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lion and lioness spotted on a wildlife safari

African Wildlife Safari

Africa's open plains boast some of the world's most majestic animals. Truthfully, few places on earth can provide a wildlife spectacle quite like the one found on this continent. It's the best place for discovering beasts in their natural habitat. Learn more about what you'll see on an African wildlife safari.

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Best countries for a wildlife safari

   
The real trouble with going to Africa for a safari is choosing a destination for your adventure. The abundance of wildlife means visitors are spoilt for choice and whittling down a country is easier said than done! However, the beauty of so many options is no matter where you go there's a chance to see lions roaring in the open and even mystic creatures like leopards. Discover the best countries for your wildlife safari.
   

  1. Kenya and Tanzania: Kenya is home to the Masai Mara, while Tanzania has the Serengeti Plains. Both locations are stomping grounds for the Big Five and, of course, the Great Migration - a jaw-dropping annual event where millions of wildebeest and zebras journey from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara. 
  2. Southern Africa: Consider this diverse region your gateway to adventure. With the rich wildlife of Kruger National Park and opportunities to go off the beaten path in Botswana and Namibia, for an authentic safari, this is the place to be. 
  3. Uganda and Rwanda: If you want a rare look at some of the world's remaining gorillas make your way to Rwanda and Uganda. 
  4. Zambia and Zimbabwe: Straddling the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe is the world's largest sheet of cascading water, Victoria Falls, and beyond that, on both sides an astonishing safari adventure awaiting all who venture here. 

Tips for an ultimate African wildlife safari holiday

What do you want to see the most?

  • The Big Five

    For most people going on an African safari, dreams are made of lions roaring in the wilderness, lithe leopards going in for the kill, elephants marching along marshy banks, African buffalo grazing on grass and fleeting glimpses of rhinos. There are many destinations throughout Africa where these dreams are brought to life in vivid ways. 
     
    All Big Five safaris

  • The Great Migration

    The Great Migration is an annual event where millions of wildebeest, zebra and antelope make their way from the plains of Serengeti to Masai Mara. Many wildlife enthusiasts hope to witness this incredible sight. To maximise your chances of seeing the migration, plan your African safari according to the seasonal movements of the animals!
     
    All Great Migration safaris

  • The Flamingos

    Lake Natron is a fascinating waterbody. While the algae found in the shimmering lake is harmful to many animals and the high concentration of minerals found in the waters can burn human skin, flamingoes have adapted to the conditions and found a way to thrive here. You'll find millions of lesser flamingoes hanging out in the serene waters of Lake Natron.
     
    All bird watching safaris

Top African wildlife safari tour packages

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Best wildlife safari destinations

Kenya and Tanzania

Why choose? One of the best ways to explore these neighboring countries is on a wildlife safari that combines both of them. Each country offers rich and varied landscapes abundant with animals, all of them easily accessible. If you're flying to Africa, make the most of your time there by exploring everything Kenya has to offer: from the reserves of the Masai Mara to the numerous elephant families found in national parks. Then discover the wildlife that calls Tanzania home. From the Ngorongoro Crater to lions stalking the tall blades of grass in the Serengeti, all of it is breathtaking.

Wildlife Highlights: The Great Migration, Big Five and flamingoes
Must see places: The Serengeti, Masai Mara, Lake Natron, Ngorongoro Crater, and Olduvai Gorge

 
Kenya & Tanzania safaris

Southern Africa

As far as regions for a wildlife safari, southern Africa's biodiversity, natural attractions, and abundance of animals make it perfect! With Kruger National Park on its doorstep, South Africa is safari powerhouse, Botswana packs a punch with its big game in Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta, while Namibia's dramatic landscapes provide a spellbinding backdrop for seeing creatures in the wild.

Highlights: The Big Seven, wine tasting and a mokoro canoe trip through the shallow delta waters
Must see places: Okavango Delta, Sossusvlei dunes, Makgadikgadi Salt Pan, and of course, Etosha National Park

 
South Africa & Botswana tours

Uganda and Rwanda

If you've ever wanted to see a mountain gorilla in the wild, Uganda and Rwanda are the places to be. Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga National Park, and the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda are some of the last remaining places on earth to see these formidable creatures in their natural habitat. Discover the wildlife, flora, and fauna of these stunning countries on a jungle safari.

Highlights: Mountain gorillas and chimpanzees
Must see places: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and the Volcanoes National Park

 
Uganda & Rwanda tours

Zambia and Zimbabwe

Along the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, the world's largest sheet of cascading water -- Victoria Falls -- leaves visitors openmouthed. On either side of this colossal waterfall are two countries that offer some of the best game viewings in Africa. Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park is one of the continent's largest parks and home to a huge population of elephants. South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi in Zambia offers travellers unique ways to see animals: on foot, a motorboat and even a canoe.

Highlights: Discover the wildlife on a river safari or a sunset cruise and visit Devil's Pool
Must see places: Victoria Falls, Zambezi River and Hwange National Park

 
Zimbabwe safaris

Best time for a wildlife safari in Africa

  1. Dry Season

    May to October

    When travelling to Africa, it's important to remember that many countries only have two seasons. Thanks to rain free days, the dry season is when water is limited and animals congregate around limited sources in droves, making it an excellent time to go on a wildlife safari! While it can be expensive to visit Africa in these months, it's one of the best times to be there. During the day, weather is mild and pleasant but the evenings can get a little chilly.

  2. Wet Season

    November to April

    During the wet or rainy season, many countries in Africa experience short bursts of intense rain. Don't be put off though! The rain transforms Africa's landscape into a lush green sight and the wet season is a wonderful time for bird watching. Animals may be harder to see, but when spotted, it's worth it! The wet season is when little ones are born and can be seen taking their first steps in the wild. Travellers on a budget will snag a deal as it's usually cheap this time of year.

Top wildlife safari tour operators

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  • Wildlife Safari Reviews

    "Fantastic trip, with great walks, awesome sights and great opportunities to get pretty close to the wildlife. This trip highlights what a diverse country South Africa is when you contrast the high lands with the lowlands. It is truly an experience that..." Read more

  • Review: Kenya Wildlife Safari, Intrepid Travel

    "We were able to see so many wild animals on our trip, even driving on the highway we saw zebras just walking pass the street. Giraffes, monkeys, and hyenas (we always heard them at night) were also a regular occurrence! On our safari we were able to see 4/5 big five (+cheetah!) and all of the ugly five. Really just an amazing experience that people of all ages can appreciate!" Read more

  • Review: Photographic Safari, Exodus Travel

    "An outstanding trip, amazing bush camp, stunning scenery, masses of wildlife, great staff, out of this world guides...perfect!" Read more

  • Review: Okavango Experience, Intrepid Travel

    "A brilliant, wonderful, adventure. Saw amazing wildlife, met incredible people." Read more

Frequently asked questions

  • How long do the game drives last?

    The length of a game drive varies, but they normally last around three hours. You can expect around two game drives a day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Some camps also offer game drives mid-morning, and in the evening, or at night depending on the kind of animals travellers are hoping to see.

  • Is it safe for a solo traveller to go to Africa?

    Yes. A group tour is perfect for travelling to Africa if you're feeling nervous or apprehensive, and a great way to meet people from around the world. Guides are professionally trained and can help you feel comfortable on your solo African safari.

  • Who else will be on my tour?

    This depends on the operator, but you can expect people from different walks of life. Individuals of all ages and nationalities book tours: solo travellers, couples, friends and families. An African wildlife safari is very different from most tours and brings people together in an especially effective way. Depending on the kind of tour you pick, you may cook with your fellow travellers, set up camp, and so on! It's a great way to travel and explore the world.

  • What should I consider when travelling with children?

    Travelling with children to Africa on a safari may seem overwhelming but it's very doable and will be a lot of fun! Start by researching your family tour to Africa and understanding it in detail so you can prep for your trip. Bring games and activities to keep them busy for any long drives and find fun ways to teach them about wildlife. For children, a safari will be an incredible experience!

  • How does a luxury safari distinguish from a budget safari?

    As you can probably imagine a luxury safari is a luxe way to travel. You can expect a high level of comfort (premium accommodation and transportation) but bear in mind that you are travelling in the African wilderness, so luxury doesn't always mean five-stars. Budget safaris may require you to help set up camp and participate in meal preparation and cleaning.

  • How can I find an affordable wildlife safari?

    Keep an eye out for deals and think about when you want to visit. During the dry season, everything from the flights, tours, and accommodation will be more expensive. During the wet season, safaris are cheaper. Ideally, compare safari options on TourRadar and filter for the biggest deals or lowest prices. 

     

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