Have you always dreamed about going on an amazing safari adventure in Africa but don’t know where to start or which country to visit? There are so many fantastic safari choices, but places like Rwanda, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Namibia, and Botswana offer some of the best experiences. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned adventurer, there are great options for everyone.
Let’s dive into some of the best African safari tours for your next vacation:
One of the most unforgettable experiences in Africa is gorilla trekking. You can’t find gorillas everywhere in Africa; they’re mainly in the forests of Rwanda and Uganda. These countries are the best for gorilla trekking due to their developed infrastructure and experiences. Some of the best places to see gorillas in their natural habitat include:
– Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda: This park is a protected area with rainforest and five volcanoes from the Virunga Mountains. It’s home to endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.
– Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda: Located along the border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, this virgin forest boasts rich biodiversity and is home to about 400 mountain gorillas, which is nearly half of the world’s population.
Keep in mind that gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda can be pricey—sometimes up to $1500 per day. Despite the cost, it’s one of the top things to do in Africa, and you can choose from one-day tours to multi-day adventures based on your preference.
Next, let’s explore Kruger National Park in South Africa. This is one of the oldest and largest game reserves in Africa, covering an area of 19,485 square kilometers. It’s famous worldwide and offers some of the best safari tours where you can see endangered animals roaming free. Here, you can spot the “Big Five” game animals: lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo. You can book either one-day or multi-day safaris, and you’ll travel in an open game-viewing vehicle with an experienced guide.
In Tanzania, the Serengeti National Park is a vast area covering 14,750 square kilometers, filled with diverse landscapes and wildlife. It is one of the best safari destinations globally. You’ll see a variety of animals, including wildebeest, zebras, elephants, giraffes, gazelles, and many more. The park is famous for the annual migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest, a spectacular event and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. Many tours also include a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater, which is another fantastic safari destination with lush habitats for wildlife such as buffalos, lions, and zebras.
Over in Kenya, the Maasai Mara National Reserve is renowned for its rich and diverse wildlife. Like the Serengeti, it’s known for the annual migration of millions of wildebeest and is considered one of the Ten Wonders of the World. Here, you can spot all members of the “Big Five” and experience a truly unique safari adventure.
Namibia may be a less popular destination, but it offers fantastic safaris, particularly in Etosha National Park. Established in 1907, this park covers 22,270 square kilometers and offers diverse landscapes, from savanna woodlands to salt pans that can even be seen from space. The park is home to hundreds of species, including some endangered ones like the black rhinoceros. Etosha is known for its unique safari experiences and easy accessibility.
Lastly, Botswana provides an excellent wildlife experience and stunning natural beauty. Chobe National Park is known for its large elephant herds and biodiversity. Many tours include visits to the Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This delta is home to the Big Five and offers breathtaking scenery. Multi-day tours often combine Botswana with trips to Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe, allowing travelers to explore multiple incredible African destinations.
Ready for your dream safari adventure? Choose your favorite destination and start planning!