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American safaris: best places to see wildlife in the united states.

American safaris: Best places to see wildlife in the U.S.

Story highlights.

Many travelers don't realize how much of the U.S. is comprised of wild, untamed badlands

The country is home to about 3,000 wild animal species

Bears can be found in the wild in almost every state

Many American travelers find themselves stunned by the richness of wildlife they observe abroad. Yet they don’t realize how much of their homeland is comprised of wild, untamed badlands full of the kinds of native fauna they name football teams after.

If you’re in the United States with European amounts of holiday time, you can be leisurely about getting around to each of America’s 3,000 or so wild animal species.

Most of us, however, must take more of a Walmart approach to checking off the nation’s wildlife if we want to get through the list before we’re 800.

You won’t see any zoos or controlled sanctuaries on this list. If you want to spot wildlife indigenous to the USA – or just want to know how to avoid them – these are the places in America where you’re likeliest to do it.

53 stunning wildlife photos (and how to capture them)

Yosemite National Park (California)

The best way to observe an American wildcat while keeping your soft tissue intact is in a zoo or basketball arena. But there are plenty of natural big cat habitats nationwide for the adventurous, and Yosemite National Park is among the most representative.

Your chances of actually spotting one is slim, however, being that they’re solitary (often apex) predators – being unseen is kinda their thing.

So while you’re looking for them, they’re probably looking at you .

Still, they’re likeliest to appear at dawn and dusk, the most active times for their favorite foods – deer and elk for big cats, jackrabbits and rodents for the smaller guys – making any list of cat-watching locations a de facto list of those, too.

Where to find individual wildcat species

Mountain lion, Idaho County (Idaho)

Once prevalent throughout the mainland United States, the cougar (aka, panther/puma/catamount) is largely isolated to a dozen or so western states and Florida, none more imposing than those in the Idaho panhandle, according to Game & Fish magazine .

Bobcat, Kiawah Island (South Carolina)

Found in 47 states , this is America’s most common wildcat (population: 1 to 2 million and rising ).

Sightings are usually rare, but on Kiawah Island , bobcats are uncommonly conspicuous.

Ocelot, Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge (Texas)

It’s believed that there are fewer than 50 remaining in the United States, all of them here.

Bonus species : The birds of the Lower Rio Grande Valley.

Jaguar, Saguaro National Park (Arizona)

Saguaro National Park outside Tucson is less an official address than a pied-à-terre for visiting jaguars from a population that’s actually just south of the U.S.-Mexico border.

7 great places to see wildlife in the United States

Alaska Peninsula

Brown, Kodiak and grizzly bears are really all the same species, and three neighboring parks form a veritable smorgasbear of all three.

From June to August, the world’s largest concentration of wild brown bears gathers at Alaska’s McNeil River State Game Sanctuary and Refuge to gorge on salmon.

Bonus species : Bald eagle, moose, caribou, arctic wolf, wolverine, red fox, harbor seal, waterfowl and various sea birds.

Grizzly bear

Right beside McNeil, some of the biggest grizzlies ever recorded have been spotted at the Katmai National Park & Preserve .

This inland subspecies is typically smaller, having farther to roam for less food than its coastal counterpart.

Bonus species : Humpback whale, orca, coyote, lynx, otter, mink, tundra hare, bat, beaver, marmot, sea lion, more than 40 fish species and 137 species of bird.

Kodiak bear

Offshore from Katmai is a bear subspecies distinguished by its island geography.

Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge is home to the world’s largest bears, which became isolated from their brethren across the bay after the last ice age.

Bonus species : Only five other mammal species are native to the island, but eight more have been introduced, including deer, goat, elk, reindeer and snowshoe hare.

Where to find other bear species

Black bear, Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina/Tennesse e )

The 1,500 black bears around Cades Cove loop between spring and fall are more accustomed to audiences than the Rolling Stones.

Sunrise and sunset are the best times to catch ‘em in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park .

Bonus species : Salamander, elk, deer, bat, coyote, wolf, raccoon, otter, bobcat, wild hog, turtle, 23 species of snake, 67 species of fish and 240 species of bird.

Polar bear, Kaktovik and Barrow (Alaska)

Tours to see these majestic maritime bears leave during the ice-free (and getting freer) period between August and October.

U.S. polar-bearing doesn’t get much more possible than this.

10 of the world’s most beautiful new nature reserves

There are four species of venomous snake found in the United States and they’re all found in and around Houston : rattlesnake, cottonmouth, copperhead and coral. If those don’t kill you, the petroleum emissions or rib plates eventually will.

Bonus species : Coyote, bobcat, fox, deer, alligator, armadillo, turtle, bat, hawk, owl and nearly 130 other species of bird.

Gila monster, Snow Canyon State Park (Utah)

Rare and endangered, the gila is incredibly difficult to find, but Snow Canyon State Park is one of the few places where it still exists.

April-May is the peak of its activity.

Bonus species : Desert tortoise, coyote, fox, quail, peregrin falcon, roadrunner and tree frog.

Alligator/crocodile, Southern Glades Wildlife and Environmental Area (Florida)

South Florida is the northernmost point of the crocodile’s range, making the southernmost point in the Everglades likeliest to host both. Florida is the only place where these two species coexist.

Bonus species : Florida panther, dolphin and more than 350 species of bird.

Tortoise, Red Cliffs Desert Reserve (Utah)

Consider yourself lucky if you spot one; they spend 90% of their lives underground or in shelters.

Bonus species : Gila monster, mountain lion, sidewinder, bobcat, rattlesnake, coyote, rabbit, muskrat, deer, fox and at least 50 species of bird.

20 trips for animal lovers

HORNS AND ANTLERS

Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming)

When you think of American wildlife, these lumbering land leviathans are probably what most often come to mind, and there’s no getting around the 2,000-pound buffalo in the room that is Yellowstone , the world’s first national park.

On parade is a one-stop shop of bison, mule deer, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats and pronghorn antelope, forming the largest concentration of mammals in the lower 48.

Bonus species : black and grizzly bear, Canada lynx, coyote, mountain lion, salamander, spotted frog, wolverine, bull snake, rubber boa, bobcat, wolf, 148 species of bird and 3 million annual varieties of gawking tourist.

Where to find individual species

Bison, Custer State Park (South Dakota)

Reintroduced after near-extinction at the turn of the last century, 1,300 bison – possibly the world’s largest publicly-owned herd – now roam Custer State Park .

Badlands National Park , with its rams, badgers and prairie dogs, is just a two-hour drive away.

Bonus species : Pronghorn antelope, burro, mountain goat, sheep, deer, elk, wild turkey.

Deer, Interstate 80 (Nationwide)

The once-endangered white-tailed deer is now ubiquitous throughout the United States, with total numbers estimated at more than 20 million.

From San Francisco to Teaneck, New Jersey, drivers on I-80 see more of them than legal lane changes.

Caribou, Selkirk Mountains (Idaho)

Roughly two-thirds of Idaho is public land, affording ample roaming room for the last woodland reindeer herd in the lower 48.

Bonus species : Grizzly bear, lynx, wolf, moose, wolverine, elk and mountain lion.

Elk, National Elk Refuge (Wyoming)

Every winter, roughly 7,500 elk migrate to this 25,000-acre sanctuary neighboring the city of Jackson and Grand Teton National Park.

Bonus species : Mountain lion, bison, raven, wolf, deer, pronghorn antelope.

Pronghorn antelope, Red Desert (Wyoming)

Home to the largest migratory herd in the lower 48.

On a long enough timeline, a pronghorn can outrun a cheetah, which is vital to expediting the longest land migration in the continental United States.

Bonus species : Mountain lion, deer, wild horse, rabbit, prairie dog, badger and the world’s largest desert elk population.

Moose, Moose Alley (New Hampshire)

The so-called Moose Alley , the northern section of U.S. Route 3 between Pittsburg, New Hampshire, and the Canadian border, is like a year-round moose Mardi Gras.

Bonus species : Angry logging truckers.

Wild Horse, Outer Banks (North Carolina)

Technically, the Outer Banks are home to feral horses, as all truly wild horses in North America (those not descended from domesticated stock) are extinct.

But the horses on this 200-mile-long stretch of barrier islands have been bucking since the Spanish abandoned them here in the 1500s.

Bonus species : Nearly 400 varieties of bird.

Horse destinations: 15 of the best places for equine fans

Lower Rio Grande Valley (Texas)

There are more than 800 bird species in the United States, and you can knock out more than half of them at this patchwork of parcels both private and public that represent 11 different ecosystems.

Comprised of the Laguna Atascosa, Lower Rio Grande and Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuges, this wildlife corridor hosts at least 520 species – 400 on about 2,000 acres of Santa Ana alone – including chachalacas, osprey, heron, tropical parula, spoonbills, orioles, egrets, roadrunners, kingfishers, robins, cranes, Canada geese, kites, least grebes, kiskadees, whistling ducks and raptors like the gray hawk and Aplomado falcon.

Bonus species : Ocelot (Laguna Atascosa).

Where to find other individual bird species

Bald eagle, Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex (California)

There are more than 300 species at this migration stop for millions of birds, including America’s national animal.

Golden eagle, Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area (Idaho)

The golden eagle typically migrates seasonally, but approximately 30 pairs nest in this 600,000-acre park just south of Boise, year-round.

Condor, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument (Arizona)

America’s largest land bird is critically endangered, but of the 230 or so remaining in the wild, approximately one-third of them circle the Vermilion Cliffs .

Puffin, Machias Seal Island (Maine)

Machias Seal Island is one of the few puffin colonies that allows visitors during spring and summer breeding.

The United States and Canada each claim sovereignty, adding a dimension of geopolitical tension to your bird-watching.

11 wildlife encounters to do soon – before they possibly disappear

OK, so not all of these species actually qualify as fish, but …

[Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated tha t “none” of the following species qualify as fish.]

Shark, New Smyrna Beach (Florida)

The state of Florida led the world in attacks last year and Volusia County, home of New Smyrna Beach , led the state.

Bonus species : Right whale, manatee, sea turtle and hundreds of species of bird.

Dolphins, Ko Olina, Oahu (Hawaii)

Hawaiian spinner dolphins feed at night and throng this spot on Oahu’s west coast by the dozens during the day.

The recent arrival of a Disney resort may apply urgency to any dolphin watching plans.

Bonus species : Whales, monk seals and green sea turtles.

Whales, Glacier Bay National Park (Alaska)

Seasonal humpbacks, grays and porpoises combine with year-round orcas for one of the richest cetacean environments in the world.

It’s like the Yellowstone of maritime mammals.

Bonus species : Grizzly bear, sea lion, lynx, mountain goats, seals, otters and 274 species of bird.

The wild wolf population in the lower 48 has grown from less than 300 just 30 years ago to more than 4,000 today, thanks to restoration efforts that began around the Great Lakes.

Gray wolf, Ely, Minnesota

The state of Minnesota has the largest gray wolf population outside of Alaska, and the northeastern part of the state – specifically Ely and the International Wolf Center – is its most densely inhabited.

Bonus species : Bald eagle, black bear, moose, beaver, loon, red fox, deer and up to 100 species of bird.

Red wolf, Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge (North Carolina)

Extinct in the wild for all intents and purposes by 1980, the reintroduction of red wolves raised in captivity has yielded a modest rebound of about 100 overall.

Bonus species : Alligator, black bear, waterfowl and more than 250 species of bird.

SEA MAMMALS

Children’s Pool b each (La Jolla, California)

A small, turbulent stretch of coast off La Jolla made recreational by the construction of a sea wall 80 years ago has since become a year-round haven for harbor seals and California sea lions .

Legal wrangling over use of, and access to, the beach finally rode its course recently, ensuring scores of seals bathing, lazing and spawning right beside beachgoers.

Bonus species : Fecal bacteria.

Where to find other sea mammals

Walrus, Point Lay (Alaska)

The good news is that the walruses of the Chukchi Sea – the only place in the United States to see wild walrus – have recently taken to hauling out by the thousands onto this observable tract of shoreline.

The bad news is that it’s because the sea ice they’re supposed to be floating on is melting.

Bonus species : Gray and bowhead whale, polar bear, ice seal and at least 15 species of bird.

Manatee, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge (Florida)

The largest purported herd in the United States – not just of manatees, but also meddling guides and tourists – descends each winter on Three Sisters Springs’ 72-degree waters.

Some even stay year round. (The manatees, that is.)

Otter, Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge (Indiana)

Since the reintroduction of the species to the region 20 years ago, the population has rebounded.

So much, in fact, that some area landowners have received permits to trap and/or kill them .

Bonus species : Deer, quail, wood duck, rabbit, wild turkey, bald eagle and more than 280 other species of bird.

TINY TERRORS

What they lack in the gargantuan, plodding mass of a longhorn or buffalo, these creatures more than make up in nightmare-dominating fright and ferocity.

Badger, Great Basin National Park (Nevada)

Ironically not concentrated most in Wisconsin (whose state university’s mascot is the badger), but rather in the largest and coldest desert in North America.

Sightings are rare, with the badger being a swifter digger than a human with a shovel.

Bonus species : Mountain lion, jackrabbit, deer, elk and pronghorn antelope.

Wolverine, Glacier National Park (Montana)

Wolverines are notoriously elusive, but may be easiest to find in the winter in magnificent Glacier National Park , when the snow cover more easily reveals their movements.

Bonus species : Grizzly bear, gray wolf, elk, lynx, wolverine, cougar, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, painted turtle and more than 260 species of bird.

Bat, Congress Avenue Bridge (Austin, Texas)

The largest bat population in the world (20 million) is actually just an hour and a half away at Bracken Cave .

But the nightly spectacle of more than a million dormant bats spontaneously diffusing from just above street level at Austin’s Congress Avenue Bridge into the sky like a fog of chunky black spray paint is the stuff lifetime phobias are made of.

Things to do in Austin, Texas, all year round

Show all

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USA TODAY 10Best

Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park voted Best Safari Park of 2021

Best Wildlife/Safari Park (2021) June 4, 2021

At these 20 safari and wildlife parks, nominated as the best in the U.S., visitors get up close and personal with exotic and endangered animals from around the country and the world. Many of the facilities are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and have a focus on conservation as well as education. 

The top 10 winners in the category Best Safari Park are as follows:

No. 10: Safari West - Santa Rosa, Calif.

A bit of Africa in the heart of California’s wine country, AZA-accredited  Safari West  welcomes guests to the “Sonoma Serengeti,” where a 3-hour riding and walking adventure takes them through the 400-acre preserve. Giraffes, zebras, oryx, gazelle, antelopes, buffalo, wildebeest and many other species number among the 1,000 animals that call the park home. For an even more in-depth safari experience, visitors can choose to stay the night in a luxurious safari tent and fall asleep to the sounds of nocturnal animals.

No. 9: Wildlife Safari - Winston, Ore.

Wildlife Safari, an Oregon wildlife park accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, is home to some 500 animals, many visible along the park’s drive-through safari route or the walk-through Safari Village. Wildlife Safari has long been a leader in conservation as well; their cheetah breeding program launched in 1972, and since then, more than 200 cheetahs have been born at the park.

No. 8: Lion Country Safari - Loxahatchee, Fla.

Palm Beach  may be far away from the wilds of Africa, but it’s also home to Florida’s first drive-through safari, the AZA-accredited Lion Country Safari. Established in 1967, this safari park invites visitors to observe and interact with more than 1,000 animals divided between seven sections. Guests might spot ostrich, wildebeest and impala on the Serengeti Plains, observe a pride of lions in Gorongosa Reserve or see giraffe and endangered rhino in Hwange National Park.

No. 7: Keystone Safari - Grove City, Pennsylvania

Keystone Safari, an interactive zoo and adventure park in Grove City, PA, is devoted to protecting rare and endangered animals. The 144-acre park has both walk-thru and open-area drive-thru sections where visitors can view animals including Guanacos, Donkeys, Ponies, Highlander Cattle, Emu, Rhea, Gayal, Banteng, Waterbuck, Blackbuck, Nilgai, Pere David’s Deer, Fallow Deer, Bison, Yak, Gyr, Eland, Turkeys, Zebras, Elk and more.

No. 6: B. Bryan Preserve - Point Arena, Calif.

The B. Bryan Preserve on California's Mendocino coast has a mission to breed and preserve African hoof stock. Visitors to the Point Arena wildlife park have the opportunity to observe rare and endangered animals, including antelope, zebra, kudu and giraffe in large, open fields similar to their natural habitats. Available by reservation only, tours give visitors an up-close view of each species.

No. 5: The Wilds - Cumberland, Ohio

An AZA-accredited branch of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, The Wilds helps visitors gain a fresh perspective on endangered species through a series of immersive experiences within the 10,000-acre park. Rare and endangered animals from around the globe —particularly Africa and Asia — live in open range habitats that visitors can explore via open-air safari vehicle. 

No. 4: San Diego Zoo Safari Park - San Diego

At the AZA-accredited  San Diego Zoo Safari Park , visitor can feed a giraffe, observe rhinos with their young, watch an elephant herd splash through a pond or see lions basking in the sun. A tram transports guests through the 1,800 African-themed acres, and regularly scheduled Animal Encounters offer a more intimate animal experience, led by park keepers. More than 300 species call the park home.

No. 3: Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center - Divide, Colo.

The Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center seeks to educate the public about the importance of wolves, coyotes and foxes to the North American ecosystem and about the habitats that support them. The sanctuary provides natural habitats for animals that can no longer live in the wild. Guided walking tours give visitors an up-close view of timber, Arctic and Mexican grey wolves, coyotes, red and swift foxes.

No. 2: Bearizona Wildlife Park - Williams, Ariz.

Visitors to Bearizona, situated on 160 acres of land near the town of Williams, dive through more than three miles of Ponderosa pine forest on a safari to see North American animals in naturalistic habitats. After the driving portion of the park, guests can head on foot through Fort Bearizona, where winding walkways lead past smaller animals on exhibit. Guests can interact with animals in the Bearizona Barnyard petting zoo or learn more about the animals on display during daily keeper chats.

No. 1: Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park - Ashland, Neb.

An accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park invites visitors to drive along a 4-mile route through habitats populated by native North American plant and animal species — American elk, bison, waterfowl, raptors and white-tailed deer. At Wolf Canyon, guests can hop out of the car to see grey wolves and American black bears or walk through the half-acre Eagle Aviary.

A panel of experts partnered with 10Best editors to pick the initial nominees, and the top 10 winners were determined by popular vote.

Congratulations to all these winning safari parks!

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Alan sironen.

Alan Sironen is the owner of Zoo Consultants...   Read More

Alan Sironen is the owner of Zoo Consultants International . Zoo Consultants International assists their clients in animal exhibit planning, zoo animal equipment development, exhibit blueprint review and animal transportation. Alan was employed for over 35 years at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. During his employment at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo he held positions as Zookeeper, Head Zoo Keeper, Assistant General Curator, Curator of Mammals, Curator of Mammalogy, and Curator of Large Mammals and Carnivores. Alan Sironen received a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Capital University in 1975 and a M.B.A. in International Business Administration from Baldwin Wallace College in 1986. Alan currently is a Professional Member of the Zoological Association of America and a Professional Associate Member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. He also serve on the Board of Global Conservation Connection.

Allison Taylor

The owner and content creator of Family Vacations...   Read More

The owner and content creator of Family Vacations U.S is somewhat of a compulsive researcher when it comes to family vacations. Allison has 2 boys ages 10 and 12 whose antics keep her very busy, and being married to a firefighter adds a whole other element to the chaos! You can find her on Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter . 

Debra Erickson

Debra Erickson is President of the International...   Read More

Debra Erickson is President of the International Zoo Educators Association . She is also the Marketing Director for San Diego Zoo Global, Executive Director of Atlantis Blue Project Foundation and Accreditation Chair for Atlantis, Paradise Island. She has been in the conservation, interpretation, marketing, communications, and education fields for 30 years and has worked for the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, Atlantis, Paradise Island, Atlantis, The Palm, SeaWorld San Diego, SeaWorld Orlando, S.E.A. Aquarium and Dolphin Island. Debra has held a wide variety of positions in the education and interpretation field including Education Director at San Diego Zoo Safari Park, SeaWorld Orlando, and Atlantis, Paradise Island. She has created interpretive plans for a wide variety of exhibits including Manatees: The Last Generation, Wild Arctic, and Tiger Trail which have all won the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums Top Exhibit Honors award. Currently she is leading the effort to provide San Diego Zoo Kids, a 24-hour, commercial-free television channel, to 300 children’s hospitals and Ronald McDonald Houses around the world. Having worked in over 40 countries during her career and seeing the challenges that many developing countries face, Debra has a keen commitment to conservation. She worked as Executive Director and Conservation Director for Orangutan Foundation International and was responsible for developing and implementing the conservation plan for Tanjung Puting National Park. Debra continues her conservation work through the Atlantis Blue Project Foundation where she funds marine conservation projects and mentors conservationists in the field. Debra received her B.A. in Biology from Scripps College and her M.A. in Educational Technology from San Diego State University.

Kyle McCarthy

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of...   Read More

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of Family Travel Forum, the trusted resource for family vacation planners since 1996. FTF’s award-winning publications: MyFamilyTravels.com , America’s Most Popular Family Vacations and  The Family Vacationist  e-newsletter  provide destination reviews, tips and  seasonal roundups  for all aspects of travel. Ms. McCarthy, author of a dozen Frommer’s guidebooks, also contributes to US News, CNN and other publications. She can be found on most social networks @familytravelforum.

Nicky Omohundro

Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of Read More

Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of LittleFamilyAdventure.com , the popular family travel & lifestyle website that inspires families to leave no child left inside. Since 2013 LFA has been providing inspiration to get families outdoors, eat well, and travel everywhere from their own backyard to around the world. Always up for a family adventure, she has traveled to 37 states and 6 countries to zip-line through a Costa Rican rainforest, see Finland’s Northern Lights, and go camping throughout the US. Nicky is the co-founder of Tourism WorX a travel consultancy group. Connect with her Twitter  and Instagram .

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival...   Read More

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival Guide  (being released May 25, 2021) and  the founder of 2TravelDads , the original LGBT Family Travel blog. Focusing on ecotourism and education, 2TravelDads inspires LGBT families (and traditional families also) to go beyond their usual getaways and use travel to learn about and be part of a bigger world. 2TravelDads blazes the way for other two-dad and two-mom families to travel to previously overlooked destinations or places we as gay people would normally avoid. We share the struggles we've faced and the surprising gems and welcomes we've had along the way. Traveling as a family is one thing, traveling as an LGBT family is completely something else.

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8 of the Best Safari Destinations in the U.S.

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At some point in life, almost everyone with an interest in nature or adventure dreams about going on a safari. There is something romantic about the idea of trekking through the wilderness in Africa, seeking out animals that can't be seen in the wild anywhere else in the world. But there are plenty of unique wildlife-viewing experiences available much closer to home. 

Many parts of the U.S., including some of America's national parks , are filled with undeniably impressive wildlife (think bears, bison, moose, alligators, and armadillos). The excitement of viewing these special animals up close, or through a telephoto lens, can be enjoyed remarkably easily if you know where to look.

Here are eight of the best safari destinations in the U.S.

Katmai National Park and Preserve (Alaska)

Paul Souders / Getty Images

With over 4 million acres, Katmai National Park and Preserve has a remote feel and plenty of wildlife, most notably a large population of brown bears . Katmai, named after a volcano that sits at its center, has a variety of easily accessible ecotourism activities, including trekking and kayak trips , interpretative hikes, backcountry skiing, and fly fishing.

Katmai's bears, which number over 2,000, stay in the area because of the salmon-packed rivers. The ursine inhabitants are managed by the National Park Service and the wealth of fresh food in the rivers makes them generally unaggressive toward human visitors. These mammoth creatures are best seen from the park's bear-viewing platforms, where visitors are able to get some amazing snapshots, especially during the salmon run season.

Yellowstone National Park (Idaho, Montana, Wyoming)

Mark Miller Photos / Getty Images

While the most popular areas of Yellowstone National Park can be jam-packed, a majority of the more than 2 million acres of land is surprisingly uncrowded. Walking along any trail, even a few steps from the main roads, will undoubtedly lead to some wildlife encounters, with foxes, birds, bears, and bison among the animals in the park. 

One of the most interesting animal inhabitants in Yellowstone is the American bison (also called the buffalo). These one-ton creatures thrive in the park, with over 4,600 roaming freely during the peak grazing season. Scouring Yellowstone's meadows and grasslands will certainly lead to some great bison pictures. Visitors can imagine what it must have been like when these impressive beasts dominated the prairies of the Midwest and Mountain West more than a century ago.

Denali National Park and Preserve (Alaska)

Daniel A. Leifheit / Getty Images

This park in south-central Alaska is one of the best places in the country to get a “safari” experience. Denali covers over 6 million acres, with a third dominated by its namesake mountain. Visitors often focus on bears when seeking out wildlife in Denali. While there are large grizzly and black bear populations inside the park, these creatures, though impressive, are just two of the many species of animals that inhabit this region of Alaska. 

Herds of caribou roam freely in grazing areas, and Dall sheep are found in the high mountains, while moose dominate the wetlands. Other creatures, from beavers and foxes to gray wolves, lynx, and wolverines have also been spotted in Denali, making it one of the best places for seeing multiple species of animals. And, of course, the stunning mountain panoramas are as much of an attraction as the animals themselves.

Cumberland Island National Seashore (Georgia)

Dan Reynolds Photography / Getty Images

Cumberland Island National Seashore is located on the southernmost of Georgia's barrier islands. This nature-dominated area can be reached only by ferry, which helps to keep it pristine and uncrowded. Cumberland is a birder's paradise, with over 300 species of endemic and migrating birds calling the island home.

But the avian residents are only part of this Georgia paradise's story. The beaches draw sea turtles during nesting season, and wild horses, deer, and even armadillos can be seen around the island. Meanwhile, manatees float in the shallow coastal waters. This is a great place for a Southern safari, and historic ruins—scattered around the island—can give an adventure here another exciting dimension. Campgrounds and inns are located on Cumberland, so wildlife-seekers can choose the right level of comfort for their safari experience.

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center (Texas)

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This unique attraction in Texas is not the place to go if you want to see wild animals in their natural habitat, but it is one of the best places in the U.S. to get close to a safari experience. Fossil Rim covers about 1,800 acres and is home to more than 50 species of animals, all of which roam freely. A 7.2-mile scenic drive allows visitors to see the animals—many of which are endangered or threatened—from their vehicles.

The residents of this fenceless wildlife center include giraffes , gazelles, zebras, rhinos, and cheetahs. Fossil Rim is involved in conservation breeding, education, and professional training. Successful breeding programs have led to the release of some animals born at the property back into the wild.

Everglades National Park (Florida)

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The Everglades has the distinction of being the largest tropical wilderness in the continental United States. It is almost completely covered by wetland landscapes . The waters of Everglades National Park teem with wildlife not found elsewhere in the U.S.

Snakes, tropical birds, and small mammals abound in these swampy conditions, but it is one of the park's toothiest animals that enjoys headliner status. Alligators can be seen both by boat and along several walking trails that run through the park. This is one of the best places in the U.S. to see these impressive, prehistoric-looking creatures up close. Another attractive aspect of the Everglades is its location, which is less than a one-hour drive from Miami.

Moose Alley (Maine)

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Aside from creatures like bison and grizzly bears, moose are one of the most impressive species in North America, size-wise. These large members of the deer family can weigh more than 1,000 pounds. Males are known for their huge antlers, which are at their biggest in the summer and fall. 

If you want to see moose, one of the best places in the U.S. is in Maine, particularly in an area dubbed Moose Alley. Some of the roads in this region (Route 16 and Route 201) are ideal for spotting the large mammals, and local resorts offer moose tours that allow people to head out and do more than whiz past the creatures as they drive down the highway.

Bison Range (Montana)

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This 18,000-acre refuge for the impressive American bison, a species that once dominated the plains of the U.S., is a great place to see these wooly one-ton creatures in their natural habitat. Between 300 and 500 bison call the range home at any given time of year. Other species, like elk and deer, also wander the range. 

Because of the range's relatively small size, catching a glimpse of wildlife is not as difficult as it is in some of the million-plus acre national parks. Formerly run by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in December 2020 federal trust ownership of the Bison Range was restored to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.

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How to have an incredible safari experience without leaving the US

Dec 2, 2021 • 5 min read

These safaris get up-close and personal to America's coolest wildlife; An elk herd in the Grand Tetons, Wyoming © kwiktor / Getty

Watching elephants roaming the grasslands of Kenya ’s Maasai Mara nature reserve, spotting lions in South Africa ’s Kruger National Park, stargazing from a remote lodge in Namibia —for many, an African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime, bucket-list adventure. As new variants delay safari trips abroad, some safari tour operators turn to destinations closer to home.

After COVID hit, and many countries' borders shuttered (including those in Africa) Elizabeth Gordon, co-founder and CEO of Extraordinary Journeys , decided to draw on her intimate knowledge of New Mexico to plan epic, once-in-a-lifetime adventures in the US.  She made North America a bookable experience on her itineraries that had focused on Africa, Antarctica and India. Born and raised in Kenya, her mother and co-founder, Marcia Gordon, is originally from New Mexico , and much of her family still lives in the southwestern state. For Gordon, the two locales share similarities.

“New Mexico is so wild, you don’t have as many people and it’s not touristy,” she says. “A lot of the scenery is similar – Africa is desert, or has cool formations. It always makes me laugh because when I’m in New Mexico, I feel like it's not the United States. It’s just something different.”

“If you wanted to go to Patagonia , why don't you see the Tetons this year?” Gordon says. “There are other alternatives – is everything you’re looking for abroad actually right here?”

Below, find the best US safaris that transport you to the depths of this country's stunning national parks, mountain ranges and other iconic terrains.

The rustic, natural wonders of New Mexico

The award-winning luxury travel company specializes in custom, off-the-beaten-path African safaris, so it’s no surprise that while borders were closed, Extraordinary Journeys applied those same planning sensibilities to its newly-offered US destinations. Touting its new domestic safaris, the company’s website notes, “Even though we might be itching to stamp our passports, now is time for a great reminder that our own country has some of the most diverse, isolated, dramatic and beautiful terrains in the world.”

Those terrains include the American Southwest, with an 8-night itinerary spent exploring New Mexico’s natural wonders. Highlights include traversing Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks and Bandelier national monuments, and Taos Pueblo, a Unesco World Heritage Site. The trip concludes with three nights at Vermejo , the Ted Turner-owned, 550,000-acre wildlife reserve in Northern New Mexico, where guests get a front-row seat to see herds of bison, prairie dogs, elk, deer, wild turkeys and horses.

Yellowstone and Jacksonhole: Glamping in the Old West

In the first half of a 6-night adventure in the Rocky Mountain region, travelers stay in a private luxury camp in Yellowstone , where they can see bears, wolves, otters, moose, and elk while on hikes and privately-guided geyser tours. The second half of the trip is set in Jackson Hole , exploring Grand Teton from a home base at the Amangani resort. From the secluded luxury property, guests take a guided wildlife safari through the region’s majestic terrain, and look for moose, bears, coyotes, elk, wolves and mountain lions.

A wintery Yellowstone retreat

The tour operator known for its tailor-made trips recently added a roster of US tours – several with wildlife-viewing highlights.

“Our travelers still want to get out and explore, perhaps now more than ever,” says Audley ’s Head of Sales and Service, Marc Dolman. “We’re privileged to have access to these beautiful wilderness areas, scenic drives, mountains and rivers right in our backyard, and we’ve been working diligently to do them justice, by creating a selective portfolio of stand-out excursions and accommodations that promise to create travel memories, like any of our trips abroad.”

The company’s Yellowstone in the Winter package fosters those memories with excursions like the tour of Grand Teton National Park at sunrise, where travelers can use a scope to scan for herds of elk and moose, bald eagles and sometimes, coyotes.

Day four of the 13-day trip takes the small group to snowy Yellowstone National Park to explore the terrain, including Old Faithful , via snowshoe or cross country ski. The guide-led snow coach ride spotlights otters, bald eagles, and wolves among the frozen waterfalls and misty geysers, while a sunrise trek through the Lamar Valley showcases an area dense with wildlife like moose, coyotes, bighorn sheep and bison.

Over breakfast of fresh fruit and hot oatmeal, expert wolf-tracking guides lead an excursion to see wolves playing and feeding. Several lodging options are available, but for a more genuine safari feel, Audley works with Under Canvas, offering luxe safari tents with hot running water, organic bath products and private decks, near Yellowstone and other National Parks.

The best wildlife experiences in the USA

Discover the grizzlies and wolves of Yellowstone

Natural Habitat Adventures , the world’s first carbon-neutral travel company since 2007, has organized trips with a focus on conservation, sustainability, and wildlife viewing for 35 years. Last spring, the company added the Hidden Yellowstone and Grand Teton Safari . Small groups – limited to 14 travelers, divided between two North American safari trucks – can spend the week with expert naturalist guides, discovering elk, bison, bighorn sheep, grizzlies, wolves, and more. One highlight is the serene float down Jackson Hole’s Snake River, watching for moose, beavers, osprey, and pelicans, surrounded by sweeping views of the Tetons.

You might also like: How the pandemic threatens rhino conservation How to be a responsible wildlife tourist These nine wildlife webcams offer access to your favorite animals

This article was first published November 2020 and updated December 2021

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Where To Go On A Safari In The U.S.

An African safari might be high on your animal-loving kids’ bucket list, but for wildlife adventures closer to home, consider a safari right here in the United States. That’s right — a handful of state parks and private attractions make it possible to see giraffes and cheetahs from a safari vehicle. Whether you’re hoping to spot animals on your own or with a guide, here are 10 safaris that are sure to bring a thrill for the whole family.

Safari West | Sonoma, California

Although Sonoma is best known for its vineyards, you’d be surprised to learn that it’s also home to a 400-acre wildlife reservation. Safari West sets out to conserve animals like wildebeast, cheetahs, giraffes and gazelle — all of which are allowed to roam freely. Visitors can observe from an open-air vehicle and “glamp” in a tent for overnight stays.

Lion Country Safari | West Palm Beach, Florida

This drive-through safari has been thrilling families since 1967. The 900-animal park also serves up amusement park rides, boat cruises, water play splash zones and mini golf. There’s even an award-winning adjacent campground for a rustic stay.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park | Escondido, California

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park immerses visitors in an active, hands-on safari experience where herds of animals roam natural habitats in a vast reserve. Choose from a variety of safari expeditions by caravan truck, cart, zip line — there’s even an overnight option. There are amazing views of lions lounging in the grasslands, antelope and giraffes mingling, rhinos wallowing in waterholes and more.

The Wilds | Cumberland, Ohio

This non-profit conservation park (90 miles east of Columbus) sits on 10,000 acres of reclaimed mine land. The park combines cutting-edge conservation science and education programs with hands-on experiences and one-of-a-kind adventures. The Zipline Safari takes guests soaring on ten zip lines above more than 350 animals, or kids can giddy-up on a horseback safari.

Wild Animal Safari | Pine Mountain, Georgia

This drive-thru safari park boasts 65 types of exotic animals. Visitors can travel the 3.5 miles of adventure in their own vehicle, take a ride on the park’s complimentary bus tour or rent a Zebra Van. A ride through the park in the bus tour is led by a Wild Animal Safari tour guide.

Lamar Valley | Yellowstone National Park

Located in the northeastern corner of Yellowstone, the Lamar Valley is often called America’s Serengeti for its large and easy-to-see populations of large animals. Among its most famous inhabitants are the Junction Butte and Lamar Canyon wolf packs. In addition to wolves, other animals roaming the Lamar Valley include large herds of bison, pronghorn, badgers, grizzly bears, bald eagles, osprey, deer and coyotes.

Safari Wilderness Ranch | Lakeland, Florida

An easy drive from Orlando, this park covers 260 acres. Guests can hop in a canopied safari vehicle to cross wetlands and grasslands. The animals roaming here include zebra, kudu, springbok and water buffalo.

Point Reyes Safaris | Point Reyes, California

Head to the west coast for a wildlife safari to see bobcats, coyotes, badgers, grey fox, the famous tule elk, elephant seals, raptors, owls, shorebirds and whales. You’ll also enjoy seeing some of the most beautiful California coast the state has to offer. Safaris are customized to meet the goals and desires of each family.

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center | Glen Rose, Texas

This facility is an endangered species research and conservation center with over 1,000 animals from 50 species. Guided and self-guided tours are the main attraction. If hand-feeding a giraffe is on your bucket list, guests can buy a bag of animal feed and head out on the drive-through safari or take a guided tour.

Love wildlife adventures? Find more animal encounters here.

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Florida's Lion Country Safari named one of nation's Top 5 safari parks

LOXHATCHEE — Providing an up-close look at exotic animals since 1967, and believed to be the first cage-less zoo in the United States, Lion Country Safari was named the fifth best safari park in the country in USA Today's "10 Best" Readers' Choice 2022 poll.

 The ranking was announced Friday .

A panel of zoo and travel experts along with several 10 Best editors came up with the initial top 20 list. The final 10 were chosen by popular vote.

A No. 5 finish is a step up for Lion Country Safari, which placed eighth in the poll last year, according to the park's public relations and social media manager, Haley McCann-Gonzalez.

The top spot in the poll was secured by a park in Nebraska, the Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari in Ashland. The top 5 lineup:

• Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari in Ashland, Neb.
• The Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio 
• Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center in Divide, Colo.
• Bearizona Wildlife Park in Williams, Ariz. 
• Lion Country Safari in Loxahatchee.

Lion Country Safari was a pioneer in the zoo world when it opened more than 50 years ago, introducing a new concept in zoology and tourism. It offered families a chance to experience an African safari at a fraction of the cost and time. 

Photos: Christmas for the chimps at Lion Country Safari

More park residents: See photos of the second rare rhino born this year at Lion Country Safari

More animal news: TobyKeith, world's oldest living dog, needed proof to land Guinness record. What's his secret?

Lion Country Safari drive-through park has the largest zebra population in the country

From those humble beginnings, the park now features more than 1,000 wild animals from six continents, including lions, wildebeest, giraffes, zebras, ostriches, chimpanzees, rhinoceroses, impalas, greater kudus, Asian water buffalo and white-handed gibbons, on nearly 600 acres.

Roaming free, the park's zebra population is the largest in the country. On May 6, it added one more member to the herd with the birth of a male plains zebra.

Though maybe not number-one in the country, the park's herd of giraffes is recognized as one of the largest.

The park is known around the world, all the way to the North Pole. On his global December jaunt, Santa Claus makes a regular stop at Lion Country Safari to deliver gifts to the chimpanzees — an event guests can witness annually. 

In addition to allowing guests an up-close look at these animals in a natural setting, the park also participates in many conservation initiatives and roughly 35 breeding programs (called species survival plans) for threatened species including the rhinoceros, zebra, oryx and siamang.

These programs help to ensure the survival of a healthy, sustainable population of threatened species in human care and help facilities like Lion Country Safari to act as lifeboats or figurative arks as wild populations decline and face extinction.

The park's employees have been on hand for scores of births from wild donkeys to wildebeests. They have also assisted in one unprecedented surgery to remove a cancerous tumor from a rhino's horn. 

Eddie Ritz is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post , part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at [email protected] . Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.

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The Top Ten Safari Parks in the U.S.

It’s easy to think of a safari park as a place where a bit of Africa or Asia has been conveniently dropped into your section of the United States. For the most part, this is true – a traditional wild animal park often does contain exotic animals and terrain that recreates a savannah, a desert, or a jungle. But some of the animal parks on this year’s top ten list feature the flora and fauna of their region, giving it the importance and respect it deserves.

Still, safari parks are more than just lions and tigers and the occasional bear. They are also a great way to help kids learn about the environment, from the remarkable diversity in the animal kingdom to the workings of their own local ecosystem. So, without further ado, here are the ten parks we’ve chosen as the best places to go on safari without leaving the country.

1. Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari

Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari

Pine Mountain, GA

One of two sister safari parks, the Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari Park is home to a variety of animals, from American bison to African giraffes. In fact, this 250-acre expanse contains more than 120 species of animals, including parrots, peacocks, lemurs, lizards, wolves, and wallabies. You can rent a bus or van for the 3.5 mile tour, or you can use your own vehicle. And there’s also a stroll-friendly section, where kids can hand-feed some of the park’s smaller, tamer residents.

Site: http://www.animalsafari.com/Georgia/ 1300 Oak Grove Road

Pine Mountain, GA 31822

Phone: 706-663-8744

2. Out of Africa Wildlife Park

Camp Verde, AZ

Approximately midway between Flagstaff and Phoenix, the Out of Africa Wildlife Park offers a mix of entertaining and informative shows, a bush safari, and a wildlife preserve. If the kids want to see a tiger swim or an armadillo named Tucker strut his stuff, this is the place to go. There’s even the chance to (safely) feed a tiger. The 40-minute bus ride gives you an up-close view of zebras, antelopes, and other African animals. For the more adventurous group, there’s also a 2.5 hour zipline tour.

Site: http://outofafricapark.com/

Located At : 3505 Camp Verde Bridgeport Highway (SR-260)

Camp Verde, AZ 86322 Mailing Address:  4020 N. Cherry Road

Camp Verde, AZ 86322 Phone:  928.567.2840

3. Virginia Safari Park

Photo Courtesy of Virginia Safari Park

Natural Bridge, VA

The only drive-thru wild animal park in Virginia , this facility has over 1,000 animals on its 180-acre spread. In addition to the 3-mile driving tour, guests can walk around Safari Village and interact with animals in the petting zoo. Reptiles, tigers, birds, giraffes, llamas – they’re all here, and a picnic area too.

Site: http://www.virginiasafaripark.com/

229 Safari Lane

Natural Bridge, VA 24578

Phone: (540) 291-3205

4. Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari

Part of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and Wild Animal Park, this facility takes an educational approach to the conservation of North American animals. The Park’s residents include bison, elk, deer, wolves, pelicans, black bears, cranes, and eagles. There’s a picnic area for groups, and a hands-on area for kids to feed goats, chickens, and other farmyard critters.

Site: http://www.wildlifesafaripark.com/ 16406 292 Street Ashland, NE 68003

Phone: (402) 944-WILD (402-944-9453)

5. San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego, CA

This is the granddaddy of all safari parks; if not the original wild animal venue, it’s certainly the best known. The 1,800 acres that make up this addendum to the San Diego Zoo is home to animals from 300 species and six continents. From the safety of a guided bus or tram tour, kids can see buffalo, cranes, rhinos, and big cats in their (near-enough) natural setting. The Safari Park is also home to the rare California Condor.

Site: http://www.sdzsafaripark.org/

15500 San Pasqual Valley Road Escondido, CA 92027-7017

Phone:  760-747-8702

6. Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Walt Disney World Resort

Orlando, FL

In a place the size of Disney World, it’s easy to overlook some of the attractions. Disney’s Animal Kingdom, however, is hard to miss: it’s the world’s largest animal park, hosting 1,700 animals that represent 250 species. Guests can go on safari, trek through ‘jungles’, explore recreated forests, or ride the Wildlife Express train. And the younger crowd will probably want to see DinoLand USA.

Site: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/animal-kingdom/

Phone: (407) 939-1942 (Group Reservations)

(407) 939-2273 (Information)

(407) 939-5277 (Assistance)

7. Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari

Jackson, NJ

Some of this theme-park-cum-animal-safari attraction spent 2013 offline, thanks to efforts to get Six Flags’ Off-Road Adventure up and running. In 2014, however, expect everything to be open again. This being a Six Flags, there’s far more than just animals (bears, elephants, rhinos, lions, and kangaroos) to see: there’s also coasters to ride and lots of food and souvenirs available.  (Call ahead for the Off-Road Adventure; wait times can be up to 2 hours or more.)

Site: http://www.sixflags.com/greatAdventure/index.aspx

1 Six Flags Boulevard Jackson, NJ 08527 (Off I-95 West)

Phone: (732) 928-1821 (General Information)

(732) 928-2000 Ext 2845 (Group Sales)

8. The Wilds

The Wilds Safari Bus

Cumberland, OH

Ohio may not be the first place you think of for wild animal parks, but this one, built on reclaimed land, is one of the best. The 9,000 acres mean there is lots of room for the camels, cheetahs, and wild horses to roam. In addition to the usual safari trips, folks can go see the sights atop horseback or via zipline. Biking, birding, and fishing are also popular.

14000 International Road Cumberland, OH 43732 Phone: (740) 638-5030

9. Lion Country Safari African Adventure

West Palm Beach, FL

Lion Country has two ways to experience an ersatz safari – on foot through SafariWorld, and by vehicle through seven distinct African-esque regions. The African theme extends even to the food at the restaurant. There’s a special emphasis on education here; grade-appropriate classes are available, and there’s a fun scavenger hunt for kids and teachers.

Site: http://www.lioncountrysafari.com/

2003 Lion Country Safari Rd

Loxahatchee, FL 33470

Phone: (561) 793-1084

10. Northwest Trek Wildlife Park

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park

Eatonville, WA

This park is unique because it’s not a drive-thru. There is a narrated 50-minute tram tour that highlights elk, moose, and mountain goats. But the goal of Northwest Trek is to get visitors moving and interacting – with the animals and with the exhibits, especially the Cheney Family Discovery Center and in supervised trail-side encounters with beavers, porcupines, and other North American animals. (Call ahead for open times.)

Site: http://www.nwtrek.org/

11610 Trek Drive East

Eatonville, WA 98328

Phone:  360.832.6117

Call them what you will – safari parks, wild animal parks, wild animal safaris, conservation centers – safari parks combine things that kids love: riding around in large moving vehicles, seeing unusual animals, and getting a day away from school. Add in the chance of ice cream at the end, and it’s no wonder why safari parks are favorite field trips.

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The Family Vacation Guide

12 of the Best Drive Thru Zoos & Safaris in the US

posted by Charmaine Cortes on December 23, 2022 // last updated on June 12, 2023

To get a one-of-a-lifetime safari experience, you do not have to travel long distances or go overseas. There are plenty of drive-thru zoos in the US that enable you to encounter exotic species from the safety and comfort of your own car.

If you are an adventurer looking forward to experiencing wildlife, here are our recommendations for the best drive-thru zoos, safaris, and wildlife preserves to have an exciting road trip. 

African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, Ohio

Wildlife safari in oregon, bearizona wildlife park in arizona, phoenix zoo in phoenix, pine mountain wild animal safari park in georgia, custer state park resort in south dakota, lion country safari in loxahatchee, florida, lee richardson zoo in garden city, kansas, natural bridge wildlife ranch in san antonio, texas, southwick’s zoo in madison, massachusetts, arbuckle wilderness park in davis, oklahoma, safari lake geneva in lake geneva, wisconsin.

From alpacas, emus, llamas, zebras, and giraffes to fallow deer, white bison, and a variety of wild birds, visiting the African Safari Wildlife Park can be an unforgettable experience. This drive-thru safari is home to a lot of unique species and puts animal safety and health as its top priority. 

Here, you will also come across many species of wildflowers and plants. The safari offers various activities, including a walk-thru safari in spring, giraffe encounters, a safari cafe, and gem mining. It provides an adventurous experience and enables visitors to get up close and personal with hundreds of animals from around the world. 

Website: www.africansafariwildlifepark.com

Cost: Ticket prices range from $14.95 to $29.95; free for children of 2 and under

Note: While the African Safari Wildlife is open the whole year around, there are certain animals you can only view during the warm months, which is something to consider when going. 

In the Wildlife Safari in Oregon, you can come across a variety of species, including Tibetan Yanks, camels, African elephants, hippopotamuses, and American alligators. The accredited safari has one of the most successful cheetah breeding programs in the US, which you can support with donations.

Hop on the safari tour vehicle and meet and feed one of the most adorable animals, like red pandas or get closer to the king of the jungle and head to the elephant barn to meet with these animals and take a photo. The Wildlife Safari in Oregon offers a lot of activities and safari events. 

The Safari includes bused or open-air adventures through the park’s drive-thru, which is very exciting, but you can also sign up for activities such as hippo encounters, tiger feed, walking with cheetahs, and more. 

Website: www.wildlifesafari.net

Cost: Drive-thru safari tickets range from $17.95 to $23.95 

Note: This is an excellent 60-90 minutes experience for families. The tour features diverse wildlife from the US, Africa, and Asia. 

The Bearizona Wildlife Park provides a natural, spacious environment. The visitors drive through the largest ponderosa pine forest and view various animals in their natural habitats from their own private vehicles. 

Jump on the Wild Ride bus with their tour guides and get familiar with each animal that you encounter along this 3-mile safari. During your drive, you can also get off the bus for a unique backstage experience and view the wolf training sessions.

On this journey, you can witness a broad range of animals, such as black bears, Alaskan tundra wolves, reindeer, arctic wolves, mule deer, and so much more. The mission of the zoo is to promote the preservation through educational encounters of North American wildlife. 

Website: www.bearizona.com

Cost: Ticket prices range from $20 to $50; free for children of 3 and under

Note: Aside from the exciting drive-thru, you can also scroll through the park, enjoy unique animal encounters and dine in their themed restaurant. 

The Phoenix Zoo cares for more than 3,000 animals, including endangered species. Their guided drive-thru tours cover a wide range of animals, which makes it a thrilling experience. There are also plenty of fun daily activities happening in the zoo, including camel rides, giraffe encounters, and others. 

During the tour, you will drive past the main areas of the zoo, including the Africa Trail, where there are rhinos and zebras, and the Tropics Trail, where you will witness elephants and tigers roaming around. 

The Arizona Center for Nature Conservation also features discovery tours, backstage and premium adventures, as well as custom guided tours. Among the animals you can come across at this zoo are Asian elephants, coyotes, Mexican grey wolves, white-faced Saki monkeys, cheetahs, flamingos, and more. 

Website: www.phoenixzoo.org

Cost: $65 per vehicle 

Note: The number of vehicles per day is limited, so make sure to get tickets on time. 

Among the best drive-thru zoos in the US is the Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari Park in Georgia. The safari park allows visitors to encounter more than 120 species of animals, including lizards, wolves, ostriches, parrots, lemurs, and many others.

You will travel down a 2.5-mile trail and view a wide variety of animals along the way. To experience the excitement of the safari, you can use your own vehicle, rent one or get into a bus for a guide. 

Aside from seeing the wild animals, this drive-thru zoo enables horse riding adventures and exclusive animal encounters that allow you to interact with some of them. This is an animal-friendly park for visitors of all ages, where you will have a chance to meet some of the zoo’s friendliest animals. 

Website: www.animalsafari.com/georgia-park-home-about-us/

Cost: Adult (ages 13-64) – $29.00; junior (ages 3-12) – $24.00; senior (age 65+) – $24.00

Note: You can feed the animals with only park-purchased food. 

Go through the park in an open-air jeep or your own vehicle to look for prairie dogs, buffalos, elks, and pronghorns. The guided tour takes around two hours and features guides that share historical and educational stories about the wildlife and the park. The tours depart from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. every day and offer breathtaking views of nature. 

Website: www.custerresorts.com

Cost: Adults – $68; Children (under 12) – $58

Note: You need to make a reservation to get a drive-thru experience.

Despite the name, the Lion Country Safari is home to more than 1,000 animals. During the 4-mile-long drive-through, you can view animals from six different countries, such as lions, zebras, giraffes, white rhinos, chimpanzees, and more.

All of the animals roam in naturalistic habitats. The Lion Country Safari was the very first drive-thru safari park in the United States, as it was established in 1967. After you finish the drive-thru, you can also enjoy activities like boat rides, carnival rides, and water attractions.

Website: www.lioncountrysafari.com

Cost: $34-$45

Note: The safari preserve is divided into seven natural habitats you can visit. 

The Lee Richardson Zoo offers visitors a drive-thru of the park to view wild animals. The zoo is home to over 300 hundred native and exotic animals, including lions, alpacas, Amur leopards, camels, bison, bobcats, elk, giraffes, jaguars, sloth bears, and much more. Each animal is an ambassador of its counterparts, promoting the conservation of wild animals. 

Website: www.leerichardsonzoo.org

Cost: $10 per vehicle, pedestrian entry for free

Note: The Lee Richardson Zoo is open the whole year around 

Start your adventure with the 450-acre safari drive-thru in San Antonio, Texas. Here visitors can interact with animals and look at picturesque views that resemble safari in Africa. You can view over 40 species of animals from the comfort of your own vehicle and roam around the trees and the hills within the ranch.

The safari covers 6 miles and provides 1-2 hours of an incredible experience. You can also get a guided tour from animal specialists and feed the animals. During the guided tours, the visitors can learn more about the animals and come across ostriches, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and other animal species.

Website: www.wildliferanchtexas.com

Cost: Adults (12-64 years) – $28.99;  children (3-11 years) – $19.99;  seniors (65+years) – $25.99

Note: Check your map before the visit, as there are different routes to take.

Among the best drive-thru zoos in the US is Southwick’s Zoo which enables visitors to go on a self-driven tour of the 200-acre park. On such a 45-minute tour, you will come across various wild animals and download an audio tour as well. 

After the journey, the visitors can also order takeaway from the restaurant, go on rides and visit attractions, or book a giraffe, rhino, or sloth animal encounter. 

Website: www.southwickszoo.com

Cost: $60/car

Note: The guests should arrive 30 minutes before the selected tour time.

Go on a safari-like experience as you drive through 200 acres in the beautiful Arbuckle Mountains and come across hundreds of exotic animals roaming free. This park is also a home for reptiles and is filled with diverse creatures from over five continents.

Llamas, giraffes, donkeys, camels, deers, yaks, zebras, and more; you can enjoy feeding animals from the comfort of your own vehicle. The Arbuckle Wilderness Park provides an exciting adventure for guests of all ages. 

Website: www.arbucklewildernesspark.com

Cost: Adults – $16.99; kids (4-11) – $14.99; senior citizens – $14.99

Note: The drive-thru safari is open every day. 

The wildlife preserve known as Safari Lake Geneva is home to animals from all around the world. You can drive through this safari park as many times as you want and view the variety of animals that are free to roam. 

Moreover, you can also purchase a bowl of grain and feed the animals as you come close to them. Here you can drive your own vehicle or rent a Zebra van if desired. You can opt for a solo trip or bring your whole family for a unique safari adventure. 

Website: www.safarilakegeneva.com

Cost: Adult (ages 16+) – $21.95; children (ages 3-15) – $14.95; infants (ages 2 and under) – free

Note: The giraffes may not be visible during unpleasant weather.

If you are on a hunt for drive-thru zoos and safaris for an unforgettable experience, you can choose the one that appeals to you the most from our list. The zoos are home to a wide number of animals which we often see on TV, and they also offer many activities for their visitors, including special animal encounters. 

More about our TFVG Author

Charmaine Cortes

Travelling Without a Passport

The Best Safari Destinations in the World (Updated 2022)

From seeing animals in their natural habitats to camping under the stars in open plains, discover the best safari destinations in the world!

A safari is an incredible way to encounter nature and wildlife in Africa or Asia . From seeking out the big five on a safari in Africa to immersing yourself in grassy plains in Sri Lanka and jungle terrain in India , it’s the experience of a lifetime. We share the best safari destinations in the world.

Travel on: a safari tour

1. Okavango Delta, Botswana

Head to northern Botswana for one of the world’s largest inland river deltas, the Okavango Delta . The wildlife encounters visitors will experience here are remarkable. Amid the grassy plains, the cry of hyenas, the roar of lions, the growl of leopards, giraffes, and rhinos will become the melody of your safari. The wetter pastures are home to hippos, elephants, and crocodiles. This is one of Africa’s most epic safari destinations.

2. Ranthambore National Park, India

Ranthambore ‘s wild jungle scrub is home to many creatures from the animal kingdom, but the fiercest by far is the tiger. You’ll be blown away by the crocodile-filled lakes, the ancient temples and mosques, the beautiful remnants left behind by maharajas that used to hunt here, once upon a time. But nothing will leave you as breathless than seeing as seeing a tiger in the wild for the first time.

Travel on: a Tiger safari

3. Kruger National Park, South  Africa

As one of Africa’s largest game reserves, Kruger National Park tends to get crowded, but there’s a reason for that. This stunning park in northeastern South Africa is one of the best destinations to live out your safari dreams. From big five animals like lions, leopards, and elephants to exotic birds soaring down from the sky, there are plenty of opportunities to spot beasts in their natural habitat here.

Travel on: a Big Five safari

4. Serengeti, Tanzania

The Serengeti is considered to be the land that inspired Disney’s Lion King, and it’s not hard to believe. From proud lions stalking across the open plains to beautiful breeds of birds flying above you, this national park is the quintessential safari destination. Every year, the Serengeti becomes the place of migration for over a million wildebeest and zebras in the hundreds of thousands. You won’t forget this trip in a hurry.

Travel on: a Serengeti safari

5. Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

There are many things in this beautiful conservation area of Tanzania that will take your breath away. Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of Africa’s many wonders. When you are seeking out lions or marvelling at the spectacle of thousands of wildebeests and zebras migrating, the rest of the world will fade away. Among the many things you will experience in this epic safari destination, the massive Ngorongoro Crater and Olduvai Gorge fossils are a must-see.

Travel on: a Ngorongoro safari

6. Yala Park, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s most famous park is located next to the Indian Ocean. Comprised of dense forest, lush grasslands, and blue lakes along with fascinating beasts like leopards, elephants, monkeys, and crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species, Yala Park is a dream safari destination alright. Travellers who go deeper into the park will be rewarded with a chance to explore pilgrimage sites, caves marked with century-old rock paintings, and the ancient Buddhist ruins of Magul Maha Viharaya. 

Travel on: a Yala safari

7. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s largest safari destination doesn’t disappoint. Sprawled across 14,651 square kilometres, you’ll encounter elephant herds, lions, and African wild dogs in the grasslands and mopane woods found in the area. While there’s plenty of wildlife to feast your eyes on (107 animal species and 400 breeds of bird), elephants are what make Hwange so magical; the park is home to one of the largest populations on the planet.

Travel on: a Hwange safari

8. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

There are lots of places to discover the wildlife in Africa, but the sheer density of animals makes South Luangwa one of the continent’s best safari destinations. The open plains are home to marching elephants, impalas, pukus, and buffaloes, meanwhile hippos take dips in the river and leopards hunt for their next meal. If that doesn’t delight, look up to the sky, and you’ll see hundreds of birds flying above you.

See Also: First Time Safari Tips: How to Get the Most Out of Your Trip

9. Masai Mara Reserve, Kenya

The wilderness of Masai Mara is stunning. The Mara and Talek rivers snake through grasslands, river woodlands, and acacia trees, while the animal kingdom’s finest go about their day. Lions, cheetahs, elephants, zebras, and hippos can be found in their natural habitat, and wildebeest too, as they pass through these lands for their annual migration. Along with the wildlife, visitors can explore the nearby Masaai villages and learn about their customs from locals.

Travel on: a Masai Mara safari

10. Etosha National Park, Namibia

Even if you’ve been on a safari in Africa before, Etosha National Park is a different experience altogether. Firstly, Namibia’s landscape in vivid colours is incredible as it is, but the sight of hundreds of animals flocking to the watering holes is spellbinding. In other parks, visitors go looking for animals, but here, they will make their way to you, lions, elephants, and other creatures will all come out to play.

Travel on: an Etosha safari

11. Chobe National Park, Botswana

Chobe is Botswana’s first national park and famed for being biologically diverse. Picture antelopes galloping across the plains, hippos seeking cool respite in the lagoons of Linyanti Marsh, and herds of elephants and Cape buffalo flocking to the Chobe riverfront. Even when you’re not watching for animals in the wild, camp under the stars and you have different ways to immerse yourself in the wilderness.

Travel on: a Chobe safari

12. Bwindi Impenetrable National  Park, Uganda 

Bwindi’s mountainous terrain is home to many of the world’s remaining gorillas. In this biodiverse region, this endangered species has some much-needed peace and can be observed feeding off ancient roots and trees native to the region. Make your way to the dense forests of Bwindi for a rare chance to experience something out of this world: gorillas in the wild.

13. Kalahari Desert, Botswana

Spread across three countries, a considerable mass of Botswana, parts of Namibia and South Africa , the Kalahari is an amazing and surreal safari destination. It’s home to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, which is one of the last unspoiled ecosystems on the planet. It may be arid, but it’s brimming with wildlife, roaring lions and cackling hyenas are just some of the creatures found here.

See Also: Last minute safari deals

Based in Toronto, Sahar is a full-time content editor for Days to Come and part-time travel junkie.

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12 Top African Safari Tours

Cross this must-do activity off your bucket list.

Courtesy of Micato Safaris

Spot the big five on your safari adventure.

Safari tours in Africa are just as diverse as the continent itself, though these types of trips typically require a large sum of money. Whether you want to spend a few days gorilla trekking in Uganda or a couple weeks spotting the "big five" – lions, leopards, African elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalos – in South Africa, you'll find an array of tours to best suit your needs. To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News compiled a list of 12 can't-miss African safari tours. Read on to find your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Note: Some of the African countries in this article may require travelers to get an entry visa and certain vaccinations in order to visit. Jump to the list of visa and vaccination requirements by country at the bottom of this page for more information.

&Beyond

Courtesy of &Beyond

Visitors who don't want to sacrifice creature comforts while on safari will appreciate &Beyond's offerings. During the tour operator's 10-day Kings of the Jungle safari – which starts at $11,340 per person – travelers will see breathtaking natural wonders like the Ngorongoro Crater and the Maasai Mara savanna. But the highlight of this journey is its four-night stay at Tanzania's Serengeti National Park . After watching animals like wildebeest and zebras partake in the great migration while also spotting lions, giraffes and more, vacationers retreat to high-end tents and lodges with private bathrooms.

[See more of Serengeti National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Wilderness Safaris

Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris

For some of Africa's most jaw-dropping scenery, opt for the seven-night Namibian Adventure Safari tour offered by Wilderness Safaris. This weeklong trip features visits to the Namib Desert's dune-filled Sossusvlei region (which you may recognize from the film "Mad Max: Fury Road") and the mountainous Palmwag Concession – a protected area with springboks, giraffes, black rhinos and more. The package's per person fee starts at $6,725, which covers most meals, park entrance fees, and transfers from Namibia's capital Windhoek and between the safari destinations. It also covers your stay at properties like the fully solar-powered Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp and the five-star Little Kulala lodge amid the stunning desert.

Wild Rwanda Safaris

Courtesy of Wild Rwanda Safaris)

Adventurous travelers sticking to a more conservative budget should consider Wild Rwanda Safaris' Bwindi Gorilla Safari. The three-day package features a full day in southwestern Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (a haven for silverback gorillas) and an adjacent Batwa Pygmy community. Wild Rwanda Safaris allows guests to choose between midrange, luxury and super luxury accommodation, which can help keep costs down if necessary. The company's packages include the $700 permit required to visit the gorilla park. The round-trip journey by safari vehicle to and from Kigali, Rwanda, and English-speaking guide services are also covered in all rates. The tour can begin from Kampala, Uganda, as well, although you'll spend longer on the road to the park.

Nomad Tanzania

Courtesy of nomad-tanzania.com

Sign up for Nomad Tanzania's Southern Tanzania safari and you're bound to get an up-close look at Tanzania's diverse wildlife. Offering eight days of activities, including game drives and boat trips in Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park, this safari gives you prime opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards and elephants, among other species. What's more, lodging at the company's campsites, select meals, and flights to and from Dar es Salaam are factored into the package's prices. Expect to pay a minimum of $5,700 per person; prices vary depending on the time of year, and the tour isn't offered in April and May.

Micato Safaris

If you want to explore multiple destinations while on safari with plenty of comfort (but a price tag to match), book the 15-day Micato Grand Safari. This outing by Micato Safaris starts with a two-day visit to Nairobi, Kenya, before continuing to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and the Amboseli and Serengeti national parks for wildlife-viewing excursions. During your trip, you'll see Mount Kilimanjaro as zebras, gazelles and more roam in the foreground. The package costs at least $22,450 per person (based on double occupancy rates) and includes a hot air balloon ride, a camel tour led by members of the Samburu tribe, and lodging at upscale properties like Serengeti's Four Seasons outpost. The company also offers various extensions allowing you to explore other parts of Africa, from the island paradise of Zanzibar to the deserts of Namibia.

Rothschild Safaris

Courtesy of Rothschild Safaris

If your ideal safari vacation consists of customizing your trip from start to finish, consider an outing with Rothschild Safaris. The company offers itineraries in locales like Zambia and Madagascar , but if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the big five animals, the Essence of Tanzania safari is a good bet. This nine-day experience, which embarks from Arusha and returns there by plane, includes game-viewing drives in Tarangire National Park and accommodations like canvas tents and farmhouse lodges. Elephants, zebras and lions are just some of the animals you may spot during your journey. You'll also have the opportunity to go on a nighttime safari to spot nocturnal wildlife.

Lion World Travel

Courtesy of Lion World Travel

As the trip name implies, Lion World Travel's 10-day Best of Cape Town & Botswana vacation package combines sightseeing in Cape Town, South Africa , with a classic safari in Botswana. During the latter half of the itinerary, visitors will explore Botswana's Okavango Delta (home to cheetahs, crocodiles, hippos and more) and Chobe National Park, which is believed to have Africa's largest elephant population. Prices start at $4,299 per person and cover game drives; many of your meals; and stays at luxury hotels, camps and lodges. You'll need to pay an extra charge for the flights within the tour (Cape Town to Botswana as well as Botswana to Johannesburg ).

[See more of Cape Town: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Bearded Heron Safaris

Neil Heron | Courtesy of Bearded Heron Safaris

Travelers keen on seeing South Africa's Kruger National Park through the eyes of a local naturalist will appreciate the 15-day safari with Bearded Heron Safaris. Led by Neil Heron, a nature guide and wildlife photographer and writer, Bearded Heron Safaris' longest option features small game drives that may include lion, rhino, zebra and leopard sightings throughout all corners of Kruger. Rates are inclusive of in-park cottage accommodations and all breakfasts, dinners, snacks and drinks. Flights and park fees are not included. For a 15-day safari, expect to pay 76,900 South African rand (about $4,500) per person.

[See more of Kruger National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Discover Africa

Getty Images

For an inside-out trip through the natural wonders of Botswana, Discover Africa's nine-day Epic Botswana Adventure is a formidable option. You'll start out at a riverside lodge on the Chobe River – a great location for elephant spotting – before moving onto the marshy Okavango Delta, a wildlife-rich area where you can spot a huge range of animals from leopards to rhinos. The safari ends at the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, a good place to admire wildlife like zebras and buffalo on the savanna as well as salt pans from a former lake. You'll stay in upscale lodges and campsites within close reach of the wilderness. All meals and transport along the tour are included in the price tag (which starts at $4,800 per person), but international flights are excluded.

Wild Wings Safaris

If you're looking to have a broader experience that mixes in some history and beach time, consider Wild Wings Safaris' eight-day Battlefields, Bush and Beach Safari. You'll start off visiting some of South Africa's historic sites from the Boer wars, before moving on to the Phinda Private Game Reserve, which doesn't allow day visitors, so you should be able to look out for the big five without too many crowds. The tour wraps up at Thonga Beach Lodge, where you can snorkel or scuba dive near coral reefs in the Indian Ocean. As far as safaris go, this one is an affordable option, starting at about $2,795 per person with all meals included as well as a rental car; for the cheapest price, you will need to drive yourself between the destinations, but it's possible to pay an additional fee for a driver to guide you instead.

Cuckoo Safaris

This tour company kicks off its tours from the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, with a host of safaris that range from two days to nine, across Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana, including some family-friendly choices. For an affordable option, there's the four-day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe and Hwange Park safari, which will take you on two full-day tours to Chobe National Park (across the border in Botswana) and to Hwange, Zimbabwe's largest national park, where you should keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants and more. This safari also includes a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. The price starts at $900 per person, which includes the tours plus breakfast, lunch and lodging in Victoria Falls; travelers will need to pay for entrance fees to the parks and dinner.

Compass Odyssey

Courtesy of Compass Odyssey

Explore the savanna and deserts of southwest Africa with Compass Odyssey's eight-day Namibia Wildlife Safari. You'll visit a community-based conservation area in Damaraland – known for its desert-adapted elephants, oryx, giraffes and other wildlife – while staying in the rustic-chic Doro Nawas Camp. You'll also spend two days in Etosha National Park, seeking wildlife at the park's bustling waterholes by day and embarking on an evening game drive as well. Starting at $3,750 per person, the tour includes most meals and all park entry fees, but not flights; the company does allow the tour to be customized on request.

Vaccination and visa requirements for African countries

Some popular safari destinations may require you to have received certain vaccinations in order to enter the country as a tourist. Inoculation requirements can include vaccination against COVID-19 and yellow fever, and you'll need to get these vaccines before departing on your trip. Be sure to bring proof of vaccinations with you. If you are transiting through another country en route to your safari tour, you must check that you also meet immunization requirements for the stopover location.

Note that, outside of what's required, there are a number of other vaccinations that are recommended, so ensure you're up to date and fully protected before you travel. In addition, many safari locations are prone to malaria; you should consult with your doctor to see if you need to bring anti-malaria medication on your trip.

Safari countries have varying visa requirements for travelers from the U.S. – these are detailed below. Depending on your itinerary, you may need a single- or multiple-entry visa, and some visas require you to apply in advance of traveling and/or have a certain number of blank pages in your passport. Regardless of your destination, your passport should be valid for at least six months before you leave for your trip.

Here are the vaccine and visa requirements for major safari destinations as of November 2022:

Botswana: If you have recently visited a country where yellow fever is common, you will need to be vaccinated against this illness. This does not include the U.S. but does include a number of countries in Africa, Central and South America. Consult the World Health Organization's website for a list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, including Kenya and Uganda.

U.S. citizens and nationals can stay in Botswana for 90 days without a visa.

Kenya: Travelers to Kenya must have been vaccinated against COVID-19 with the last shot administered more than 14 days before arrival in the country. Unvaccinated visitors can enter with a negative PCR test, conducted no more than 72 hours before departure. Proof of COVID-19 tests or vaccines must be uploaded to an online system called Panabios. Kenya is a country where you'll be at risk of yellow fever transmission; it also requires those traveling from other places with yellow fever or cholera outbreaks to be vaccinated against these illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you protect yourself against yellow fever before your trip here.

Americans need an e-visa to enter Kenya. You should apply online at the eVisa government website no more than eight weeks before your trip, as visas are not available upon arrival in Kenya. See more on the U.S. Department of State's website .

Namibia: Those traveling from a country where yellow fever is common need to be vaccinated against it. No visa is required as long as you're staying for 90 days or less.

Rwanda: If you're coming from a country where yellow fever is endemic, a yellow fever vaccination is required before departure.

U.S. citizens and nationals can be issued a 30-day visitor visa on arrival in Rwanda or through the Rwandan Embassy in Washington, D.C. A single-entry visa costs $50, and it's recommended you bring sufficient cash in U.S. dollars to pay for this (although credit card payment may be accepted at Kigali International Airport). Consult the State Department website for more information.

South Africa: A yellow fever vaccination is required if you're traveling from a country with a risk of transmission. No visa is required for stays of 90 days or less.

Tanzania: Travelers must be able to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination with a QR code to enter Tanzania. Unvaccinated travelers must take a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure, and the test results should be accessible by QR code. Yellow fever vaccines are mandatory if you're traveling from a location where yellow fever is present – including if you spend more than 12 hours in transit in such a country.

Visas are required for tourism in Tanzania. You can apply for a single-entry, 90-day visa online for $50 – and be sure to print a copy of the approval to bring with you. The processing period takes up to 10 days. You can also obtain a visa on arrival for a $100 fee; it's recommended you bring cash to cover this. Find more Tanzanian visa information on the State Department website .

Uganda: To enter Uganda, you must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or present a negative test taken no more than 72 hours before departure. Like Kenya, Uganda is a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. All visitors must show proof of vaccination against yellow fever to enter Uganda, regardless of where you're traveling from.

American visitors to Uganda must apply online for an electronic visa before departure; arriving in Uganda without completing this process could result in your detainment. Visit the State Department website to learn more.

Zambia: Visitors who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must show proof of vaccination but do not need a test to enter Zambia; unvaccinated travelers must undergo a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure. Yellow fever vaccines are only required if you're coming from an area considered at risk.

Visas are required to visit Zambia, but these can be obtained online before your departure or at a port of entry. Check the State Department website for more details.

Zimbabwe: To enter Zimbabwe, travelers must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or must take a negative PCR test no more than 48 hours before your departure. As with other countries on this list, visitors from countries with yellow fever outbreaks also require a vaccine against this illness.

U.S. visitors can obtain a 30-day, single-entry visa upon arrival in Zimbabwe for $30. If you're taking a tour that requires you to leave and reenter Zimbabwe, be sure to get a double-entry visa for $45. You can learn more from the State Department website .

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Wallets (That Also Hold Vaccine Cards)
• The Best COVID-19 Travel Insurance Options
• The Best International Travel Insurance Plans
• The Best Zoos in the U.S.
• The World's Best Places to Visit

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The 10 Best Drive Thru Safaris in the United States

If your budget isn't up to an African safari , don't panic. There are plenty of places closer to home where you can enjoy an animal encounter without blowing your life savings. If you want to watch cheetahs and tigers, giraffes and elephants from the comfort (and safety!) of your car, check out our guide to the 10 best drive-thru safaris in the United States.

10. Disney's Animal Kingdom, Florida

You don't have to love Disney to get a kick out of Disney's Animal Kingdom , but you do have to love animals - with over 34 species calling the park home, you're going to see a lot of them on your whistlestop, 18-minute drive through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. Expect to see elephants, rhinos, crocodiles, cheetahs, hippopotamus, giraffes, lions, hyenas, zebras, and more.

9. Rocky Mountain Arsenal, Colorado

Drive just a little outside of Denver and you'll find Rocky Mountain Arsenal. Perfect for animal lovers looking to escape the city and indulge in some wild adventures, the drive-thru experience will take you through 15,000-acres of habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for bison, deer, bald eagles, and more besides. The tour takes around 45 minutes to complete, but there's so much to see, most people end up circling back around for a few extra goes.

8. Bearizona Wildlife Park, Arizona

If you want to take a drive on the wild side of life, take the advice of Mommy Nearest and head for Bearizona Wildlife Park. The three-mile-long experience passes by some of North America's most popular native species, including bison, black bears, and wolves. The animals tend to be most active in the morning and late afternoon, so try to time your visit around those times. Just be aware that, for obvious reasons, the park discourages people from cruising along in a convertible. Unless you want to be someone's lunch, make sure that whatever car you drive is fully enclosed.

7. Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour, South Dakota

Did you know that American Buffalo can run at speeds of 40 miles per hour? If you don't believe it, check it out for yourself by heading to Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour in Custer State Park. Recommended by Fodors Travel Guide as one of the best safaris in the U.S., the site boasts 71000 acres peppered with buffalo, prairie dogs, pronghorns, and elk. As to how you tackle the drive-thru, you've got one of two options: drive your own car through the self-drive 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road or park up and hop aboard an open-air jeep for a guided tour.

6. Lion Country Safari, Florida

The Palm Beaches in Florida isn't short on attractions, but the Lion Country Safari ranks as the largest and quite possibly the best. Established in 1967 as the very first drive-thru safari park in the United States, the park is home to over 1000 animals from six different continents, many of which can be seen on the 4-mile drive-thru preserve. Those that can't be seen on the drive-thru can be encountered in the walk-thru habitats. Expect to see lions, chimpanzees, white rhinos, zebras, giraffes, and more besides. Once you've finished your drive, you'll find plenty of other things to enjoy, including boat rides, miniature golf, carnival rides, and water attractions.

5. Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari Park, Georgia

Named by studenttravelplanningguide.com as one of the best safari parks in the US, Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari Park offers visitors the chance to encounter over 120 species of animals, including parrots, peacocks, lemurs, lizards, wolves, and wallabies. The 3.5-mile drive-thru can either be made in your own vehicle or, if you prefer, you can rent a van or a bus directly from the park. Once you've finished the drive-thru section of the experience, head for the stroll-friendly area, where you'll get the chance to pet and feed some of the park's smallest and friendliest members.

4. African Safari Wildlife Park, Ohio

Located around two hours from Cleveland and Columbus in Ohio, the African Safari Wildlife Park is a great place to encounter some of the state's wildest residents. On the drive-thru section, you'll pass through fields of bison, Bactrian camels, and Scottish Highland cattle. If you're visiting during the summer months, be sure to check out the white-handed gibbons and warthogs playing in the stroll-friendly area. Other must-do activities include watching the pigs race at the somewhat insensitively named Pork Chops Down and checking out some of the park’s seasonal educational animal shows.

3. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, Texas

Occupying 400 acres of land in between San Antonia and New Braunfels, Texas, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch premises an exciting day full of animals, adventure, and activities. The drive-thru will take you through fields filled with Japanese sika, eland, and Damaraland zebra, most of whom will come running the moment you rattle the bucket of tasty eats provided with your admission. Other key attractions include a walk-about section where visitors can meet a pair of rare twin reticulated giraffes and watch the lemurs play in their enclosure, along with a petting barn with pygmy goats and llamas.

2. Wildlife Safari, Oregon

Along with boasting one of the most successful cheetah breeding programs in the U.S, the Wildlife Safari in Oregon is home to a huge variety of animals, including African elephants, hippopotamuses, American alligators, and Tibetan yaks. The drive-thru section is thrilling enough, but it's worth stumping up the extra fee to get up close and personal with your favorites at one of the various animal encounters. You can ride a camel, walk with cheetahs, or even enjoy some wine and art with George, Alice, and Tava, the park's very friendly and very cultured resident elephants.

1. Virginia Safari Park, Virginia

Virginia Safari Park is a drive-thru safari in Natural Bridge, Virginia that offers animal lovers a great day of adventure. Its three-mile self-drive safari offers visitors the chance to see the elk and deer that roam its 180-acre ground. The animals are allowed to roam freely and act without any interference, so expect to see males fighting for breeding rights and even live births. Before you head out, you'll be offered a bucket of grain to feed the animals. You're free to drive through as many times as you like, but be sure to leave plenty of time to enjoy the park's other attractions, which include a petting zoo, giraffe feeding, and the opportunity to see tigers, penguins, and kangaroos on the walk-thru safari.

Written by  Dana Hanson

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The 10 Best Safari Outfitters in 2022

When checking off a major bucket list trip like a safari, customization and convenience are top of mind for Travel + Leisure readers.

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite Safari Outfitters.

Spotting the Big Five is the goal for many safari-goers. But chances of actually getting a glimpse of the elephants, leopards, lions, rhinoceroses, and African buffalos depend greatly on the company guiding the trip — especially its attention to the tiniest of details and its expertise on how to responsibly and carefully navigate on the African fauna's home turf. The best safari outfitters accomplish this with aplomb.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey , Travel + Leisure asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated tour operators and safari outfitters based on their staff and guides, itineraries and destinations, activities, accommodations, food, and overall value.

This year, three new safari outfitters entered the top 10 that weren't on last year's list. Deeper Africa (No. 5) is known for going beyond the obvious (a trip to Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo with more than 1,000 mountain gorillas, perhaps?), while Africa Adventure Company (No. 7) is operated by the author of a guidebook on the continent's wildlife who has more than three decades of experience, and Go2Africa (No. 9) is run by people born and raised in Africa . Customization options and personalized service were key for travelers. The "passionate" teams at Extraordinary Journeys (No. 2) took the time to understand what guests were hoping to get out of their safari experience and curate itineraries that were nothing short of "magical." One also called out the thoughtful conveniences — like car services and dayrooms in Nairobi — saying they added an elevated level of comfort that wasn't anticipated but "was a godsend."

The challenges of traveling during a global pandemic were also assuaged by the top companies, which, a reader, said addressed "every single one of [their] concerns and questions…before it came to mind," especially in a destination that can feel "complicated." One traveler complimented Extraordinary Journeys for making all the "intimidating" and "ever-changing rules" so "seamless."

Find the full list of this year's best tour operators, as voted by T+L readers, below.

1. Travel Beyond

After coming in fifth last year, this company — which runs tours in Botswana, Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zanzibar, among others — rises to the top spot. In operation since 1975, Travel Beyond consistently impressed readers with its emphasis on putting travelers' needs first, by paying "close attention to all the details," and by working "very hard to get to know their clients' travel styles and interest." Its custom itineraries put responsible wildlife viewing and touring the area's unique scenery first, but also added in experiences like wine tastings and visits to historic landmarks to create "the most incredible adventures." A female solo traveler said they've planned "several once-in-a-lifetime trips" for her.

Score: 99.64

More information: travelbeyond.com

2. Extraordinary Journeys

Score: 99.29

More information: extraordinaryjourneys.com

3. Alluring Africa

Score: 99.19

More information: alluringafrica.com

4. Micato Safaris

WBA Hall of Fame honoree.

Score: 99.03

More information: micato.com

5. Deeper Africa

Score: 98.53

More information: deeperafrica.com

6. Wilderness Safaris

Score: 97.50

More information: wilderness-safaris.com

7. (tie) Africa Adventure Company

Score: 96.67

More information: africa-adventure.com

7. (tie) Thomson Safaris

More information: thomsonsafaris.com

9. Go2Africa

Score: 96.01

More information: go2africa.com

10. andBeyond

Score: 95.62

More information: andbeyond.com

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Everything you need to know before booking your first African safari

​For many, a safari represents the optimal escape and lifelong travel dream. If you’re going to invest in turning this dream into reality, there are some things worth considering. Plus, we recommend five incredible wildlife itineraries for 2023.

From the first waft of dewy morning air to the gentle owl hoots that drift into camp after dark, there’s a satisfying natural rhythm to a day on safari in Africa. Even if you’re not normally an early riser, you’ll quickly fall into the routine of pre-dawn starts, lazy lunchtimes, active afternoons and mellow evenings, making the most of the best hours both for wildlife-watching and for chilling out. Deep at night, if you’re lucky, you may hear the distant whoop of a hyena, the rasping call of a leopard or the bassy roar of a lion.

But more often than not, you’ll sleep soundly, drunk on fresh air. Soon after you wake, you’ll head out into the wild, eager to discover what the day will deliver. Perhaps you’ll find yourself inching up on some rhinos, watching boisterous elephants bathe in a waterhole or spotting the youngest, cutest members of a mighty big cat dynasty.

If this sounds like the kind of escape you’ve been craving, but you’re puzzling over possible itineraries, what’s the best way to choose?

Green means go

While every luxury safari offers unforgettable wildlife encounters, there are plenty of options to consider. High-end African trips and settings vary hugely in their atmosphere and style.

Some itineraries, for example, are much greener than others. If you’re passionate about nature, you’ll want to make ethical choices, mindful of climate change and biodiversity, perhaps by minimising your time in the air. While every long-haul trip has a high carbon footprint, you can limit your safari’s impact by choosing a destination near an international airport and sharing a vehicle rather than continuing by taking domestic flights.

With superb wildlife-watching opportunities within driving distance, Nairobi makes an excellent starting point for a low-airmiles luxury safari. “You could head for the stunning mountains and waterfalls of the Aberdare range, where lions hunt giant forest hogs”, says Kenya specialist Richard Trillo of Expert Africa. “The tree-dotted plains of the Maasai Mara, which host East Africa’s annual Great Migration, are also within reach,” Richard adds.

There are other ways to dial down the net impact of your trip without compromising on quality, however. While carbon offset schemes can help compensate for your emissions, for a more targeted approach, you could book your trip through a specialist safari operator that has established working partnerships with African conservation charities.  

“We’re proud to support South Africa’s all-female Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit, and Greenpop, a non-profit Sub-Saharan forest restoration and urban greening organisation,” says Marcelo Novais of luxury operator Ker and Downey Africa.  

“We give all our clients the opportunity to donate to these worthy causes, since leaving a positive legacy is one of our core values,” he adds. Other deserving organisations include African Parks, the African Wildlife Foundation, Tusk and the World Land Trust.  

Another effective way of maximising the benefits of your trip is to choose lodges that go the extra mile in their vicinity, doing more for environmental protection, community partnerships and rural development than   merely covering park fees and basic wages. In Tanzania, the Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge invites guests to visit the craft project they support, Shanga, where locals with disabilities upcycle glass, textiles and fishing wire into cute elephant cushions, jewellery and clothing.

When it comes to shortlisting properties, membership of Ecotourism Kenya, Responsible Tourism Tanzania, Fair Trade Tourism and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council are generally useful indicators.

Settling in

Once you’ve arrived in the bush, what will your surroundings feel like? Anyone who’s cautious about camping in the wilderness will be relieved to discover that most top-end operators put their guests at ease by focusing on creature comforts: cool drinks, gourmet dining, indulgently appointed private bathrooms and sumptuous beds, for example. As a rule, their staff — from the head guide to the housekeepers — are superb at their jobs.  

That said, there are significant differences between, on the one hand, intimate, minimalist camps with just a handful of canvas tents and, at the other extreme, sizeable lodges featuring swimming pools, gyms and perhaps even a spa, photography hide, editing suite, research centre, library and observatory. It’s a matter of weighing up how close to nature you’d like to feel — hearing all those thrilling sounds in the night, for example — against the range of facilities and creature comforts you’d like to enjoy.

When deciding, honest opinions from people who know the properties well can be invaluable. “Our safari specialists always have detailed conversations with our clients to understand their preferences and offer advice”, says Liberty Gilmour of Audley Travel. “Conventional aircon, for example, is rarely essential: Zambia in May and high-altitude destinations such as Ngorongoro can be quite cool, particularly at night. If it’s hot, natural ventilation may be sufficient, but many camps also have solar-powered cooling systems.”

Whether opulent, nostalgic or quirky, surroundings that suit your aesthetic aspirations can elevate your experience. The family heirlooms that decorate Camp Jabulani in South Africa’s Kapama Reserve, for example, create a uniquely cosy atmosphere, while Xigera Safari Lodge in Botswana’s Okavango Delta is so proud of its collection of original pieces by contemporary African artists and artisans that staff offer art and design tours of the premises. To strike a contemporary note, Loisaba Lodo Springs in Kenya’s Loisaba Conservancy has rooms dotted with hand-stitched West African textiles and elegant upcycled Edwardian furniture.

Peaceful days

Almost every safari programme revolves around guided excursions called game drives, a name dating back to the days of Big Five hunting trips, but the style of the vehicles you ride in isn’t discussed as much as perhaps it should be. While some outfits settle for basic open-sided 4x4s, others invest in supremely comfortable, easy-access vehicles with charging points, dustproof storage space and a fridge. If you’re a keen photographer, top quality private vehicles are a must. Electric safari vehicles offer a particularly smooth ride; while still rare, they’re the future, and are starting to catch on.

Ila Safari Lodge in Zambia’s Kafue National Park offers the rare luxury of total peace and quiet. Founder Vincent Kouwenhoven, who has pioneered electric transport at Ila and its sister lodges in Zambia and Malawi, explains: “Our love for Africa led us to develop technologies that enable guests to experience the bush in near-silent, pollution-free vehicles, charged by our own solar panels. It’s an ecologically conscious way to watch wildlife and very calming, too. Instead of the engine, you hear birdsong.”

Some safaris also promise near-solitude in a vast natural landscape — an intoxicating feeling. One way to dodge the crowds is to travel during low season, the dates of which vary from location to location; alternatively, you could choose private reserves where the only vehicles you’ll see will be those of your fellow guests. As well as providing daytime activities, guides may offer night drives, using spotlights to search for nocturnal activity, such as birds roosting or lions stalking their prey.

For the ultimate in exclusivity, it’s possible to book an entire camp or lodge, with the staff handcrafting everything to your precise specifications, from wake-up times to the cocktails and canapes. According to Ash Jarvis of Best of South Africa Travel, exclusive-use properties work particularly well for mixed-generation families: “With their private game drives, multiple living areas, private pool and the undivided attention of the whole staff, including the chefs (fussy eaters welcome), they eliminate stress and ensure that nobody has to compromise. That’s what good family holidays are all about.”

The ultimate adventure

If serenity is your scene, you may be dreaming of floating over herds of zebras and wildebeest in a hot-air balloon, or wandering across the savannah on a bushwalk or cycle ride. The most interesting safaris offer a mixed programme of imaginative guided activities such as these, enlivening the days with little surprises: picnics in beauty spots, perhaps, or lantern-lit barbecues.  

The possibilities depend, to a large extent, on your choice of location. In Kenya’s northern conservancies, for example, you could explore the semi-desert by camel, while in Rwanda or Uganda, the activity you probably won’t want to miss is venturing into the depths of the rainforest on foot for a precious one-hour audience with mountain gorillas.

On a gorilla trek, you’ll be guided by rangers at the top of their game — a hallmark of an excellent safari. A knowledgeable, communicative guide can transform any trip, keeping you safe, entertained and intrigued.

“The inside track is what you really want, whether that’s in guiding, photography or conservation”, says Will Bolsover of Natural World Safaris. “In-depth knowledge leads you beneath the surface, for true insights into how conservation works, how wildlife benefits and how you can contribute.”

Since quality time with experts is one of the ultimate luxuries you can enjoy on safari, some top-end safaris, particularly in Kenya and South Africa, include a philanthropic element, whereby in exchange for a substantial donation to a conservation fund, you gain access to specialists in the field, perhaps even helping collar predators or collecting DNA samples from juvenile rhinos. Conservation safari companies such as Great Plains and AWF Safaris can assist with this. There’s no better way to start unlocking the mysteries of the African wilderness.

Five luxury safari trips in Africa to try in 2023 and beyond  

1. low-carbon luxury in kenya.

After a night at Nairobi’s fabled Giraffe Manor, travel overland to Solio Lodge in the Central Highlands to explore Kenya’s oldest rhino conservation sanctuary, then continue to Sala’s Camp, in one of the least-visited corners of the Maasai Mara. Eight days from £8,400 with Expert Africa. expertafrica.com

2. Take to the skies in Tanzania

Flip from park to park in style on a SkySafari, travelling by private plane and touching down at luxurious Elewana Collection properties. This classic circuit takes in Arusha, Tarangire, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti, for blockbuster wildlife-watching. Ten days from £8,300 with Sky Safari. skysafari.com

3. Family adventures in South Africa

South Africa has a host of prospects to suit muti-generational families. Delightful safari properties such as Morukuru River House team well with Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route. Fourteen days from £4,500 with Best of South Africa Travel. bestofsouthafricatravel.com

4. Clock the Big Five in the safari heartlands

To experience some of southern Africa’s most exclusive wilderness retreats, string together Bushmans Kloof in South Africa’s Cederberg region, Sossusvlei Desert Lodge in Namibia, DumaTau in Linyanti and Xigera in the Okavango Delta. Twelve days from £24,797 with Beyond Green. staybeyondgreen.com

5. Meet mountain gorillas in Rwanda

Nothing can prepare you for the surge of emotions you’ll feel when, after an exhilarating trek, you first encounter a family of gorillas in the rainforest. Combine your hike with game drives in Rwanda’s Big Five national park, Akagera. Eight days from £7,493 with Jacada Travel. jacadatravel.com  

Published in the 2022 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK) The Luxury Collection

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Top 10 safari animals in Africa & where to find them

• South Luangwa National Park

Sweeping savannas, grassy wetlands, and wind-sculpted dunes play host to hundreds of creatures across Africa, from tiny reptiles to the largest mammals on the planet. Which ones capture the public’s attention the most? We’ve delved into UK Google search data to find out.

Below, we reveal the top ten African safari animals and why they’ve earned a spot on our list. We’ve also gathered expert insights from our Africa specialists to let you know where you can see each species in its natural habitat, unveiling the best safari experiences across the continent.

Despite their apex-predator status in the animal kingdom, lions have captured people’s hearts since childhood, with beloved films and whole documentaries dedicated to their hunting prowess. That’s why it’s no surprise to see them on our list of top ten African safari animals. The good news is that you can see lions across Africa with relative ease, though each destination offers a different experience.

If it’s your first safari and you’d like to see all of the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos), you can’t go amiss with a trip to South Africa ’s Greater Kruger Region, which you can pair with a city break in Cape Town . Or, to witness the drama of the Great Migration, when herds of migrating wildebeest attract opportunistic prides, head to the Serengeti in northern Tanzania .

For a luxury lion-spotting experience, we recommend a trip to Botswana ’s Okavango Delta. Alongside safari drives and boat rides, you can head out on foot with a guide who’ll point out the paw prints of resident cats as you walk, before you retreat to your luxury lodge.

After chimpanzees and bonobos, gorillas are humans’ closest living relatives and share up to 98% of our DNA. It’s perhaps this odd familiarity that makes gorillas one of the top safari animals in Africa. Not only that, but you can only encounter mountain gorillas in the wild — they don’t survive in captivity.

Two of the only places you can get up close with these elusive (and often shy) creatures is in Rwanda ’s Volcanoes National Park or Uganda ’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Encountering a troop often involves hours of hiking and bushwhacking through primeval forest with an expert guide, but this makes it all the more special when you finally set eyes on them.

To recuperate, you could add on time at the beaches of Zanzibar , doing as much or as little as you want on the sugar-soft sands. Alternatively, expand your safari beyond gorillas and take a primate tracking trip through Rwanda  to spot chimpanzees and golden monkeys as well.

3. Elephant

Towering high above the undergrowth, elephants are the largest land animals currently on the planet, but they’re also gentle giants capable of displaying deep emotions. On safari, you can watch elephant herds frolic in waterholes, walk in convoy trunk-to-tail across the plains, and graze lazily under the sun, all the while learning about their intricate social structures and communication methods.

You’ll spot elephants across Southern and Eastern Africa. However, the highest concentration on the continent is in Botswana’s Chobe National Park, which we suggest pairing with a trip to the Okavango Delta . As you look out for herds among the region’s grassy floodplains, your guide might also point out leopards, cheetahs, and buffalo.

Or, for an entirely different elephant experience, you could opt for Namibia instead. Here, the local population has adapted to the desert climate and you can see herds wander against a stark backdrop of sun-scorched peaks.

Leaving a trail of dust in their wake, buffalo move in huge herds, often fighting off lions as they go. During drier months, you’ll find them hanging around waterholes and floodplains, congregating in their hundreds for protection. When water is more abundant, they don’t linger as long, moving about constantly in search of food.

You can see buffalo herds in many parks and reserves across East and Southern Africa, but you’re most likely to encounter them wherever there’s a good water source (buffalo need to drink every day). Botswana is one of our top destinations for buffalo sightings, with herds moving between the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park regularly. You can combine the two regions in a single trip, taking boat and mokoro (canoe) rides to spot the resident buffalo from a different perspective.

5. Flamingo

In whimsical shades of coral, pastel, and fuchsia, flamingos appear like something out of a fairytale. When flocked together, they paint the landscape in a pearly pink hue and, during breeding season, the males ‘dance’ in unison, heads bobbing and wings flapping as one.

Our specialists recommend taking a trip through northern Tanzania  to spot flamingos, hippos, and tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara before heading into the wilds of the Serengeti. If you’re an avid flamingo fan, you could also venture further north to Lake Natron, where around 75% of the world’s lesser flamingo population is born.

Alternatively, spot these fancy-feathered creatures at Lake Nakuru National Park in Kenya , just a couple of hours’ drive from Nairobi, which you can tie in with a wider safari and beach trip . Here, we recommend staying at a lava-stone cottage at Mbweha Camp , heading out on wildlife drives with your guide to watch the birds blanket the lake in a cloud of pink.

Coat patterns as unique as our fingerprints. Legs that appear to run in slow motion. Winding tongues that grapple with tree branches high above the savanna floor. Giraffes are curious creatures and unlike any other living animal on the planet. For this reason, it’s easy to see why they rank in third place on our list of top ten African safari animals.

On a trip to Nyerere National Park in Tanzania, you can watch as herds of over 50 giraffes congregate at the lakes, sliding into a splits-like position to crane their long necks down to water level. Or, for a rare opportunity to soar above these gangly creatures, take a hot-air balloon ride over the Masai Mara on a luxury safari in Kenya .

Another of our top destinations for giraffe-spotting is Botswana, at Thamo Telele lodge. Located just outside of Maun, the lodge boasts its own herd of 20 giraffes, which graze at the nearby waterhole. During your stay, its team of naturalists can teach you how to identify each individual by their distinct spot patterns. And, a portion of the money from your stay will go toward the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, which supports the species throughout Africa.

7. Scorpion

Dozens of scorpion species scuttle around Africa’s deserts, grasslands, savannas, and forests, but they’re not often the star of the show on a safari. Nevertheless, their reputation for being dangerous (not all actually are) is perhaps what reels in more adrenaline-oriented wildlife enthusiasts.

Scorpions tend to emerge at night and often steer clear of people, so you don’t have to worry too much about coming across one unwittingly. However, your guides and lodge staff will give you safety advice should you spot one (our specialists also recommend shaking out your shoes before putting them on, just to be safe).

That said, if you do want to proactively glimpse one of these pincered critters, a trip to Namibia’s dunes  should be top of your list. Just south of Swakopmund, you can head out with a guide who’ll sift through the sand to unearth Namibia’s smaller creatures, including — if you’re lucky — scorpions. You might also spot dancing lizards and cartwheeling spiders.

The fastest land animal in the world, the cheetah makes for a thrilling sight on safari. Even if you don’t catch them darting after prey, you can take the time to appreciate their solid black spots, rounded ears, and fuzzy stomachs as they lounge. Unlike leopards, they come out during the day, but they are typically harder to spot.

Though cheetahs are present in many of Africa’s wildlife reserves, including the Serengeti, Masai Mara, and Kruger National Park, our specialists particularly recommend a visit to Etosha National Park on a wildlife-focused trip to Namibia . It has large swathes of grassy plains, ideal for spotting cheetahs (and an array of other big cats), and is far less visited than Africa’s popular parks, meaning you won’t come across many other vehicles on your drives.

9. Chameleon

With striking color-shifting abilities, it’s no wonder chameleons make it onto the list. Contrary to popular belief, they don’t actually change color to blend with their surroundings, but instead to convey mood, communicate with mates, or to adapt to the temperature. Despite that, chameleons still tend to be hard to spot, so exploring with an eagle-eyed guide is a must.

Namibia’s dunes are the ideal place to spot chameleons — specifically, the Namaqua chameleon. These speedy little creatures change color to thermoregulate in the ever-changing desert climate, turning black in the morning to absorb the heat and a lighter shade in the daytime to cool off.

However, if you want to admire a more diverse array of chameleons, head to the rainforests of Madagascar . The island provides shelter for around half of the world’s species, including the tiny Amber Mountain leaf chameleon, just the size of your fingernail.

10. Crocodile

With their prehistoric appearance and powerful jaws, crocodiles are always high on people’s safari wish lists and feature in sixth place in our own list of top ten African safari animals. You can watch them basking lazily in the sun, gliding ominously through the water, or grappling with prey as they reveal an impressive collection of serrated teeth.

Perhaps the most exhilarating way to see crocodiles on safari is from the banks of the Mara River during the Great Migration. Here, they lurk and leap out of the water hoping to catch wildebeest and zebras as they dash to the other side. You can witness the drama on a trip to Tanzania or Kenya between July and October.

Further reading

• The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Unforgettable Safari Adventure
• Photographic safaris
• Safaris for less: 3 great-value safari ideas
• Safari on a budget
• Walking safaris

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Animals Around the Globe

10 Best African Countries for Safari

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

#1 Botswana

Recommended Tours:

Thus, poachers are seen as enemies of the people. As a result, Botswana has come into view as Africa's most sought-after ecotourism destination. Starting from the Chobe National Park to the Moremi Nature Reserve, you'll be able to witness numerous gems all around the country.

Back in 2014, Botswana widely banned the hunting of wild animals and implemented strict laws which are still in practice. The country resumes its zero-tolerance for poaching and their very own environmental minister, Tshekedi Khama, has even launched a shoot-to-kill policy for poachers.

Botswana, with its wildlife conservation and natural parks, is a haven for nature lovers. It is currently in the top 5, as its approach to the protection and conservation of wildlife is worth the praise. As a country, it is very forward-thinking, some may even call it aggressively forward-thinking when it comes to its preservation and anti-poaching laws.

Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 mammal species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.

Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.

Most of the land in Namibia is occupied by the Kalahari and Namib Deserts. Along with that, the country also has 12 national parks and many other areas which are protected. So, if you go there for a safari, you'll have many rich areas to see and explore.

When it comes to countries with the least amount of population, Namibia is one of them. Which proves to be a good thing for nature. This is because most of the land in Namibia is still unspoiled by human filth or any sort of development, giving nature a chance to breathe.

In the country's Volcanoes National Park, you'll find 10 habituated gorilla families. Groups of 8 trekkers can visit them for one hour per day. But that's enough to get the best African safari experience. And as a nature lover, you'll enjoy the experience to the max.

If you've been around for some time, you'll be familiar with Rwanda's mountain gorillas. They were famously broadcasted and their fight for survival was shown on  National Geographic . This was all thanks to the late  Dian Fossey  back in the 1970s who advocated for the rights of these mountain gorillas throughout her life.

Considering the tragic history surrounding the mass genocide of the people of Rwanda back in 1994, it's truly a blessing what the country has achieved in the past 25 years. There have been countless investments in infrastructure. This has resulted in the country being a very fast-growing destination for ecotourism.

#6 South Africa

But given all the advantages, it's safe to conclude that South Africa also suffers from over-tourism. I mean, if you have so many great attractions, people will flock towards it. Chances are that you'll find yourself in the middle of dozens of unruly visitors who are not too keen on obeying the rules. This occurs mostly during the peak seasons.

Annually, the country has one million visitors. Its biggest attraction is the Kruger National Park with its enrichment in biodiversity. Visitors there also have the liberty to self-drive, thus, getting a first-person private but superb experience. 

For some time now, South Africa has been climbing the charts to become one of the most popular destinations for African safaris. Given its location, South Africa is a very convenient and cheap destination for people from the United States. Besides that, the country also boasts a well-developed infrastructure which makes it perfect for luxury travelers as well.

#7 Tanzania

One of the most popular locations would be the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The country is also a haven for 1100 different bird species. It's no wonder that Tanzania gets this much rep. Especially when the country boasts so many wonders.

We talked about Kenya being the top destination for Safari. Now Tanzania here takes second place in being the continent's most popular safari destination. And why shouldn't it? The country has 16 national parks and an extraordinary amount of wealth and wildlife wonders for the people to witness.

Some of its natural attractions include housing the highest mountain range in Africa. It also has the world's largest free-standing volcano and the second-largest freshwater lake. With its 30 national parks and other wildlife reserves, Uganda boasts many more sanctuaries which are worth the visit. Especially if you're a lover of nature and wildlife.

Often called "The Pearl of Africa", Uganda is certainly a great pick for an African safari. Its reputation as being one of the best ecotourism destinations comes from the country's natural attractions and wildlife.

Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.

Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.

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Tin: Save w/ Coupons in Safari 4+

Discount codes, deals, promos, tin technologies inc..

• 4.6 • 194 Ratings

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Description.

Automatically save money while you shop on your phone. Tin is a Safari extension that applies the best coupon codes at checkout, and tracks your package so you never miss a delivery (or a deal)! YOUR SAVINGS SUPERHERO Tin scours the interwebs to find the best promo codes across 50,000+ retailers and automatically applies the best savings ($$$). Focus on finding that new fit, and let the deals come to you! PAY LESS. SHOP MORE. CLEAR YOUR INBOX Your inbox is flooded with promotional emails that you don’t open. Tin finds coupon codes buried in your emails (plus thousands more) so you never miss a deal. We save you time & money while keeping your inbox clean & serene. ALL-IN-ONE PACKAGE TRACKING From checkout to doorstep, we’ve got you covered. Tin tracks shipments and organizes all of your deliveries in one place. The best part? It’s totally free! Download Tin today, and never miss out on savings again! Tin is an app and mobile Safari extension, all wrapped into one. After downloading, you simply install the extension in Safari and let Tin do its thing! INSTALL TIN IN SAFARI 1. Tap "aA" button in the Safari menu 2. Tap the "Extension" icon to Manage Extensions 3. Select "Tin" and set it to "ON" 4. Select "Always Allow" 5. Select "Always Allow on Every Website" 6. That’s it! Now you can shop in Safari and let Tin do its thing. When you are ready to checkout, Tin will pop up and automatically apply discount codes to find you the best savings!

Version 0.0.5.2

On to the update! We're always improving the Tin app and Safari extension. Please send any feedback and ideas to [email protected]!

Ratings and Reviews

194 Ratings

Tin: Revolutionizing Savings in the Digital Marketplace

Tin is a pioneering force in the digital retail landscape, discovered amid the cultural currents of TikTok. In just a day, this application has proven to be a transformative asset, seamlessly weaving itself into the fabric of online shopping. The installation process, marked by simplicity, belies the profound impact it has on one's fiscal landscape. Tin functions as an intuitive retail oracle, not merely curating enticing deals and discount codes but, with automated finesse, applying them at checkout. What sets Tin apart extends beyond mere financial dividends, delving into the very architecture of the shopping interface. The amalgamation of its mobile application and extension technology offers a panoramic view of current and past transactions, providing organizational efficacy that transcends the chaos of email inboxes. Comparatively, Tin outshines rivals like Honey by maintaining real-time relevance, avoiding the pitfalls of expired promotions. Beyond the confines of mobile application, Tin's desktop extension emerges as a harmonious augmentation, positioning the platform as an industry trailblazer. In an era of economic prudence and retail efficacy, Tin solidifies its narrative as an indispensable tool for the discerning digital consumer.

Tin just saved me like $100 wow! 👀

I recently tried out Tin, a Safari extension that's pretty much a game-changer for snagging the best online deals with zero hassle. Easy to set up and even easier to use, Tin acts like your personal bargain hunter, silently finding better prices on everything from tech to kitchen gadgets and giving you a heads-up on the savings. It's cool because it also shows the price history, helping you decide if it's the right time to buy. While it's mostly spot-on, it occasionally misses a beat, but that's a small trade-off for how much time and money it's saved me. Whether you're making big purchases or everyday buys, Tin keeps things private and secure, making it a must-have for effortless savings. Honestly, your wallet will thank you for this one.

Superb Shopping App

My friend raved about Tin, so I decided to give it a try. Within just 24 hours, I was blown away by how intuitive and helpful it is! The app is a breeze to set up, and the deals it finds are unreal. On my first shopping spree, I snagged discounts on several items that I've been eyeing for ages, effortlessly saving a hefty sum. Tin's automatic coupon feature at checkout is a game-changer – it feels like I have a personal assistant scouring the internet for the best deals, all for me. From tech gadgets to fashion finds, Tin has consistently delivered savings that make a difference. I can't recommend it enough – it's like having the inside scoop on the best sales every time I shop! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

App Privacy

The developer, Tin Technologies Inc. , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

• Contact Info
• User Content
• Search History
• Browsing History
• Identifiers
• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

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