The Best Safari of Africa - African Safari Packages, Cost and Booking Information
Africa is a truly incredible continent with lots of fun and adventure for safari goers. For anyone looking for an unforgettable safari experience, there is no better destination than this vast and diverse land.
From the iconic wildlife of Tanzania and Kenya to lesser-known destinations like Namibia and Botswana, Africa offers the best safari in the world.
The best African safari destinations include the Serengeti, Kruger National Park, Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area, and Bwindi impenetrable forest.
In this article, we are going to share all the information you need to plan the best safaris in Africa. But before then, let us share our contact details and our most booked African Safari packages.
Contact us to Start Planing or to Book the Best Safari in Africa
We invite you to Contact Us via phone or WhatsApp at +254-704-532-105 to start planning your best safaris.
You can also reach us through email at safarioffers@kenyaluxurysafari.co.uk or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com or james@ajkenyasafaris.com and we shall be happy to help you tailor-make your family safari in Kenya.
You can also leave your details through our Book a Safari Form, and we will get back to you within 24 hours with a tailor-made holiday for your family.
The 19 Best Safaris in Africa | Travellers Choice
The majestic African continent – with its vast national parks and game reserves – accommodates the safari interests of all travellers.
Our top safaris in Africa will have you explore its incredible landscapes and fascinating cultures, see the big 5 in their natural habitat, see the great migration, the big cats, and lots of bird species and safari animals.
Aboard our luxurious 4×4 safari vehicles, you will traverse Africa’s grassy savannas, desert, and vast plains on one of the best safaris you will ever plan. Next, we share our 32 most booked African Safari Packages.
Top 10 destinations for African Safaris | Exodus
The word safari is derived from the Swahili language, and it means to travel. In the classic meaning of the word, an African safari would involve hunting and killing animals for fun.
However, over time, safaris have evolved and people mostly watch and photograph the animals with as minimal effect on their lives as possible. You can book luxury, mid-range, or budget safari to Africa.
In the next section, we will look at the best national parks for safaris in Africa. We will cover everything from East Africa’s top countries like Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, to emerging eco-tourism hot spots like Namibia and Rwanda.
Lower Zambezi National Park
Located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, the Lower Zambezi National Park is one of the most spectacular places in Africa for a safari.
This vast national park is famous for its lions and elephants, but it also has some incredible birdlife and other wildlife too.
The best time to visit the Lower Zambezi National Park is from June to September when the river is at its lowest. The best things to do while here include game drives, camping under the stars, river cruises, and canoeing.
The best hotels in Zambezi National Park include:
- Chiawa Camp
- Royal Zambezi Lodge.
Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
Mana Pools feels wilder and more peaceful than any safari destination in South Africa. The term means ‘four’ in Shona, which describes all four swimming areas that constitute this area. Mana Pool has an abundance of elephant species that have learned how to stand on their hind legs to reach the higher branches.
The best time to visit the park and view wildlife is between April and October. The best things to do while here include game drives and walking safaris. The best hotels in the area include the Hideaway of Mana Pools and Zambezi Sands.
Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Located in the southwestern corner of Kenya, the Masai Mara National Reserve is perhaps the most famous safari destination in all of Africa. The region is known for its abundance of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, elephants, and antelope.
In addition to traditional game drives, some tour operators offer hot air balloon tours that allow you to see the Mara from above while enjoying spectacular views of the landscape below.
Some top-rated hotels in the area include Keekorok Lodge and Ashnil Mara Camp.
The best things to do in Masai Mara include wildlife viewing, bird watching, and cultural tours. The best time to visit Masai mara National park is during the months of July and October when the great wildebeest migration takes place. The wildebeest beast migration is one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
Common animals you are likely to see in Maasai mara National reserve include lion, white rhino, leopard, African wild dogs, cheetah and hyena.
While in Mara, you can visit private wildlife conservation areas such as Mara Mara North and Naboisho conservancy. These wildlife-rich areas put a lot of effort into conservation initiatives resulting in high wildlife density.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
The largest national park in all of Africa, Kruger National Park is one of the best places to see wildlife in South Africa. Home to nearly 150 different species of mammals and over 500 species of birds, this park has become a popular safari destination for both tourists and locals alike.
Some popular activities here include game drives, guided bush walks, bird-watching tours, and night drives. The best time to visit the park is from April to October when the weather is milder. Some recommended hotels in the area include Foreveraris Lebombo Lodge and Lion Sands Sabi River Camp.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
Located next to Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to one of the most breathtaking landscapes in all of Africa.
Made up of a large volcanic crater, this natural wonder offers an unparalleled wildlife viewing experience that can be enjoyed from the safety and comfort of your own vehicle.
Some popular activities include guided tours of Olduvai Gorge, visits to local Maasai villages, and hiking trips to the Empakai Crater Lake.
Chobe National Park, Botswana
Located near the border of Namibia and Botswana, Chobe National Park is best known for its large herds of elephants.
In fact, some estimates suggest that over 100,000 elephants call this region home, along with a number of other species including wildebeest, zebras, and buffalo.
Popular activities in this safari park include boat cruises along the Chobe River and safari walks through the bush. Some recommended accommodations in the area include Kazuma Tree Lodge and Savute Safari Lodge. The best time to visit Chobe National Park is during the dry season between May and October.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
One of the most iconic parks in all of Africa, Serengeti National Park is home to some of the most amazing scenery and wildlife on Earth. The park is located in northern Tanzania and is famous for its annual wildebeest migration, a natural phenomenon that brings over two million animals to the park each year.
Some recommended activities in this park include wildlife viewing drives, hot air balloon rides, and guided nature walks.
The African safari animals safari goers are likely to see during game drives in Serengeti National Park include lions, zebras, leopards, black rhino, and cheetahs. You might also see african elephants, giraffes, impalas, gazelles, heartbeats, elands, and other safari animals.
Some of the top-rated hotels near Serengeti National Park include Sopa Lodge and Sayari Camp. The best time to visit is during the dry season from June to October.
Other good safari destinations in Tanzania include Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara where you get to see the tree-climbing lions.
Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda
Located in the northeastern corner of Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park is one of the most remote safari parks on our list.
Despite its relative isolation, this park offers visitors a unique safari experience highlighted by spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife. Many tour operators offer day trips to nearby Karamojong villages that will allow you to get a glimpse of local Ugandan culture.
Other recommended activities in the region include guided tours of Apoka Wildlife Sanctuary and birding trips along the Narus River.
The best time to visit Kidepo Valley National Park is during the dry season from June to October. Some top-rated accommodations in the area include Kidepo Savannah Lodge.
Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
Located along the northern banks of the Nile River, Murchison Falls National Park is one of Uganda’s most popular safari destinations.
Famous for its abundant wildlife, this park is home to over 76 species of mammals and a variety of birds. Some popular activities include scenic boat cruises on the Nile River and guided hikes to Murchison Falls.
If you’re looking for a truly unique safari experience, then be sure to visit the park at night for an unforgettable wildlife viewing experience under the stars. The best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park is during the dry season between December and March. Some top-rated accommodations in the area include Sambiya River Lodge and Buffalo Hill Camp.
Other leading national parks in Uganda include Kibale National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and Mount Elegon, and Rwenzori Mountains National Park. Some of the safari animals you can look forward to seeing in Uganda include African elephants, mountain gorillas, baboons, and other animals.
Okavango Delta, Botswana
This delta inland is a stunning wildlife-rich region of Africa. Safaris here are highly recommended as they give you an excellent chance to get up close and personal with the amazing animals of Africa.
Okavango Delta in Northern Botswana is fed by the lush waters of the Okavango River and is home to an abundance of incredible wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for any safari enthusiast.
Safaris here are highly recommended as they give you the chance to get up close and personal with African animals such as african elephant, lions, giraffes, antelopes, and more.
Safaris can be done on foot, in a truck, or even by canoe, all depending on your preferences and what sort of activities you want to experience.
Some of the best safari lodges in the region include Meno a Kwena Camp and the exceptional Sanctuary Chief’s Camp. Safaris through this region are recommended during the dry season (peak season), which falls between May and October each year.
Other places worth visiting in Botswana include Nxai Pan National Park and Central Kalahari Game Reserve.
Etosha National Park, Namibia
Although Namibia’s fauna density is considerably lower than in other parks in Africa, it boasts a spectacular desert landscape. Etosha National Park is the best safari destination in the Northern half. It’s a series of low basins and sand dunes.
Etosha national park is one of the best places to see wild African animals: giraffes, zebras, elephants, hyenas, lions, and leopards. One can also enjoy the amazing sunset/sunrise at Etosha Pan.
The best days to visit are during the dry months, when animals gather in the water and there are many elephants and also many other mammals, including the African lion.
The Etosha Pan, a central attraction in this area, is a sea-filled flat where mammals, as well as birds such as flamingos, congregate.
Best Safari in the World Destinations in Africa - Laikipia, Kenya
The Laikipia plateau (which is home to different private conservancies such as Ol Pejeta Conservancy and Lewa Wilderness,) is a lesser-known alternative to the Mara.
The terrain in Laikipia has open, rolling hills with views from the mountain’s jagged summits of Mount Kenya. There are many large black rhinos within each reserve – including many black rhinos and the world’s two remaining northern white rhinos.
The remaining two are located within Ol Pejeta conservation park. You are also likely to see wild dogs and other rare species such as Reticulated Giraffes and Grevy’s Zebras.
Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa
Madikwe is a picturesque park located near Botswana with rolling hills dotted with orange-rust sand. The reserve hosts the Big Five, wild dogs, and other charismatic intelligent species.
Madikwe has great family options since it is malaria-free, and some of the homes are specially designed to host children, with exciting activities and a private villa.
You are also able to drive from Johannesburg, allowing you to save money by using fewer airplanes. The Madikwe Safari Lodge is a premium accommodation option within the reserve. It offers 20 rooms with ten bedrooms with bunk beds.
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
South Luangwa is among Africa’s finest places to see wildlife, especially big cats and elephants. You will also be able to see rare subspecies that have been a local feature such as the Thornicrofts giraffe.
It is renowned for hiking safaris in Zambia in general. The Luangwa river has large populations of animals in dry seasons. Keep in mind that many lodges are closed during the wettest seasons of the year, November to March.
Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve), Tanzania
Nyerere is Tanzania’s largest — and newest — national park. This area served the north part of the vast Selous Game Reserve until 2019 when the site became a national park.
The best wildlife viewing occurs around Rufiji River – leisure boat excursions are a highlight and the park has populations like the rhino, lion, elephant, and hippos.
The best place to stay around Selous Game reserve includes Serena Mivumo River Lodge which is located along Rufiji Creek and has 12 elevated chalets.
Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
In southwest Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Parc is a savannah forest lake with a variety of wildlife, from elephants to chimpanzees. It’s most known for the Lion which has an unusual penchant for climbing trees.
Aside from being close to the impenetrable forests and mountains, it is an exceptional safari park for gorilla trekking.
The best lodges near the reserve include Buffalo Safari Lodge which offers spectacular views just five minutes walk to the entrance of the Park.
Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Hwange National Park is a popular tourist destination for wildlife enthusiasts across Zimbabwe’s Savanna and Forest.
Typical animal species are lion and leopard and the cheetah and Hwange contain arguably the biggest elephant population of any African region.
Private concessions offer walking safari and wildlife drives. And the park has largely been helped by an extremely well-respected guide. In Hwange, there is an easy link to Victoria Falls.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls is a must-see destination for many tourists. Named after Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom at its discovery in the 1800s, this waterfall is an incredible natural wonder that attracts thousands of visitors each year.
You can visit the falls by boat or foot, or even ride over them via the Victoria Falls Bridge. Other popular activities include bungee jumping and white water rafting, so be sure to bring your adrenaline-seeking friends along with you on your next African safari adventure!
Katavi National Park, Tanzania
Located in the remote western part of Tanzania, Katavi National Park is known for its dense wildlife populations and lack of human habitation. You can expect to see all types of safari animals here, from lions and elephants to zebras and hippos.
Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Botswana
Located in the remote and rugged southern region of Botswana, Central Kalahari Game Reserve is one of Africa’s largest national parks.
Known for its vast open plains, picturesque sand dunes, and diverse wildlife populations, this park is a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the true beauty of African safaris.
What part of Africa has the best safaris?
Whether you are planning a trip to the north of Africa, East Africa, or South Africa, you will have great safaris and wildlife viewing opportunities. East Africa has the best safari destinations for first-time trips to Africa. On the other hand, South Africa and North Africa have some of the most popular safari destinations for repeat safaris in Africa.
One of the best places to go for safaris in Africa is Nyerere National Park, formerly known as Selous Game Reserve. With its vast plains and beautiful landscapes, this area is home to some of the best wildlife viewing in all of Africa, including lions, rhinos, elephants, and hippos.
Kruger national park, Masai Mara national reserve, Serengeti national park, and Ngorongoro Crater are also popular destinations for safari enthusiasts. These national Parks offer a wide range of safari activities including game drives, bush walks, walking safaris, hot air balloon safaris, cultural tours and so much more.
What is the best month to go on an African safari?
The best time to go on an African safari depends on what you are looking for in terms of wildlife viewing opportunities and the weather.
Generally, the dry season is the best time to visit most national parks in Africa, as animals tend to congregate around water sources during this time. This makes it easier to get great views of some of Africa’s most iconic animals, including lions, elephants, rhinos, and zebras.
The months from June-September are particularly ideal for game drives and other safari activities due to the warm temperatures and low humidity. However, if you are interested in seeing baby animals or watching the migration of wildebeest herds across the Serengeti plains, then visiting between November-February would.
How much do African safaris cost?
The cost of African safaris can vary widely depending on the type of safari you are interested in, the destination and time of year, and the level of luxury or accommodations that you prefer.
For example, a basic camping safari with budget-friendly accommodations may cost as little as $500 per person per week, while more high-end lodge camps in popular destinations like the Masai Mara or Serengeti can cost upwards of $2,000 per person per week.
Additionally, many African safaris include additional costs for things like park fees, food and drinks, and activities such as game drives or guided walks. Ultimately, the best way to get an accurate estimate of what your African safari will cost is by researching different
What is the biggest safari in Africa?
The best safari in Africa depends on your definition of size and what you are looking for. If we are talking about the largest wildlife species, then some of the biggest animals on African safaris include elephants, hippos, rhinos, giraffes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and buffalo.
However, if we are talking about the largest game reserves or national parks in terms of size and land area covered, then some of the biggest Safaris in Africa include Kruger National Park (South Africa) and Serengeti National Park (Tanzania).
Others include Maasai Mara National Reserve (Kenya), Okavango Delta (Botswana), Selous Game Reserve (Tanzania), and the Sahara Desert (North Africa).
Ultimately, there is no “best” safari in terms of size or number of animals – it really comes down to personal preference and what you are most interested in seeing.
So whether you are looking for a small, intimate backcountry experience or a big-game viewing adventure on one of the largest Safaris in Africa, there is something for everyone on this incredible continent.
Which African country has the best safari?
Popular destinations for African Safaris include Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Uganda. Each of these countries has something unique to offer in terms of wildlife viewing opportunities, landscapes, cultural experiences, and more.
Ultimately, if you are interested in seeing the “big five” wild animals (lions, leopards, tigers, elephants, rhinos), Kenya’s Masai Mara, Kruger National Park, Chobe National Park, and Serengeti National Park are your ideal choice.
If your goal is to witness the annual wildebeest migration across the Serengeti plains and Maasai Mara National reserve, plan your trip between July and October.
Which safari is better: Tanzania or Kenya?
Both Tanzania and Kenya are popular destinations for African Safaris, and each country offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities and experiences. If you are looking for the “big five” in terms of large game species (lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, leopards), then Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve are ideal options.
However, if you are interested in smaller animals like primates or birds, or want to experience a more diverse range of landscapes from mountains to deserts to wetlands, then Kenya may be a better choice.
Which African country is best for safaris?
The best African country for safaris really depends on your individual travel preferences and interests. Some of the most popular countries for Safaris in Africa include Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Uganda.
Each of these countries offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities as well as different landscapes and cultural experiences. Ultimately, the best way to decide which African country is best for you is by researching what each has to offer in terms of available safari options and deciding which type of experience you are looking for.
Whether it’s a big-game viewing adventure on one of the world’s largest Safaris or a more intimate backcountry experience off the beaten path, there is something for everyone in Africa. So contact us today and start planning your trip.