If you dream of a trip to Africa but don’t know where to start, I’m happy to help you pave the way for you! After living in South Africa for a while, visiting many countries in Africa and embarking on a fair share of safari, I think I qualify to share the absolute best countries that go on safari. And since these safari adventures were some of the most meaningful trips to me, I encourage everyone to travel to Africa at least once in their lifetime and experience African safari.
1. South Africa
Start with the most popular countries to go on a safari, and that’s for good reason. Thanks to safari lodges, national parks and wildlife viewing opportunities, South Africa is the first choice for visitors to Africa. The country is vast and packed with amazing national parks for a close-up experience of the Big 5. So it’s no wonder this is the most visited country in Africa for safari.
But you may wonder, is it the best?
For first-time safari visitors, yes. South Africa offers the best introductory safari experiences and is a great starting point for exploring Africa. Plus, you can make the most of Johannesburg city stopovers, and if you have fantasy, add Cape Town to the end of your journey.
Related: Check in to Singita Boulders Safari Lodge
2. Botswana
Personally, I’m my favorite country to go on safari. Focusing on ecotourism and one of Africa’s most challenging anti-surveillance units, Botswana is committed to conserving land, animals and people who call Botswana home. And of course, it’s great! Check out Okavango Delta during the rainy season for one of the best safari experiences with plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities and unique experiences of water safari. Here, in addition to encountering the great pride of a huge flock of elephants, the lions (and their cubs), I also met Meatat in the Kalahari Desert.
3. Tanzania
In East Africa, you will encounter some of the most iconic national parks to experience African safari. And my top pick for East African safari is visiting the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. This is the annual wildlife event where animals cross from Kenya’s Masai Mara to Tanzania’s nearby Serengeti National Park, especially if you can visit during the Great Migration. Earlier this year is also a great opportunity to see newborns. Baby Giraffes and baby Elephants are especially fun to watch as they experience the world for the first time.
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4. Kenya
It is nearby Kenya that comes close to Tanzania. This is one of the most visited countries in Africa. However, there are some great ways to avoid crowds, such as visiting the Greater Mara area (such as a visit to a Kotter safari camp) or heading north of Kenya, avoiding the crowds and experiencing the vast landscapes on offer.
Related: What to expect when staying at Kirin Manor in Kenya
5. Namibia
As far as dessert safari is concerned, Namibia undoubtedly offers the best experience. The country is a mecca for arid deserts, dunes and the accompanying desert creatures. So where should you go on a safari in Namibia? If you want a completely unique experience in desert dunes, head to Sosus Frey. This is where you can find Namibia’s iconic red sand dunes, vast open landscapes, and arid heat. For more traditional safari, head straight to Etosha National Park where you’ll encounter far more wildlife than visiting the desert.
6. Zambia
As one of the safest countries in Africa to visit (vote), Zambia is often the biggest option for travelers looking to cross the beaten paths of countries like South Africa and Kenya, instead trying places that may not know anyone who visited. And there’s a huge reward for that risk! Zambia is home to Victoria Falls, an incredible waterfall on the Zambezi River, with an impressive 1,708 metres wide. There are also many amazing parks to experience the abundant wildlife surrounding safaris and waterfalls.
7. Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe may not be your first thought about going on a safari, but for travelers looking for something normal and surprisingly spectacular, Zim (or “Zim” is loved and known as “Zim”) is a great choice. Add to your list the Devil’s Pool, trapped in Victoria Falls and the world’s most scenic natural rock pool. When it comes to safari, you can have an incredible experience with watching many wildlife in each park in each country. Fange National Park is our top pick.
8. Malawi
There is a reason why Malawi has emerged as one of Africa’s most famous ecotourism destinations on the continent. Malawi focuses on preserving the land and communities that call the countryside home, and is becoming one of the most talked about Africans about their destinations. Safari participants on budget will love this destination to offer more affordable options. Furthermore, people are very welcoming and proud to welcome visitors.
9. Rwanda
If you’re looking for a life-changing experience like no other, you won’t be able to go past the safari to the wild scenery of Rwanda. Without a doubt, a visit to Rwanda is not a normal safari experience. Here you will be encountering elusive mountain gorillas hiding deep in the forest. Our expert tracking guide will take you on an adventurous walk, find them and admire them from close range. It’s an unparalleled experience.
10. Uganda
You can also visit Uganda if you are looking for another option when embarking on a Mountain Gorilla Safari. The country offers a more authentic experience, a popular Rwanda in the neighborhood. There are several amazing lodges like Bwindi Lodge, located deep in the mountains, so consider Uganda as a more affordable and authentic alternative than your neighbors.
