitors in the dry period between June and October, when there’s less green foliage to hide wildlife; in July, hundreds of vehicles line the rivers to watch epic wildebeest herd crossings. But a visit outside of high season can be even more rewarding, according to Dennis Pinto, managing director of Nairobi-based Micato Safaris . “The lushness of the landscapes throughout Kenya right after the April rains, during the off-peak green season, makes for a photographer’s paradise,” he said. “Wildebeest, zebra, and multitudes of other plains game being born make April and May such a wonderfully literal time of renewal—along with the predators looking for easy prey.”

Micato frequently sends guests to the private, community-owned conservancies adjacent to the Mara reserve that are sustainably managing wildlife on their lands—and have more restricted visitation, which translates into fewer crowds, benefiting both visitors and nature. One such camp is the well-appointed, 12-tent Mahali Mzuri , a Virgin Limited Edition camp that leases land from the Masai-owned Olare Motorogi Conservancy .

Tourism on conservancies creates jobs and supports the creation of roads, schools, scholarships, hospitals, and enterprises such as basketry, according to Vincent Oluoch, the program officer who oversees tourism for the Kenya Wildlife Conservancies Association , which represents 174 conservancies across Kenya. Since the height of the pandemic, “most facilities within the conservancies have started experiencing a steady increase in visitor numbers, including domestic visitors, and in turn have started generating necessary revenues,” said Oluoch.

Some conservancies operate their own tourism businesses—often at gentler prices than international lodges. Oluoch recommends a safari in the Nashulai Maasai Conservancy , which owns and manages Oldarpoi Mara Camp , a series of midrange cottages and tents with en suite bathrooms and Maasai design touches. In the Tsavo Conservation Area, he suggests the recently renovated Kivuko Eco Camp , composed of a family house and camp accommodations run by the Taita Wildlife Conservancy.

Nairobi-based luxury outfitter Micato Safaris , owned and run by a Kenyan family, can arrange a custom-designed itinerary in Kenya that takes travelers to such private conservancies as Olare Motorogi and the Tsavo Conservation Area as well as the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Ask it to work in a couple of days in Nairobi, a vibrant city the company knows particularly well. Travelers can also book experiences directly through some conservancies, including Nashulai .

South Africa

The Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, in South Africa, is a popular—and malaria-free—spot.

Courtesy of Your Private Africa

With its winelands, grasslands, ancient forests, and windswept coasts, rural South Africa offers something for nearly everyone. Varying experiences also make it a year-round destination, with the cooler months falling between July and September.

Kruger National Park

In the country’s popular Kruger National Park, dry season falls between April and October. Green season can be a great option for those in search of better prices and fewer people. Showers are often brief, and less dust from the rain makes for beautiful light.

London-based tour operator Byron Thomas founded Niarra Travel in May 2021 to ensure that as much money travelers spend in a destination stays there—especially at smaller camps with few rooms that don’t have a lot of earning power. “Niarra’s goal is to get as much money to the destination as possible, and the best way to do this is booking directly,” said Thomas. “The second best way is to use a tour operator who has a real, vested interest in making sure they provide that service of putting together a trip that’s the right one for you as cheaply as possible for the particular destination.”

The Cape Town region

Niarra takes a 10 percent commission from companies on the ground, much lower than the industry standard, which can reach as high as 35 percent. The company also partners with responsibly run businesses with guidance from such groups as the Long Run , an organization that helps nature-based tourism businesses to drive such sustainability initiatives as community well-being and land and wildlife conservation. The 11-day Family Adventure itinerary starts with whale watching in the De Hoop Nature Reserve near Cape Town while staying at the four-bedroom Morukuru Ocean House. It continues to the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, which has sunny days for much of the year. Game drives lead to lion, leopard, and elephant sightings, and guests sleep at the three-bedroom Morukuru River House .

Sabi Sand Game Reserve

For a safari that’s both ecofriendly and stylish, Nick Bay, founder of Seattle-based tour operator Your Private Africa , recommends Cheetah Plains in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Electric, solar-powered game drive vehicles offer not just a zero-emissions game drive but also quieter encounters with wildlife. The modern-feeling villa accommodations are a sight on their own, with their minimalistic interiors decorated with the work of contemporary African artists.

The Kalahari Desert

Bay also suggests heading north to the Kalahari Desert near the border of Botswana to experience Tswalu Kalahari Reserve , another malaria-free area set on a former cluster of overgrazed farmland that South Africa’s Oppenheimer family purchased and helped to rewild. Today it’s home to brown hyena, meerkats, desert black rhino, and large predators, including cheetah. Tswalu has an on-site researcher, Wendy Panaino, who is dedicated to studying ground pangolins , the world’s most trafficked animal, which can be found on the reserve.

Tswalu’s accommodations include the Tarkuni villa, a large home perfect for families. “The villa is especially family friendly, which is an emerging trend for safaris—bringing children six and under,” said Bay.

U.K.-based Niarra Travel offers several South African itineraries including the 11-day Cape, Wine, Wildlife, and Waterfalls, which goes to Kruger National Park and the country’s famous winelands. The 11-day Family Adventure in South Africa trip visits the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve for glimpses of big cats and elephants and the coastal De Hoop Nature Reserve for whale watching. U.S.-based Your Private Africa arranges customized private safaris for a wide range of travelers and budgets from start to finish, and it can organize hands-on conservation experiences at places like Tswalu.

Consider Chiawa Camp for a family-friendly safari.

Courtesy of Classic Portfolio / TCunniffe

Home to the Zambezi, Kafue, and Luangwa rivers, and sharing roaring Victoria Falls with neighboring Zimbabwe, Zambia offers a wide range of land- and water-based wildlife experiences. Safaris here are characterized by small, family-run camps that put guests especially close to nature through walking safaris, for which the country is famous (yet it’s still one of southern Africa’s less visited destinations). The popular dry season falls between July and November, but the April to June shoulder season, when the landscape turns green in the wake of the rains, is an especially good time to see Victoria Falls.

“Zambia is personally my ultimate safari experience,” said Suzanne Bayly-Coupe, managing director of Classic Portfolio , a collection of 53 independent lodges in 10 African countries. “It is one of the very few countries that has not been dominated by the bigger commercial safari companies.” According to Bayly-Coupe, Zambia’s water-based wildlife experiences rival those of the Okavango Delta in Botswana.

Lower Zambezi National Park

She recommends Chiawa Camp in Lower Zambezi National Park, which offers canoe rides along the crocodile-filled Zambezi River and has a multi-room family tent for parents with kids; about 20 miles to the east at Old Mondoro , five riverside chalets all have outdoor baths. In South Luangwa National Park, also known as valley of the leopard, add on a few nights at one of the half dozen tiny camps run by the Bushcamp Company .

South Luangwa

Niarra will soon add a trip in partnership with Green Safaris , which operates camps with light footprints, including the canvas-tented Shawa Luangwa Camp in South Luangwa. “We’ve been really impressed with the aptly named Green Safaris, which are all off-grid and all electric, including vehicles, bikes, and boats, and they’re doing a lot of good work on the ground,” Thomas said.

Lower Zambezi

According to Bay, some of the newest camps in Zambia focus on energy efficiency, resource conservation, and community capacity building. They include Lolebezi Safari Lodge in the Lower Zambezi, which is powered by solar panels, has its own water treatment plant, and was built with minimal use of concrete.

Livingstone

One of his favorite lodges in Zambia is Royal Chundu Island Lodge in Livingstone, which is easy to reach because of its location near Victoria Falls and an international airport. “Aggie Maseko, one of the owners, is a hospitality maven and makes it hard to ever leave,” said Bay. “The menu is composed of local ingredients elevated to French Relais & Châteaux standards.” Take a boat transfer to Katombora Island on the Zambezi River, where four sprawling villas have their own private river-facing decks that hover 40 feet above the ground. Go on a day tour to nearby Chobe National Park in neighboring Botswana for sightings of lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, and giraffes.

Book a tailored trip through southern Africa with these Classic Portfolio properties through such outfitters as Africa travel experts Explore Inc. or Your Private Africa. Niarra Travel offers a 13-day Victoria Falls, Okavango, and Cape Town itinerary that incorporates the Zambezi River and Falls into a three-country itinerary (Zambia, Botswana, and South Africa).

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• World's Best

The Top 10 Safari Lodges in Africa in 2021

Lila Harron Battis is a freelance writer and editor. She was previously a senior editor at Travel + Leisure .

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite safari lodges in Africa.

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

The Western idea of Africa as a vast unknowable expanse of wilderness — rather than a living, breathing place with as much diversity and unique regionality as any other continent — has endured with stubborn longevity. Perhaps quintessential images like silverbacks in a lush mountain forest, giraffes and acacia trees silhouetted against a savannah sunset, and herds of elephants in the floodplains along a winding river stick with travelers because they are so unlike the nature scenes of the U.S., where centuries of human interference have left little trace of true wilderness or of the animals that once roamed freely.

Africa's rarefied natural spaces have compelled generations of adventurers to seek them out — and the hospitality world has kept pace. Today's safari-goers have little more to worry about than checking off the Big Five and whether to order red or white with dinner. And for the ultimate in service, comfort, and indulgence, they can't go wrong with the places that T+L readers voted onto this year's list of the best safari lodges in Africa.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels (including safari lodges) were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city hotel, resort, or safari lodge based on their locations and amenities.

The spots on the list are brimming with opulent touches and spectacular scenery. At No. 4 Angama Mara, in Kenya's Masai Mara , two 15-tent camps dot the edge of an escarpment about 300 yards above the game reserve. The views of the Great Rift Valley are so cinematic it's tempting to stay on property and just gawk at the scenery. Don't miss a visit to the on-site craft workshop, where Masai women teach guests the techniques and meaning behind their beading traditions, or the photography studio, where you can test out pro gear and polish up your safari snapshots with cutting-edge photo-editing software.

At No. 6 Singita Grumeti, in Tanzania , the lodging options offer something for every style: crystal chandeliers and gilded frames at Sasakwa Lodge, rattan chairs and campaign tables at Sabora Tented Camp, and breezy furnishings and basketry-inspired light fixtures at Faru Faru Lodge, among others. In South Africa, andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge (No. 9) has 20 cottages that blend light details — wide-slate bathroom floors, ceramic stools, pale patterned loveseats, high thatched ceilings — with the gravitas of deep-hued wood furnishings, muted flat-weave rugs, and antique-inspired wildlife illustrations. Overall, it feels grounded and traditional, but never stuffy. The property is situated on Ngala Private Game Reserve, which — thanks to the success of andBeyond's conservation work — is now part of Kruger National Park.

Many of the properties on this list held an emotional resonance for our readers, one that lingered long after returning home. Of the Bushcamp Company's Mfuwe Lodge, in Zambia, which came in No. 8, one reader wrote, "I dream about Mfuwe, the people, and the sounds of the animals at night. The experience I had was beyond everything I imagined." Another put it simply: "You truly connect with raw life." A reader who spent time at No. 5 Gibb's Farm, in Tanzania, called it "the most magical place I've ever stayed!" And at Sasaab, in Kenya, the property's do-good efforts made a mark just as much as the luxe environment: "Sasaab's culture is fabulous," a reader wrote of the No. 10 property, adding that "the hotel has an innate sustainable ethos."

But the best safari lodge in Africa, the Richard Branson–owned Mahali Mzuri, brings together every element readers expect in their experience, then amplifies it all tenfold. Read on to find out why it's so beloved and which other lodges join it on this year's list.

1. Mahali Mzuri, Masai Mara, Kenya

The 12-suite Mahali Mzuri sits on the edge of a lush bowl, and there's not a bad seat in the house: over breakfast, you can watch monkeys scrabble in the trees and grass; from the pool you'll spot giraffes wandering through to snack on the acacias; sitting on your private terrace you may catch a glimpse of a cat stopping to drink from the rocky stream that runs through. And the property's location is ideal for maximizing both wildlife spotting and privacy. It's set within the private, 33,000-acre Olare Motorogi Conservancy, which is part of the Masai Mara ecosystem but beyond the bounds of the national park. That means all the richness of big game, but no other cars in sight—you can get within feet of a lion pride and have the moment all to yourself, with no jockeying for position or tuning out the chatter of other safari-goers. "Mahali Mzuri is the best luxurious camp to visit on the African continent," declared one reader; "just perfect," wrote another. The team is small and familial, with the kind of warm, relaxed — yet flawless — service that gives guests the easy sense of being among friends; the guides are among the best in the business, many having worked at the property for years to develop intimate knowledge of the land and its wildlife. One reader put it best: "The hospitality at Mahali Mzuri resembles its name," he wrote, noting the translation of the Swahili: "the Beautiful Place."

Score: 99.73 More information: virginlimitededition.com

2. Savute Elephant Lodge, a Belmond Safari, Chobe National Park, Botswana

Score: 98.75 More information: belmond.com

3. andBeyond Phinda Vlei Lodge, Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Score: 98.50 More information: andbeyond.com

4. Angama Mara, Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Score: 97.73 More information: angama.com

5. Gibb's Farm, Karatu, Tanzania

Score: 97.63 More information: gibbsfarm.com

6. Singita Grumeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Score: 97.60 More information: singita.com

7. Khwai River Lodge, a Belmond Safari, Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana

Score: 97.47 More information: belmond.com

8. The Bushcamp Company's Mfuwe Lodge, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Score: 97.33 More information: bushcampcompany.com

9. (tie) andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park Area, South Africa

Score: 97.26 More information: andbeyond.com

9. (tie) Sasaab, Samburu, Kenya

Score: 97.26 More information: thesafaricollection.com

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021 .

No matter the destination, Travel + Leisure GO can turn your vacation dreams into reality. With nearly endless reservation options to fly or stay, book your next getaway — near or far — at Travel + Leisure GO .

Related Articles

Top 10 Unmissable African Safari Destinations

There is nothing quite like the thrill of an African safari . It's the stillness of the early morning, before the rising sun reaches its peak and casts a heat mirage across the horizon. It's the sound of wild creatures calling in the night and the sense of peace that comes with being surrounded by untamed wilderness. Above all, it's the excitement of the unexpected - in the bush one never knows what new sights and experiences each day will bring. In this article, we look at 10 of the most iconic safari destinations on the continent. Choose one of these for your next African adventure and you won't be disappointed. 

Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Located in the extreme southwest of the country on the border with Tanzania, Maasai Mara National Reserve is Kenya's quintessential safari destination. Covering over 580 square miles/1,500 square kilometers, it's home to the Big Five  and is famous for its thriving big cat populations. In particular, the reserve is known as one of the  best places to see lions in their natural environment. Special Maasai Mara experiences include visits to traditional Maasai villages and the annual Great Migration . Between July and October, the migration sees approximately two million wildebeest, zebra and other antelope cross from Tanzania to Kenya across the mighty Mara River. 

Chobe National Park, Botswana

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Chobe National Park lies adjacent to the Okavango Delta in the northwest corner of Botswana . It includes four distinct ecosystems, allowing for an incredibly diverse array of animal and bird life. In particular, the park's Savuti Marsh offers one of Africa's highest year-round concentrations of wildlife. Chobe is especially famous for its elephants, with an estimated 120,000 of the great grey animals living within the park's borders. The best time to visit is during the dry season (April to October), when vast herds of elephant and other animals gather to drink along the banks of the Chobe River. The river also allows for unique boat-based game-viewing and rewarding birding. 

Kruger National Park, South Africa

TripSavvy / Anna Haines

Located in the northeast of the country on the Mozambique border, Kruger National Park is the most famous of all South Africa's many game reserves. As well as the Big Five, the park is home to the vulnerable cheetah, the endangered wild dog and several elusive small cat species . It is a good option for first-time visitors to Africa, with a wide choice of accommodation options (ranging from basic campsites to luxury lodges). With a well-maintained and easily navigated road system, Kruger is also the ideal self-drive safari destination. Keen birders should plan to visit between October and March. At this time, the park provides a temporary home for more than 200 migrant bird species . 

South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

In eastern Zambia , South Luangwa National Park is known for incredible walking safaris that offer the chance to get up close to the park's wildlife. It supports healthy herds of antelope and elephant, as well as several large lion prides. River-dwelling species such as hippos and Nile crocodiles thrive here and more than 400 bird species have been recorded in the region. Above all, South Luangwa is arguably the best place in Africa to see wild leopards . The optimum time to visit depends on your priorities; birding is best in the rainy season but game-viewing is best during the dry winter months. At this time, animals congregate on the banks of the Luangwa River in search of precious water. 

Okavango Delta, Botswana

The Okavango Delta is a unique inland water system created at the point where the Okavango River flows into the Kalahari Desert basin. It sustains an astonishing variety of wildlife and swells and recedes throughout the year according to the annual rains. The most exciting way to explore is on a traditional canoe or  mokoro and the   best time to visit is during the annual flood. Confusingly, this coincides with the May to September dry season. At this time, the Delta's animals are confined to the islands created by the flood, making them easier to spot. Highlights include great herds of elephant and antelope, hippos, crocodiles, lions and cheetah . Many of the birds spotted here are endemic.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

TripSavvy / Felicia Martinez

Serengeti National Park is located in northern Tanzania and shares a border with Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve. Its sprawling grasslands make for classic safari panoramas dotted with lone acacia trees and grazing herds of zebra and antelope. These herbivores attract high numbers of predators and the open environment makes this one of the best destinations for watching lions and cheetahs in action. The Serengeti is much larger than the Maasai Mara, and as such often feels less crowded. From November to June, the Serengeti is the main stage for the dramatic Great Migration. At this time, huge herds of zebra and wildebeest gather to graze, mate and give birth. 

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in southwest Uganda  on the edge of the legendary Rift Valley. This dense rainforest is home to nearly half of the world's population of mountain gorillas - a critically endangered subspecies with just over 1,000 individuals remaining in the wild. Here, you can track the park's habituated gorilla groups on foot, allowing you to come face-to-face with these fascinating great apes. Gorilla trekking permits  are compulsory and must be booked well in advance. The forest is also home to chimpanzees, baboons and other mammals including elephant and antelope. Its birdlife is similarly diverse, with more than 20 endemic species. 

Etosha National Park, Namibia

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

In northern Namibia lies Etosha National Park , a diverse collection of different habitats arranged around a salt pan so large it can be seen from space. This self-drive park is generally arid and many of the animals here are adapted for life in the desert - including the gemsbok and springbok antelopes. Elephants are commonly spotted and you're likely to see lion, hyena and cheetah. You won't find buffalo or hippo, though - it's simply too dry. Etosha's main highlight is its population of critically endangered black rhino. These remarkable creatures are best spotted at the floodlit waterholes of the three main camps alongside an array of other nocturnal animals . White rhinos are found here too.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania is made exceptional by its volcanic crater - the largest un-flooded and unbroken caldera in the world. This vast depression acts as a natural enclosure for countless wildlife species, including the Big Five. Highlights range from a healthy population of black rhino to some of the largest tusker elephants on the continent. The lake at the center of the crater also hosts huge flocks of rose-colored flamingos, while Maasai tribespeople still live within the conservation area. Another unmissable attraction is the Olduvai Gorge , an important paleoanthropological site that has contributed hugely to our understanding of human evolution. 

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe's  Hwange National Park  covers some 5,655 square miles/14,650 square kilometers of land in the west of the country. It is possibly the least crowded of Southern Africa's major safari destinations, allowing for a heightened sense of adventure and discovery. Hwange's elephant population is legendary, as are its large herds of buffalo. Lion are often spotted here, too. Above all, the park is one of the best places in the world to see the elusive African wild dog, thanks to the presence of several establish packs. Hwange's private game lodges offer a variety of different safari options - including walking safaris, horseback safaris and night safaris . 

The Top 5 Places to See Leopards in Africa

Fun Facts About African Animals: The Cheetah

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: The Complete Guide

The Top 12 National Parks to Visit in Africa

15 Animals to See on an African Safari

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Safari for You

Okavango Delta, Botswana: The Complete Guide

An Introduction to Africa's Big Five Safari Animals

13 Amazing Trips to Take Before You Turn 40

The Best Places to Go in Southern Africa

The Top 5 Places to See Lions in Africa

The Top 5 Places to See Elephants in Africa

East Africa's 10 Best Travel Destinations

How to Go on Safari in Tanzania

10 of the Best Places to Visit in Botswana

The Best Time to Go on Safari

Accessibility Links

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

Advertisement

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 .

Related articles

Things To Know Before Going On A Safari In Africa: 13 Top Tips

E mbarking on a safari in Africa is high on many people’s travel bucket list . Ever since we’re children, we are exposed to stories and cartoons of wild animals roaming freely through the plains of Africa, from hungry lions to majestic giraffes and wise old elephants.

If you’re about to make your Discovery Channel viewing a reality, then you will want to come make sure you go in knowing the important things to know before going on a safari in Africa.

We’ve been really lucky to have experienced several safaris in Africa, from the Masai Mara in Kenya, the iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa, and even the vast expanse of the Serengeti in Kenya.

There is nothing more wide-eye inducing than watching as a cheetah, in a 70mph predator run, chase and bring down a small springbok, or watching lions eat their freshly caught breakfast, or see baby zebras learn to walk.

But not everyone is lucky on a safari when it comes to wildlife viewing, especially if you plan to self drive, so we’ve put together this list of tips and important things to know before a safari.

1. Plan Your Safari Destination & Dates in Advance

2. make a list of animals you want to see, 3. know the best time for animal viewing.

• 4. Don't Get Fixated On Seeing ALL The Big 5

5. Get A Good Camera

6. take a guided night drive, 7. take a guided walking safari.

• 8. Know That Monkeys Can Be "Cheeky"

9. Be Prepared For A Lot Of Hiking On A Gorilla Trek

10. pack light, 11. be quiet at water sources, 12. be prepared for dust, 13. take note of these safety tips for game drives, group tours of africa, final thoughts, more africa travel tips, things to know before going on a safari.

Before any game drive, careful planning is essential for making the most of the safari experience. You need to choose your destination wisely, and you also need to choose the right time of year.

Typically, the best time of year for wildlife viewing in Africa is late June to October, which is Africa’s winter season.

This time of year the wildlife are on the move as the weather is not too hot. If you have opted for a safari in Kenya or Tanzania, then time your safari for July through November, when the Great Migration takes place.

This is when hundreds of thousands of wildebeest migrate thousands of miles across the savannah, which attracts predators such as lions and cheetah.

In the dry season, the grass is short making it easier to spot wildlife, but it does also mean the choice of drinking water sources for the animals will be fewer.

This may increase your chances of watching them socialise at flood lit waterholes opposite your campsite, with an ice cold beer.

We learned this safari tip the hard way.

We visited Etosha NP in Namibia during the wet season. Etosha is notorious for brilliant water hole animal viewing, except we didn’t see much at all. The campsite water holes that usually see an abundance of wildlife were empty due to the abundance of water around the park.

You then need to decide what wild animals you want to see, as some animals are only found in certain parks.

For example, if you really want to see elephants, then the best place to go would be Addo Elephant Park in South Africa .

Typically, private game reserves have the best wildlife viewing as they are smaller, but you do need to consider they are smaller in land mass which might not be as eco-friendly as a national park.

If it’s gorillas you want to see, then plan to visit Uganda or Rwanda, or if you want to see a place teeming with everything, Kruger National Park or Masai Mara in Kenya are great all-round game reserves.

Going to many different parks all over the continent will wipe out your budget. The best way to decide which game serve or national park to visit is to consider where the animals you most want to see are location.

Animals are most active at dusk and dawn. It is very hot in Africa, so during the day the animals are usually hibernating in the shade.

Be sure to do the same thing yourself. If your excitement is too hard to contain and you go out during the day, the only result will be that you chew up your fuel budget, and an eventual visit to the chiropractor for neck strain.

Get up early to catch the animals at play, rest during the day, and then go out again just before sundown.

You have a much better chance of seeing them up close and personal on the road.

There were several times we turned a corner to find a lioness resting on the warm tar. It was a magnificent sight to see her suddenly jump into launch mode, and stare us down through our front windscreen.

TIP: Lions like to sleep on the road at night to soak up the day’s heat trapped in the tar. If you’re up early enough you

4. Don’t Get Fixated On Seeing ALL The Big 5

The excitement of seeing the Big 5 is very enticing i.e. rhino, buffalo, leopard, lion, and elephant.

Why are these animals called the Big 5? It has nothing to do with size, these animals were the most prized trophies of hunters years ago.

Please don’t get fixated on the Big 5 and think this is all that matters. Remember travel is not about checking things off your list.

There are so many different animals for you to discover and learn from, and each is valuable in its own right.

Spend time appreciating them all. I used to even love watching the dung beetles. They were fascinating and I learned so much about them in the process.

Dung beetles are also dying out, so if you see one, you’re more lucky than seeing a rhino. Wild dogs are also super rare, though they don’t get the same fan-fare as lions and cheetahs.

Sadly, black rhinos and white rhinos are dying out and near extinction, so the chances of seeing these animals are rare. Don’t forget these are wild animals and you can’t control where they go – so don’t beat yourself up if you spend 5 days in a game reserve and don’t see a rhino.

Do yourself a favour, spend the money to buy some good zoom lenses. We opted for a a 600mm zoom lens.

Animals are scared of you, they won’t come close for a portrait, and you won’t sneak up closer to them (I hope).

You’ve spent all the money, time, and energy to put yourself in a place of contact with these wild animals, you want to have something to take away from it and keep with you for memories and reflection.

Read more: Here’s what’s in our camera bag

You might think that a night drive wouldn’t be much fun, after all, how much can you see in the dark? You’d be surprised!

Once night falls you can jump in an open topped vehicle, with a huge spot light, and a guide to tell you more about what you see as you drive around the park, hearing the sounds of nighttime Africa, and seeing only the red eyes of creatures in the dark.

This is the time when leopards usually hunt, and you may see some other noctural animals like porcupines and jackals.

Note that you can only go on night drives organized at your safari lodge. All gates to accommodations close by nightfall, and so you better be locked safe and sound inside them.

Just do it! Getting on the ground with these magnificent beasts in their territory will get your heart pumping.

We didn’t have as much action as anticipated, but we did get close to rhinos (downwind) and we smelled the fear of the lions running away from us in the distance.

If you take a tour please make sure they are eco-friendly and protect the animals and their habitats from these dangerous human encounters.

Alternatively, a horse ride is a relaxing and pleasurable way to see the stunning scenery with friendly herbivores by our side. We went horse riding through the valleys in Swaziland amongst warthogs, zebra and deer.

If you’re out walking amongst lions and rhinos, you might want to make sure you have adequate travel insurance! Check V isitor’s Coverage and World Nomads , and SafetyWing for prices and policies.

8. Know That Monkeys Can Be “Cheeky”

Monkeys in all shapes and forms are hilarious. Sit and watch them and be highly entertained.

We saw them arguing, b***slapping one another, picking each others nits, jumping over our car trying to take it hostage, and yes doing it like they do on discovery channel- over and over again!

It’s not uncommon for monkeys to get curious with safari goers and may even jump on your vehicle and try to swipe your camera.

If you encounter monkeys, keep all food and water locked away in your bags and keep an eye on your belongings.

If your plan is not to go on a safari, but to go on one of the iconic gorilla treks, go in prepared to do a lot of hiking.

These gorilla treks can be anywhere from 30 minutes in the jungle to 8 hours. It really depends on where the gorillas are and how quickly they move.

You really don’t need to pack much when you’re going on a safari, since you spend all day in a vehicle being driven around the wilderness.

Bring snacks and plenty of water, but make sure you bring a bag that closes so nothing can fall out.

If you are going out for sunrise to sunset, you will need to pack a picnic for breakfast and lunch (sometimes it’s provided as part of a tour).

Some game reserves have a restaurant (Kruger NP has a really nice one) but not all of them have these facilities.

There are usually hides next to a water source where you can safely exit your vehicle and walk into.

These hides are for viewing hippos and crocodiles, and they sit right by the water so you get an amazing view.

If you have small kids, please, please, ask them to be quiet. The hippos will duck under the water if they start screaming. I know it’s exciting, but remember you are in wildlife’s home and these animals are easily spooked.

The savannah is a dry, barren landscape, and it has a lot of dust. These safari vehicles are usually open top, or at least, don’t have windows, so dust gets everywhere.

It will be all over your clothes, all over your skin, in your hair and in your eyes.

I recommend you wear sunglasses to protect your eyes, and bring a scarf or something to wear over your mouth if it becomes unbareable.

Never, ever, ever, and I mean ever, get out of your car. UNLESS in a safe designated area, or with an armed ranger present.

This is the wild, don’t mess with it.

I know this sounds a bit like a ‘No Sh*t, Sherlock’ kind of statement, but you will be surprised at how many people get eaten by lions trying to get that perfect shot.

Keep a safe distance when you encounter a wild animal and when in your vehicle keep your windows rolled up

If you get stuck between a herd of elephants (this happened to someone we know) turn off your engine, keep your windows up, and wait patiently for them to move on before driving past.

Elephants feel vibrations through their feet, and the car engine could spook them or cause them to feel threatened.

Zip your tent up at night. Nothing beats hearing the roar of a lion in the middle of the night, but you don’t want to invite it in for dinner.

We rented a car for most of the safaris we visited. Check Discover Cars for best prices and availability .

If you’re considering joining a group tour for Africa, consider our long-term partner Globus family of brands. We have a discount in the blue box below.

• Globus tours of Africa
• Cosmos tours of Africa

GLOBUS DISCOUNT JUST FOR YOU!

We’ve secured an exclusive yTravel discoun t: Save $100 per person on select 2024 Globus and Avalon Waterway Vacations. Use the code: YTRAVEL when booking online at the Globus , Cosmos , and Avalon Waterways websites, by calling Globus and Avalon Waterways directly, or booking with a preferred Travel Advisor. Terms & Conditions .

As you prepare to leave for Africa, you may have come to realize Africa is a long way from home, it’s rough travel, and safari’s are expensive.

Good for you for deciding to do some research, and for making a plan. This is the first step to ensuring you see the best African wildlife encounters and make the most of the experience.

We hope these African safari tips has helped you plan ahead, avoid making the usual safari mistakes, and gave you the insight to ensure that your dream African adventure brings you the most amazing wild animal encounters you can brag about for years to come.

Need more inspiration for your trip to Africa? Then these other guides might be helpful to you…

• Top 5 Things in Botswana to experience the natural beauty
• 7 Reasons to visit Mozambique
• 13 awe-inspiring things to do in Eastern and Southern Africa
• Africa Travel Safety Tips
• Helpful tips for getting around East and Southern Africa
• How to travel Africa on a budget
• Ep 02 Podcast of our 5 year honeymoon (6 months in Africa)

Travel | May 17, 2024

Get a Taste of South Africa Through These 15 Photos of Stunning Wildlife and Vibrant Communities

From desert landscapes to glittering beaches, see what this country has to offer

Text by Tracy Scott Forson

Photographs selected by Jeff Campagna

With nearly 20 national parks across the country, South Africa has more than enough beautiful landscapes and wild fauna to attract naturalists, conservationists and animal lovers. Safari tours are common, and travelers are able to see everything from antelopes to zebras. Add to that the waterfalls, distinct vegetation and scenic oceans, and you have an unforgettable journey to one of the most beautiful countries in the world. See for yourself.

Get the latest Travel & Culture stories in your inbox.

Tracy Scott Forson | READ MORE

Tracy Scott Forson is a senior editor at Smithsonian magazine.

Jeff Campagna | | READ MORE

Jeff Campagna is a photo editor at Smithsonian magazine. You can follow him on Instagram at @jeffcampagna .

Richard Branson’s New Luxury Safari, The World’s Best Beaches And More Travel News

Plus: Rise of the ‘hush-cation’ and the worst day to book a flight.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Richard Branson Adds African Safari Lodge to Virgin Portfolio

R ichard Branson has added a new safari experience to his Virgin Limited Edition portfolio—the award-winning Finch Hattons Luxury Safari Camp in Kenya . Located in Africa's only Shetani lava flow, Finch Hattons features 17 tented suites and offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The camp joins other African destinations in Virgin Limited Edition's collection, including Mahali Mzuri (also in Kenya), South Africa’s Ulusaba Private Game Reserve and Mont Rochelle hotel and vineyard, and Kasbah Tamadot in Morocco.

7 Things to Do As Soon As You Board a Cruise Ship

If you’ve never taken a cruise before, embarking a modern vessel for the first time can be very overwhelming. By not taking care of certain things within the first few hours of a voyage, you risk spoiling your dream vacation. Here are 7 things you should do as soon as you board a cruise ship .

The World’s Best Beaches 2024

Each year, World’s 50 Best Beaches asks thousands of travel professionals to nominate their favorite sandy shores, then ranks them based on landscape, water quality and other criteria. This year, the No. 1 beach in the world is Trunk Bay, located on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Rounding out the top three are Italy’s Cala Mariolu and Meads Bay in Anguilla.

Saturday may be the perfect day to fall asleep on a beach chair, but it’s the worst day of the week to book a cheap flight . According to a new study that analyzed Google Flights data for 10 of the busiest domestic airline routes, waiting until the end of the week to lock in a flight comes at a 13% premium. Monday and Tuesday are essentially tied for the least expensive day to book a flight.

Rise of the ‘Hush-cation’

Coming out of the pandemic, “bleisure” became a buzzword as workers learned to combine business trips with a leisure travel. Now that work from home has become more normalized, a new trend has emerged—“hush-cations.” With people able to work remotely, many employees are now secretly taking vacations while continuing to work by the pool or mountains—or wherever their wanderlust leads them. After all, does it really matter where you’re getting your work done as long as it gets done? Here’s what you need to know about hush-cations.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

• Find & Reserve
• Special Offers
• Meetings & Events
• Our Credit Cards
• About Marriott Bonvoy
• Careers at Marriott

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge

• Accommodations
• Experiences
• Meetings & Weddings

Welcome to JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge

Experience a luxury african safari lodge in the masai mara.

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge marks the debut of the first luxury safari lodge in the brand portfolio. Overlooking the Talek River and the Masai Mara National Reserve, this lodge features 20 luxurious and expansive ensuite tents (including an interconnecting family suite and accessible suite, all with their own private outdoor Jacuzzi tub and deck. Your experience includes meals (breakfast, lunch, high tea sundowner and dinner, both on property and bush meals, a selection of beverages, game drives, airstrip transfers, and many meaningful moments. Communal areas include a dining area, lounge bar, spa, gym, photographic studio, garden and a large outdoor viewing deck with a fire pit. Embark on a soul enriching journey with us, where every moment is destined to be unforgettable in one of the finest luxury tented camps and African safari lodges. For the safety and comfort of our guests we have age restrictions for children under six.

Rooms & Suites

Featured amenities on-site, hotel information.

Check-in: 2:00 pm

Check-out: 10:00 am

Pets Not Allowed

Service animals only

Complimentary On-Site Parking

Sarabi Restaurant

Savour diverse, locally-inspired cuisine freshly prepared to suit your own distinctive tastes in a breathtaking setting. A culinary journey awaits al fresco at the veranda. It's a wonderful place to experience breakfast or dinner during your Mara visit.

A nourishing and relaxing outdoor space that fosters authentic connections while striving to honor the surrounding natural environment.

Sarabi Breakfast

Indulge in a delightful spread of freshly baked pastries, hearty omelets, and gourmet coffee at Sarabi Restaurant.

Fig Tree Lounge and Deck

Be inspired by the simple beauty of the world around you as you sip on meticulously crafted drinks infused with fresh ingredients at our Fig Tree Lounge and Deck.

More Ways to Enjoy Your Stay

Enjoy an unforgettable experience at our luxury spa. We understand your need to regenerate holistically and offer locally rooted organic products and treatments for the Whole You experience.

Fitness Center

Enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness while still focusing on your fitness at our hotel gym.

GETTING HERE

Talek River, Masai Mara Reserve, Masai Mara, Kenya, 00100

Safari land cruisers;on request

On-Property

Local Shuttle Complimentary

Property Details

Accepts: Credit Cards

Concierge desk service

Languages spoken by staff: English

For more information about the physical features of our accessible rooms, common areas or special services relating to a specific disability please call +254 797-222999

Accessible on-site parking

Van Accessible on-site parking

Accessible Entrance to On-Site Pool

Entrance to On-Site Fitness Center is Accessible

Entrance to On-Site Spa is Accessible

Main Entrance is Accessible

Meeting Spaces are Accessible

On-Site Restaurants are Accessible

Accessible Vanities

Adjustable Height Hand-Held Shower Wand

Bathtub Grab Rails

Bathtub Seat

Deadbolts on Guest Room and Suites Doors

Electronic Room Key

Guest Room and Suites Doors Self-Closing

Lever Handles on Guest Room Doors

Lowered Electrical Outlets

Mobility accessible rooms

Non-slip Grab Rails in the Bathroom

Roll-in Shower

Toilet Seat at Wheelchair Height - Toilet for Disabled

Transfer Showers in Guest Rooms

Frequently Asked Questions

The check-in time at JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is 2:00 pm and the check-out time is 10:00 am.

The pet policy at JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is:

Pets Not Allowed (Service animals only)

The parking options at JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge are:

The property amenities at JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge are:

Yes, JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge has free Wi-Fi available to hotel guests.

Unlock your stay with the Marriott Bonvoy™ App

JW MARRIOTT® MASAI MARA LODGE

Talek River, Masai Mara Reserve,

Masai Mara, Kenya, 00100

Top Destinations

Our company.

© 1996 – 2024 Marriott International, Inc. All rights reserved. Marriott Proprietary Information

Please select your preferred language

The americas, asia and oceania.

• Bahasa Indonesia

INTERNATIONAL

Local News | African Safari Wildlife Park to introduce…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on X (Opens in new window)
• Lorain County
• Cuyahoga County
• Opioid Epidemic

Local News | African Safari Wildlife Park to introduce capybaras, launch interactive experience

Capybaras, which are the world’s largest rodents, are found in wetlands throughout much of South America.

They are closely related to guinea pigs, and many individual capybaras are remarked on for their “chill” personalities, according to the release.

While capybaras are not threatened with extinction, they serve as ambassadors for vulnerable freshwater ecosystems around the world, the release said.

“Capybaras have become very popular over the past few years, and our guests have told us over and over that they want to see Capybaras at the Park,” said Park director Kelsey Keller in the release. “It wasn’t something we wanted to rush into.

“We put a lot of time, energy and research into designing and building the perfect home for these animals and making sure this habitat functions as a learning opportunity for our guests.”

The capybaras’ habitat is approximately 1,500 square feet in size and is outfitted with naturalistic features such as a large pool, a waterfall and ample shade.

The Park’s construction team is putting the finishing touches on this space ahead of the animals’ arrival in late May.

Also, the Park will introduce a capybara encounter in mid-June.

Guests participating in this interactive experience will have the opportunity to feed, touch and learn about the capybaras, the release said.

As with all of the Park’s animal experiences, this encounter is contingent upon weather and the animals’ voluntary participation.

Advanced bookings can be made at www.africansafariwildlifepark.com/safari/animal-encounters .

“There’s definitely a ‘cool factor’ to getting up close and personal with a capybara, but this is first and foremost an educational opportunity for our guests,” Keller said. “We want to make sure they walk away with an appreciation for Capybaras and other animals that depend on lakes and rivers to survive.”

For more information, visit www.AfricanSafariWildlifePark.com .

More in Local News

Local news | firelands electric holding electrical safety contest for k-5 students.

Local News | Many turn out for Lorain County Beautiful Day

Local News | Amherst Fire Chief Jim Wilhelm dies after cancer battle

Local News | Funeral Mass held for Euclid police officer killed in line of duty

African Safari Wildlife Park introduces capybaras, interactive experience

PORT CLINTON, Ohio (WTVG) - African Safari Wildlife Park has announced it will be adding capybaras to the Park’s walk-thru safari this summer as well as an opportunity for guests to meet these unique animals.

African Safari Wilfdlife says capybaras, the world’s largest rodents, are found in wetlands throughout much of South America, are closely related to guinea pigs.

“Capybaras have become very popular over the past few years, and our guests have told us over and over that they want to see capybaras at the Park,” said Park director Kelsey Keller. “It wasn’t something we wanted to rush into. We put a lot of time, energy and research into designing and building the perfect home for these animals and making sure this habitat functions as a learning opportunity for our guests.”

According to the Park, the capybaras’ habitat is approximately 1,500 square feet in size with naturalistic features such as a large pool, a waterfall and shade. The Park’s construction team is putting the finishing touches on the space before the animals arrive in late May.

The Park says it will also introduce an interactive capybara encounter in mid-June. Those who participate in the interactive experience will have the opportunity to feed, touch and learn about the capybaras. Advanced bookings for the interactive experience can be made here .

“There’s definitely a ‘cool factor’ to getting up close and personal with a capybara, but this is first and foremost an educational opportunity for our guests,” said Keller. “We want to make sure they walk away with an appreciation for capybaras and other animals that depend on lakes and rivers to survive.”

Latest Local News | First Alert Weather | Crime | National | 13abc Originals

Copyright 2024 WTVG. All rights reserved.

Father and daughter dead, mother and son injured in Fulton Co. home explosion

Top Thrill 2 closes indefinitely weeks after opening, Cedar Point confirms

Toledo man pleads not guilty for cutting person who allegedly sexually assaulted his girlfriend

Paying it forward at a local pizza shop after a big order was never picked up

Verdict reached in trial for Toledo men charged in kidnapping, murder of two teens

Latest news.

Motorcyclist dead in crash at Bancroft and Putnam, officials say

Baby elephant at Toledo Zoo, thought to be a male, is actually a female

5/18: Derek's Saturday Evening Forecast

‘A true hero’: Slain Euclid Officer Jacob Derbin laid to rest

• You are here:
• Full Board & All Inclusive African Safaris

Your Safari

Tour length, rates in usd $ – change currency, starting from.

• Nairobi (0)
• Entebbe (0)
• Johannesburg (0)
• Zanzibar (0)
• Dar es Salaam (0)
• Victoria Falls Town (0)
• Kampala (0)
• Windhoek (0)
• Cape Town (0)
• Addis Ababa (0)
• Livingstone (0)
• Mombasa (0)
• Antananarivo (0)
• Hoedspruit (0)
• Port Elizabeth (0)
• Pretoria (0)
• Hazyview (0)
• Nelspruit (0)
• Upington (0)
• Blantyre (0)
• Diani Beach (0)
• Lilongwe (0)
• Nosy Be (0)
• Bujumbura (0)

Comfort Level

• Luxury+ (131)
• Luxury (1,487)
• Mid-range (4,420)
• Budget (2,299)

Private or Shared Tour

• Private tour (1,321)
• Shared tour (297)

Safari Type

• Lodge, tented camp or hotel (1,618)
• Camping (0)

Operator Rating

• & up (1,623)

Specialized Tours

• Fly-in safaris (243)
• Beach time (195)
• Honeymoon (1,618)
• Gorilla trekking (35)
• Photographic safaris (0)
• Mountain climbing (0)
• Walking safaris (4)
• Self-drive (27)
• Guided self-drive (0)
• Chimp trekking (18)
• Overland tours (0)
• Cycling safaris (2)
• Canoe safaris (8)
• Horseback safaris (4)
• Birding tours (1)
• Accessible safaris (0)
• Golf & Wildlife (0)

Other Tour Features

• Airport transfer is included (1,610)
• Itinerary can be customized (1,367)

Filter by Operator

Filter by accommodation, operators from.

• Kenya (440)
• South Africa (482)
• Tanzania (451)
• United Kingdom (132)
• United States (93)
• Australia (16)
• Belgium (0)
• Botswana (13)
• Canada (13)
• Comoros (0)
• Denmark (0)
• Ethiopia (5)
• Eswatini (0)
• Germany (0)
• Ireland (0)
• Lesotho (0)
• Madagascar (0)
• Mauritius (0)
• Mayotte (0)
• Mozambique (0)
• Namibia (21)
• Netherlands (0)
• New Zealand (0)
• Nigeria (0)
• Portugal (3)
• Reunion (0)
• Rwanda (21)
• Seychelles (0)
• Singapore (0)
• Switzerland (27)
• Uganda (46)
• United Arab Emirates (0)
• Zambia (22)
• Zimbabwe (25)

All-inclusive African Safari - Compare 1,618 Packages

9-Day Luxury Tailor-Made Tanzania Wildlife Safari

$7,890 to $11,991 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Northern Serengeti NP, Arusha (End)

Wayfairer Travel

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

7-Day Black Rhino Tracking Luxury Safari

$3,080 to $3,520 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Serengeti Wakanda Tours and Safaris

5.0 /5  –  475 Reviews

8-Day Exceptional Luxury Safari-Magical Kenya Fairyland

$3,212 to $3,850 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Amboseli NP, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Lake Nakuru NP, Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Apodiformes Adventures

4.8 /5  –  175 Reviews

6-Day Fly-in and Drive-out Luxury Safari

$4,070 to $4,400 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Highlands, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire NP, Arusha (End)

African Big Cats Safaris

5.0 /5  –  364 Reviews

3-Day Serengeti Luxury Trip & Four Seasons Safari Lodge

$2,761 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury+ Lodge

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Central Serengeti NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Shengena Adventure

5.0 /5  –  44 Reviews

7-Day Magical Kenya Luxury Safari

$3,801 to $4,400 pp (USD)

Estleon Adventures

5.0 /5  –  117 Reviews

6-Day Majestic Tanzania - High-End

$4,050 to $5,290 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury+ Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Unlimited Expeditions: The Soul of Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  441 Reviews

4-Day Ultra Luxury Radisson Kruger Safari

$894 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Luxury+ Hotel

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Johannesburg Airport (End)

MoAfrika Tours

4.9 /5  –  1215 Reviews

10-Day Luxury Bush and Beach Safari

$3,996 to $4,730 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Resort

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Amboseli NP, Diani Beach, Nairobi (End)

Rochar Africa Expeditions

4.9 /5  –  15 Reviews

4-Day Unwrapped Luxury Kenya Safari

$2,552 to $3,640 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Luxury+ Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Kameraz of Afrika

4.8 /5  –  100 Reviews

4-Day Serengeti Fly in, Fly out Safari Luxury Safari

$2,475 to $2,640 pp (USD)

You Visit: Zanzibar (Start) , Central Serengeti NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Highlands, Zanzibar (End)

Safari Soles

5.0 /5  –  248 Reviews

3-Day Akagera Wildlife Safari and a Boat Cruise

$1,189 pp (USD)

Rwanda: Private tour Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Kigali (Start) , Akagera NP, Kigali (End)

Hermosa Life Tours and Travel

5.0 /5  –  107 Reviews

4-Day Tsavo and Amboseli Private Luxury Safari

$1,100 to $1,518 pp (USD)

You Visit: Mombasa (Start) , Tsavo East NP, Tsavo West NP, Amboseli NP, Nairobi (End)

Africa Flash Mc Tours & Travel

5.0 /5  –  314 Reviews

4-Day Affordable Masai Mara Safari

$3,010 to $4,750 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Greater Masai Mara, Nairobi (End)

Discover Africa Safaris

4.9 /5  –  423 Reviews

5-Day Unforgettable Luxury Safari in Tanzania Wilderness

$2,442 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Lake Manyara NP, Arusha (End)

Habitat Adventures Travel

5.0 /5  –  37 Reviews

8-Day Uganda Luxury and Big Five Wildlife Safari

$5,005 pp (USD)

Uganda: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Entebbe (Start) , Kibale NP (Chimps) , Queen Elizabeth NP, Bwindi NP (Gorillas) , Entebbe Airport (End)

Pamoja Tours and Travel (Entebbe, UG)

4.8 /5  –  49 Reviews

3-Day Masai Mara Group Safari - Emayian Luxury Camp

$880 to $1,353 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 7 people per vehicle) Luxury Tented Camp

Mamu Travels and Safaris Kenya

5.0 /5  –  16 Reviews

10-Day Bush and Beach Bliss Safari

$3,581 to $4,478 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Amboseli NP, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Lake Nakuru NP, Masai Mara NR, Diani Beach, Nairobi (End)

Salina Wild Adventures

4.8 /5  –  34 Reviews

4-Day All-Inclusive Kruger Safari with Hoyo Hoyo

$1,500 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

4.7 /5  –  186 Reviews

7-Day Best of the Wild Luxury Safari

$3,522 to $3,553 pp (USD)

Kilimanjaro Adventure Safari Club

5.0 /5  –  147 Reviews

Related Searches

• Fly-in Safaris
• African Canoe Safaris
• Best Safari Parks
• African Glamping Safaris
• Tanzania Luxury Safari Tours
• Kenya Luxury Tours
• South Africa Luxury Safaris
• Uganda Luxury Gorilla Tours
• Serengeti Luxury Safari Tours
• Masai Mara Luxury Tours
• Kruger Luxury Safari Holidays
• Chobe Luxury Tours
• Ngorongoro Crater Luxury Safaris
• Amboseli Luxury Safaris
• Sabi Sands Luxury Safaris
• Pilanesberg Luxury Safaris
• Okavango Delta Luxury Safaris
• Nyerere Luxury Safaris
• Etosha Luxury Safaris

Capybaras to be featured in new African Safari Wildlife Park walk-through exhibit

• Published: May. 17, 2024, 4:08 p.m.

The African Wildlife Safari Park in Port Clinton is adding capybaras to its animal crew this summer. African Wildlife Safari Park

• Alex Darus, cleveland.com

PORT CLINTON, Ohio — The African Safari Wildlife Park has added capybaras to its walk-thru safari for the upcoming summer season.

The animals, which are the largest rodents in the world, are native to South American wetlands and are related to guinea pigs. The unusual animal has become a fan favorite on TikTok , with several capybara videos raking in millions of views on the app.

The safari park has a 1,500 sq. ft. habitat for the capybara crew, complete with a pool, waterfall and plenty of shade. The capybaras are set to arrive in Port Clinton in late May, with plans to introduce the encounter excursion to guests in mid-June.

Stories by Alex Darus

• Cleveland’s Old 86 bar finds creative nightly snack option in Bad Company wing delivery
• 19 things to do in Northeast Ohio this weekend, from Cleveland Marathon to Asian Festival
• DineDrinkCLE talks Oat Haus relocation to Cleveland, Ficarra Cellars, Ohio distillery trail

The add-on capybara encounter will allow visitors to pet, feed and learn about the animals close up.

“Capybaras have become very popular over the past few years, and our guests have told us over and over that they want to see Capybaras at the Park,” African Safari Wildlife Park director Kelsey Keller said in a press release. “It wasn’t something we wanted to rush into. We put a lot of time, energy and research into designing and building the perfect home for these animals and making sure this habitat functions as a learning opportunity for our guests.”

The African Safari Wildlife Park will charge $15 per guest for a 10-minute experience with the animals. Closed-toe shoes are required and children under 3 are not permitted to participate in the add-on excursion. The capybara experience is not included in the general admission ticket.

Other exotic animals included in the walk-through safari are the African warthog, an American alligator and a white-handed gibbon. General admission tickets range from $20 to $33 depending on the season, with discounts for seniors, children, military personnel and first responders, and include access to the drive-thru and walk-thru safari experiences.

Ohio Safari Park, African Safari Wildlife Park, is at 267 S. Lightner Road in Port Clinton. More information is available at africansafariwildlifepark.com/safari/animal-encounters/capybara-encounter/

Alex Darus writes about food, dining and drinking for Cleveland.com, check out her latest posts here . You can reach her with story ideas at [email protected] . Follow her on Instagram @alex_darus.

Be one of the cool kids and follow all Cleveland.com ’s food, dining and drinking coverage in the weekly “DineDrinkCLE” newsletter. It curates the latest on openings, closings, tastings and other events, plus recommendations, features and guides from our team of writers and critics. SUBSCRIBE Follow us on Instagram @dinedrinkcle

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.