Best African Safari Countries & Beautiful Destinations , Top Picks 2025.
If you’re unsure about where to go on safari in Africa, we’ve put together a list of the top safari nations and their must-see tourist attractions.
These African safari nations are regarded as some of the continent’s most stunning, well-liked, and often visited safari locations.
Uganda
Tanzania
Rwanda
Kenya
South Africa
Botswana
Namibia
Zambia
Zimbabwe
Morocco
Safari in Uganda
Ugandan mountain gorillas
One of the places to find the best African safaris is Uganda, sometimes known as the Pearl of Africa. Numerous natural characteristics of Uganda, such as mountains, lakes, hills, and the country’s unique cultures, as well as various national parks with wildlife, birds, and rivers, draw tourists.
More than 1100 bird species, 365 animal species, the longest river in the world (the Nile), the largest free-standing volcano in the world (the Mountain Elgon), the highest peak in Africa (the Rwenzori mountain), and other stunning landscapes can all be found in Uganda.
There are over ten national parks in Uganda, including the Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kidepo, Kibale National Park, Bwindi, which is home to the world’s largest population of mountain gorillas, and many more. You can engage in a variety of activities in each of these parks, such as bird watching, kayaking, biking, and observing various wild animals. The country’s many waterfalls and mountains are also visible. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is the primary activity in this nation.
Safari in Kenya
Kenyan cheetah safari
Kenya, a country in sub-Saharan Africa, has 25 national parks, 6 marine parks, and 16 national reserves. It is rather difficult to discuss a safari without mentioning Kenya. Safaris in Kenya allow you to see a variety of exotic creatures, and while there, you may see the Great Migration.
In the big migration, a variety of wild animals relocate in enormous numbers in pursuit of better food and weather conditions. Along with seeing the distinctive culture of the Masai people and other cultures found in the nation, you will also have the opportunity to explore the Masai Mara.
Masai Mara National Park
One of Kenya’s biggest wildlife sanctuaries is this national park. The Masai people were honored with its name. The park is particularly well-known for its remarkable and distinctive Masai lions, African leopards, Tanzanian cheetahs, zebras, wildebeest, and Thomson’s gazelle, which migrate there every year.
Covering 520 square kilometers, the national park was created in 1961 as a wildlife refuge. The national park now spans 1510 km throughout the southwest region of Kenya. Additionally, it shares borders with the Serengeti National Park in the south, pastoral ranches in the north and east, and the Sina escarpments in the west.
Known as one of the best wildlife parks on the world, this park is particularly well-liked in Kenya, the leading safari destination in Africa. The Savannah grasslands of the park are also teeming with untamed creatures, and many visitors become stranded by the Mara’s untamed African might.
The Great Migration is the primary reason to visit this East African national park. From July to October, zebras, gazelles, and wildebeest swarm the plains in search of better pasture as part of this annual animal migration. In addition, the park is home to over 450 different kinds of birds and some of the larger predators. with addition to the animals, you will meet the indigenous Maasai people with their light robes who inhabit the Masai Mara throughout your safari trip.
Safari in Tanzania
Tanzanian Serengeti Safari Lions
Tanzania, which shares borders with Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, offers a number of interesting sights and activities for visitors. Tanzania is well-known for its several national parks, but perhaps most famously for the Great Migration, in which vast herds of animals migrate to areas with favorable weather and food supplies.
Gombe Stream National Park, Ngorongoro National Park, and other national parks are among Tanzania’s sixteen national parks. During your visit, you will also get the opportunity to see more than 1100 different types of birds and more than 25,000 animals.
The Serengeti National Park
Many of the largest populations of animals may be found in this park, which is north of Tanzania and a popular safari destination.
on the planet. The yearly wildebeest migration is the main draw here. The park is made up of endless grasslands with a few isolated trees here and there. Many hoofed mammal species roam the Serengeti environment every year between December and July, moving between the Masai Mara and Serengeti Park, which is also bounded by unfenced areas.
Tanzanian Wildebeest Migration
The Serengeti National Park is thought to be home to the greatest number of lions and is home to a diverse range of animals, including the big five of African safaris. In addition, it is home to more than 500 bird species, including raptors. Along with boundless horizons and expansive plains, the national park offers an unparalleled African safari experience that will last a lifetime.
Africa’s Botswana Safari
Safari of Botswana’s elephants
Because it is renowned for being one of the nations that is good and large on wildlife conservation, Botswana is a fantastic spot for a safari because it has a lot of game parks where the animals are kept. The nation has a strong anti-poaching policy, and anybody caught poaching faces severe penalties.
Chobe National Park, the Moremi Nature Reserve, home to the Big Five, the central Kalahari game reserve, and Nxai National Park are home to some of Botswana’s greatest elephant populations. Botswana is a terrific location for safari enthusiasts since it offers some of the greatest cultural experiences in the nation.
Chobe National Park
The largest number of elephants in Africa may be found in this national park, which is situated north of Botswana and is home to the greatest concentration of wildlife. With an area of over 1200 km2, the park has a variety of ecosystems, including thick forests, wet swamps, dry plains, and dry channels of lush grasslands. In addition to 40000 elephant herds, the park is home to a rich and diverse array of birds and other animals.
This national park is especially well-known for its boat rides down the River Chobe and its exceptional and distinctive animal viewing. Numerous animals and birds are drawn to it. Located in the park’s southwest, Savuti Marsh is home to a variety of species, mostly predators and elephant bulls. Winter (April to October) is the ideal season to go game driving in Chobe Park because you may see a lot of species, including antelopes, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest that congregate at the water source.
Although not located inside the park, the Okavango Delta, which is also in northern Botswana, is the most popular safari destination in Africa. It provides stunning and distinctive safari experiences and is typically visited in conjunction with Chobe National Park.
Safari in South Africa
South Africa’s safari
The finest places to go on an African safari are in South Africa. Following the end of apartheid in 1994, the nation has emerged as a popular travel destination for those looking to enjoy the finest of an African safari. The greatest beaches in Johannesburg and Cape Town are ideal for people who like to unwind while on safari.
Numerous safari companies with professional tour guides will take you on the most amazing safari experiences, including the Kruger National Park, where you can see a variety of wild animals during the drive through, the Kwazulu-natal region, which is home to the Isimangaliso and Hlihluwe-Imfolozi parks, where you can see a variety of animals and birds, and the Big Five.
Kruger National Park
This park is one of the greatest game parks in the world and one of the most popular tourist attractions in South Africa. It is home to an unparalleled variety of species and spans an area of over 19485 km of intact bush. It is home to more than 500 bird species and more than 145 animal species.
The best of Africa’s big five may be found there, along with a variety of other animals, such as antelopes, giraffes, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, and wild dogs. A leader in extensive conservation efforts, this national park is also conveniently accessible and maintained.
Safari in Namibia
Safari in Namibia
Namibia is one of the world’s least populous nations and is situated on Africa’s southwest coast. Namibia is mostly covered by the Kalahari and Namibian desert. Despite the arid environment, this country, which is home to two million people, is teeming with a variety of wild creatures and birds.
There is a lot to see in Namibia’s twelve parks, which are home to a variety of wild species and birds. The orange sand dunes of Sossuslvei are a must-see experience for all visitors.
When you want to go on a safari in Namibia, you should be sure to visit the Cape Cross Real Reserve, which is home to the largest cape fur seal colonies in the world and is home to almost half a million wild species. Namibia’s several parks, including Bwabwata National.
Etosha National Park, one of the driest parks in the world, is home to a variety of wild animals, including the Big Five, and Kahaudum National Park, which is home to hyenas, the Big Five, and Roan antelope. It is also a good park for birdwatching, especially because it is surrounded by a wetland. Not to mention Namibia’s traditional desert life, which everyone should experience.
Etosha National Park
This national park is regarded as one of the best in Africa and is Namibia’s premier wildlife reserve. This park, which is centered on the bleak white Etosha Pan with its expansive horizons and shimmering mirages, encompasses over 22270 km of northern Namibian wilderness. The wide, dry terrain makes it an ideal location for seeing animals at the watering hole.
In addition to the Big Five of Africa, which include the world’s biggest elephants, Etosha National Park is home to uncommon and exotic wild creatures. The broken clay terrain turns into a sea of blue-green algae, luxuriant meadows, and forests after the rains, which draw a lot of animals and birds like flamingos and water fowl.
Moreover, lions, giraffes, antelopes, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, and elephants are among the most often sighted species. Because there is less foliage and the animals congregate at the watering holes, winter is also the ideal season to go game viewing.
An introduction to the range of wildlife safaris in Africa is offered by this exclusive list of the continent’s best national parks, which is also a fantastic place to start planning your trip. These national parks are among the top game reserves in Africa because they provide you an amazing and unique safari experience that is full of beauty and strength.
Safari Vacations in Rwanda
Safari in Rwanda
The enormous genocide that shook Rwanda in 1994 and its aftermath, which left many dead and others forced to flee the nation, is what made the country most famous. This does not, however, imply that the nation is not a suitable safari destination.
The big five will be visible at Nyungwe National Park, and you will be able to witness several gorilla species that can be found in Volcanoes National Park. The Rwandan safari will take you to many museums that depict the actual events of the genocide, including the mass graves where others were interred and the bones of others.
As a result of the Rwandan government’s efforts to renovate several tourist attractions and maintain a favorable tourism industry, the country has experienced a rise in visitors and is now regarded as one of Africa’s top safari destinations.
Safaris for Wildlife in Zambia
Safari in Zambia
Although Zambia may not be as popular as other safari locations, it is unquestionably one of the greatest safari places in Africa. Among Zambia’s 20 national parks are the South Luangwa National Park, which is a great place to go birdwatching with over 400 different types of birds and other wild creatures, the Lochinvar National Park, and the Kafue National Park, where you can observe a variety of local wildlife.
You will gain a better understanding of African culture by going on a safari in Zambia. You will also be able to enjoy the warm welcome of the people and purchase various souvenirs from art crafts to beads and other items at the many tourist entrances.
Safaris & Tours in Malawi
Malawian safari
Malawi is a small African nation that lies between two other countries. It may be difficult to find on a map, but its amazing wildlife makes it a fantastic spot to go on a safari. Since Lake Malawi occupies about one-third of the country’s area, Malawi is regarded as one of the most biodiverse nations in the world.
In addition to more than 200 animals that may be found across the nation, the lake serves as a home for more than 650 bird species and other aquatic life. The country is renowned for its abundant fauna, which is found throughout most of the country and is estimated to consist of about 5500 species that are all distinct from one another.
You will be able to see animals like lions, hyenas, elephants, which are estimated to number around 14,000, and monkeys. Other parks in Malawi include the privately owned Kasanka National Park, the Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve, the Vwaza Marsh, the Lake Bangweulu Basin, which is home to more than 400 bird species, and more. Not to mention their indigenous culture, which they have preserved and continue to practice.
The top African safari nations’ game parks and safari sites of interest can be combined with these top national parks. For instance, the Masai Mara and the Amboseli in Kenya, the Ngorongoro crater and Serengeti in Tanzania, and the Okavango Delta and Chobe Park in Botswana.
On a single African safari, you may also choose to see all five of the aforementioned national parks simultaneously, or you can choose to forego them and do a Cape Verdean trip instead.
Safari is a term that signifies travel in Swahili. It should be mentioned that African safaris have been around for about 200 years. They were first developed by William Cornwalls Harris in the Victorian era, and authors Ernest Hemingway and Jules Verne helped popularize them.
The majority of safaris that tourists enjoy are wildlife safaris because of the abundance of wild animals in the various game parks spread throughout Africa, and all of these safaris can be enjoyed within your budget. African safaris have changed over the years from merely hunting to observing, taking drives, and taking pictures to preserve the amazing experience.
African Safari: What Is It?
In the indigenous Swahili African language, the word “Safari” means “journey.” Put another way, it’s an adventure to observe or perhaps hunt various wild creatures in their own environments. It should be mentioned that African safaris have been around for about 200 years. They were first developed by William Cornwalls Harris in the Victorian era, and authors Ernest Hemingway and Jules Verne helped popularize them.
The majority of safaris that tourists enjoy are wildlife safaris because of the abundance of wild animals in the various game parks spread throughout Africa, and all of these safaris can be enjoyed within your budget. African safaris have changed over the years from merely hunting to observing, taking drives, and taking pictures to preserve the amazing experience.
What time of year is ideal for an African safari?
The dry season, which runs from July to the end of October, is generally the best time to go on an African safari because most of the vegetation is sunburned, making it easier to see game, and most water sources are dried out, forcing most of the animals to move to the few water holes that remain, making it easier to see them. I should note, though, that the nation you are visiting and the activities you plan to partake in will have a significant impact on when you decide to go on a safari.
Below is a table showing the top safari countries, best time to visit and what to do
| Country | Best time to visit | What to do | |
| 1. | Uganda | June to October | gorilla trekking, game viewing, Mt Rwenzaori Climb, white water rafting, cultural tours |
| 2. | Tanzania | June to November | Game viewing, wildebeest viewing, Mt. Kilimanjaro Climb |
| 3. | Botswana | June to September | Game viewing, canoeing on the Okavango |
| 4. | Kenya | July to October | Game viewing, wildebeest migration watching |
| 5. | Zambia | April and September | Game view, exploring Victoria falls |
| 6. | South Africa
|
May to September | Game viewing |
| 7. | Namibia
|
July to October | Game viewing, hiking |
| 8. | Zimbabwe
|
May to October | Game Viewing |
| 9. | Rwanda
|
May to October | Game viewing, gorilla viewing |
| 10. | Morocco | Mid-March to May / September and October | Climb atlas mountains and enjoy festivals |
Things to bring on a safari in Africa
The amount of luggage you will need for your safari in Africa will depend on how long you plan to stay there and whether you are traveling during the cold rainy months or the bright dry months. The most crucial thing to remember, though, is to always PACK LIGHT to minimize disappointments due to luggage limits (because most domestic flights have them) and to facilitate your travel between places in accordance with your plan. Don’t bring everything you don’t need, just what you will need!
As you can see from the chart below, the necessary goods you will need on your safari may be categorized into three (3) primary categories: electronics, first aid and toiletries, and apparel and accessories.
| Clothing And Accessories | First Aid and Toiletries | Electronics |
| 3 t-shirts
2 long-sleeve shirts 2 comfortable shorts 2 cotton trousers/pants a sweatshirt / fleece a lightweight raincoat 3 pairs of socks Enough cotton underwear Pajamas a wide brim sunhat preferably with straps a swimsuit durable hiking boots a pair of flip-flops / sandals to wear at the lodge / camp a pair of sunglasses with UV protection Money belt Ziploc bags to store dirty laundry |
Personal toiletries travel size shampoo
toothpaste & toothbrush Conditioner soap deodorant moisturizer Sunscreen (at least SPF 30+) After-sun cream Hand sanitizer Face Masks Sanitary products for ladies Insect repellent Anti-Malaria pills Painkillers Antiseptic cream Band-aids Prescription medicines A spare pair of glasses |
Camera
Spare batteries Spare memory cards Spare camera battery Binoculars Electrical adapter Small flashlight |
How much does an African safari cost?
Which activities you choose to partake in, the kind of lodging you choose, and the season you visit will all affect how much a safari in Africa costs. A typical budget safari may cost $150 per night, a mid-range safari would cost $350, and a luxury safari would cost $750 per night.
| Budget Accommodation | Mid Range Accommodation | Luxury Accommodation | |||||
| Private | Group | Private | Group | Private | Group | ||
| Botswana | $375 | $300 | $525 | $400 | $750 | $650 | |
| Uganda | $275 | $225 | $425 | $275 | $600 | $550 | |
| Kenya | $200 | $175 | $300 | $300 | $550 | $475 | |
| Zambia | $225 | $175 | $400 | $250 | $575 | $500 | |
| Namibia | $225 | $175 | $225 | $175 | $575 | $525 | |
| South Africa | $225 | $175 | $225 | $200 | $550 | $500 | |
| Tanzania | $250 | $200 | $400 | $350 | $600 | $525 | |
| Zimbabwe | $250 | $225 | $375 | $275 | $550 | $525 | |