Africa Safari Destinations
An African safari is a dream holiday for many where one gets to see a whole new world, the wildlife. The name safari originated from the Swahili word for ‘journey‘, and in colonial times, the implication was that big game would be hunted. Today, the negative attachment of the word ‘safari‘ is replaced by more responsible travel, which means to “observe the animals in their natural habitat”. Africa is home to 54 countries and where the East and the South are known not only for its rich wildlife but also for its cultural diversity and amazing sceneries.
Learn more About Africa.
Eastern Africa
Eastern Africa is the eastern region of the African continent and has several territories under its wing but in terms of safari destinations in this region, they would be Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. These countries are home to several national parks, and game reserves where hundreds and millions of animals live freely.
Tanzania
Probably the most popular safari destination in the east and famous for the Serengeti park, which holds the world-famous Wildebeest Migration where millions of animals cross the river to Kenya and back in search of greener pastures.
Kenya
Known for Masai Mara Game Reserve where one is almost guaranteed to see the Big 5. This is because of its smaller area and high density of animals. Kenya is relatively cheaper than Tanzania and often has group-joining tours making it a good option for budget and solo travelers.
Rwanda
Rwanda has a green, mountainous landscape. Unlike Tanzania and Kenya, Rwanda doesn’t have as many diverse wildlife. However, it remains a top safari destination for the rare mountain gorillas and golden monkeys at the renowned Volcanoes National Park. A permit to trek and see the gorillas cost 1,500 USD per person.
Southern Africa
Southern Africa is the southernmost region of the African continent. This is not to be confused with South Africa, which is a country. In this region, the top safari destinations are South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, Botswana, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. It’s safe to say that you can find most, if not all, the animals in either region. The difference is the density of animals in certain parks/ reserves, the scenery, landscapes, and overall topography.
South Africa
South Africa is undoubtedly the most common safari go-to place due to its positive reputation in terms of safety, ease of travel, and cost of flights. Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest game reserves and is popular for many travelers as you can self-drive with its well-posted routes.
Namibia
Namibia provides a unique experience being home to the world’s oldest desert, the Namib, and stunning mountain ranges. You can climb to the highest sand dunes in the world in Sossusvlei, then a descent to the deepest canyon in Africa to watch wildlife in the utopia.
Mozambique
Mozambique falls behind in safari popularity but not to be taken for granted. The vast wilderness of Gorongosa National Park was once considered one of the best game reserves in Africa and has witnessed a rapid recovery of wildlife populations in recent years. Apart from safari, Mozambique is also home to stunning diving spots if you want to see the stunning life under the sea.
Zambia
Here you’ll also find diverse wildlife, with many parks and safari areas. In its border with Zimbabwe is the famed Victoria Falls plunging a misty 108m into narrow Batoka Gorge. During Dry Season, the famous Devil’s Pool, though not really a safari thing, is not to be missed.
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is known for its dramatic landscape and diverse wildlife, much of it is within parks, reserves and safari areas. The view of the Victoria Falls is gorgeous from Zimbabwe. Downstream are Matusadona and Mana Pools National Parks, home to hippos, rhinos, and birdlife.
5 Tips on How to Choose your Destination
Consider where you’re flying from (cost, distance, visa)
Depending on where you’re flying from, flight costs may vary significantly. Flights to Kenya and South Africa are usually cheaper compared to other African countries being both international hubs. Check how many connecting flights too, and hours of layover. Finally, perhaps prioritize African safari destinations where it’s easiest and cheapest to get a visa, better if you don’t need a visa at all. Read Plan Your Trip to get more ideas.
What time of the year are you planning to go?
Checking “Best time to go” may help narrow down your options. If it’s rainy season in your 1st option at your planned travel dates, move on to consider the next. Peak season is considerably more expensive so if you are looking to save, you can also research which destinations will coincide with off or shoulder season at the time of your visit.
Research about the country’s profile, and current condition
It’s common for most travelers to check the safety situation in the countries they plan to visit, especially if it’s in Africa. The African safari destinations are safe places to visit but it wouldn’t hurt to double-check during your period of travel. Check if there’s an outbreak of diseases, or if there’s an ongoing election or political turmoil. If there is, this can help narrow down your options too.
What do you really want to see?
In Tanzania for example, the great migration river crossing season begins around the end of July while the calving season happens around August. You can see the Big 5 game in most safari destinations all-year-round. There is a huge Flamingo concentrations in Kenya, Elephants in Botswana, etc…
Consider the overall cost and type of the safari offered
Kenya is cheaper than Tanzania and more popular for group-joining making it a popular choice for backpackers. Botswana has lots of luxury lodges and ideal for honeymooners. Self-drive is common in South Africa if you want that flexibility whereas a fully-arranged tour is a norm in Tanzania where everything is all-inclusive. If you consider all these factors against your personal preferences, you would easily be able to make a choice.
