Africa is known for its abundant wildlife and diverse ecosystem. The hundreds of animal sanctuaries and national parks in the continent attract people from all around the world who are keen on witnessing nature in its glory. If you, too, are in search of beautiful scenery and a glimpse of exotic wildlife, this article will pique your interest. Below are the best African safari destinations you must consider visiting at least once in a lifetime.
Kenya
This East African country holds the mantle of being Africa’s “Safari Capital.” You’ve, most likely, already had glimpses of Kenya’s African safari as the destination has featured in numerous travel documentaries. The place has a vivid mix of wildlife and culture, making it a favorite among tourists. You can expect to encounter rhinoceros, elephants, lions, and other wild animals lazing around in their natural habitat. Not to mention, Kenya’s beautiful and vast landscapes are worth witnessing.
The Masai Mara National Park and the Amboseli National Park are two famous places to visit as a part of your African safari in Kenya. Masai Mara is a haven for wildlife watchers with an impressive populace of lions, leopards, and rhinos. On the other hand, Amboseli National Park offers an up-close and unhindered view of Mount Kilimanjaro. Not to mention, it’s also one of the most affordable locations to tour on a budget, solo or not.
Tanzania
Tanzania offers everything that an African safari in Kenya offers and some more. The Serengeti National Park is arguably a dream location for wildlife enthusiasts. It spans about 15,000 sq. kms of seemingly endless plains, providing a wider range of species and natural habitats to gaze at. The expanse of the park also means you’re less likely to bump into another group of tourists, which, in turn, makes animal sighting easier.
Ngorongoro Crater is another must-visit and must-experience location in Tanzania. It’s one of the tallest African mountains, which also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And, of course, let’s not forget Zanzibar island. The country, besides other attractions, is known for wildebeest sightings for most of the year.
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe is possibly more famous for being home to the well-known Victoria Falls than it is for being a frequented African safari destination. The truth, however, is that the country has much more to offer than the majestic view of the falls. Zimbabwe is the best place to catch a glimpse of the rarely found African wild dog. In addition, it boasts of diverse wildlife in grasslands as well as the mainlands.
The Hwange National Park and Mana Pools National Park are notable mentions that make exploring the wildlife in Zimbabwe a fantastic experience. The Hwange National Park, in particular, is known as the house of the largest elephant population in any protected area in the world. Here, you can find elephants in a gathering of hundreds around a waterhole.
Botswana
Botswana, a top destination for an African safari, is among the world’s wildlife conservation leaders. The Chobe National Park located here has the densest elephant population, along with a healthy dose of cheetahs, rhinos, African wild dogs, leopards, hippos, antelopes, and more. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has a low-impact tourism policy. This means there are few lodging options in the conservation region, offering a more exclusive wildlife experience.
Apart from the Chobe National Park, Botswana is home to the world’s largest inland Delta called the Okavango Delta, which is jaw-droppingly clean. However, owing to its dense wildlife population, world-class conservation, and numerous safari and tourism attractions, Botswana is one of the most expensive destinations for an African safari.
South Africa
South Africa is a common choice among travelers looking forward to enjoying the best of both worlds. You can bask in the sunshine and witness the African Big Five (leopards, lions, buffalos, elephants, and rhinos) merry in their natural habitat, and when you miss the city’s hustle and bustle, you can head over to Cape Town to enjoy whatever the city has to offer, including winery tours.
South Africa is home to the renowned Kruger National Park and the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. It’s also recognized for its close encounters with the vast wildlife it houses. The safari is just as gratifying for birdwatchers with its varied species of flora and fauna. South Africa also boasts of some of the most professional car rental companies, safari operators, and service providers on the continent.
The locations mentioned here host some of the best African safaris that ensure a rejuvenating experience amidst nature.
