Headed to Africa and wondering where to go for the best Safari? Same! Well, here are the top recommended Safaris across the continent of Africa!
1. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania – For the Great Migration
The Serengeti is one of the world’s most iconic safari destinations, famous for its sweeping grasslands and abundant wildlife.
Why it’s amazing:
- Home to the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebra move across the plains
- Excellent chances to see lions, cheetahs, elephants, and giraffes
- Spectacular year-round wildlife viewing
Best time to visit: June–October (migration season)
2. Maasai Mara, Kenya – For Big Cat Sightings
Connected to the Serengeti, the Maasai Mara offers exceptional game viewing and is especially known for its big cats.
Top highlights:
- High density of lions, cheetahs, and leopards
- Hot-air balloon safaris at sunrise
- The Mara River crossing during the Great Migration
Best time: July–October
3. Kruger National Park, South Africa – For Big Five on a Budget
One of Africa’s most accessible parks, Kruger offers incredible wildlife, diverse landscapes, and both luxury and budget options.
What makes it special:
- Easy self-drive safaris
- Reliable Big Five sightings
- Luxury lodges + affordable accommodations
Best time: May–September
4. Okavango Delta, Botswana – For Unique Water Safaris
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta is unlike any other safari destination, offering lush wetlands and water-based wildlife viewing.
Best experiences:
- Mokoro (dugout canoe) safaris
- Elephant and hippo sightings
- Exclusive, luxury lodges
Best time: June–August
5. Chobe National Park, Botswana – For Huge Elephant Herds
Chobe is known for having one of the largest elephant populations in Africa.
Why visit:
- Massive herds of elephants along the Chobe River
- Boat safaris offering incredible viewing angles
- Great for photographers
Best time: May–October
6. Etosha National Park, Namibia – For Salt Pans & Rare Wildlife
Etosha’s dramatic landscapes and unique salt pans create a completely different safari experience.
Top highlights:
- Black rhinos
- Endangered cheetahs
- Waterholes perfect for easy wildlife spotting
Best time: June–November
7. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia – For Walking Safaris
South Luangwa is known as the birthplace of walking safaris, offering an up-close look at Africa’s wildlife.
What to expect:
- Guided walking safaris with expert trackers
- Leopards in high numbers
- Less crowded, more authentic experience
Best time: July–October
8. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania – For Guaranteed Wildlife Viewing
A volcanic crater turned wildlife haven, Ngorongoro offers one of the densest animal populations in Africa.
Why it’s incredible:
- The Big Five in a compact area
- Stunning panoramic views
- Great for short, high-impact safaris
Best time: June–October
9. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe – For Massive Elephant Herds & Wild Dogs
Hwange offers stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, especially known for large elephant populations.
Highlights:
- Excellent wild dog sightings
- Beautiful, remote lodges
- Fewer crowds than other parks
Best time: July–October
10. Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda – For Tree-Climbing Lions
This park offers a mix of savannah, volcanoes, and rich ecosystems—plus some truly unique wildlife behaviors.
Best experiences:
- Tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector
- Boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel
- Close access to gorilla trekking in Bwindi
Best time: January–February, June–July
Final Thoughts
I hope this list was helpful as you plan your safari to Africa! No matter what, you can’t go wrong – it will be amazing!
Want me to plan your trip to Africa? Just reach out via our Book Travel page and I will take care of the rest!