This article may contain compensated links. Read the disclaimer for more info. We follow our review guidelines
Where should you go for your first safari in Africa? I suppose these must be your inquiries. I’m sure you’re a little confused when you plan your journey to Africa about what are The Best African Safari Destinations you should visit first. Do not worry, as this blog post will walk you through the best African safari, including the best activities to do and locations to stay.
Africa offers some of the most stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife on the planet, making it an unmatched destination for safari adventures.
As 2025 approaches, it’s the perfect time to begin planning your trip to the continent’s top safari spots. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or a newcomer, these incredible destinations provide once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to connect with nature.
South Africa’s Kruger National Park and Sabi Sand Game Reserve are excellent choices for spotting the “Big Five.” For those seeking an eco-friendly and culturally immersive experience, Laikipia in Kenya offers a chance to engage in conservation activities and visit local communities.
Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park offers a more off-the-beaten-path adventure with its scenic Zambezi River backdrop. Meanwhile, Kenya’s Masai Mara Reserve and Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater provide iconic settings for wildlife encounters.
Finally, South Luangwa Park in Zambia is a paradise for those interested in walking safaris and close encounters with wildlife. Each of these destinations promises unique and unforgettable experiences that bring you closer to Africa’s wild heart.
When to Go for an African Safari or Holiday ?
Here is a calendar that shows when safaris are most popular in Africa and what to do in advance for each season:
January – March:
- Best time to visit: South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana for warm weather and green landscapes
- Safari highlights: Witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, see newborn animals in the savannas, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Okavango Delta
- Interesting things to book in advance: CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE.
April – June:
- Best time to visit: East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda) for comfortable weather and fewer crowds
- Safari highlights: See the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) in their natural habitats, witness the wildebeest migration, and explore the beautiful landscapes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Interesting things to book in advance:
July – September:
- Best time to visit: Southern Africa (South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana) for dry weather and easy animal spotting
- Safari highlights: See the Big Five in their natural habitats, witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, and explore the beautiful landscapes of the Kalahari Desert
- Interesting things to book in advance:
- Book a guided tour to see the Big Five in Kruger National Park or the Okavango Delta
- Reserve a luxury lodge in the Sabi Sands for a unique and exclusive experience
- Plan a scenic drive through the Kalahari Desert for a breathtaking view of the African landscape
October – December:
- Best time to visit: East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda) for warm weather and exciting safari experiences
- Safari highlights: Witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, see the Big Five in their natural habitats, and explore the beautiful landscapes of the Maasai Mara
- Interesting things to book in advance:
- Book a guided tour to see the Great Migration in the Serengeti
- Reserve a spot on a hot air balloon ride over the Maasai Mara for a breathtaking view of the African savanna
- Plan a scenic flight over the Ngorongoro Conservation Area for a bird’s-eye view of the African landscape
Some popular safari packages and tours to book in advance include:
- The Great Migration Safari: Witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara
- The Big Five Safari: See the Big Five in their natural habitats in Kruger National Park or the Okavango Delta
- The Gorilla Trekking Tour: Trek through the jungles of Uganda to see the endangered mountain gorillas
- The Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take a hot air balloon ride over the Maasai Mara or Serengeti for a breathtaking view of the African savanna
- The Scenic Flight: Take a scenic flight over the Ngorongoro Conservation Area or the Kalahari Desert for a bird’s-eye view of the African landscape
Continue reading to learn important things to know ahead of time so you can make wise choices.
Getting to Africa for a safari can be an exciting adventure, but it requires some planning and preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get to Africa for a safari and ensure your safety:
Getting to Africa:
- Flights: Book a flight to the nearest international airport to your safari destination. Some popular airports for safari destinations include:
- Johannesburg, South Africa (JNB)
- Nairobi, Kenya (NBO)
- Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (DAR)
- Windhoek, Namibia (WDH)
- Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa to enter the country where your safari is located. Some countries require visas in advance, while others offer visa-on-arrival or e-visas.
- Vaccinations: Consult your doctor or a travel clinic to determine if you need any vaccinations or medications for your safari destination.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and delays.
Discover the Best African Safari Destinations for 2025
(01) Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park in South Africa is one of the Best African Safari Destinations offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa
Located in northeastern South Africa, spans nearly 20,000 square kilometers and offers a vast and varied landscape. The park is famed for its high density of wild animals, including the “Big Five”: lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos.
In addition to these iconic species, visitors can also spot a plethora of other animals such as zebras, giraffes, and numerous antelope species. The park’s diverse habitats, ranging from savannah to riverine forests, provide a sanctuary for over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers.
Kruger national park is always one of the Best African Safari Destinations of all the time, offers a variety of ways to experience its natural wonders. Guided safaris provide expert knowledge and increase the chances of spotting elusive wildlife, while self-drive tours offer the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
For a more immersive experience, bush walks allow visitors to get up close and personal with the environment, guided by trained rangers who ensure safety and share insights about the flora and fauna.
Accommodation options in Kruger are plentiful and cater to all budgets. From high-end lodges offering luxury and comfort to more rustic, budget-friendly campsites, there is something for every type of traveler.
Many of these accommodations are strategically located to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities, often featuring waterholes and viewpoints nearby.
(02) Sabi Sand Nature Reserve
Sabi Sand Game Reserve Nature preserve in South Africa and one of the Best African Safari Destinations.
Sabi Sand Game Reserve, adjacent to Kruger National Park, offers an exclusive safari experience characterized by its luxurious lodges and exceptional game viewing. Renowned for its high frequency of leopard sightings,
Sabi Sand allows visitors to see these elusive cats up close, often from the comfort of their lodges. The reserve’s knowledgeable guides provide an enriching experience, sharing insights into the behaviors and habitats of the wildlife.
Guests can partake in private safaris, which allow for a more personalized adventure, away from the larger crowds often found in more popular parks.
The reserve’s intimate setting means that vehicles have exclusive access to certain areas, ensuring a more secluded and serene wildlife viewing experience. Morning and evening game drives maximize the chances of witnessing animals during their most active periods.
In addition to leopards, Sabi Sand is home to the “Big Five,” as well as numerous other species like giraffes, zebras, and various antelope.
The diverse ecosystem, ranging from grassy plains to dense riverine forests, supports a rich variety of flora and fauna, making every game drive a unique adventure.
Staying in Sabi Sand’s upscale lodges, guests can enjoy modern amenities while still feeling connected to the wild surroundings. Many lodges offer gourmet dining, spa treatments, and swimming pools, enhancing the overall safari experience.
(03) Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park is a World Heritage Site teeming with wildlife and one of the Best African Safari Destinations.
This National Park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and unparalleled wildlife experiences. During the Great Migration, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing grounds, creating a spectacle that draws visitors from around the world.
Beyond the migration, the Serengeti offers abundant opportunities to see predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas in action. The park’s diverse habitats, ranging from open savannahs to wooded hills, support a wide array of animal species year-round.
Visitors can choose from a variety of accommodations to suit their preferences, whether it’s luxury lodges with panoramic views or intimate tented camps that bring you closer to nature.
Hot air balloon safaris provide a unique vantage point to observe the vast herds and dramatic landscapes below.
Game drives, guided by experienced rangers, enhance the safari experience by offering insights into the park’s rich ecology and wildlife behavior.
Uzuri Safaris Tanzania offers you an unforgettable experience in Tanzania, one of the most amazing countries of East Africa. All our itineraries are tailor-made.
For those looking to delve deeper into the Serengeti’s wonders, walking safaris provide an up-close encounter with the environment and its inhabitants.
(04) Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta along The Best African Safari Destinations.
The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Botswana, offers an extraordinary blend of wetlands and wildlife. This unique ecosystem is a haven for hippos, crocodiles, and an array of bird species.
Visitors can explore the delta’s intricate network of waterways by mokoro, a traditional dugout canoe, or join guided game drives in the surrounding reserves.
The experience of navigating through the water channels provides a different perspective on safari, allowing for close encounters with aquatic life and a tranquil way to observe animals along the banks.
Accommodation in the Okavango Delta ranges from luxury lodges to more intimate camps, each providing a base for exploration.
Many lodges offer elevated decks and viewing platforms that overlook the water, enhancing wildlife watching opportunities. The delta’s varied habitats support a rich diversity of flora and fauna, making each game drive a unique adventure.
Guides in the Okavango Delta are renowned for their expertise and deep knowledge of the area, enriching each excursion with insights into the behavior and ecology of the wildlife. Whether on land or water, the delta offers an immersive experience that brings visitors close to nature’s wonders.
Hot air balloon rides and boat cruises provide additional ways to appreciate the stunning landscape and vibrant wildlife of this unparalleled destination.
(05) Exploring Laikipia
Exploring Laikipia
Laikipia, situated in central Kenya, offers a unique safari experience with its emphasis on conservation and community involvement. This region is a stronghold for endangered species like the black rhino and Grevy’s zebra.
Unlike other safari destinations, Laikipia provides a more intimate connection with the environment through activities such as horseback safaris and guided walking tours. These activities allow visitors to experience the landscape and wildlife in a more personal and immersive way.
Visitors can also engage with local communities, gaining insights into the traditional ways of life and the region’s ongoing conservation efforts.
The lodges and camps here are often eco-friendly, blending sustainability with comfort. Accommodations range from luxurious lodges to more rustic campsites, each offering unique opportunities to witness the region’s wildlife and stunning landscapes.
The region’s diverse habitats, from rolling plains to dense forests, support a wide array of species, making every excursion an adventure.
Whether you’re exploring the area on foot, by horse, or in a vehicle, Laikipia offers a rich and varied safari experience that stands out for its commitment to conservation and community engagement.
(06) Mana Pools National Park
Mana Pools National Park National park in Zimbabwe
Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe offers a truly unique safari experience with its combination of stunning scenery and diverse wildlife.
Set along the picturesque Zambezi River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for elephants, hippos, and a variety of antelope species.
Unlike more commercialized parks, Mana Pools provides a more intimate and rugged adventure, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature.
One of the standout activities at Mana Pools is the guided walking safari, which offers a chance to experience the park’s wildlife and landscapes up close.
Canoe trips along the Zambezi River provide a different perspective, as you quietly glide past hippos and crocodiles, with opportunities to spot birds and other wildlife along the riverbanks.
For those who prefer a more stationary experience, the park also offers camping under the stars, where the sounds of the African bush create an unforgettable ambiance.
Accommodations in Mana Pools range from basic campsites to more comfortable lodges, all designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment.
The park’s remote location and limited visitor numbers ensure a tranquil and unspoiled experience, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and connect deeply with nature.
With its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife, Mana Pools offers a safari adventure like no other.
(07) Maasai Mara National Reserve
Masai Mara Reserve
Masai Mara Reserve in Kenya is one of the top destinations for those eager to witness the Great Migration.
Its expansive savannahs and diverse wildlife create a spectacular backdrop for any safari adventure. Besides the migration, the reserve is teeming with animals year-round, offering chances to see lions, cheetahs, elephants, and more in their natural habitats.
Balloon safaris offer a unique aerial view of the landscape and its inhabitants, while game drives provide closer encounters.
Visitors can also immerse themselves in local culture through visits to Maasai villages, gaining insights into traditional lifestyles and customs.
Accommodations in the Masai Mara range from luxurious lodges to tented camps, many of which are strategically positioned to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.
(08) The Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania is one of the Best African Safari Destinations and remarkable geological features, formed millions of years ago by the collapse of a massive volcano.
This caldera spans about 100 square miles and boasts some of the densest concentrations of wildlife on the continent. It’s a prime location for spotting the “Big Five” as well as other species like zebras, wildebeest, and gazelles that roam the crater floor.
A unique aspect of the crater is its year-round water supply, which supports a thriving ecosystem, making it a great spot for wildlife viewing at any time of year.
The Lerai Forest, located within the crater, is an excellent place to see elephants and bird species, while the surrounding grasslands are frequented by predators such as lions and hyenas.
Accommodations around the crater rim provide breathtaking panoramic views of the caldera below. These lodges offer convenient access to the park’s attractions and are well-positioned to catch the early morning light, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Guided game drives within the crater enhance the safari experience, offering insights into the area’s unique ecology and animal behaviors.
For those interested in the cultural aspects of the region, visits to nearby Maasai villages can be arranged.
These visits provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives and traditions of the Maasai people, who have coexisted with the area’s wildlife for generations.
The Ngorongoro Crater is also part of the larger Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
which includes other significant landmarks such as Olduvai Gorge, an important paleoanthropological site often referred to as the “Cradle of Mankind.”
(09) South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa Park :Best African Safari Destinations
South Luangwa Park in Zambia stands out for its emphasis on walking safaris, offering a more intimate way to experience its incredible wildlife. Known for its high concentration of leopards, the park also hosts giraffes, elephants, and countless bird species.
The Luangwa River meanders through the park, providing a lifeline for a diverse range of animals. Game drives, especially those conducted at night, offer a unique opportunity to spot nocturnal species like hyenas and owls.
The park’s guides are highly skilled, providing valuable insights into animal behavior and the park’s ecosystem.
Accommodations in South Luangwa vary from rustic bush camps to luxurious lodges, each designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. These lodgings often feature open-air lounges and dining areas, allowing guests to enjoy the sights and sounds of the African bush.
The park’s commitment to conservation and eco-tourism ensures that your visit contributes to the preservation of this remarkable wilderness.
Whether you choose to explore on foot or by vehicle, South Luangwa is another one of the Best African Safari Destinations to visit from 2025, promises a safari adventure that is both thrilling and educational.
Check out The Best Things to Do in Cape Town for Travelers it maybe your next Destination.
Thanks for being part of our community! If you have any questions or topics you’d like to Know more, feel free to reach out to me directly here Contact. I’d love to hear from you and help in any way I can. Until next time, stay safe!
Leave a Reply