Where to go on safari?
Choosing where to go on safari can be a bit of a minefield, especially if it's your first trip. This handy guide breaks down some of the key characteristics of some of the most common safari countries. Click on the country names to see further This is by no means an exhaustive list as there are many other safari areas not included and this guide just scratches the surface of what is on offer.
For personalised advice on where would be best for you, please get in touch.
- Kenya
- Tanzania
- South Africa
- Botswana
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
- Namibia
- Rwanda
- Uganda
East Africa
As the original home of the safari holidays, East Africa is especially popular with first time safari goers. Most well known for the big river crossings of the Great Migration, but there is much more to this varied region.
Kenya’s most popular park is the Maasai Mara, famous for the Great Migration in particular. In peak months ‘The Mara’ can get unreasonably busy in some areas, but Kenya offers much more in it’s lesser known parks too. The country offers dramatic landscapes, a well developed and refined safari industry, and also has beach options, a popular add on to a safari.
Tanzania
The Serengeti is an effectively the continuation of Kenya’s Maasai Mara, so it is most famous for the Great Migration. Similar to Kenya though, Tanzania has many smaller safari parks, which are less busy than the Serengeti and offer more than just the Great Migration. Also home to the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro.
Southern Africa
From the waterways of the Okavango Delta to the dunes of the Namib desert, Southern Africa packs a lot in. Generally speaking, what Southern Africa excels in are more off the beaten track safaris and getting away from the crowds.
Pretty much guaranteed Big 5 game viewing, ease of travel and well developed infrastructure make South Africa a popular choice. Quite a focus on the lodge experience makes it a great option for people who want to give safari a go, but don’t want to get too immersed in the bush. Great for honeymoons and families, and Cape Town and the Winelands are a popular addition to a safari in Southern Africa.
Famous for it’s private concessions, many consider Botswana the pinnacle of safari destinations with the continent’s most exclusive and intimate game viewing. Unique combination of both land and water based safari activities, particularly in it’s headline Okavango Delta. Can come with a hefty price tag, but if you travel outside of peak season, the savings can be very significant.
With exceptional guiding, and good walking safaris as a particular strong point, Zambia offers excellent safari options in it’s more niche safari areas. Great for getting away from the crowds and vast herds of elephants. Also home to the world’s largest waterfall, Victoria Falls, which straddles the Zambia/Zimbabwe border.
Similar to Zambia, Zimbabwe offers excellent walking safaris, and a really immersive style of safari that includes water activities. Arguably the best guides in Africa makes Zimbabwe a strong option. Has viewing access to a longer section of Victoria Falls than can be seen from Zambia.
Offering something a bit different from the typical safari, Namibia boasts spectacular desert landscapes as it’s biggest draw. Though not primarily a big game viewing country, Namibia does provide opportunities to experience some unique desert adapted animals including elephants, lions, rhino and giraffe.
Central Africa
Many people visit a Central African country to see gorillas, and then combine it with another country to include a big game viewing area. There is more to Central African safaris than just gorillas though with some more typical big game viewing available too.
Exceptional up close gorilla viewing. Comes with a big price tag, but arguably the best place in Africa for gorillas and very luxurious accommodation options.
Uganda
With lower prices than Rwanda, Uganda offers a slightly more budget friendly gorilla option and gorilla treks can be of a more adventurous style in Uganda.