Africa is the birthplace of safari and home to some of the most breathtaking wildlife experiences on Earth. From the Great Migration in Tanzania and Kenya to gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, every destination offers something unique. But with so many choices, how do you decide where to go? This guide compares the best safari destinations in Africa, helping you find the perfect adventure.
TL;DR: Best Safari Destinations in Africa
- Kenya – Famous for the Maasai Mara and the Great Migration.
- Tanzania – Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, incredible diversity.
- South Africa – Kruger National Park, great for first-timers and self-drives.
- Botswana – Okavango Delta, exclusive luxury safaris.
- Namibia – Etosha National Park, desert landscapes with unique wildlife.
- Uganda & Rwanda – Gorilla trekking in lush rainforests.
- Zambia & Zimbabwe – Walking safaris and Victoria Falls.
Kenya – The Classic Safari Experience
Kenya is one of the best safari destinations in Africa for first-time travelers. The Maasai Mara is world-famous for the Great Migration (July–October), where millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River. Other highlights include Amboseli (with views of Mount Kilimanjaro), Samburu (home to rare species like Grevy’s zebra), and Lake Nakuru (famous for flamingos).
👉 Don’t forget to factor in Kenya park entry fees when planning your trip.
Tanzania – Land of Endless Plains
Tanzania rivals Kenya for the Great Migration in the Serengeti and adds the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the best places to spot the Big Five. Tarangire National Park is another hidden gem, known for its massive elephant herds. Tanzania offers both luxury and budget safari options, making it a versatile destination.
- Best for: The Great Migration, year-round game viewing, and stunning landscapes.
- Safari highlight: Serengeti’s endless plains and Ngorongoro’s natural amphitheater.
South Africa – Accessible & Diverse
South Africa’s Kruger National Park is one of the most popular safari spots in Africa. It’s perfect for first-timers thanks to excellent infrastructure, affordable lodges, and self-drive options. Private reserves like Sabi Sands offer luxury lodges and some of the best leopard sightings in Africa.
- Best for: Budget-friendly safaris, families, and self-drive enthusiasts.
- Safari highlight: Easy Big Five sightings with excellent roads and facilities.
Botswana – Exclusive Wilderness
Botswana is known for its low-impact, high-quality safaris. The Okavango Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where waterways meet savannah, offering unique mokoro (dugout canoe) safaris. Chobe National Park is famous for its enormous elephant herds.
- Best for: Luxury travelers seeking exclusivity.
- Safari highlight: Water-based safaris in the Okavango Delta.
Namibia – Desert Safari Adventures
Namibia is unlike any other safari destination. The Etosha National Park offers salt pans where animals gather around waterholes, making it easy to spot game. Beyond Etosha, Namibia is home to the surreal landscapes of Sossusvlei and the Skeleton Coast.
- Best for: Photographers and adventure travelers.
- Safari highlight: Unique desert-adapted wildlife and striking scenery.
Uganda & Rwanda – Gorilla Trekking Safaris
For primate lovers, Uganda and Rwanda are the best safari destinations in Africa. Trekking through misty rainforests to see endangered mountain gorillas is one of the most moving wildlife experiences on the continent. Both countries also offer chimpanzee trekking.
- Best for: Adventure travelers and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Safari highlight: Face-to-face encounters with mountain gorillas.
Zambia & Zimbabwe – Walking Safaris & Victoria Falls
Zambia is the birthplace of the walking safari, offering an immersive way to explore the bush with expert guides. South Luangwa National Park is especially known for leopard sightings. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, combines great safari experiences in Hwange National Park with the natural wonder of Victoria Falls.
- Best for: Experienced safari-goers.
- Safari highlight: Walking safaris and dramatic scenery.
Comparison Table: Best Safari Destinations in Africa
| Destination | Best For | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Kenya | First-timers, Great Migration | Maasai Mara & Amboseli |
| Tanzania | Migration + Big Five | Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater |
| South Africa | Families, budget & self-drive | Kruger National Park |
| Botswana | Luxury & exclusivity | Okavango Delta |
| Namibia | Adventure & photography | Etosha & Sossusvlei |
| Uganda & Rwanda | Gorilla trekking | Bwindi & Volcanoes NP |
| Zambia & Zimbabwe | Walking safaris, Victoria Falls | South Luangwa & Hwange |
Conclusion
Africa offers endless choices for safari-goers, but the best safari destinations in Africa depend on your interests and travel style. For first-timers, Kenya and South Africa are excellent choices. If you want exclusivity, Botswana is unbeatable. For gorillas, head to Uganda or Rwanda. And for unique desert landscapes, Namibia is the top pick.
Whichever destination you choose, you’ll experience incredible wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and the magic of the African wilderness.
Ready to plan your safari? Book with Regal Tracks Safaris and explore our carefully crafted safari packages.
FAQs
What is the best country in Africa for a first safari?
Kenya and South Africa are both excellent for first-timers thanks to accessibility and abundant wildlife.
Where can I see the Great Migration?
The Serengeti in Tanzania and Maasai Mara in Kenya.
Is gorilla trekking safe?
Yes, guided gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is safe and well-regulated.
Which safari destination is best for luxury travel?
Botswana’s Okavango Delta is famous for exclusive luxury camps.
Do all safari destinations require park entry fees?
Yes—always check fees like Kenya park entry fees when budgeting.