africa safaris 2024

Africa Tours & Cruises 2024

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Tanzania Trails

• Explore the Serengeti
• Stay in safari camps
• Spot the Big 5
• Experience rural life

Classic Egypt Tour

• Discover pyramids and Sphinx
• Visit the Museum and Temples
• Walk around town of Esna
• Sail the Nile river
• South Africa Snapshot
• Tour Robben Island
• Explore the highlights of Cape Town
• View lions, zebra, & impala
• Explore Kruger by foot or vehicle

Hidden Zimbabwe

• Go on safari in Gonarezhou Park
• Tour the Great Zimbabwe Monument
• Track rhino and hike Matobo Hills
• Learn about Zimbabwe culture

Mt Kilimanjaro Lemosho Climb

• Hike Mt Kilimanjaro National Park
• Explore rugged terrain
• Sleep in camps
• Visit Moshi in Tanzania

Botswana Family Safari

• Discover Africa with your family
• Visit a local Botswana school
• Search for elephants on the Chobe
• Experience the Okavango Delta

Nile River Explorer

• Discover the pyramids and Sphinx
• Explore the temple of Dendera
• Walk around the town of Esna
• Aboard a luxurious riverboat

Namibia Adventure

• Hike to the Sossusvlei Trails Camp
• Sea kayak to view seals & dolphins
• Track the black rhino on foot
• Visit a remote Himba Village

Highlights of Malawi and Zambia

• Embark on safari
• Visit islands
• Hike to Zomba Plateau
• Explore African safaris

Highlights of Namibia

• Climb sand dunes
• Visit a UNESCO Heritage Site
• Track the rhino

Diverse Namibia

• Explore freestanding sand dunes
• Drive through Etosha National Park
• Cruise on Walvis Bay
• Visit Ugab Rhino Trust

East Africa Trails

• Visit elephant sanctuary
• Search for wildlife
• Learn about the region

North Zimbabwe Adventure

• Explore Matusadona National Park
• Go on safari in Mana Pools Park
• Tour Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe
• Fish while you spot wildlife

Treasures of Egypt

• Tour the Valley of the Kings
• Soak in views of the Great Pyramids
• Cruise to Aswan home of the Nubians
• Visit the impressive Abu Simbel

Mt Kilimanjaro Rongai Climb

• Hike through rugged wilderness
• Watch spectacular sunrise
• Hike Mt Kili National Park
• Avoid the crowds

Treasures of Madagascar: Island Exploration from South to North

• Discover highlands landscape
• Explore Ranomafana rainforest
• Tour Diego Suarez bays
• Marvel at the Tsingy of Ankarana
• Experience turquoise lagoon, Ifaty

Namibia Under Canvas

• Sleep under canvas
• Track the black rhino
• Explore the Damaraland

Kenya Trails

• Safari in the Masai Mara
• Explore Karen Suburbs
• Stay in a tented camp
• Visit elephant orphanage

Africa Travel Guide

• All Africa Trips
• Luxury African Safari
• Africa River Cruises
• Okavango Delta
• All Africa Travel Stories
• What to Expect on a South Africa Safari: A How-To Guide to Help you Prepare for Your Trip
• Best Times to Visit Africa
• South Africa Safari: 10 Zany Creatures You Never Even Knew Existed
• Victoria Falls

Favorite Africa All Trips

• Best of Northern Tanzania
• Mt Kilimanjaro Machame Climb
• Golden Trails of Africa

Top Africa Travel Destinations

• Mediterranean
• Phinda Private Game Reserve
• Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve
• South Africa
• Tswalu Game Reserve

Africa Trips by Departure Date

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• September 2024 (112)
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• December 2024 (89)
• April 2025 (66)

Top Experiences in Africa

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• Africa Cultural (38)
• Africa Luxury (30)
• Africa River Cruises (21)
• Africa Beaches (16)
• Africa Trekking (16)
• Africa Active (14)
• Africa Solo Travel (13)
• Africa Most Popular (9)
• Africa Family (7)
• Africa Scheduled Group Tour (7)

Africa Trips by Duration

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Africa Trips by Activity

• Africa wildlife viewing (103)
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• Africa small ship cruises (50)
• Africa wilderness lodge exploration (30)
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• Africa archaeological site visits (27)
• Africa hiking (19)
• Africa camping (19)
• Africa snorkeling (18)
• Africa small ship sailing (13)
• Africa kayaking (12)
• Africa fishing (11)
• Africa land & sea exploration (10)
• Africa whale watching (9)
• Africa urban exploration (8)
• Africa adventure options (7)
• Africa spa relaxation (7)
• Africa scuba diving (5)
• Africa rainforest exploration (5)
• Africa wine tasting (5)
• Africa helicopter tours (4)
• Africa horseback riding (3)
• Africa biking (3)
• Africa cooking classes (3)

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Africa Safari Tours & Vacations

• Africa Safari Tours & Holidays

Take a walk on the wild side on an African safari.

The word “safari” means “journey” in Swahili. And a safari in Africa is all about the journey. While seeing a leopard munch on a freshly caught gazelle or spying a curious lion cub venture away from its mother’s protective embrace will be highlights of your trip, you’ll discover the journey is as much a part of your trip as the destination.

The road-trip games you play with your new travel mates, the feeling of the wind (and maybe a little dust) in your hair when you’re travelling down long, winding roads, and the young Maasai boy who waved at you as you passed him along the road will stay with you long after you return.

Our African safari tours

Okavango experience, 10 days from 1728.

Tour through Johannesburg, Maun, Chobe National Park, the Okavango Delta and Victoria...

Explore Southern Africa

18 days from 3416.

Spend some time exploring Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe with included safari...

Gorillas & Game Parks

16 days from 3995.

Encounter the wildlife of Kenya and Uganda on this adventure including a gorilla trek...

Cape Town to Vic Falls

22 days from 2750.

Spend three weeks exploring South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, from Cape...

East Africa Highlights

10 days from 3148.

Travel through East Africa from Kenya to Tanzania, stopping at the Masai Mara, the...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Kenya Wildlife Safari

8 days from 1404.

Experience Kenyan wildlife on an eight day trip travelling from Nairobi to Lake...

Botswana Highlights

9 days from 2650.

Discover the culture, wildlife and waterways of Botswana on this upgraded adventure...

Road to Zanzibar

12 days from 2288.

Experience the beauty of the Ngorongoro and Serengeti, Usambara Mountains and Zanzibar...

The Masai Heartlands

15 days from 3996.

Uncover Kenya and Tanzania on a 2 week trip with Serengeti safaris, Ngorongoro, Nakuru,...

Serengeti Trail

8 days from 1887.

Roam the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Amboseli National Park to spot Africa's Big...

Vic Falls to Kruger

9 days from 1422.

Take on a safari adventure through Hwange National Park, Matobo National Park, Kruger...

Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches

27 days from 6592.

Go deep in East Africa on this epic trip, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Botswana Adventure

10 days from 4544.

Visit Africa and travel through Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe on a tour from Windhoek...

Namibia Discovery

13 days from 3765.

Travel from Cape Town in South Africa to Namibia’s Windhoek through coastlines, sand...

Amazing Southern Africa

22 days from 8390.

Jump onboard an exhilarating journey from Cape Town to Victoria Falls through the...

Vic Falls to Cape Town

22 days from 2768.

Discover the unique and contrasting lands of Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and South...

Remarkable Rwanda & Gorillas of Uganda

9 days from 4786.

Travel through Rwanda and Uganda in search of natural beauty and the gentle mountain...

Garden Route Adventure

14 days from 1751.

See Africa from Durban to Cape Town on a 14-day adventure. Tour Tsitsikamma, Addo...

Best of East Africa

20 days from 4469.

Step out onto the Serengeti and keep your eyes out for rhinos, lions, leopards and a...

Cape Town to Zanzibar

41 days from 5785.

See Africa on this incredible overland adventure from South Africa to Tanzania. Soak up...

Serengeti & Kilimanjaro

15 days from 6084.

Explore the wonders of Tanzania and Kenya, including a trek to the summit of Mt...

Okavango & Beyond

9 days from 2555.

Travel from Zimbabwe to South Africa via Botswana. The Okavango and Beyond trip is the...

Vic Falls to Stone Town

17 days from 2370.

See East Africa in 17 days including Victoria Falls, Matobo, South Luwanga, Lake Malawi...

Southern Africa Adventure

30 days from 4800.

Take a month long southern African adventure from Cape Town into Namibia, Botswana and...

Essential East Africa

10 days from 1790.

Hit the (dirt) road through Kenya and Tanzania. Safari in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro...

Africa Encompassed Northbound

64 days from 12940.

This epic journey with explores Southern Africa in detail including Botswana, Kenya,...

Johannesburg to Kenya

37 days from 6959.

Travel the waterways of Botswana, the beaches of Zanzibar and the savannahs of the...

Cape Town to Kenya

49 days from 8230.

Experience the ultimate African adventure on this epic trip including Kenya, Botswana,...

Kruger & Coast

9 days from 1212.

Explore diverse southern Africa on this nine-day adventure, including Kruger National...

Gorillas to Vic Falls

42 days from 8602.

Explore Kenya, Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe on this epic trip that included a...

Safari to Kilimanjaro - Machame Route

16 days from 6125.

Explore the wonders of Tanzania and Kenya including a trek to the summit of Mt...

Africa Encompassed Southbound

63 days from 11259.

Set out on a mighty African adventure through Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe...

Vic Falls to Kenya

28 days from 5027.

Discover East African wilderness and the animals that call it home on an adventure...

Zanzibar to Cape Town

40 days from 5164.

Explore Africa on an epic wildlife-rich adventure from Tanzania to South Africa while...

Kenya to Cape Town

48 days from 7610.

Tour Africa's best from Kenya to Cape Town through Tanzania, Zanzibar, Malawi, Zimbabwe...

Stone Town to Nairobi

9 days from 2012.

Explore Tanzania on this trip travelling to Nairobi via the Serengeti and the Usambara...

Stone Town to Vic Falls

16 days from 1924.

Track rhinos on foot and embrace the sights and sounds of Eastern Africa on this unique...

Johannesburg to Gorillas

52 days from 11780.

Experience the waterways of Botswana, the beaches of Zanzibar, the savannahs of the...

Kenya to Vic Falls

27 days from 4722.

Explore the wilds of East Africa on a trip from Nairobi to the Serengeti, Usambara...

Kilimanjaro & Serengeti Adventure

15 days from 6696, beaches, game parks & gorillas, 27 days from 7620.

Spend 27 days exploring the wonders, wildlife and tribal cultures of East Africa to...

Zanzibar to Vic Falls

19 days from 2265.

Explore East Africa from Zanzibar's beaches to the roar of Victoria Falls, seeing...

Johannesburg to Zanzibar

29 days from 4785.

From Johannesburg to Botswana, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Lake Malawi and...

Zanzibar to Nairobi

12 days from 2360.

Get a true taste of eastern Africa on a 12-day trip to Zanzibar, the Serengeti,...

Vic Falls to Zanzibar

20 days from 2825.

Travel from the thundering Victoria Falls to the spice plantations of Zanzibar via...

Vic Falls to Gorillas

43 days from 9990.

Take an epic trip through eastern Africa, via Victoria Falls, the Serengeti and...

Africa safari h ighlights

Spot the Big 5 in South Africa

Go on safari through Kruger National Park, one of the largest game reserves in Southern Africa . This massive park is one of the premier safari spots in all of Africa and for good reason; it’s home to over 500 bird species, 100 species of reptile and 150 mammal species, including the Big Five and the endangered African wild dog.

Go gorilla trekking in Uganda

Venture deep into the steamy jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in search of the rare mountain gorilla. With a local guide to lead you, you’ll trek into the forest to spend one unforgettable hour watching and hanging out with a family of gorillas. A close encounter with these gentle giants is an extraordinary African experience that will always stay with you.

Float over the Serengeti

The only thing more magical than witnessing the great wildebeest migration across the Serengeti? Seeing it from the sky in a hot air balloon. As the herds of wildebeest and thousands of other animals travel from Serengeti National Park to the greener pastures of the Masai Mara National Reserve, you can watch their journey and enjoy incredible views from a unique perspective.

Canoe in the Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta has a unique system of waterways that are home to an immense array of wildlife. The best way to explore it is in a mokoro, a traditional dugout canoe. Visit in May to September, when animals are confined to small islands created by the annual flood, making it easy to spot great herds of elephant and antelope, hippos, crocodiles, lions, cheetahs and more. 

Popular safari destinations

Kruger National Park

Serengeti National Park

The Okavango Delta

Region comparisons

Chobe or Okavango?

Serengeti or Masai Mara?

View our range of gorilla treks

Where we stay on safari.

On our safari trips you’ll stay in billion-star accommodation. That’s our way of saying you’re sleeping under the night sky, camping in the great outdoors. On our Basix and sections of Original trips, you’ll stay in two-person canvas tents that our crew will help you set up. And on our Comfort trips, you’ll be staying in permanent tented camps and lodges (think glamping instead of camping).

Campsite facilities can sometimes be basic, but wherever possible, we make sure there are Western-style toilets and warm water available. But you’ll find it’s worth sacrificing a warm shower or two when you’re waking up to sunrise over the Masai Mara.

How we get around

On our safari trips, your main mode of transport is an overland truck, a purpose-built vehicle made for driving through Africa’s winding, and sometimes bumpy, country roads. While the trucks don’t have air conditioning, they do have sliding windows which let in the breeze and make it even easier to take spectacular snaps of the local wildlife. The trucks are also equipped with power outlets to charge your camera, phone and other devices on the go.

For more info on our overland trucks, see our Africa overland page .

African Safari FAQs

When is the best time to go on safari.

Generally speaking, January, February and June to October are the best times to go on safari in Africa. This is the dry season, so animals tend to come out into more open spaces in search of water, making them easier to spot. However, you’ll be able to spot animals all year round and you’ll enjoy fewer crowds if you travel outside peak season.

Read more about the best time to go on safari .

Where is the best place to go on safari?

The best place to go on safari depends on what kind of animals you’d like to see and what other activities you’d like to do in destination. We offer safaris to some of the best safari destinations in eastern and southern Africa, like Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and more.

Read more about how to choose your ideal African safari . 

Am I guaranteed to see animals on safari?

While we can’t guarantee you’ll spot the Big 5, you’d have to be profoundly unlucky to see no animals at all. On our trips, you’ll explore some of the best game parks and national reserves in the world. These protected areas are filled with a huge variety of different species and your expert driver and local leader will help you spot animals.

What are the “Big 5”?

The “Big 5” used to refer to the five big game animals that were the most difficult to hunt. Now that most shooting is done on a camera, the Big 5 are the most exciting animals to spot while on safari: the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo.

What should I pack for safari?

Loose, light clothing in neutral colours is the best attire for a safari (dark colours will get hot in the sun and can attract the Tsetse fly). You’ll also want a sun hat, some good walking shoes, a camera, sunscreen and bug spray. For more details, check out our ultimate Africa packing guide . 

What type of food will be served on safari?

On our Basix trips you’ll have a cook travelling with you while you are on safari who will whip up a variety of local flavours and Western-style dishes. Along your route, your cook will stop to purchase fresh, locally sourced food for your meals. You can expect a variety of things for breakfast like fruit, eggs, toast and cereal; lunch is often sandwiches and salads; and dinner is usually a hearty meal like pasta, curry or a BBQ.

On our Original and Comfort trips there will be more meals at camps and lodges along the way. No matter what you’re craving, you definitely will not be going hungry on safari.

What are the toilets and showers like on safari?

Most of the permanent tented camps will have a private bathroom with flushing toilets and showers with warm water. 

Many of the campsites we stay at have communal facilities with flushing toilets and showers with warm water. However, in some of the more remote areas, there may only be basic facilities (toilets and cold running water). 

Can you accommodate accessibility requirements on your safari tours?

We are committed to making travel accessible to everyone, so we will work with you to assess whether you will be able to complete an existing itinerary, or whether we will be able to make reasonable adjustments to meet your needs before you book. Please see our accessible travel page for more information. 

What is internet and phone access like on safari?

Some of our hotels and campsites will have Wi-Fi, however Internet and phone access may be limited in more remote areas. But you won’t miss it when you’re watching a pride of lions prowl through long grass or enjoying a drink around the campfire with your group. 

Responsible travel

Our stance on Animal Welfare

This world and the animals that call it home are precious, and we believe it’s our responsibility to help preserve them. We do not include or condone any activities that exploit animals on our safari trips, including hunting, feeding or interacting with animals in any way. We believe that wild animals should be observed in the wild, from a respectful distance. 

Some tips for being a wildlife-friendly traveller include never buying animal products, not participating in activities that include contact with the animals, and not including location tags on social media posts (some poachers have gone high-tech and use social media to track rare animals’ locations).

Read more about our Animal Welfare Policy here . 

Read more about African safaris

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2024 safaris.

Our collection of affordable luxury safaris for travel in 2024 is here. Browse our African safaris below, and get in touch . From South Africa and Botswana in the south, to Kenya and Tanzania in the east, and virtually everywhere in between, we have safari options to match your personal preferences. We would love to share our passion for Africa with you, and help you plan your dream vacation.

Note: Tours are grouped by destination - then in order lowest to highest price.  Itineraries without pricing are suggested itineraries and are on request.

Best of Cape Town and the Bush

Explore the "best" of beautiful Cape Town, the picturesque Winelands and a thrilling safari.

Family Fun in South Africa

A vacation package for the whole family, packed with fun and educational activities.

The Pearl of Africa

Beautiful Cape Town and a thrilling safari are combined with a luxurious Rovos Rail train journey for a superb South African vacation.

South Africa's History and Heritage

Follow historical and cultural attractions along Mandela's journey and discover Cape Town's beautiful scenery.

Classic South Africa - USD

Marvel at the beauty of South Africa on this exceptional safari.

South Africa in Absolute Style

Experience stunning South Africa in affordable luxury. Year after year, a top-selling safari.

Best of South Africa

A South African safari offering exciting game drives at Kapama and culture and scenic beauty in Cape Town.

Classic South Africa - CAD

Tented Safari in Style

A superb South African luxury tented safari that supports the Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.

Pride of South Africa

Explore Cape Town's beauty, embark on a thrilling wildlife adventure in KwaZulu-Natal's MfulaWozi Reserve.

South Africa in Absolute Style - CAD

Best of Cape Town and Botswana

Explore Cape Town, the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park on safari.

Platinum South Africa

A 5 star Luxury Safari. Enjoy the beauty of Cape Town and Franschhoek along with the exceptional wildlife at Sabi Sabi.

Luxury South Africa

Stay in the heart of Cape Town, then be mesmerized by the wildlife at the elegant Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge.

Discover Southern Africa

A Southern Africa safari offering scenic beauty in Cape Town, exciting game drives and the majesty of the Victoria Falls.

Ultimate Cape Town and Botswana

Explore the coastal scenery of Cape Town and immense wetlands of the Okavango Delta.

African Dream Honeymoon

A dream honeymoon safari! Dine in Cape Town, explore a private game reserve, then unwind with some romantic beach time.

Ultimate South Africa And Victoria Falls

Experience the ultimate in luxury accommodations in Cape Town, on safari and in Victoria Falls on this incredible itinerary.

The Royal Treatment

Pamper yourself with every indulgence on this luxurious South African vacation and safari.

Luxury Jordan

Discover Jordan's ancient civilizations and fascinating culture on this vacation add-on.

Egyptian Explorer

Discover the ancient, wondrous civilization of Egypt in luxurious style as we explore this incredible country.

Egypt - Exclusively Yours

Explore the best of Egypt in style. Visit ancient wonders and enjoy a luxurious 4 night river cruise on the Nile River.

Magical Mozambique

Mozambique is the perfect honeymoon beach holiday or complement to a Southern Africa safari.

Seductive Seychelles

The Seychelles is the ultimate honeymoon beach paradise or complement to a Southern African safari.

Best of Zimbabwe

Discover the beauty and wildlife of Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park and stunning Victoria Falls.

The Wonder of Victoria Falls

Experience the majesty of Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Victoria Falls in Style

Experience stunning Victoria Falls: river cruises, luxury accommodation and nature drives.

Zimbabwe Safari in Style

Discover Zimbabwe's natural beauty and awesome wildlife in remote and unspoiled wilderness areas.

Tanzania In Style - Upgraded Edition

Explore Tanzania's vast wilderness on this luxury safari that takes you through Tarangire, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti.

Tanzania in Style

Experience the Tanzania Trifecta of Parks - Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire and the famous Serengeti.

Azure Zanzibar

Relax on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar and explore the ancient city of Stone Town.

Tanzanian Highlights

Discover the wild wonderlands of Tanzania on this affordable luxury safari vacation.

Classic Tanzania

Create magical memories on a safari adventure to the Serengeti, Tarangire and Ngorongoro.

Tanzania - In the Footsteps of the Migration

Witness the amazing spectacle of the great migration and experience Tanzania's wildlife.

Best of Tanzania

Discover Africa's majestic wildlife up close on this affordable luxury Tanzania safari.

Platinum Tanzania

Indulge in ultimate luxury on this Tanzania safari and see Africa's majestic wildlife up close.

Gorillas of Rwanda

An up-close and moving experience with endangered Mountain Gorillas.

Classic Rwanda

Visit National Parks teeming with wildlife on this Classic Rwanda safari.

Platinum Rwanda

Go on safari in Rwanda looking for lions, rhinos, giraffes and more; then enjoy a trek in the forest in search of Gorillas.

Namibian Experience

Discover Namibia, home to spectacular deserts and awesome wildlife, on this 5 star safari vacation.

Namibian Adventure

Explore the mysteries of the Namibian desert and witness its awesome wildlife on an Etosha Game Reserve safari.

Alluring Mauritius

Mauritius is the perfect honeymoon beach paradise or complement to a Southern African safari. 

Botswana in Style

Discover Botswana’s beautiful landscapes and wildlife on a safari in the Okavango Delta and Chobe River.

Ultimate Botswana and Zambia

Experience unmatched luxury on this Botswana and Zambia safari vacation.

Discover Botswana

Explore diverse wildlife and enjoy exciting safari activities on a luxury safari.

Platinum Botswana

A luxury safari for those who want something different!

Zambia in Style

Home to the iconic Victoria Falls, and Livingstone, Zambia’s game reserves are relatively undiscovered treasures.

Kenya in Absolute Style

Discover Kenya's natural beauty on this 5 star luxury safari vacation to Nairobi, Samburu, and the Maasai Mara.

Enchanting Kenya

From Shaba to the Maasai Mara, this Kenya safari presents you the chance to see some Africa's greatest wildlife.

Luxury Kenya

Explore magical Kenya on an affordable luxury safari to the Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru.

Discover East Africa

Abundant wildlife and diverse landscapes await in Tanzania and Kenya on this epic safari.

Kenya Exclusive Tented Safari

A superb Kenyan wildlife safari staying in romantic intimate camps in Amboseli, Samburu and the Maasai Mara.

Experience Kenya

Visit the Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy and Masai Mara, two prime wildlife areas, then participate in a Kenya conservation success story.

Ultimate Kenya and Tanzania Mahali Mzuri

A luxury safari offering the "Best of the Best" in Kenya and Tanzania. Prepare to have your expectations exceeded!

Ultimate Kenya and Tanzania Angama Mara

The ultimate Kenya and Tanzania safari offering elegant accommodations, breathtaking views, and excellent wildlife sightings.

East Africa SkySafari

Fly across Kenya and Tanzania on private planes, to luxurious and eco-friendly safari camps in East Africa's most famous parks.

Travelling Without a Passport

Best Safari Destinations in Africa for 2024

The Big Five have never been more appealing. Here are our big five safari destinations Africa for 2024 and beyond

“There is something about safari life that makes you forget all your sorrows and feel as if you had drunk half a bottle of champagne—bubbling over with heartfelt gratitude for being alive.” Karen Blixen, of Out of Africa fame, waxed rhapsodic about the wonders of the mighty continent and the appeal of a safari. Most of us have only seen wild elephants and lions in documentaries, but there’s nothing more thrilling than seeing these mighty beasts in their natural habitat. An elephant calf playfully following the herd, an ochre-hued lion gazing intently at wildebeests, a giraffe slowly chewing the branches from an acacia tree. Witnessing these animals on a safari in Africa truly transforms you and your views on conservation and sustainability.

Africa boasts dozens of countries, each with their own cultures, languages and norms, but across this dynamic continent, from north to south, lie wilderness parks, savannahs and velds where the Big Five—lions, elephants, cape buffalos, rhinos and leopards—and other animals live peacefully under the watchful eye of park rangers and conservationists. Check out our top five best safari destinations in Africa for 2024. 

Botswana boasts so many natural wonders, it’s hard to pick a place to start when heading here for a safari adventure. The Okavango River Delta, the largest inland delta in the world, offers miles upon miles of myriad waterways, lagoons and grassy flood plains where one can admire mighty beasts from a safe vantage point in an overland truck. Get as close as you can get to African elephants as well as lions and leopards on a Botswana safari .

The Moremi Game Reserve, situated in the heart of the delta, is the perfect campsite for any driving safari as you’ll be rewarded with hippos, Cape buffalos, lions, leopards and the ever elusive Tawny Eagle. If you love elephants as much as we do, Chobe National Park on the border of Botswana and Zambia, boasts a herd population of around 50,000 elephants across the savannah. A Botswana safari is the perfect choice if you want to splurge on a private African safari tour as you get personal chefs and other amenities.

Kenya offers tantalizing glimpses of wildlife from any budget or luxury African safari tour. With more than 800 safari tours to choose from, travelers will find it hard to pick just one. Head to the Masai Mara for gaming drives that ensure you see at least one or two of the Big Five. Tsavo West National Park goes beyond the Big Five and offers rhinos, hippos, cheetahs and plant and bird species that you can’t find anywhere else. This rugged wilderness boasts verdant plains thanks to watering holes such as Mzima Springs. 

Mt. Kilimanjaro is the resident icon here and with its snow-capped peaks as a backdrop, you’ll find elephants migrating from one watering hole to another at Amboseli National Park. Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake, is a great vantage point to admire birds as well as hippos among papyrus reeds and flat-topped acacias. After six days of trekking and hiking, relax in your air-conditioned hotel in Nairobi when you’re done.

South Africa

When one thinks of the Big Five, South Africa immediately comes to mind as it’s considered the place to see all of these animals in their natural habitat. A safari in South Africa means you’ll be guaranteed lions, leopards, rhinos, and other wildlife across a five- to eight-day African safari. 

From the verdant banks of Lake Saint Lucia in iSimangaliso Wetland Park to the grassy plains of Kruger National Park, South Africa teems with wildlife that is indigenous to the continent. Blyde River Canyon, the third largest of its kind in the world, boasts gorges and greenery like you’ve never seen anywhere else on earth. Expect views of the rivers and valleys laid out like a banquet feast for the senses. Meandering ribbons of blue traverse the landscape and waterfalls are carved into cliff sides, offering a pleasing respite from long days in an overland truck tour. 

For African safari tours, Tanzania is always at the top when one thinks of best safari destinations in Africa. With sites such as Ngorongoro Crater, Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tarangire National Park, and Serengeti National Park it isn’t not hard to see why. A Tanzania safari is a one-of-a-kind experience thanks to the Great Migration. This annual event sees more than 2 million animals, mainly wildebeests, zebras and giraffes, traverse the golden plains of Serengeti National Park, from Tanzania to nearby Kenya. A safari in Tanzania is always appealing thanks to conservation efforts that preserve the Big Five and other wildlife as well as fertile soil and abundant watering holes.  

On any given Tanzania safari, expect iconic wildlife while on a game drive and close-but-not-too close interactions with animals (perfect for anyone looking for an African safari photography tour); it’s one of our favorites because of this personal interaction. Descend into Ngorongoro crater where you might be lucky enough to spot an endangered black rhino or visit a Maasai village to learn about their way of life. 

While most people head on an African safari to see the Big Five, there are other animals just as majestic and endangered as the mighty lion. Uganda boasts gorilla safaris so you can do your best Jane Goddall impression watching primates in their native habitat.

Before you get to the primates, travel to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to admire rare white rhinos, which have been saved from the brink of extinction by park rangers here. Track chimpanzees, our closest animal relatives, in Kibale Forest National Park. Then it’s time to hike 4-6 hours to see mountain gorillas.

In Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park you’ll get to spend one hour admiring these majestic beats in the dense foliage. Grab your camera and quietly take photos of these sociable creatures who are often in family groups of more than a dozen, led by an alpha male. These mighty animals can look placid but can be quite intimidating when viewed up close so don’t use your video camera or flash. You’ll leave your Uganda gorilla safari with a new appreciation for primates of all sizes. 

See Also: Best Safari Destinations In the World

Shandana A. Durrani

Shandana A. Durrani is the Head of Content & Brand at TourRadar. A former Senior Editor at Cigar Aficionado and a former Dining Editor at Google, Durrani has written about travel for Condé Nast Traveler, Afar, Silverkris and Metro London and is the author of “Day Trips from New York City.”

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The Best Places to Go in Africa in 2024

By CNT Editors

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This is part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2024 —find more travel inspiration here .

This past year saw a surge of travel throughout destinations in Africa , with air travel across the continent approaching prepandemic levels . Safari camps from South Africa to Kenya were fully booked, and travelers lingered in popular destinations like Cape Town and Zanzibar well past peak season. What does this mean for the year ahead?

A wave of hotly anticipated luxury resorts —many of which were in the works long before grinding to a halt in the pandemic—are finally ready to throw open their doors, new air routes are making parts of the continent more accessible than ever, and popular events and festivals are enticing visitors to explore regions they may not have contemplated before. Yes, there are plenty of thrilling safari camps in the pipeline that we’re excited about, from iconic corners of Botswana to a less-visited park in Mozambique , but there’s also a compelling food movement in Accra , a milestone anniversary in Rwanda , a monumental new cultural landmark in Morocco ’s capital city of Rabat, and so much more to look forward to. Could this be the year Johannesburg pries visitors away from Cape Town with a cool new city hotel and a dynamic dining scene, or when sunseekers take another look at Mauritius instead of the Maldives ? Might you sail into Madagascar on an adventurous new cruising itinerary or consider adding Sierra Leone to your travel plans? Frankly, the hardest part will be choosing. Below are the best places to go in Africa in 2024. — Sarah Khan

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Accra, Ghana

Go for: the heart of a pan-African cultural renaissance, Indigenous pop-up dinners, Afrobeats

Accra continues to draw travelers with a surge of cool new pop-up restaurants, museums, and the pilgrimage-worthy music festival, AfroFuture (previously Afrochella).

Accra has steadily been cementing its reputation as the continent’s capital of cool, and a reimagining of pan-African heritage has ignited the city’s foodies. Leading the way is the Ghana Food Movement , a network of food change makers intent on surfacing the sexy in sustainable dining. With the May 2024 opening of its Link-up Kitchen in the buzzing Osu neighborhood, this meeting place–cum–test kitchen will house the Movement’s popular Dine and Dance series, where young chefs highlight local ingredients in multicourse dinners before getting down to beats by local DJs. The hub will also host pop-ups featuring up-and-coming chefs and Indigenous menus, such as those offered by Abena Offeh-Gyimah, whose food tours spotlight heirloom ingredients and a “reconnection to ancestral ways of eating.” This year also sees chef Selassie Atadika of Midunu resuming her Nomadic Dinners celebrating African ingredients , as well as quarterly chocolate tastings of her gorgeous bonbons inspired by flavors like beriberi chili and Cape Malay spice. After dinner, you’ll find the balmy West African capital’s electric club scene spoils you for choice. And while the Grammys have just come to the party (the awards will feature a Best African Music Performance category for the first time, in 2024), locals have been lighting it up at festivals like Chale Wote Street Art Festival (August) and AfroFuture (previously Afrochella ; December) for years. Should you find time to sleep, the December 2023 opening of the 145-room Hilton Accra Cantonments marks the brand’s debut in Ghana.

Looking ahead: A state-of-the-art cultural institution is coming just outside the city as well. Enriched by voices from the diaspora, an overdue zeitgeist to reclaim African narratives finds a physical home in the Pan African Heritage Museum , which has begun construction and will open in 2025 or 2026. Located on 10 lush acres in Winneba (40 miles from Accra), the space’s first offerings will include a music amphitheater, a youth innovation center, and a food court. Like all its planned exhibits (you can digitally preview the collection), these will both showcase and connect the continent’s rich history and cultures to its contemporary global might. — Lee Middleton

Johannesburg, South Africa

Go for: hot tables, an art center, and new hotels from beloved brands

The Voco Johannesburg is one of several hotels offering high design in the South African city—and in 2024, it will be joined by the Park Hyatt Johannesburg.

Johannesburg is a gold rush city, built on a sense of gritty determination and unbridled optimism. And though the city battles infrastructure challenges and social inequality, it’s impossible to ignore the positive energy infusing South Africa’s economic capital. That’s evident in a resurgent restaurant scene rapidly giving Cape Town a run for its money. Cape stalwart the Pot Luck Club expanded with a new location here in 2023, as did Insta-worthy British café EL&N London , marking its only African outpost. For a more continental culinary journey, book a table at Gigi , the new outing by celebrated local chef Besele Moses Moloi . Make your base in the artsy suburb of Rosebank, where the upscale Park Hyatt Johannesburg will open in late 2024 with decor by Yabu Pushelberg. Until then, Voco Johannesburg Rosebank —the first of the Voco subbrand from IHG in Africa—offers Art Deco glamour and an enviable in-house art collection (ask for a guided tour). It’s just a short taxi ride to artist Roger Ballen’s engaging new Inside Out Centre for the Arts , a striking exhibition space and educational center opened in March 2023.

Rosebank is less than 30 minutes from the international airport on the high-speed Gautrain. United and Delta fly direct from the US, Cathay Pacific and LATAM relaunched flights in 2023, and Air Algérie and Saudia have brand new routes to the city. Come June 2024, Lufthansa will add a direct flight from Munich , and in July 2024, Qantas will fly its A380 from Sydney to the city for the first time, nearly doubling capacity. — Richard Holmes

Go for: biodiversity, castaway vibes, and water sports

Miavana in Madagascar exemplifies the island's allure with water sports, adventures through baobab forests, and jaw-dropping views.

In 2024, it will become easier to travel between remote destinations across Madagascar, thanks to a new flight circuit and cruise itineraries.

An otherworldly land of undiscovered species and bizarre biological riches, the rugged, remote Indian Ocean isle of Madagascar has always promised to upend visitors’ senses and logistical prowess. Happily, the latter is changing as the pioneers responsible for some of the continent’s finest conservation tourism offerings are upping the ante on the world’s fourth largest island. Located inside the essentially unvisited Namoroka National Park, Namoroka Tsingy Exploration Camp’s mid-2024 opening will make seven luxury safari tents your portal to a landscape of baobabs jutting from the formations of limestone knives known as tsingy and populated by lemurs that haven’t learned to fear people.

More of a coastal explorer? Look no further than Masoala Forest Lodge , which recently launched a Blue Lagoon Expedition trip in 2022. Paddling the breathtaking rainforest- and mangrove-fringed Antongil Bay, kayakers en route to a magical island campsite will share pellucid waters with migrating humpback whales and schools of reef fish. If that’s a touch too rugged, Time + Tide’s Miavana —arguably the Platonic ideal of exclusive island luxury—is launching a kiteboarding center and new mainland excursions (think quad biking through baobab forests), in January 2024 and March 2024 respectively, for those who enjoy a splash of adrenaline in their bliss cocktail.

Finally—and critically—2024 sees access to the Red Island expanding. Masoala Forest Lodge and Madagascar Classic Collection are starting a new flight circuit that will link choice remote destinations, like Andasibe, Namoroka, and Masoala parks, and luxe cruise lines like Silversea , Lindblad , Swan Hellenic , and Seabourn have added the country as a port of call on new voyages. — Lee Middleton

Go for: Indian Ocean waters, a museum, and dazzling beach villas

The island nation of Mauritius is entering a new golden era, with expanded cultural offerings and the unveiling of renovated resorts, like Lux Belle Mare, that beg travelers to visit again, and again.

Mauritius’s heyday as a destination in the 1980s conjures images of striped parasols, a tanned Stéphanie de Monaco on water skis, and all of Europe’s jet set holed up in the few—but fabulous—hotels. Fast-forward three decades and the Indian Ocean island has even more to land itself on your travel list: A dynamic cultural scene and new wave of hospitality are unfolding on its shores. In the capital of Port Louis, the years-in-the-making Intercontinental Slavery Museum , located inside a restored 1700s military hospital, opened in September 2023, marking the nation’s first monumental step in making amends for its long colonial history. Culture buffs are also gravitating to the recently opened House of Digital Art (HODA) nearby: Old meets new in this historic Port-Louis building, housing a cutting-edge array of contemporary art installations. Mauritius has always been renowned for its dreamy seaside resorts, but encouraging visitors to venture away from the beaches is the forthcoming Socio Tribeca in late 2024—heralding the launch of a new hotel brand from the Lux Collective—which promises to be an impressive contemporary hotel with its finger on the pulse of the island. Muse Villas , a newcomer seeking to offer an elevated resort experience, enables travelers to stay on their own private islet. Meanwhile, legendary resorts Lux Belle Mare and Paradis Beachcomber just unveiled massive restorations in October, and Hotel Riu Palace Mauritius , a kitesurfers’ paradise, will emerge from its own facelift in May 2024. But beyond the well-trodden coastline of Mauritius, this may be the year its little sister, Rodrigues, a speck of an island an hour-and-a-half flight east, gets its due. It’s long been a well-kept secret among even the most in-the-know travelers, but now a clutch of reimagined properties is adding a touch of luxury gloss: The island’s two historic hotels, Play Mourouk and Cotton Bay Resort & Spa , are reopening after months of renovation and reinvention (the first as of November 1, 2023; the latter in 2024). — Anissa Macaulay

Go for: epic wildlife restoration, a pristine coastline, standout safaris

Just as Mozambique enters a new era as a destination, the country's Gorongosa National Park has done the same through rewilding efforts that travelers can witness firsthand at Muzimi Lodge—the first and only luxury tented camp in the area, opening in 2024.

While the past few years of conflict and COVID-19 temporarily suppressed this Southern African gem—known for its 1,500 miles of pristine coastline , vast terrestrial wildernesses, and vibrant Afro-Portuguese culture— Mozambique will bounce back in 2024.

On the mainland, the country’s revival is most famously evidenced at Gorongosa National Park , where rewilding efforts have resulted in a more than 700 percent increase in large mammals from 2008 to 2018, restoring both ecological and economic hope to this magical land of fever trees and meandering rivers. Experience the conservation success story firsthand from the comfort of Muzimu Lodge , the park’s first and only luxury tented camp, whose official 2024 opening will be accompanied by its introduction of a new walking safari-fly camp experience to Gorongosa Mountain’s summit. For those on a tighter budget or timeline, head south to Ponta Membene , where 24 new self-catering chalets—brilliantly located on a spit of coastal dune forest less than three hours from Maputo—and e-bike coastal safaris, currently in a trial phase, hope to broaden access to the spectacular Maputo National Park . Finally, hardcore travelers can head to the Niassa Special Reserve, where Anderson Expeditions is resuming a life-changing seven-night adventure tracking wildlife (by foot, game drive, and canoe) within a private concession with one of the industry’s finest guides. Supporting the Niassa Carnivore Project ’s Mpopo Trails Camp, the expedition represents the future of sustainable community-led tourism. The forthcoming opening of Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira —featuring sea views from the private island sanctuary’s 40 pool villas; snorkeling with manta rays; and a spa from the award-winning brand—will follow (official opening date to be announced).

Topping it all off, Mozambique’s once-arcane entry requirements have been radically simplified with the addition of 28 countries to its visa exemption list—including the US. — Lee Middleton

North KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Go for: major game lodges off the beaten path

In the country's far east, KwaZulu-Natal's Babanango Game Reserve—home to the Big Five—is a lesser-visited alternative to South Africa's Kruger National Park.

Madwaleni River Lodge, which opened in September 2023 in KZN's Babanango, is just one of the reasons to visit the destination in the year ahead.

This year brings with it multiple new reasons to bypass South Africa ’s iconic Kruger National Park and head instead into the scenic Zululand hills of northern KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), the country’s easternmost province. If you’ve traveled here before, you may have been to &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve , known for species such as cheetahs, black rhinos, and pangolins. Phinda Forest Lodge , one of six properties on the reserve, reopens after an extensive refurbishment, with a new family suite and a reimagined pool, in December 2023. It comes on the heels of the Madwaleni River Lodge ’s opening in September 2023, in Babanango Game Reserve —there, from a private deck overlooking the White Umfolozi River, you might spot elephants cooling off in the water. (Their recent reintroduction completed the reserve’s Big Five population.) The reserve has been rewilded over the past five years, a project driven by community trusts who own parts of the reserve. Next up, the long-awaited Homestead will welcome guests to the Nambiti Private Game Reserve in early 2024. The 12-suite lodge is set to have electric vehicles and private butler service. With suites starting at $7,500 a night, though, its rates are double those of comparable properties—time will tell what kind of bang it offers for the buck. Looking to combine these camps with a luxe seaside escape for the ultimate bush-and-beach combo? The new-ish Sala Beach House is the chicest option—when it opened on Thompson's Bay in 2022, Sala plugged a gap in the market for a modern luxury boutique beach hotel on KZN’s appropriately nicknamed Dolphin Coast. — Heather Richardson

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Go for: a watershed moment for exclusive camps in a unique landscape

African Bush Camps opened Khwai Lediba this past year—a drop in a sea of new safari lodges that make a visit to the Okavango Delta more desirable than ever.

In 2024, the team behind North Island Okavango (pictured), which has just three suites perched on an island in the Delta, will add a new build to their portfolio.

Go. Go now. Because if you’ve always dreamed of discovering Botswana’s Okavango Delta, where seasonal floodwaters transform parched sands into a filigree of shimmering channels, right now is when you’ll be spoiled for choice. A surge in demand, coupled with a proactive approach to developing community-owned concessions, has led to a flush of new lodges across the world’s largest inland delta.

Take Sitatunga Private Island , or Natural Selection’s North Island Okavango , where just three tented suites rest on an island beneath wild ebony trees. Natural Selection will add to their portfolio in May 2024 with a new build: Tawana . Set in the wildlife-rich Moremi Game Reserve, this partnership with the chief of the local Batawana tribe will offer eight thatched suites amid the grasslands lining the perennial Gomoti River. Each stay is at least 1,000 square feet in size and comes with a private plunge pool and terrace.

Water is gold in the Delta, and this past year, African Bush Camps (ABC) opened the riverside Khwai Lediba . But our eye is really on Atzaro Okavango , slated for a March 2024 debut: It’s the third Icon camp in the Delta for ABC, with 10 lagoon-side suites promising impressive levels of Delta luxe and a strong sense of place through design (both markers of the Icon portfolio).

If you’re feeling adventurous, look east to the untapped Mababe marshlands and the brand-new Wilderness Mokete (opening mid-2024) for a fresh look at under-canvas exploration—out with plush campaign-style furnishings and in with geometric lines and contemporary decor. But be quick: Mokete will only stand for two years before being replaced by a new-build permanent camp set to open in 2026. — Richard Holmes

Rabat, Morocco

Go for: new cultural outposts, a music festival, and shiny hotels

Cool music festivals? Big-name architecture? Luxury hotels? Morocco's capital of Rabat has all that and more, and 2024 brings a wave of newness.

The Moroccan capital of Rabat may be one of the country’s four imperial cities, but it’s long been bypassed by travelers drawn to the timeworn beauty of places like Marrakech , Fez , and Tangier . That may change this year, as the city is in the midst of a cultural and artistic reinvention. One of the most talked about attractions: the forthcoming Mohammed VI Tower, designed to be LEED Gold and HQE-certified and projected to be the tallest and only spire of its kind in Africa. But perhaps even more exciting is the new Grand Theatre of Rabat opening nearby. One of legendary architect Zaha Hadid’s unfinished masterpieces, it will incorporate an 1,800-seat theater, an experimental performance space, and a 7,000-person amphitheater, along with green spaces and a restaurant. It is set to be the largest venue of its kind in both Africa and the Arab world and will host symphony, ballet, opera, and philharmonic performances (all of the above are anticipated before 2023 comes to a close). Another hotly anticipated cultural foray is the 2024 return of the Mawazine festival , coming back this summer after a COVID-19-induced hiatus—there’s no word on a lineup yet, but in the past Africa’s largest festival has drawn A-listers like Rihanna and Mariah Carey.

A flurry of high-profile hotel openings will make for a soft landing in the city while you’re there: The newly opened Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé and Conrad Rabat Arzana both herald a new era of modern luxury in the historic city; now, the buzz is centered around the hotly anticipated Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr , opening in late 2023, as well as a the planned Ritz-Carlton Rabat Dar Es Salam . — Harriet Akinyi

Go for: a historically significant anniversary, gorilla treks, and culinary innovation

Meza Malonga in Kigali is a celebration of Afro-fusion, drawing on chef Dieuveil Malonga's travels to 48 African countries.

In addition to great dining at Meza Malonga, Rwanda promises new trekking, houseboat cruising, and even craft beer in 2024.

Beyond famed gorilla treks, 2024 is the year Rwanda unveils lesser-known adventures and plenty of new reasons to hire a guide, hop in a Land Cruiser, and traverse the four national parks. Nyungwe National Park , freshly anointed with UNESCO World Heritage status, is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, renowned for its chimpanzee trekking, cycling, and hiking. The new Cyinzobe trail —a thrilling three-day, 15.5-mile hike, reveals breathtaking views of three cascading waterfalls, and the Kamiranzovu river. With lodging limited to six wooden A-frame cabins, you’ll have the rainforest almost to yourself. Spend your days learning about wild orchids, spotting silver monkeys and gray-cheeked mangabey, and marveling at some of the 345 bird species inside the park—30 of which are Albertine Rift endemics. Kingfisher Journeys invites adventurers to explore Rwanda’s uncharted white water rivers for the first time—there are 30 intermediate-grade rivers in the country for pioneering descents—led by expert rafting guides. In November 2023, the Mantis Kivu Queen uBuranga introduces luxury houseboat cruising with a three-day voyage on the emerald waters of Lake Kivu—one of the African Great Lakes. Kayaking, swimming, cycling, hiking, and cultural immersion in local villages on small islands await.

And at Meza Malonga in Kigali, Congolese-born chef Dieuveil Malonga boasts Afro-fusion cuisine inspired by his travels to 48 African countries. The culinary marvel—voted a Champion of Change winner by World’s 50 Best —will open an expansive innovation lab in Musanze in August, where he’ll train young chefs and offer unique accommodations for food enthusiasts. The newly opened Kweza Craft Brewery , Rwanda’s first craft brewery, is fully female-owned and operated using 85% locally sourced ingredients, with an aim to once again empower women in what was historically a female-led craft.

As Rwanda commemorates the 30th anniversary of the devastating Tutsi genocide in 2024—marked by the poignant lighting of the flame of remembrance on April 7 at the Kigali Genocide Memorial —these new openings and experiences showcase just how far the country has come. — Alicia-Rae Light

Sierra Leone

Go for: ecotourism, glamping, and fantastic birding

Sierra Leone is a country on the rise, with new flights, a first ever ecotourism circuit, and national park lodges coming in 2024—visit before everyone else you know catches on.

The small West African nation of Sierra Leone has been working on a new tourism-centered vision. A recent visa on arrival program has already simplified the process of getting there. And, in 2023, a solar-powered airport near the capital, Freetown, opened a new terminal with a fivefold increase in capacity. In the year ahead, new international flight routes are expected to make the country even more accessible, with flights to Nigeria and South Africa first in line.

Perhaps the most exciting development is Sierra Leone’s push to safeguard and showcase its diverse wildlife, with new experiences for travelers. Spearheaded by Freetown-adjacent Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary , the initial phase of the country’s first ecotourism circuit opens in 2024 (keep an eye on the Tacugama website for details). It will offer first-ever accommodations at two important sites: A pair of one-bedroom ecolodges are slated to open at southeastern river island of Jaibui, where the elusive Pygmy Hippo lives, by spring 2024, and tent stays at Loma Mountains National Park will follow. Loma is home to Mount Bintumani, the tallest peak in West Africa west of Mount Cameroon, with an astounding array of rare animal and bird species like the bizarre-looking white-necked rockfowl, “ the avian Holy Grail ” for birdwatchers. In 2024, construction will begin on a world-class research and innovation center at Tacugama, with an exhibition hall dedicated to Sierra Leone’s national animal, the chimpanzee.

A host of new accommodations elsewhere in the country offers access to Sierra Leone’s coastline. Jethel Garden Eco-Resort opens in December 2023 near Freetown at Tasso Island , an important stop on the country’s slave trade history route. Further south, a previously inaccessible chain of remote sandbar islands in the Atlantic, Turtle Islands , is adding new accommodations and better boat transfers with project Tomatribe, which includes glamping-style bell tents opening by the start of 2024.

More is coming out of Sierra Leone in the next few years: The Peninsula City , a public-private partnership in conjunction with W Hotels, is building a resort and marina city just south of Freetown, and Sherbro Island City , a long-term initiative funded by Sierra Leone’s brand ambassador Idris Elba, has plans to transform this tropical island into the “Afro-dynamic eco-city.” — Yulia Denisyuk

Go for: a rich history, scuba diving, and improved access

Just because the island of St. Helena is remote, doesn't mean you won't find elevated stays—grab a room at Mantis St. Helena in Jamestown.

Increased flight connectivity means it no longer requires an arduous boat ride to reach the isle—or the world-class snorkeling and diving it offers.

A volcanic island in the South Atlantic Ocean, St. Helena is a British overseas territory about the same size as Walt Disney World Orlando , with a population under 4,500.

Until the first commercial flights touched down on the island in 2017, the remote isle could only be reached via a five-day boat journey from South Africa. Weekly flights from Johannesburg eventually made that journey easier, despite a pandemic pause, which ended in 2022. As of November 2024, St. Helena departures will be even more frequent, taking off twice a week from Cape Town throughout the summer and effectively making the island much easier to visit. The reason to go? To get that remote island feel , while still taking advantage of the infrastructure—which rivals the neighboring islands of Ascension and Tristan da Cunha.

There’s a rich history to dig into once you land. Uninhabited when the Portuguese arrived in 1502, St. Helena was later claimed by the Dutch before becoming a British territory—today, residents, known as Saints, have ancestral links to Britain but also to China , Madagascar, India , and West Africa . Tours detail the island’s past, from its enslaved African population to Napoleon Bonaparte’s exile and death. In the historic capital Jamestown, the Mantis St. Helena remains the smartest hotel on the island. Whale sharks visit St. Helena’s clear waters from December to March; tour operators like Sub-Tropic Adventures run trips to swim with the gentle marine giants. Snorkelers might spot turtles and devil rays, and there are several wrecks to explore by scuba. On land, trails cut through lush forests and up rugged hillsides; at the end, you might find a distinctive British red postbox with a notebook in which to leave a comment. — Heather Richardson

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The best safaris to experience in 2024

Intrepid voyages into the wild: walking with elephants in Zambia, sleeping under the stars in South Africa and exploring the jungles of India

Whether you follow the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinos – by four-wheel drive in South Africa, sleep under the stars during a walking safari in Zambia, cross paths with tigers and sloth bears in India, or spot some of the world’s rarest creatures in Madagascar, a safari is a must for any intrepid traveller.

Embark on the ultimate bucket-list adventure with our selection of this year’s most exhilarating itineraries and camps, where you can see beautiful creatures roaming freely in their natural habitats.

Explore spectacular, diverse areas of central India, starting with three nights sleeping in a treehouse high in the Bandhavgarh jungle, trailing Bengal tigers and glimpsing sloth bears on game drives. Then, take a meandering drive north to Pench Tiger Reserve – the park that inspired Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book – where you’ll find the eco-conscious, 10-tent Jamtara Wilderness Camp. Set under the sprawling branches of a banyan-tree, the camp is a superlative base to spy flitting butterflies, scurrying jackals and monkeys jumping from branch to branch. Make your final stop the secluded Reni Pani Jungle Lodge in Satpura National Park, untrodden by tourists and resplendent with ravines, forests and mountains.

Madagascar is home to plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth, including several species of lemur, which you can see in the Andasibe National Park, and rare tortoises, geckos and chameleons. Take a guided stroll through the Ifotaka rainforest after dark to glimpse nocturnal aye-ayes and see the cat-like fossas prowl; by day, head out on a canoe through the mangroves, and meet members of the Malagasy Antandroy tribe in their holy forests.

A 13-night ‘Classic Madagascar’ safari with Abercrombie & Kent , from £6,375 a person.

South Africa

The not-for-profit group behind Lepogo Lodges in northern South Africa offsets the environmental impact of each of its guests, starting from the moment they leave their homes, and all proceeds are invested back into the community or put towards conservation projects. Noka Camp in the 120,000-acre reserve in Limpopo Province can be easily reached from Johannesburg, and provides ample opportunity for spotting the Big Five. The off-grid camp – comprising a quintet of cliffside villas above the Palala River and surrounding bushland – generates all of its energy with a custom 250-metre solar walkway. Along with the usual game drives, you can visit Iron Age settlements and view prehistoric paintings by bushmen, assist with conservation efforts and, for the brave of heart, experience an unforgettable night sleeping out in the bush.

Lepogo Lodges ’ Noka Camp , from about £770 a person a night, all-inclusive.

Begin your adventure on a coconut estate an hour’s drive from the airport, and conclude it in Weligama, on the sandy shores of the island’s south coast. In between, visit the ruins of Polonnaruwa, discover the impressive architecture of Galle, stay overnight at one of the finest estates in tea country, and explore ancient fortresses and national parks, such as Minneriya (where you’ll find the endangered Asian elephant) and Yala, the roaming ground of the retiring Sri Lankan leopard. At the latter, Resplendent Ceylon’s striking Wild Coast Lodge, designed to mimic both the boulders on the beach and a leopard’s paw, will be your base. Along the way, you might also catch sight of dolphins, whales, macaques and langurs.

A 10-night Sri Lanka safari with AndBeyond , from about £5,195 a person.

With the largest concentration of animals in Africa, Tanzania’s parks and game reserves are home to 120,000 elephants, 160,000 buffaloes and 2,000 rhinos. Travelbag’s itinerary will take you from the rocky mountains to the Serengeti grasslands, by 4WD or hot-air balloon – tailor your trip as you wish, either travelling independently or with an expert guide. Round off your voyage with a retreat to the nearby island of Zanzibar, whose warm beaches are the ideal setting for some R&R.

A 13-night Tanzania and Zanzibar safari with Travelbag , from £6,899 a person, including flights.

After an hour’s flight from Zambia’s capital Lusaka, drive through the vibrant town of Mfuwe, past the bustling fruit and vegetable markets, to the unspoilt South Luangwa National Park. Renowned for its walking safaris, it is a spectacular wilderness to explore up-close, replete with tamarind-, ebony- and baobab-trees, upon which leopards perch and baboons frolic. At Mchenja, Time + Tide’s five-room camp on the edge of the Luangwa River, the grunting of hippos reverberates from the surrounding lagoons, on whose banks crocodiles sunbathe, and herds of elephants feast on seed pods as they pass through. The staff are unfailingly friendly, welcoming you by name with a refreshing cold towel and always at hand to share their knowledge of the local area – five per cent from each stay contributes to conservation efforts and the support of local communities through the camp’s foundation. Set off on foot in the cool morning with an expert guide, to the dawn chorus of more than 450 native bird species, and see impalas, zebras, wildebeest and giraffes grazing, as you walk towards neighbouring forests where lions and cheetahs rest during the heat of day. At night, sleep under the moonlight in Time + Tide’s luxurious net tents, set up in a wide sand valley around a campfire, where clear skies enable you to see the Milky Way while you hear fruit bats swooping, hyenas calling and big cats prowling in the distance. In the morning, wake to the smell of breakfast sizzling on pans, ready to fuel you for another adventure-filled day.

A five-night safari with Time + Tide, through the Ultimate Travel Company , from about £6,160 a person.

Just an hour’s drive from Victoria Falls, in the west of the Zambezi National Park, the newly opened Batoka Zambezi Sands houses 10 spacious and stylish tents – created by the South African designer Yvonne O’Brien – each with its own plunge pool. Lions, hippos and elephants walk the surrounding plains, making it the ideal base for wildlife-spotting on game drives and river-boat cruises. Batoka is Africa’s first Black-female-owned safari lodge, and a percentage of its profits are donated to its charity, the Tesse Fund, which supports local communities.

Batoka Zambezi Sands , from about £540 a person a night.

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The Official 2024 Africa Safaris Website: Best Africa Safaris

Africa Safaris 2024 Trips to Africa All-inclusive & Tailor-made: Best Africa Safaris. Start your unforgettable, customized Africa safari journey – Start planning now! We have been organizing Africa safaris for years. Let our African safari experts help.

Here is our selection of low-cost, small-group, luxury safaris available for Africa Safaris in 2024. Browse the safaris we offer in Africa below, then get in touch. We have safari alternatives to suit your individual preferences, from South Africa and Botswana in the south to Kenya , Uganda , Rwanda , and Tanzania in the east, and practically everywhere in between. We would be delighted to discuss our love of Africa with you and assist you in organizing your ideal vacation.

Top 2024 Africa Safaris

Gorilla Trekking Tours in Africa : The three greatest nations in the world for a gorilla safari are all located in Africa. In the Gorilla Trekking Tours in Africa sector, Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo have established themselves as the top locations for tourists looking to go Gorilla Trekking Tours in Africa

Best Combined African Safaris . Africa has a plethora of attractions spread across the continent. It’s easy to see why so many people consider Africa to be their dream destination, given the exceptional experience it provides to visitors.

African Christmas Safari Holiday s in December. Why not think outside the box this Christmas? Ditch the snowy streets and grey skies for a new adventure, and embark on a Christmas  safari in Africa ! Christmas at a safari park is an experience you’ll never forget.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda. Enjoy a world-class and once-in-a-lifetime Uganda Gorilla safaris experience. Giving you a bespoke and personal Uganda Gorilla trekking experience.

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda is a Lifetime Experience – Africa’s Most Accessible Gorilla Trekking. Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda and Best Gorilla Trekking Tours in Volcanoes National Park.

The Bespoke Safaris in Kenya will not disappoint, from seeing the wildebeest mega-herds in the Masai Mara and Amboseli’s legendary elephant herds against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro to cultural encounters in Samburu.

Bespoke Safaris in Tanzania . The 20 Best Tanzania Safari Tours You Can’t-Miss at an affordable Tanzania Safari Cost. The Ultimate Tanzania Safari Packages to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater

How to Plan and Book a 2023 Masai Mara safari with ease. Kenya’s  Masai Mara National Reserve  is without a doubt one of Africa’s most authentic safari destinations.

Bespoke Serengeti Safaris in Tanzania take to the Best Serengeti Safari Lodges inside and outside Serengeti National Park for the finest of Africa’s Wildlife Safaris .

We offer a variety of Bespoke Zanzibar safaris and vacations , including family-friendly getaways at larger beach resorts and opulent villa accommodations suitable for a Zanzibari sultan.

Wildebeest Migration Safari in Masai Mara and Serengeti. The wildebeest migration Safari in Kenya and Tanzania is one of the world’s natural wonders as the herds are the largest that can ever be spotted in the wilderness.

Best African Safaris For Couples . Here are my Top African Bucket List Experiences for Couples. There are few destinations as romantic as Africa. Africa is one of the most romantic places on earth.

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Our Africa tours and safaris are compelling and unique – travel experiences unlike any other. View the amazing Big Five on safari drives led by expert trackers, drivers, rangers, and Tauck Directors... stay in Africa's national parks and private reserves in accommodations that reflect their cultural and natural landscapes... experience local traditions, gaining rich cultural insights... and return home forever changed.

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On two safaris in wildlife-rich game reserves in Tanzania and Kenya, you'll spend the last three nights of your journey in Rwanda – home to the last remaining mountain gorillas on Earth. After gaining insights on gorilla behavior at private lectures and a visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Museum, you'll be ready to begin your gorilla trek. Imagine hiking into the wilderness with a private porter and an expert guide for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with mountain gorillas in the wild… watching them interact with each other – and, if they so choose, perhaps with you!

Africa's "Big Five"

Meet the "big five".

Lions (Panthera leo) are often seen in Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya), Serengeti & Tarangire national parks, and Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Tanzania). Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) can weigh as much as 1,500 lbs. – big and dangerous enough to keep most predators at bay. Buffalo roam the Sabi Sands Game Reserve (South Africa) and Serengeti National Park (Tanzania). black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) may be spotted in Ngorongoro Crater and the Masai Mara. leopards (Panthera pardus) are prevalent in most parks and reserves in east and southern Africa; you'll often need to look up to spot one... since they spend much of their time in trees. African Elephant (Loxodonta africana), the world's largest land mammal, is a fixture throughout the Masai Mara, as well as Amboseli and Serengeti national parks. Although they are not among the "Big Five," a gorilla trek in Rwanda is one of life's memorable experiences.

Namibia: Epic Safari

Starlit skies, desert dunes, game reserves and wildlife safaris.

Embark on an epic 11-day journey to Namibia, home to desert landscapes alive with oryx, bat-eared foxes, zebras, lizards and more. Explore the red-tinted dunes of Sossusvlei. Star gaze in one of the naturally darkest places on earth. Enjoy a hands-on personal encounter with baby baboons. A truly unforgettable adventure in every way.

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Which safari is right for you.

Each Tauck safari is unique, with its own spectacular destinations and experiences. Whether this is your first time or you're a seasoned pro, it can be difficult to pick the right one with so many to choose from. So, we created a helpful guide highlighting the important details and differences between our safari options to make your decision as easy as possible.

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Dinner in the desert, Berber-style

Travel by 4x4 vehicle to a berber-style dinner in a desert camp.

In the desert outside Marrakech, ancient Berber villages preserve time-honored folkways and rituals – like the traditional Moroccan tea ceremony – that have survived for centuries. Ride aboard a 4x4 vehicle to one of these villages for tea with the village chief and a crash-course in Berber culture. Then it's on to our desert camp, where dinner is served Berber-style under a tent with musical entertainment. Experience local customs like riding a camel... smoking shisha (using a hubbly-bubbly pipe, or hookah, to smoke flavored tobacco)... or having your hands or feet decorated with traditional henna designs!

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We've carefully selected your accommodations – Africa's finest safari lodges, private game reserves, tented safari camps, classic hotels and premier resorts... many are sought-after destinations in themselves, authentically capturing the essence of their surroundings. From classic safari lodges to luxury tented safari camps... "old world" grand hotels to premier resorts... you'll experience the best of Africa, sunrise to sunset.

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Discovering cultural legacies leads to life-changing discoveries. Visit tribal villages on the slopes of mighty Kilimanjaro, in the African bush and on plains that move with an endless procession of migrating beasts and nomadic tribes. Meet Maasai warriors, artisans and school children eager to share their customs and homeland with you in moments so heartwarming you'll return home transformed. The pulse of South Africa is, of course, in its people... in the streets and squares of Jo'burg and Cape Town where a multitude of cultures (Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, European, Malaysian and Indian, to name a few) collide and mix in dazzling displays of art, music, dance and cuisine... and in the bushveld, where you'll encounter tribal traditions that sustain a proud and irrepressible people... always ready to share their customs, language, dances and songs with a warm welcome.

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Wildlife odyssey: south africa, botswana & zimbabwe, kenya & tanzania: a classic safari, tanzania: serengeti to zanzibar, south africa: an elegant adventure.

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Home » 5 Best Affordable African Safari Options in 2024

5 Best Affordable African Safari Options in 2024

Just about everyone thinking about going on an affordable African safari is left in sticker shock—especially after getting quoted a ridiculous price from an online travel agency. For most of us, going on safari in Africa is not possible, and grossly exceeds the notion of a budget vacation.

No worries. Below are some tips and tricks to keep expenses down to make your dream a reality.

Generally, with just about every destination on the planet, there are always ways to do it cheaply. Unfortunately, going “cheap” in Southern and Eastern Africa may lead to your entire trip being left in ruin.

🚙 🦁 Use This Automated Quiz Tool To Get a Quick Quote on an African Safari

Beyond simply being disappointed and uncomfortable, being frugal can lead to becoming ill and exposing yourself to personal security risks. Simply put, in Africa, you get exactly what you pay for—no more and no less.

FIVE BEST AFFORDABLE AFRICAN SAFARIS IN 2024

Select a lodge or scroll down to view all.

1. Arathusa Safari Lodge – Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve 2. Ewanjan Tented Camp – Serengeti National Park 3. Mara Intrepids Tented Camp – Masai Mara National Reserve 4. Camp Moremi – Moremi Game Reserve 5. Chameleon Hill Forest Lodge – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bucket list destination.

Going on an affordable African safari is on so many travelers’ bucket lists, and it’s easy to see why. There is no other experience like it on the planet. Moreover, while expensive, we’ve never heard of anyone regretting their trip.

Typically, travelers come back from Africa with a different perspective of the world and their place in it. Whether it’s witnessing extreme poverty, the kindness of the people, or a leopard killing the most darling steenbok, there is no way to avoid feeling more appreciative of everything you have in life—and that is what travel is all about, cultivating priceless experiences.

When you’re ready to book your flight, follow these three easy steps to get the best price.

Of course, this spiritual journey doesn’t come cheap—but dream destinations tend to be this way. When it comes to cost, going on an affordable African safari is up there with exploring the Poles or cruising the Galapagos Islands . For example, many are surprised to find out that the French-speaking country of the Republic of the Congo has recently been ranked as the most expensive travel destination on the planet.

Why is visiting the Republic of the Congo so expensive? It’s because it’s one of the few places in the world to go gorilla trekking .

We use this budget-savvy travel health insurance to protect our trips – get a quick quote .

For example, the daily permit to seek out the gorillas is about USD 500 per person. Of course, the Congo rainforest offers extremely limited accommodation options, along with costly transportation and food expenses. Taxes and fees paid to the government and regional entities also add significant overhead.

Reducing the Cost of a Safari in 2024

We’ve written extensively on the best safari we’ve ever taken in South Africa and how it’s not worth cutting corners financially when planning the expedition. Nevertheless, there are several ways to decrease the overall cost of the trip to make it a more affordable African safari.

Booking Yourself vs. Using Go2Africa

For our vacations to Africa, we’ve used Go2Africa to assist in the planning and arrangements. After tons of research, we concluded that even if we booked everything on our own it would cost more than having someone else do it. Also, beyond the cost, it was extremely beneficial to have someone on the ground to assist while visiting Africa.

Here are three good reasons why we book with outfitters like Go2Africa:

• Customization : Instead of getting stuck with a one-click fixed itinerary, Go2Africa can customize the trip to fit your budget and interests.
• Expertise : Go2Africa will make the vacation as private and exclusive as you desire.
• Affordability : Most of the time, it’s cheaper to go through outfitters like Go2Africa than to book everything individually yourself. For example, it’s pretty much impossible to book transfers, small aircraft, lodging, and game drives yourself without paying through the roof, let alone making a logistical error. For instance, if you make reservations yourself, and one aspect of the trip gets delayed it may put your entire vacation in jeopardy, whereas Go2Africa can make immediate corrections to keep your vacation on schedule.

Two Terrible Options for an Affordable African Safari

Not spending enough money on a proper safari lodge is the greatest mistake visitors to Africa will make. Previously, we’ve written about the obstacles other bloggers faced when trying to go cheap in Africa.

Don’t Do This ⇓

Typically, to save money, safari-goers will choose one of these two inexpensive options, none of which we would recommend:

• African overland tour : Travel through Africa on a modified truck/bus with a group over many weeks. Passengers assist with cooking, cleaning, and setting up tents each evening. Unfortunately, this is one of the cheapest and most uncomfortable ways to go on an affordable African safari.
• Self-driving game drive : Essentially, visitors rent a vehicle and drive through the national parks and do game drives themselves.

Why are these two options so bad?

While cheap, the African overland tour takes place on a big slow loud bumpy truck/bus. Its size, speed, and comfort level greatly limit the experience for the safari-goer. For example, many people complain that they’re motion sick for days or even weeks on end because of the bumpy roads.

The self-driving game drive option, on the other hand, has many more negatives than positives. While visitors may have more freedom to explore as they deem fit, there are also many considerable disadvantages, including:

• Missing out on an expert guide to spot animals
• Staying on the designated roads with no ability to explore the bush
• Keeping the vehicle and passengers safe (e.g., flat tire)
• Never experiencing the safari experience

Also, in certain situations, it may cost more to self-drive than to hire a guide or stay at a safari lodge. For instance, self-driving visitors will still have to pay transit fees, park fees, accommodation fees, car rental fees, and fuel fees.

Probably, the best way to envision a self-driving game drive in Africa is to compare it to driving through Yellowstone National Park . However, a significant difference is that in Africa, passengers are not allowed to exit their vehicles, except at specifically identified camps.

Don’t confuse terminology. The term safari is not synonymous with the notion of a game drive. A safari is considered one’s overall journey with the entire experience summed up in one word. On the other hand, a game drive describes the time one spends tracking, spotting, and viewing wildlife, typically in an open safari vehicle such as a modified Land Rover or Land Cruiser. – Harry

When you compare both an overland tour and a self-driving tour to the five affordable African safari options below, you’ll see how lame the more affordable options are.

National Park vs. Private Game Reserve vs. Conservancy

Generally, a safari in Africa will be held in one of three parks, each with its own set of safari rules. They include:

• National parks
• Private game reserves

Conservancies

It’s important to know the difference between the three types of parks because it determines how the best affordable African safari options are chosen. The most significant differences are described below.

National Parks

National parks and national game reserves like Serengeti, Kruger , and Masai Mara are famous for their abundant wildlife. They’re also renowned for their strict rules, generally forbidding:

• Guided walks
• Getting out of vehicles (except in designated areas)
• Night game drives
• Off-roading
• Limits on the number of vehicles at animal sightings

If any of the above restrictions impair your vision of a great safari then you’ll want to stay on a private game reserve or conservancy. For example, for us, off-roading and night game drives are the highlights of a great safari—nocturnal animals like lions and hyenas are most active at night.

Private Game Reserves

Unlike national parks, private game reserves have the fewest rules because the property is owned privately. In other words, it’s not open to the public including self-driving tourists or tour buses. Also, private game reserves are typically adjoined to a nearby national park and wildlife is free to roam between the two properties.

With landowners being the official adjudicators, guides are given more freedom to track wildlife. For example, most lodges will feature guided walks, night game drives, and off-roading.

Finally, private game reserves will have significantly less traffic than national parks. As a result, guests can enjoy animals in a less crowded and more natural environment.

Concessions

Similar to private game reserves, concessions are areas of land either in a national park or nearby that have been leased for private use. As a result, they benefit from operating under less strict rules than the national park.

Like private game reserves, conservancies are private. However, the main difference is that conservancies typically have local tribes that live on the property. Moreover, conservancy fees help to improve locals’ lives by reinvesting funds in the community.

Five Affordable African Safari Options

The five affordable African safari options below offer great value, and are by no means “cheap.” However, they offer everything one would want out of an African safari but at a much lower price (when compared to the typical luxurious African lodge).

The resorts listed below all provide guests with a five-star experience at a three-star rate. At first glance, prices may seem high but they include accommodation, full board with great food and drinks, up to three safaris per day, and excursions like guided walks with armed field guides.

Finally, it’s worth mentioning that a vacation to Africa will usually include other sights and attractions such as Cape Town and Victoria Falls . Therefore, when considering the price of a safari lodge, many times two or three nights is sufficient.

In fact, many people we’ve met at various lodges quite frequently stayed only one night. However, we encourage travelers to stay at least two nights to increase the odds of catching a rare sighting. Below are five affordable African safaris in 2024:

1. Arathusa Safari Lodge – Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve

Properties of the same caliber as Arathusa Safari Lodge will typically cost two or even three times as much. Located in Sabi Sand , one of Africa’s premier private game reserves, Arathusa is one of the best affordable safari lodges for anyone looking for a Big 5 experience—90% of guests see all five animals in one day.

During our visit, we enjoyed afternoon tea from our suite overlooking the nearby watering hole, guided walks, and morning and afternoon game drives that led into the evening. In total, we spent about eight hours per day out on the massive reserve searching for wildlife.

We were 100% absolutely wowed by our experience here and wrote extensively about how it was the best safari in South Africa and the best value for the money.

Arathusa Safari Lodge – From $465 per person sharing

2. Ewanjan Tented Camp – Serengeti National Park

With views over an endless plain in Tanzania’s Seronera Valley, guests of the Ewanjan Tented Camp rave about the abundance of wildlife spotted right from camp. During our stay, a large herd of elephants walked down a path about 100 feet from our ensuite tent.

In Serengeti National Park, visitors are not allowed to leave their vehicles or the roads. Nevertheless, one way to get around this limitation is with a hot air balloon ride.

During our hot air balloon ride we spotted an epic sight, a lion eating a crocodile! There’s no feeling like watching the sunset come up over the Serengeti while silently gliding over the wildlife, trees, and rivers. If there’s any place in the world to go on a hot air balloon ride, it’s here. Make sure you book online early to secure your spot or with your agent at Go2Africa.

Additionally, between April and June and November and January, the area around Ewanjan is visited by the wildebeest migration. For this reason, if seeing the Great Migration is on your bucket list then Ewanjan is the ideal affordable African safari accommodation to book.

Ewanjan Tented Camp – From $330 per person sharing

3. Mara Intrepids Tented Camp – Masai Mara National Reserve

Kenya’s must-see Masai Mara National Reserve is home to the Mara Intrepids Tented Camp , one of the most affordable African safari options on our list. Whereas Ewanjan in the Serengeti has endless views of the plains, Mara Intrepids is set amidst a heavily wooded area along the Talek River, only minutes from the Ol Kiombo airstrip.

With an abundance of big cats in the area just about every game drive includes sightings of the King of the Jungle, the lion. Also, Mara Intrepids is in a prime location for the annual wildebeest migration, which takes place between August and October.

Finally, not only is the wildlife viewing amazing but families seek out this lodge for its kid’s clubs which focus on animal education and local Masai culture.

Mara Intrepids Tented Camp – From $175 per person sharing

4. Camp Moremi – Moremi Game Reserve

The Okavango Delta, located in Botswana, is one of the most biodiverse places in Africa and is the main source of water for about a million people. Furthermore, the delta supports the world’s largest surviving elephant population, numbering around 130,000. Of course, there are plenty of hippos, lions, wild dogs, leopards, crocodiles, cheetahs, and countless waterfowl too.

Situated on the stunning Xakanaxa lagoon, and offering water-based safaris, Camp Moremi is an unforgettable and affordable African safari. While it may be a bit expensive and luxurious to be considered low-cost, Camp Moremi does provide tons of value. In fact, what makes it unique is that it provides both 4×4 game drives and water safaris.

Botswana is the second most expensive destination on the planet, only behind the Republic of the Congo. Guests should find comfort in knowing that they’re paying the “going rate,” when just about every safari lodge in the area costs at least USD 1000 per night—and, similar lodges cost well over USD 2000 per night.

It’s worth noting that the Moremi Game Reserve does not allow night game drives or off-roading.

Camp Moremi – From $597 per person sharing

5. Chameleon Hill Forest Lodge – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Situated in the southwest corner of Uganda on Lake Mutanda, bordering DR Congo and Rwanda, Chameleon Hill Forest Lodge is the mecca for gorilla lovers. Tourists come from all over the world to spend one hour in the company of wild gorillas.

Along with vibrant colors, guests of Chameleon Hill are treated to the most jaw-dropping view of the Virunga volcanoes. Nevertheless, the highlight here is, of course, the gorilla tracking.

Perfectly positioned between Mgahinga Gorilla and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks, Chameleon Hill is the ideal base for tracking wild gorillas. Also, gorilla permits cost about half the cost in neighboring Rwanda. Furthermore, Chameleon Hill has the option of research-based treks which allocate four hours with the gorillas, instead of just one.

Gorilla permits are far and few. Therefore, if you’re serious about doing this then plan on booking at least three months in advance. Also, along with gorilla trekking, Chameleon Hill offers walking and canoe-based safaris for bird watching and spotting the golden monkey.

Chameleon Hill Forest Lodge – From $250 per person sharing

These Lodges Provide Great Value

Whether you’re looking to spot the Big Five in South Africa or go gorilla trekking in Uganda, the above lodges are the best affordable African safari options out there. While the nightly prices are by no means “cheap,” they do provide great value especially, when comparing similar lodges that cost two or three times as much.

Preparing an African itinerary is an overwhelming process, and it only gets more complicated each time you visit. The easiest way to start planning is to use Go2Africa’s inquiry tool which helps design the perfect safari that aligns with your budget.

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From road and flying safaris across East Africa's national parks or luxurious private game reserve stays in South Africa, to stylish city stays in Cape town or scenic flydrives along the famous Garden Route.

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Where to stay in Africa

Hotels in africa, highlights of africa.

A land of dramatic scenery, unique ecosystems and a diverse population, a life-changing journey awaits in Africa. Here are its best attractions.

• Stay at the luxurious  Royal Livingstone Hotel  in  Zambia , right on the banks of the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls, the world’s largest waterfall. 
• Experience luxury tented accommodation at Governor’s Camp on the Mara River or Richard Branson’s  Mahali Mzuri . During your stay, enjoy champagne picnics and private dining.
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• Sail in a mokoro along Botswana’s Okavango Delta, a river that never reaches the sea, and see 400+ species of bird and the endangered rhino in the Moremi Game Reserve.

Seeing as Africa is the world's second largest and second most-populous continent, I am sure you can imagine just how many beautiful places there are to see within it. Take a look at some of our most treasured locations that will be sure to offer you the holidays of a lifetime in Africa .

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Your Affordable Luxury African Safaris

Live the adventure, affordable luxury african safaris and tours.

JimJam Safaris Leaders in Affordable Luxury African Safaris. Africa Vacations to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, Rwanda, Uganda.

In search of a memorable Affordable Luxury African Safari? So you’re in the proper spot. Your custom safari itinerary will be created with assistance from our team of destination experts .

Since 2017, we have been creating unique Affordable Luxury African Safari itineraries based on our extensive travels in Southern and Eastern Africa.

We have locations in East Africa and the South African. For your piece of mind, we provide complete financial protection, open pricing, and a flexible cancellation policy.

Whatever African safari you’ve always wanted, we can make it happen!

“I never knew of a morning in Africa when I woke up that I was not happy” – Ernest Hemingway

Explore Our Affordable Luxury African Travel Deals

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first African adventure, these tours allow you to experience the best experiences during your once-in-a-lifetime journey. For Travelers who feel more comfortable if everything is pre-arranged — Hotels, Transportation, Tips, Meals, and All access fees– a tailored package tour is the obvious choice for you.

All-Inclusive 1-Day Gorilla Trekking Experience

Destination: rwanda || days: 1.

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is one of the most moving and exclusive experiences. The gorillas are an endangered species, you can only find them in some protected national parks. e.g Volcanoes

Zanzibar Beach Vacation Experience

Destination: zanzibar || days: 4.

This is a unique, classic, and unforgettable adventure for travelers. The Zanzibar beach Vacation includes a tour of Stone Town, the Jozani forest, the spice farm, Nakupenda Beach, and Prison Island.

Exclusive Double Gorilla Trekking Tour

Destination: rwanda || days: 4.

The 4-day double gorilla trekking safari starts and ends in Kigali.  This double gorilla trekking safari gives you double access to the mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park.

Gorilla Trekking, Serengeti And Zanzibar Beach Holiday

Destination: rwanda, tanzania & zanzibar.

Gorilla Trekking In Volcanoes, wildlife in Serengeti, And the Zanzibar Beach Holiday. All-inclusive perfect tailored Safari Itinerary.

Unparalleled Great Apes Safari Tour

Destination: rwanda & uganda. days: 9.

Tour Covers 3 primate destinations: Bwindi, Kibale Forest, and Volcanoes National Park. You will visit the primate capital and while there, you are guaranteed to see several primates.

Wildlife, Gorilla Trekking, And Rwenzori Hiking

Destinations: uganda.

It includes 1 Uganda gorilla permit of $800. This safari will take you to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and you will explore the Rwenzori mountains.

Gorilla Trekking And Maasai Mara

Destinations: uganda & kenya.

The first day of the adventure will take you to Masai Mara National Reserve for a full-day game dive & a great time meeting the famous wildebeest & wildlife.

All-Inclusive Primates, Gorilla Trekking And Wildlife

Destinations: rwanda, uganda & tanzania | days: 14.

Your Multi-Country Safari will start from Rwanda to Uganda and then Tanzania. Visiting the most-rated Parks including Volcanoes, Tarangire, Queen Elizabeth, and Serengeti National Park.

Book your Affordable Luxury African Safari with confidence

Discover why JimJam Safaris Africa is one of the top-rated safari operators on TripAdvisor, with numerous Traveller’s Choice and Hall of Fame Awards, by booking a safari with us.

To the most popular safari destinations in Africa , we design extraordinary custom itineraries. Visit the Kruger National Park in South Africa to see the Big Five. Leopards can be seen in the renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Observe the great migration in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park or Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Enjoy Victoria Falls’ stunning splendor. In the Okavango Delta of Botswana, discover paradise. Take in Namibia’s breathtaking scenery and wildlife and A Gorilla Trek to Rwanda, Uganda & Congo.

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We cater to all ages, budgets, interests, and fitness levels. Our team can assist with queries about Tours, Accommodation, Bookings, and Destinations through multiple channels. We will respond to your Inquiry as soon as possible.

Our Top Affordable Luxury African Safari Destinations

Who hasn’t dreamed of going on a safari in Africa? This massive continent has inspired so many to want to see exotic animals in their natural habitat and to experience the cultural diversity Africa has to offer. However, did you know that Kenya , Zambia, and South Africa alone already have over 60 national parks, all with different terrain and wildlife species? With such a vast number of national parks, it can be quite difficult to decide where to go. But don’t worry, to help you plan your adventure, we have handpicked the most beautiful national parks and best safari destinations in Africa for you below.

Why Book with JimJam Safaris Africa?

The best affordable luxury african safari company.

At JimJam Safaris Africa, we are committed to planning Affordable Luxury African Safaris to ensure that every traveler has life-changing experiences on their trip to Africa. Our travel consultants are well-traveled, experienced experts, who have combined their love for the African continent with their passion for people.

We have helped travelers discover Africa for 5 years, with more than 10 years of collective experience in the African travel industry. We have the expertise to make sure every trip to Africa is an unforgettable experience. We are committed to ensuring that each traveler has the opportunity to make well-informed decisions regarding their trip. We aim to offer the most authentic experiences throughout Southern and Eastern Africa, through our network of relationships with luxury lodges and camps.

View our most well-liked tours or the latest promotions. To choose the ideal time to visit, consult our destination guides, trip inspiration sections, or travel calendars. To locate something that fits your budget, you can search for specific safari lodges or trips by region or price.

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What would you like to see.

Embark on an affordable luxury African safari vacation filled with unique African wildlife experiences.

Our team of safari specialists has a genuine fondness for the continent of Africa, all of its national parks, reserves, camps, and inhabitants. The animals are the focus of our business and the foundation of every safari we create. We love talking to people about everything from rhino beetles to the great horned giants themselves.

What our travelers say

Traveler: nicole motteux, from: vientiane, laos, date written: march 6, 2024.

Jim Jam Safaris & Tours Limited – The Backbone of My Successful Ugandan Coffee SME Photoshoot

Jim Jam Safaris & Tours Limited played a vital role in my successful Ugandan coffee SME photoshoot across East, Central, and Western Uganda, including Mt Elgon, the Nile, and game parks. Their support went beyond logistics, ensuring the smooth operation of the shoot.

The professional and customer-focused team tailored their assistance perfectly, organizing multiple shoots all over the country and in different locations. From meticulously planning the itinerary to arranging accommodations and coordinating with various companies, they left no stone unturned. Meeting me at the airport with the biggest smile, we immediately connected as if we’d known each other for ………

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The 9 Best Countries in Africa for a Safari in 2024

Senior Content Contributor

50 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 58 U.S. States Visited: 40

Michael Y. Park

17 Published Articles 167 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 60+ U.S. States Visited: 50

Keri Stooksbury

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35 Published Articles 3198 Edited Articles

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Table of Contents

1. how to plan a tanzania safari, 2. how to plan a kenya safari, ‌3. how to plan a botswana safari, ‌4. how to plan a namibia safari, ‌‌5. how to plan a uganda safari, 6. how to plan a rwanda safari, 7. how to plan a south africa safari, ‌8. how to plan a zambia safari, ‌9. how to plan a zimbabwe safari, final thoughts.

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While Kruger National Park in South Africa is one of the most popular destinations on the African continent to see the Big 5 — lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo — many other African countries offer incredible safari experiences and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife sightings, assuming you’re willing to think a bit outside the box and get off the beaten path.

These are some of the best places to go on a safari in Africa, from Botswana’s Okavango Delta to fan favorites like the Serengeti and Kruger to a safari you can do just outside of Kenya’s capital at Nairobi National Park.

Most people planning a safari trip in Tanzania should head to Serengeti National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its massive migrations of zebra and wildebeest . Start by organizing travel to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK). From there, you can travel by land to the Serengeti or fly to one of the park’s 7 airstrips and transfer to your desired safari lodge.

Where To Go and What To See on a Safari in Tanzania

Most people take a safari trip to Tanzania to see the wildebeest migration, but you can also expect to spot the Big 5, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards in the Serengeti.

Some of the best lodges in the Serengeti National Park are the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti (which can even arrange a hot air balloon safari) and various tented camps and luxury lodges from Singita , a company focused on sustainable exploration of the region. But start saving up Marriott Bonvoy points, as Marriott announced the opening of JW Marriott Serengeti Lodge in 2026 , an ideal spot to view the Great Migration between the Grumeti and Mbalageti rivers.

Travelers can also head to the Ngorongoro Crater , one of the world’s largest intact volcanic calderas, where you can also view the Big 5, zebras, impalas, hippos, and more. You may also spot flamingos there.

Birders or those who want to avoid larger crowds should consider Tarangire National Park , which has one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, more than 500 bird species, and a wildlife migration that’s not as large as the Serengeti’s but impressive nonetheless.

Besides taking more traditional safaris, visitors can go chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania in Gombe Stream National Park , one of Africa’s smallest national parks (and only accessible by boat).

Best Time To Go on a Safari in Tanzania

The best time to visit Tanzania for a safari is June to October, the dry season in the Serengeti . This is when the bush is thin and you can see more wildlife, including the Big 5. However, May through June is when visitors can see the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti. Those who want to view wildebeest calving should visit in January and February . And if you’re looking for a Tanzania safari on a budget, months like April and early May can offer better prices and fewer crowds.

See the most wildlife at Ngorongoro Crater from December to February and June to September, which are the months with the driest weather, when you can spot herds out in search of water. For Tarangire National Park, the best time for migrations is the June to November dry season , where you can spot many different animals grazing around and drinking from the Tarangire River.

When it comes to chimpanzee trekking, it’s best to go between May and October in the dry season, when the forest flora is short and trails are less muddy. Keep in mind these experiences require permits, and most companies require visitors to be over the age of 15 .

Some of the best African safaris in Kenya allow you to see the Great Migration and the Big 5 (just as you can in Tanzania). Masai Mara National Reserve is probably the most popular spot . Start by flying into the main airport, Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO) in Nairobi , then pop over to the nearby Nairobi Wilson Airport (WIL) for shorter, domestic hops to airstrips closer to the park.

Where To Go and What To See on a Safari in Kenya

Besides the Big 5, you can also expect to see animals like cheetahs, hyenas, gazelles, and wildebeest on a safari. Our top pick for lodging would be the  JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge , one of the few safari accommodations in Africa you can book using points and miles. The all-inclusive property features 20 luxury tents overlooking the Talek River.

Another iconic riverside camp is the Governor’s Camp , a collection of luxury tents overlooking the Mara River, where you can spot hippos and crocodiles. Both hot air balloon safaris and walking safaris are popular in the region, offering unique ways to enjoy the region’s flora and fauna. As the Maasai are one of the largest tribes in Africa, don’t forget to visit local villages and experience some of the tribe’s unique cultural practices.

Amboseli National Park at the base of Kilimanjaro is another Kenyan destination to experience a safari. Here, you can see the Big 5 and more than 600 types of birds. You can also get close-up views of large elephant herds. Samburu National Reserve  is another popular safari destination, known as one of the best Kenyan destinations to spot leopards.

And if you’re extra short on time, remember that Kenya is one of the only countries in Africa where you can spot wildlife just a short drive from a capital city. Nairobi National Park is just a few miles outside of Nairobi, home to animals such as leopards, lions, black rhinos, and giraffes.

If you’re dying to stay at the famous Giraffe Manor (a hotel where the resident giraffes poke their heads into your bedroom window each morning) but it’s too expensive or fully booked, you can visit the Giraffe Center instead.

‌Best Time To Go on a Safari in Kenya

In most cases, the best time to take a safari in Kenya is between June and October, the dry season . You’ll be able to catch the wildebeest migration in Masai Mara in September . November and December can offer lower prices and fewer crowds. March through May is also a more affordable time to visit, but heavy rain or flooding may disrupt your trip.

There aren’t many opportunities to use your points and miles for safari lodges, but if the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is on your list (or you want to start saving up for the JW Marriott Serengeti for a 2026 safari), building up a stash of Marriott Bonvoy points is a great plan. Consider getting a co-branded Marriott Bonvoy credit card . Amex Membership Rewards points from a card like The Platinum Card ®  from American Express  and Chase Ultimate Reward points from cards such as the  Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  or the  Chase Sapphire Preferred ®  Card transfer to the Marriott Bonvoy program at a 1:1 ratio.

Those looking for a more remote, intimate safari experience should consider Botswana. The country is a bit more difficult to get to, making it feel far-flung and offering an authentic African safari experience. As tour operators need to adhere to strict conservation requirements, safaris in Botswana are often smaller and more exclusive, which is why safari prices in Botswana can also be more expensive . Anyone in the market for a water safari will likely appreciate Botswana, as some of the best ways to spot wildlife are by boat or even canoe.

If you’re coming from abroad, you may fly into Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE), just outside of Gaborone. Still, many safari camps are much closer to the Maun Airport (MUB) or Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI), which you can get to from hubs in South Africa .

Where To Go and What To See on a Safari in Botswana

One of the most unique and popular destinations for a Botswana safari is the Okavango Delta , grassy flood plains home to the Big 5 and more. Here, you can explore the area by water safari on small boats or even canoes, as well as on land — both walking safaris and driving safaris. Make sure to keep an eye out for African wild dogs. There are less than 6,600 left in the wild, and many reside in this area. Stay at Xigera Safari Lodge in Moremi Game Reserve, an intimate lodge with just 12 suites and the stunning 32-foot baobab treehouse suite.

Chobe National Park is another emblematic destination in Botswana for a safari, especially if you’re in the market to support female guides. Guests at the Chobe Game Lodge can book a female guide as part of an all-female safari guide team, the Chobe Angels . Boat up and down the Chobe River, spotting lions, buffalo, elephants, and more along its banks.

For something different, consider a safari in the Kalahari Desert. Here, you can ride horses through salt pans, sand dunes, and savannas, go fishing, ride camels, hike, or even take a cycling safari. Keep an eye out for oryx, giraffes, and meerkats.

‌Best Time To Go on a Safari in Botswana

Similar to the aforementioned countries, the dry season in many areas of Botswana runs from May to October and is one of the best times to visit, as much of the wildlife comes out in search of watering holes. However, December to April is the rainy season, turning the Kalahari Desert into a green and blossoming paradise , making it the perfect time to visit this unique region.

Namibia is a special place for a safari because not only can you see 4 out of the Big 5 in places like Etosha National Park, but you can also see a distinct collection of wildlife in the Namib Desert in Namib-Naukluft National Park. Namibia is more difficult to get to than many other safari spots, especially from Europe and the U.S., so most visitors come from destinations like South Africa first.

Where To Go and What To See on a Safari in Namibia

The most popular place in Namibia for a more traditional safari is Etosha National Park . One of the largest game reserves in Africa, it’s home to large populations of elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, leopards, black rhinos, and black-faced impalas, among many others. There are several accommodations within the park, but the more luxurious, like Mokuti Etosha and Ongava Lodge (built into a rocky enclave), can be found just outside the park. Ongava Lodge is also home to an airstrip, and you can fly there from Namibia’s capital airport, Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), in Windhoek.

Sossusvlei is where the landscape changes , so don’t expect a traditional experience in this red-dune salt and clay pan. Part of Namib Naukluft National Park and Desert , it’s so vast you may want to explore it by hot air balloon to take it in from above. Hike dunes like Big Daddy, explore the ancient trees at clay pan Deadvlei, or traverse the entire area by 4×4 or quad.

While this desert landscape may seem barren, keep an eye out for wildlife like hyenas, jackals, foxes, ostrich, and geckos. Sossusvlei offers accommodation for all budgets, but luxury travelers should plan to stay at the andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge , home to 10 glass suites from which you can admire the sparkling, starry night sky (the NamibRand Nature Reserve is an International Dark Sky Place ).

And don’t discount Namibia’s barren Skeleton Coast — you may spot desert elephants, cheetahs, black rhinos, ostriches, lions, hyenas, and more. Named for the whale and seal bones once scattered on its beaches but now known for its numerous shipwrecks, it’s also home to Cape fur seals, too. Explore the area on foot, boat, surfboard, or quad.

Best Time To Go on a Safari in Namibia

June through September is the driest and best time to visit Etosha , as animals are crowding around sparse watering holes. The same goes for Sossusvlei when the dry season (May to October) brings crisp, blue skies that juxtapose beautifully against the ochre desert sands. However, those heading to the Skeleton Coast may prefer to travel between May and December . Although November and December bring some showers and fog, the weather also gets warmer at this time of year.

There’s a lot to know when planning a safari. Our safari adventure guide has updated tips on finding accommodation, booking travel, and packing for your upcoming African safari.

Although visitors can see animals like elephants, hippos, and lions on a Uganda wildlife safari, the main call of this African country is gorillas in the wild . About 400 mountain gorillas call Uganda home , which is about half of the mountain gorilla population left in the world. Gorilla safaris are different from more traditional safaris. In lieu of driving around in a Jeep-style vehicle, gorilla trekking is all about getting up into the hills to see these giant creatures in their natural habitat .

Chimpanzee trekking is also popular in Uganda, as are birding safaris. Most travelers start their adventure by flying into the Entebbe Airport (EBB) and then taking a quick domestic flight to smaller airports. However, visitors planning to gorilla trek in Uganda may find it faster to fly to Kigali International Airport (KGL), Rwanda’s capital, then drive to the national parks .

Where To Go and What To See on a Safari in Uganda

The most popular location for a safari in Uganda is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park , known for birding, forest elephants, chimpanzees, and, of course, mountain gorillas. There is some gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park , but your chances of spotting gorillas are higher in Bwindi, as this park has more gorilla groups.

For gorilla trekking in general, many visitors are stuck between Uganda and Rwanda. When it comes to Rwanda versus Uganda for gorilla trekking , budget travelers ready for an adventure should select Uganda , where gorilla trekking permits for either park cost $800 per person per day . (It’s nearly double in Rwanda, as we’ll outline below). You must be at least 15 to get a permit.

However, those heading to Uganda should be ready for an adventure, as the treks can be tougher and longer . Always book permits well in advance .

If you go to Bwindi, stay within the park at cozy lodges like Buhoma or just outside the park at Mahogany Springs , perched along the Munyanga River. Birders may want to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park , home to more than 600 bird species, plus tree-climbing lions .

Best Time To Go on a Safari in Uganda

Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking between June and September and December and February . Since you’ll be hiking along hilly, forested trails, it’s better to go during the dry season, when it’s less muddy and slippery . The same times of year are best for visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park, though March through May are some of the best times for birding.

Rwanda safaris can be on the expensive side , and they’re best for adventure travelers who are also ready to splurge. The country offers some of the most accessible gorilla trekking but also some of the most costly.

Where To Go and What To See on a Safari in Rwanda

Start with a flight into Kigali (KGL), then take the 2.5-hour drive to reach the country’s most renowned destination for viewing mountain gorillas, Volcanoes National Park . The park itself is stunning, home to 5 volcanoes and a lush, hilly rainforest, home to mountain gorillas, elephants, buffalos, and nearly 200 bird species. Permits start at $1,500 per person per day , and they only issue 96 per day, so it’s important to book in advance. Stay at one of the 6 conical, luxury bird nest villas at Bisate , which overlooks an amphitheater formed by volcanic cones.

And yes, if you’re in the market to see the Big 5 after you’ve spotted the elusive mountain gorillas, head to Akagera National Park . It borders Tanzania and is one of the largest protected wetlands in Africa. Spot elephants, lions, black rhinos, buffalos, hippos, hyenas, zebras, antelopes, and more than 500 different types of birds, including the shoebill stork.

Down south, aid in rainforest conservation by visiting Nyungwe National Park , a UNESCO-listed site that’s home to 13 of Africa’s primates (including chimpanzees) and a stunning canopy bridge where you can walk amid the towering treetops

Best Time To Go on a Safari in Rwanda

The best time to visit Volcanoes National Park is during the dry seasons, which run from mid-December to early February and June to mid-September . However, if you find yourself there from March to May, make sure to view the many butterfly species that come along with the heavy rains . The dry periods are also the best times to visit Nyungwe National Park and Akagera National Park.

Some countries on this list require U.S. citizens to obtain a visa. Others, such as South Africa, require 2 full, consecutive blank pages in your passport per entry. Some require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months after your visit. Some require you to have certain vaccines, or you may need to take malaria medication. Check passport, permit, visa , and vaccination requirements before booking travel.

South Africa is the most popular African country for a safari, but that doesn’t necessarily make planning any easier. With so many different game reserves, tour companies, and other options, it can be difficult to decide exactly where to go. The good news is, because there are so many choices, it’s easy to find a safari that fits your budget and travel style. Start by flying into either Cape Town (CPT) or Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo Airport (JNB). From there, many safaris have private airstrips, but you can also fly into smaller airports like Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) or Hoedspruit (HDS) and be on your way to viewing the Big 5.

Where To Go and What To See on a Safari in South Africa

Start by deciding if you’d like to visit a state-run or private game reserve. Popular state-run game reserves include Kruger National Park and Addo Elephant National Park , which is actually home to the Big 7 (the Big 5 plus the great white shark and the southern right whale, found within the park’s marine section). Pilanesberg National Park also features the Big 5, while Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is known for its big cats . These larger parks often offer more budget-friendly safaris, though they can get crowded during peak season.

Luxury travelers may prefer a more exclusive safari experience, where a lodge or tented camp on a private game reserve includes all the safari excursions. Some of the best private game reserves for a luxury African safari experience include Sabi Sand, Phinda, Timbavati, Kwande, MalaMala, Amakhala, and Phinda, among many others. Choosing a game reserve and safari lodge may come down to where you want to base your trip: You can start in Johannesburg or Cape Town. While Johannesburg is the most convenient hub for visiting Kruger, Cape Town is known for its immense beauty and unique cultural offerings and is a favorite among seasoned travelers.

Best Time To Go on a Safari in South Africa

‌Go on a South African safari during the dry season, where less vegetation makes it easier to spot animals, which you can often find gathering near rivers and watering holes. Most of the country’s wildlife parks see their dry season between May and September. However, this is when the Western Cape sees rain , so if you’re heading to that area of the country, it may be best to go to this region in the other months.

If you’re in the market for something a bit more off the beaten path, consider a safari in Zambia. Start by flying into the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in the nation’s capital, Lusaka. Then, catch a short flight to Mfuwe Airport (MFU), which is the hub for South Luangwa National Park , the most popular area in the country for a Zambia safari, where you can spot wildlife such as leopards, hippos, and rare Thornicroft giraffes. Or, fly to the Royal or Jeki airstrips to visit Lower Zambezi National Park .

Where To Go and What To See on a Safari in Zambia

‌South Luangwa National Park is the ideal destination for walking and driving safaris, as the Luangwa River can be unpredictable, so boat safaris aren’t common. Those who want to see wildlife by boat should visit Lower Zambezi National Park, where you can paddle through the Zambezi River via canoe with expert guides who can help you spot all kinds of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and birds.

The nice part about a safari in Zambia is that it’s appropriate for any budget . Stay at cozy river lodges, in luxury tents, or open-air villas. The Old Monodoro camp in Lower Zambezi has 5 chalets — and don’t be surprised if you find an elephant sipping water out of your outdoor tub in the morning. Elephants also regularly walk through the open-air lobby at Mfuwe Lodge in South Luangwa.

Best Time To Go on a Safari in Zambia

Most lodges in South Luangwa National Park and Lower Zambezi National Park are only open during the dry season between March and October. To have the full Zambia safari experience, booking your trip during this period is best.

Most travelers combine a visit to Victoria Falls with a Zimbabwe safari . The best way to do this is to fly to Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA), which is about a 20-minute drive to the falls .

Where To Go and What To See on a Safari in Zimbabwe

Just a short drive from Victoria Falls, you’ll find Zambezi National Park (a completely different park than the aforementioned Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia ). This park features the Big 4 (everything but rhinos). You can also cross the border into Zambia via a quick drive to visit Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park , where you can spot elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and white rhinos.

If you’re hoping to spot the Big 5, Hwange National Park is just over an hour’s drive away , though you’ll have to look hard to find rhinos, as they’re few and far between. You can even do horseback safaris through this park, getting up close and personal with wildlife on your horse. Plan to stay at Davidson’s Camp , where the en suite tents look out over a watering hole for prime wildlife-watching from your room.

Victoria Falls is also just an hour’s drive from Chobe National Park in Botswana , home to one of the world’s largest elephant populations.

Best Time To Go on a Safari in Zimbabwe

June to September is the best time for a safari in Zimbabwe , and June is an especially beautiful time to see Victoria Falls , as you may catch the tail end of the rainy season, bringing powerful sprays and cascades. However, those visiting Hwange to birdwatch should visit from November to April , when the migratory birds return from the north.

When planning a safari, you have endless possibilities to consider. But knowing you can visit other countries besides just Tanzania or South Africa may make it easier to create a safari trip that fits your timing, budget, and travel style. Whether gorilla trekking, birdwatching, or a traditional safari searching for the Big 5, these African countries have got you covered.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which african country has the most wildlife.

Tanzania has an estimated 4 million animals, but countries like South Africa, Botswana, and Kenya are also excellent places to view wildlife or take a safari vacation.

Which African country is the safest for safaris?

Botswana is considered one of the safest African countries. It’s politically stable and has low crime rates. Rwanda is also safe for tourists, and Namibia is also a safe country for a safari.

What country in Africa has the most safaris?

South Africa has numerous public and private game reserves, making it an easy place to find a safari, no matter what part of the country you’d like to visit. The top safari destination in South Africa is Kruger National Park.

Is Tanzania or Kenya better for safaris?

Both Tanzania and Kenya are excellent destinations for a safari. Tanzania is often considered better because it has so many animals, but Tanzania safaris can often be very expensive. However, seeing the Masai Mara villages and embracing Kenyan culture is a wonderful addition to seeing wildlife in Kenya. You can’t go wrong with a safari in either destination!

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About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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2024 Africa Cruises: Explore South Africa, Madagascar & Mozambique

Are you captivated by the allure of Africa? Whether it's the enchanting beaches or the thrill of a wildlife safari, there's no better way to experience this remarkable continent than on a cruise. With Norwegian Cruise Line, you can journey to many diverse ports, each offering an exciting taste of Africa's splendor. Are you considering an Africa cruise ? If so, prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure with our 2024 Africa cruise itineraries. Unpack just once and savour the multitude of experiences.

Ready to start planning? Explore all Africa cruises .

Experience the Extraordinary on a 2024 Africa Cruise

A Norwegian cruise to Africa opens up a world of extraordinary experiences. Here are a few highlights from the ports you could visit to kick your cruise planning into high gear.

Embark on a Safari

Our Africa cruise itineraries are incomplete without an exhilarating safari! Depending on your chosen cruise, a range of unforgettable game drives await. Richards Bay, a popular safari spot, offers an overnight stay at a mountain lodge nestled amidst pristine wilderness. Enjoy locally sourced meals, an evening game drive, and more. Early mornings and evenings provide the best chances to spot majestic wildlife, including rhinos, elephants, lions, and leopards. For a more intimate wildlife experience, consider the Botlierskop Private Game Reserve, where you may encounter lions, elephants, zebras, rhinos, impalas, and giraffes.

RELATED CRUISES: 17-Day Africa from Dubai to Mauritius: UAE, Seychelles, Kenya & Tanzania 12-Day Africa from Mauritius to Cape Town: South Africa & Madagascar 14-Day Africa from Mauritius to Doha: Seychelles, Madagascar, Oman & UAE

Discover South African Wine Country

A stop in Cape Town opens the door to South Africa's famed wine region, Stellenbosch. This sprawling vineyard landscape, known for its cabernet and merlot blends, syrah, and chenin blanc, offers an immersive exploration into the world of winemaking. Book a Stellenbosch excursion to visit one of the region's top winemaking estates, where you'll learn about the intricate process behind each bottle.

Go Birdwatching in Walvis Bay

Walvis Bay, a paradise for bird enthusiasts, is home to more than 150 different bird species. A shore excursion to the tranquil Walvis Bay Lagoon allows travellers to see rare species like the Damara tern or the intriguing phalaropes and grebes. Don't forget to visit Pelican Point, a bustling colony of Cape fur seals.

Norwegian's 2024 Africa cruises will sail from either Cape Town, South Africa, or Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. Depending on your chosen itinerary, your voyage may circle back to Cape Town or disembark in Dubai or Port Louis, Mauritius. If you opt for a Mediterranean and Middle East cruise with a stop in Egypt, your cruise typically commences in Dubai.

Unforgettable Stops on an Africa Cruise

In 2024, Norwegian promises to whisk you away to some of Africa's most captivating destinations. Here are the potential ports of call to mark on your map:

• Cape Town, South Africa.
• Mossel Bay, South Africa.
• Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), South Africa.
• Richards Bay, South Africa.
• Durban, South Africa.
• Luderitz, Namibia.
• Walvis Bay, Namibia.
• Maputo, Mozambique.
• Nosy Be, Madagascar.
• Port Victoria, Seychelles.
• La Digue, Seychelles.
• Pointe Des Galets, Reunion.
• Safaga, Egypt.

Meet Madagascar's Lemurs

Madagascar's Lokobe Natural Reserve is a treasure trove of biodiversity. A guided excursion here offers opportunities to see endemic species like black lemurs. Interestingly, males are entirely black, whilst females boast rust-coloured coats and white ear tufts. Keep an eye out for pygmy kingfishers, snakes, panther chameleons, and leaf-tailed geckos in this lush habitat.

Spot African Penguins

In Port Elizabeth, the Penguin Island Cruise excursion is a standout experience. You'll journey to the world's largest colony of African penguins in their natural habitat. If you're lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of playful humpback and bottle-nose dolphins.

Scale an Active Volcano

For the adventurous cruiser, Pointe des Galets on Reunion Island offers the chance to climb an active volcano. Piton de la Fournaise rises over 8,600 feet. Once you complete the challenging climb, you're rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. The viewpoint at Pas de Bellecombe is perched atop a 492-foot cliff.

Visit the Island of War

Mombasa is a vibrant port city with a tumultuous past, which is why it earned the nickname the Island of War. Here, you'll experience African, Indian, and Arab cultures in one place. Fort Jesus is one of Mombasa's notable sites. It was built by the Portuguese in 1593. In less than 200 years, the fort changed hands nine times. Be sure to try some local cuisine to experience the blend of cultures here.

Relax on Seychelles' Beaches

The Seychelles are a beach-lover's dream, with stunning white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and intriguing granite boulders. Here, you can lounge under the sun, snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs, or embark on an island-hopping adventure.

Unearth Ancient Egypt

On a Mediterranean and Middle East cruise, a stop in Safaga, Egypt, offers a chance to step back in time. Consider an overnight excursion to Luxor and the Valley of the Kings, which brings you face-to-face with ancient Egyptian civilization's grandeur. This excursion includes an evening visit to see the light and sound show at the Karnak Temple.

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Experience a world beyond your expectations. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share.

We know why you travel. You’d rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you.

Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities.

Explore Africa Tours

Experience a world beyond your expectations. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share.

We know why you travel. You’d rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you.

Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities.

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Serengeti National Park 2024: 10 Ultimate Adventures That Will Ignite Your Wanderlust

Posted: March 15, 2024 | Last updated: March 15, 2024

Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Tanzania, is a symbol of African wildlife conservation. Known for its vast savannahs, the park is home to the great wildebeest migration and diverse wildlife. This comprehensive guide will lead you through the best experiences Serengeti has to offer, providing insider tips to enhance your journey.

1. The Great Wildebeest Migration

The Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti is an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon, marking one of the most significant wildlife events on the planet. Over a million wildebeest, alongside zebras and gazelles, embark on a relentless journey through the Serengeti ecosystem, driven by ancient instincts to find fresh grazing and water.

This migration is characterized by its sheer scale and the dramatic challenges the migrating herds face, particularly during perilous river crossings where aquatic and terrestrial predators lurk. Witnessing this event provides a profound insight into the unscripted drama of the natural world. As an observer, you are privy to moments of triumph and tragedy, encapsulating the raw essence of survival in the African wilderness.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a hot-air balloon ride for an unparalleled aerial view of the migration.

When to Travel: The migration is year-round, but river crossings typically occur between July and September.

How to Get There: Fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport, then a domestic flight to Seronera Airstrip in the Serengeti.

2. Predators of the Serengeti

The Serengeti is a stronghold for Africa’s most iconic predators. This vast landscape is a prime setting for observing lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas in their natural habitat. The region of Seronera, in particular, is celebrated for its exceptional predator sightings. Here, you can observe the dynamics of lion prides, the stealth of leopards, and the strategic hunting techniques of cheetahs.

Witnessing these predators in action, whether during a hunt or nurturing their young, offers an unfiltered glimpse into their complex lives. The experience is about the thrill of the sighting and understanding the role these apex predators play in maintaining the ecological balance of the Serengeti.

Insider’s Tip: Early morning game drives offer the best chance to see predators in action.

When to Travel: The dry season (June to October) is best for visibility year-round.

How to Get There: Access is through the Seronera Airstrip, with game drives organized by local lodges.

3. Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area

Adjacent to the Serengeti lies the Ngorongoro Crater, a breathtaking natural wonder. This massive volcanic caldera forms a distinct ecosystem with diverse habitats. It’s home to a dense concentration of wildlife, including the elusive black rhino, herds of wildebeest, zebra, and a healthy population of lions.

The crater floor, with its verdant plains, acacia forests, and soda lakes, offers an unparalleled safari experience. The Ngorongoro Crater is a wildlife retreat and a porthole into the geological history of the Earth, its towering walls providing a backdrop of dramatic landscapes that are both ancient and ever-changing.

Insider’s Tip: Visit in the early morning to avoid crowds and spot nocturnal animals returning from hunting.

When to Travel: Year-round; however, the dry season provides better wildlife viewing.

How to Get There: Drive from Arusha or fly to Lake Manyara Airstrip, followed by a drive to the crater.

4. Birdwatching in the Serengeti

For bird enthusiasts, the Serengeti offers an avian paradise. The park is a habitat for over 500 bird species, ranging from the commonly seen African fish eagles and vultures to the more elusive species like the Kori bustard and Secretary bird. The varied ecosystems within the park – from savannahs to riverine forests – create ideal conditions for birdwatching.

Each area within the Serengeti offers a different birding experience, whether observing migratory birds around the wetlands or spotting endemic species in the dense foliage. The experience is as educational as it is delightful, providing a deeper understanding of avian life and its crucial role in the ecosystem.

Insider’s Tip: Bring a high-quality zoom lens for bird photography.

When to Travel: November to April, during the migratory season.

How to Get There: Fly to Seronera Airstrip and arrange guided birdwatching tours through your lodge.

5. Maasai Cultural Experience

The Maasai people, with their rich cultural heritage, have been an integral part of the Serengeti landscape for centuries. Engaging with the Maasai offers a unique cultural immersion. Visits to Maasai villages allow you to witness their traditional way of life, unchanged for generations.

Participating in a Maasai dance, learning about their pastoral lifestyle, and observing their skilled beadwork provide a rare glimpse into a culture deeply connected to the land and its wildlife. This cultural exchange is about observing and understanding and respecting a way of life that has coexisted with Africa’s wildlife in a delicate balance.

Insider’s Tip: Participate in a traditional Maasai dance or craft-making session.

When to Travel: Year-round.

How to Get There: Most cultural tours are organized by lodges within or near the Serengeti.

6. Serengeti Walking Safaris

Walking safaris in the Serengeti offer a profoundly personal connection with the African bush. Escorted by experienced guides, these safaris allow for close encounters with the diverse flora and fauna of the park. The pace is slower, the senses heightened, and the experience more immersive.

Walking in the footsteps of wildlife, tracking animals, and learning about medicinal plants offer a deeper understanding of the intricate connections within the Serengeti ecosystem. This intimate safari experience transcends the usual game drives, offering a unique perspective of the African wilderness.

Insider’s Tip: Wear comfortable, neutral-colored clothing to blend into the environment

When to Travel: The dry season, for safer walking conditions and better wildlife visibility.

How to Get There: Organize through lodges in Serengeti, with most starting points accessible by vehicle from your accommodation.

7. Luxury Camping

Luxury camping in the Serengeti combines the allure of the wild with the comforts of modern amenities. These camps are strategically located to offer the best wildlife viewing experiences, including being in the path of the great migration. The accommodation ranges from lavish tents with en-suite bathrooms to exclusive lodges with private decks overlooking the savannah.

The experience extends beyond the accommodation, with night drives and bush dinners under the stars, providing an enchanting way to experience the Serengeti’s nocturnal life and its vast, starlit skies.

Insider’s Tip: Book a camp that moves with the migration for a unique experience.

When to Travel: Depends on the migration pattern if following the herds; otherwise, year-round.

How to Get There: Accessible via game drives organized by the camps, usually from the nearest airstrip.

8. Serengeti Balloon Safaris

A hot-air balloon safari in the Serengeti is an experience of a lifetime. Floating silently above the savannah at sunrise, you witness the park from a vantage point like no other. The balloon’s path, dictated by the morning breezes, offers a tranquil and panoramic view of the sprawling Serengeti below.

From this aerial perspective, the scale and beauty of the park are truly appreciated, revealing patterns of movement and life that are invisible from the ground. The flight culminates in a traditional champagne breakfast in the bush, a fitting end to an unforgettable journey.

Insider’s Tip: Book well in advance as these popular safaris have limited capacity.

When to Travel: Year-round, with clearer skies during the dry season.

How to Get There: Most balloon safaris launch near the Seronera region, accessible from nearby lodges.

9. Kopjes Exploration

Kopjes, ancient granite rock formations scattered across the Serengeti, are islands of biodiversity. These outcrops provide various wildlife habitats, including reptiles, birds, and mammals. Exploring these kopjes allows you to observe creatures like agile rock hyraxes, colorful agama lizards, and lions basking on the warm rocks.

The kopjes also offer some of the most picturesque landscapes in the park, with sweeping views of the surrounding plains, making them ideal spots for wildlife observation and photography.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during the late afternoon when animals are more active.

When to Travel: Year-round, with better accessibility during the dry season.

How to Get There: Accessible by game drives from any Serengeti lodge or camp.

10. Photography Workshops

Photography workshops in the Serengeti cater to both amateur and professional photographers. Under the guidance of experienced professionals, these workshops focus on capturing the essence of the Serengeti through the lens.

They provide practical tips on wildlife photography, from mastering light and composition to understanding animal behavior for the perfect shot. These workshops enhance your photography skills and deepen your appreciation of the Serengeti’s landscapes and inhabitants.

Insider’s Tip: Ensure you have extra memory cards and batteries.

When to Travel: Year-round, though the dry season offers better light and visibility.

How to Get There: Workshops are typically arranged by lodges or tour companies in the Serengeti.

The Bottom Line

As you embark on your journey to the Serengeti National Park, embrace the opportunity to connect with nature and wildlife in one of the world’s most iconic landscapes. Your experiences here, whether witnessing the great migration, capturing the perfect photograph, or learning from the Maasai are spectacular moments in travel and allow you to understand and appreciate the delicate balance of our natural world. Remember, your travels contribute to the conservation of this extraordinary ecosystem.

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The post Serengeti National Park 2024: 10 Ultimate Adventures That Will Ignite Your Wanderlust republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Image Credit: Shutterstock / soft_light.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Your Kruger Park Safari by Siyabona

Experience Kruger National Park with Siyabona Africa's exclusive collection of safari packages, from high-end luxury to standard classic safari tours. Whether you are looking for a romantic honeymoon escape, or a spot for the annual family holiday, you are bound to discover just what you need, right here.

With a Kruger Park Safari, combined with the variety of accommodation types that we offer, you can look forward to lodge living in perfect luxuriousness, or comfortable, tented chalets with the closer-to-nature feel.

Either way, you are set for a great Kruger Park Safari adventure. Morning and early evening game drives, bush walks for the more strenuous and ample opportunities for wildlife photography. All of this conducted by experienced safari guides, game rangers and trackers.

Popular Kruger Park Safaris

This selection of our most popular Kruger Park safari holiday packages promises an unrivalled abundance of game viewing opportunities.

Classic Lodge Safari

These Kruger Park classic lodge safari packages are about being close to nature and wilderness whilst living in the style that reflects the essence of the traditional safari experience.

Kruger Park Family Safari

Kruger Park family safari packages are all about getting together for a shared experience with those nearest and dearest to you. Family gatherings have a special place in our hearts.

Guided Kruger Park Safaris

Our fully guided Kruger Park safari packages are one of the best ways to enjoy a Classic Safari in the Kruger National Park. Led by an experienced safari expert guide and tracker.

Premier Safari Packages

Only The Best - This Premier Kruger Safari Collection represents the prestige that is reserved for those whose refined taste and passion lead them to expect the very best.

Romantic Safaris

These selected Kruger Park honeymoon packages and romantic safaris each offer something different. Indulge in spa treatments, champagne baths or fireside romance.

Tented Camp Safari

Tented camps in Kruger National Park range from basic comfort to exceptional stylish luxury. See a selection of Tented Camp Safari Packages in Kruger National Park

Self-Drive Safaris

Whether you self-drive in your own vehicle or rent-a-car, these Kruger Park self-drive safari packages offer you the freedom and flexibility of driving at your own pace.

Speciality Safari

This Speciality Safari  experiences collection presents a range of safari packages selected for their complete individuality. Experiences include walking safaris, cultural interaction or spa treatments.

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Ila Safari Lodge in Kafue National Park, Zambia, has reopened following last year’s devastating fire. Green Safaris’ flagship lodge has been reinvented, with a newly-designed central boma resembling an infinity sign — an ode to balance in nature — and includes a reception, bar, dining area, stargazing deck and swimming pool overlooking the Kafue River.

The design draws inspiration from the iconic nest concept used at the company’s Chisa Busanga Camp. It was constructed using abandoned termite mound sand to produce the foundation building blocks, while sustainable, locally-grown bamboo and sticks harvested from the Kafue floor were used to weave the walls.

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I've been on over 100 safaris across Africa and repeatedly see tourists make 11 big mistakes, from sleeping in to ignoring birds

• I've been on over 100 safaris and often see tourists make the same mistakes time and again.
• Some ignore birds, while others exit the vehicle to get closer to wildlife, which is dangerous.
• Here's my advice on what not to do on safari, plus tips to improve your chances of seeing wildlife.

I'm a travel writer living in Nairobi, and I've been on more than 100 safaris across Africa.

I currently live in Nairobi, Kenya, working as a travel writer and vlogger, and have been to about 15 countries in Africa over the last 10 years.

As part of my travels, I often go on safari where I'm always awed by how large elephants are, the cunning nature of hyenas, the agility of leopards, the social life of lions, and the beauty of lilac-breasted rollers.

I've been on well over 100 safaris for leisure or on assignment as a journalist, in countries like Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and my home, Kenya.

On many of those safaris, I've shared vehicles with other tourists, and met travelers from all over the world, from the United States to Russia and Europe. I've also observed some common mistakes that people seem to make when they take this type of trip.

Here are the biggest safari mistakes to avoid, plus my tips for how to maximize your experience.

Most often, I've observed tourists become disappointed when they don't see wildlife.

I've been to most of the wildlife parks in Kenya, like Amboseli , Samburu , Shaba , Tsavo East & West , Meru , and Lake Nakuru National Parks .

I always find the big cats impressive here, such as lionesses chasing a zebra through the plains, or a leopard hauling its prey up a tree as hyenas circle below hoping it falls.

On a recent safari, I observed two-month old lion cubs, still too young to eat meat, lapping up blood from a gazelle that their mother hunted and dragged under the shade of bushes. This sighting was, however, at the end of a three-hour morning game drive.

Whenever I'm sharing a vehicle with other tourists, particularly first timers, I see some becoming impatient after a few hours without such sightings.

It's understandable; you've come to Africa for the safari of a lifetime, and want to see and photograph it all. But as I've learned, you can't set up an appointment with wildlife. Sometimes, a leopard remains elusive. 

I think you'll have a better time if you're able to relax and enjoy the sightings as they come.

In addition to being patient on drives, I don't think visitors communicate what they hope to see to their guide, or make enough attempts.

If there's an animal you really want to see, speak up.

Guides can use their expertise and knowledge of the landscape to drive to the areas where they know that you're more likely to spot the animals that you hope to see.

You should also plan to go on more than one game drive. For a two to three-day trip, I recommend going for both morning and evening drives, every day, to maximize your chances. 

One of the biggest mistakes tourists make is thinking they can get out of the vehicle to take photos with wildlife. It could risk your life.

While on safari, I've seen tourists in other vehicles get out in areas to try and get close to wildlife where park rules prohibit them to do so.

You should always stay in the safari vehicle, and if you need to get out, communicate that to your guide who knows the landscape and will advise if it's safe.

Rather than risk your life, there are other places you can go if you want to get up close with animals.

In Nairobi, I like to spend time with orphaned baby elephants at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and watch them mud bathe and guzzle milk formula. Another option I recommend is to feed pellets to Rothschild Giraffes at Giraffe Center.

And at Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia, visitors may join rangers to track the endangered southern white rhinos on foot, which will place you within a few feet of the animals.

Not only are experiences like these safe, but they still provide the thrill of an up-close encounter, and proceeds usually go back to the continued protection of the wildlife. 

Often, I meet tourists who only go to the most popular parks, and in the high season. Then, they complain about how crowded it is.

Some of Africa's best-known parks are Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, Maasai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya, and Kruger National Park in South Africa. And I understand the popularity — all of these destinations have an abundance of wildlife and stunning landscapes.

According to Safari Outfitter & Beyond , who I've been with on safari a few times in Serengeti and Maasai Mara, the best time for a Kenyan safari is the high season from June to October, when sparse vegetation and limited water draws wildlife to waterholes making them easier to spot.

But because of this phenomenon, I've always found this time period to be busy and crowded, which can take away from the experience.

In my experience, guides tend to work collaboratively and radio one another whenever there's a sighting, and when word gets out that a coalition of cheetahs were spotted, soon there are 20 cars charging to surround them at the same time. I also find the parks become particularly busy during the annual wildebeest migration season, and lodges get fully booked as tourists travel to witness it.

I've seen first-timers then become frustrated that the experience isn't the remote safari they pictured.

If you prefer less crowds, choose a less popular park, or consider a visit at another time.

I've seen many tourists wrongly assume that Africa is hot all the time, and fail to pack warm clothing.

In my experience, visitors to Africa tend to have the perception that it will be really hot, all the time. I think this is probably because of documentaries and movies they might have watched where people are dressed as such, and that's how the landscape is portrayed.

But I've found that isn't always the case. I've experienced many cold nights in some parks, even if it's not the rainy season when it can be cold and wet.

According to Masai Mara , temperatures in that park can range between 52 and 82-degrees Fahrenheit, and I know it will feel quite cold when it hits that lower end.

I suggest that visitors bring warm clothing to layer like jackets, scarves, and even gloves. Plus, some safari vehicles are open on the sides, and in my experience, this can make it feel really cold when driving fast during the day, too. 

Another big mistake I've witnessed is choosing not to wake up early for game drives.

Guides have explained to me that the best times for game drives are the cooler hours of the day, around sunrise and sunset.

They say this is because it's when the weather is more comfortable for animals. During later parts of the day, guides have said that animals prefer to stay tucked away under the shade to avoid the scorching heat. This means it's less likely you'll see much action if you choose to head out only in the afternoon.

To increase my chances of seeing wildlife, I choose morning drives that require wake-up calls as early as 4:30 a.m. On those drives, I've shared a vehicle with others where I heard them complain that it's too early.

It definitely is, and the roads can be rough, and the drives can be long and tiring, particularly if it's several days back to back. But I know morning is the best time to go if you want to see as many animals as possible.

I've spotted wildlife later in the day, too, but whenever I've come across a pride of lions around midday, for instance, they're usually sleeping.

Discuss with your guide to figure out a schedule that works best for you. If you can wake up early, though, I find the sunrises over the African bush are always so spectacular. Why would you want to miss such beauty?

Ignoring bird life is another commonly-made mistake.

It took me around 30 game drives to finally get into birdwatching.

I started off indifferent, but now I squeal with excitement when I spot a Marshall Eagle with its large wing-span perched atop a tree at Shaba National Reserve in Kenya, or if I've eyed a small gazelle, or a kettle of vultures stealing a zebra carcass from a hyena.

I wish I knew sooner that birds are really cool, and I think many visitors make this same mistake because they become too focused on just large wildlife.

I finally came to this realization thanks to helpful guides I met who helped me learn interesting facts about birds and their social life, and now I'm always left wanting to know more. 

I don't think many people realize that there are many ways to do a safari.

With over 100 safaris under my belt, I've been on so many game drives that I started getting a little jaded about driving around and seeing animals from a land cruiser, every time.

So I decided to switch things up recently, and I don't think many people know there are other ways to see wildlife besides from a car.

I've now been on several hot air balloons, from which I've spotted elephants in Amboseli National Park with Mt. Kilimanjaro's snow-capped peak in the background. And it was from a balloon that I tracked black rhinos through the mud one rainy morning in Borana Conservancy .

I've also enjoyed camel-back safaris, boat cruises, and sunset walking safaris, and recommend working them into your itinerary to experience different perspectives.

Please stop bringing plastic bags and bottles into the parks.

Countries like Kenya and Rwanda have banned single-use plastics including water bottles, straws, disposable cups, and cutlery in protected areas like parks, forests, and beaches.

You're often not even allowed to bring your plastic bag carry-ons through the airports. According to section 144 of Kenya's Environmental Management and Co-Ordination act , if you're caught breaking this law, there are severe fines of one to four years in jail, or a $16,000 fine.

And while I haven't heard of cases of tourists being charged or fined, I still often see them trying to bring these items into the parks, where they're usually confiscated.

I think it's better to just plan ahead and adhere to the law, and also to make more efforts to be respectful of the land to preserve it for generations to come.

I wish lodge guests would be more considerate of others and keep the volume of their music down.

In my experience, many rooms at overnight lodges are located really close to each other.

In a few instances, I've struggled to sleep or relax as guests next to me played really loud music.

I can appreciate a good playlist as much as the next person, but I wish more tourists would be more considerate of other guests.

I find going to the bush to be a time for serenity and disconnecting from the bustle of city life. Returning to blasting music detracts from that feeling, in my opinion.

Instead, turn your music off and take your stay as a chance to listen to the sweet cacophony of nature. And should you strongly desire to still listen to Drake over the hippos grunting in the distance, please just keep your volume at a reasonable level.

Finally, I think too many tourists don't take advantage of the low season when it's much easier to plan a safari on a budget.

In the low season between March and May when there is often heavy rain, the roads get muddy and vegetation grows tall and thick.

In my experience, this draws less tourists, and as a result, lodges tend to reduce rates to attract visitors. I've found you can save a lot of money if you visit then instead of high season.

So if you're looking to go on safari on a budget and don't mind getting wet from time to time, you might want to come during this period, since I've seen firsthand that the wildlife is still visible. I also think it's a unique time since the vegetation is lush and green, the bird life is abundant, and new calves are birthed. 

I've also seen that fewer tourist numbers means less congestion of vehicles in parks for a more isolated experience.

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WEEKLY SELECTION 9 - GALLERY 1 - 2024 PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

Team Africa Geographic

Tuesday, 14 May 2024

Our Photographer of the Year 2024 is open for submissions. Each of the three winners (the overall winner plus two runners-up) will become a personal sponsor of a wild Hwange lion research collar. Winners and their partners will also join our CEO Simon Espley on a conservation safari   in Botswana. Read more about the Photographer of the Year 2024 prizes here .

Photographer of the Year is open for entries from 1 March 2024 to midnight on 31 May 2024. Judging will take place throughout those months and for the month of June 2024, and the winners will be announced in early July 2024.

Photographer of the Year is sponsored by Imvelo Safari Lodges . In association with  Southern African Conservation Trust  (SACT) and  WILDCRU .

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