The 10 Best Safari Destinations in Africa

Africa offers safari experiences unlike anywhere else in the world.

What keeps drawing us back is the feeling of space, the raw beauty of the landscapes, and the unforgettable moments that happen when wildlife is truly wild.

While many African countries offer exceptional safaris, Tanzania continues to stand out as the most well-rounded destination, combining vast wilderness, incredible wildlife density, and iconic scenery.

Below are ten of the best safari destinations in Africa, along with why each one holds a special place for us.

1. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The Serengeti is the place that made us fall in love with safari. Standing on the open plains, watching wildlife stretch to the horizon with no fences and no crowds, feels like stepping into a timeless world.

Covering more than 14,000 square kilometers, the Serengeti offers a sense of true wilderness that is increasingly rare.

The Great Migration is its most famous feature, but what we love most is that the Serengeti delivers exceptional wildlife viewing year-round.

Lions are abundant, cheetahs hunt across open grasslands, and leopards rest in the acacia trees.

Every game drive feels different, and every visit reveals something new.

2. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most unique safari destinations in Africa.

Descending into the crater for the first time is unforgettable, both for the dramatic scenery and the sheer number of animals concentrated on the crater floor.

We love Ngorongoro for its reliability.

It’s one of the best places to see black rhinos, along with elephants, lions, hippos, and large herds of plains game—all often in a single day.

It’s the perfect complement to the wide-open Serengeti and a highlight for first-time safari travelers.

3. Kruger National Park, South Africa

Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest and most well-known reserves.

It offers diverse ecosystems, excellent Big Five sightings, and a wide range of accommodations.

What we appreciate about Kruger is its accessibility paired with strong wildlife viewing.

It’s a great option for travelers who want a classic safari experience with flexibility and comfort.

4. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

The Maasai Mara is famous for its role in the Great Migration and its impressive predator populations.

The rolling grasslands are ideal for spotting lions, cheetahs, and leopards, particularly during peak migration season.

We also value the cultural aspect of the Maasai Mara.

Visiting local Maasai communities adds depth to the safari experience and offers insight into the region’s traditions and history.

5. Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Amboseli is known for its iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and its large elephant herds.

Watching elephants move across open plains with Africa’s highest mountain in the background is one of the most photographed safari scenes in the world.

The park’s landscapes make wildlife easy to spot, making it an excellent choice for photographers and elephant lovers.

6. Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

Sabi Sand offers a more intimate and luxurious safari experience. As a private reserve bordering Kruger National Park, it allows off-road driving and night safaris, creating closer wildlife encounters.

We especially love Sabi Sand for its leopard sightings, which are among the best in Africa.

Combined with exceptional guiding and high-end lodges, it’s ideal for travelers seeking a refined safari experience.

7. Okavango Delta, Botswana

The Okavango Delta offers a completely different safari style.

Seasonal floodwaters transform the landscape into a lush wetland, drawing wildlife to its waterways.

Exploring the delta by mokoro or boat allows for quiet, immersive wildlife encounters.

Elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife thrive here, making it one of Africa’s most unique ecosystems.

8. Chobe National Park, Botswana

Chobe National Park is famous for its massive elephant population.

Along the Chobe River, wildlife gathers in large numbers, especially during the dry season.

River safaris are a highlight here, offering close-up views of elephants, buffalo, and birds.

Sunset cruises on the river are among our favorite safari experiences.

9. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

Bwindi offers one of Africa’s most emotional wildlife encounters: mountain gorilla trekking.

Hiking through dense rainforest to observe gorillas in their natural habitat is both challenging and deeply rewarding.

We value Bwindi not only for the experience itself, but for its powerful conservation success story and the connection it creates between travelers and wildlife.

10. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

South Luangwa is known for its walking safaris and unspoiled wilderness.

Exploring the bush on foot with expert guides creates a deeper understanding of animal behavior and the surrounding ecosystem.

With fewer visitors and a strong focus on conservation, South Luangwa offers a quieter, more immersive safari experience.

Overall Best Safari Destinations

Africa offers an extraordinary range of safari destinations, from the sweeping savannas of the Serengeti and Maasai Mara to the wetlands of the Okavango Delta and the river systems of Chobe.

South Africa’s Kruger and Sabi Sand combine excellent wildlife viewing with comfort, while Zambia and Uganda provide deeply immersive and meaningful encounters.

While each region offers something unique, Tanzania continues to stand out for travelers seeking the most complete safari experience—combining iconic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a true sense of wilderness that defines what an African safari should be.

Thinking About a Safari of Your Own?

Every safari is different, and the best experiences start with thoughtful planning and expert guidance.

Whether you’re drawn to the sweeping plains of East Africa, the waterways of southern Africa, or a combination of regions, we help travelers design safaris that match their interests, pace, and travel style.

We work across many of Africa’s top safari destinations and partner with experienced guides and carefully selected lodges to create journeys that feel personal, seamless, and truly memorable.

Are you ready to start planning your dream safari? 

We would love to help you explore your options.

Contact Us