Since settling in Cape Town, I've been determined to experience Africa's most remarkable wilderness areas. From South Africa to Kenya and beyond, I've had an extraordinary time discovering some of this continent's most stunning locations.
Featuring breathtaking scenery and mesmerizing wildlife, only a few adventures rival an African safari. Although I haven't yet identified my absolute favorite destination on the continent, I've narrowed it down to several exceptional spots in Africa. Deciding where to go on safari can be tough! Therefore, I've detailed which countries and regions excel for safari, optimal visiting times, and lodges I adored to assist you in planning your ideal trip.
My Guide to Africa's Premier Safari Destinations!
Top Safari Regions: MalaMala, Sabi Sands (within Kruger), Southern Kruger National Park
Optimal Safari Season: May to September (Winter)
My newly adopted homeland is among my favorite places globally. While Cape Town boasts impressive attractions, nothing compares to venturing into the South African bush.
A particular favorite is the Lion Sands Ivory Lodge and Treehouses. They feature a treehouse beneath the stars that you must witness to believe!
The Royal Malewane in South Africa is an excellent choice for exploring Kruger National Park. Additionally, just four hours from Cape Town, Gondwana Game Reserve provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Big Five (African lions, African elephants, African leopards, Cape buffalos, and rhinoceros).
Top Safari Regions: Kalahari region, Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Makadikadi Salt Pans
Optimal Safari Season: Varies based on what you wish to see!
With 300 sunny days annually, Botswana is perfect for enjoying the great outdoors. Different animals are active during various seasons in specific areas, making it a flexible option that consistently delivers.
I fell for Botswana at Jack's Camp, where I encountered a Khoisan tribe and got intimately close with a local meerkat family!
I also had an unforgettable experience at the remote Sable Alley. Situated in one of Botswana's most diverse habitats, Khwai Private Reserve, you can simply recline in your tent or relax by the pool while observing some of the most dramatic wildlife scenes imaginable passing by.
Top Safari Regions: Amboseli National Park, Maasai Mara
Optimal Safari Season: Late June to October
I had an amazing time staying in the Maasai Mara. While there, I visited Sir Richard Branson's private camp, Mahali Mzuri, which is as exclusive and enchanting as anticipated.
Full of vintage allure, the Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp in Kenya was another luxury Masai Mara Serengeti retreat that captivated me. It exudes the glamorous essence of a classic African safari that I cherish!
Of course, I can't discuss Kenya without mentioning the Safari Collection's Giraffe Manor! Although not a safari, it was one of my most surreal experiences in Africa. It's also located just outside Nairobi, making it an ideal 1-2 night stay if you're flying in.
Top Safari Regions: Caprivi and Etosha Regions
Optimal Safari Season: June to August
I had the opportunity to explore both the Wolwedans Dune Lodge and Wolwedans Boulders Camp in Namibia, and it was unlike any other trip I've taken in Africa. Indeed, with its vast, open deserts, Namibia possesses a mystical quality that sets it apart from everywhere else I've visited.
I embarked on a road trip through Namibia and have been longing to return ever since. Ever since learning about the Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp, it's been on my bucket list!
Top Safari Regions: Livingstone and Victoria Falls, Luangwa Valley National Park
Optimal Safari Season: May to October
Victoria Falls inspired my trip to Zambia, an incredibly beautiful country that impressed me from start to finish. I stayed at Tongabezi Lodge, which is easily one of my favorite properties worldwide! If you're interested in a river-based safari experience, this is the place to go!
The lodge was flawless, and Victoria Falls is one of those places you must see to grasp its grandeur. Tongabezi Lodge offers game drives, bush walks, and boating trips, ensuring an action-packed stay.
Top Safari Regions: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Parks
Optimal Safari Season: June to October, Wildebeest migration November-July
Tanzania is renowned for the famous wildebeest migration and is excellent for spotting the Big Five on safari. The Ngorongoro Crater alone hosts over 30,000 animals.
The Tarangire National Parks are perfect for observing elephants and counting various bird species. Safari regions in Tanzania are teeming with lush wildlife and endless opportunities for epic animal sightings!
Explore Further: What to Pack for an African Safari
The Beginner’s Guide to Photographing an African Safari
Staying at Wolwedans Boulders Safari Camp in Namibia
Visiting Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp in Kenya
Staying at Sable Alley in Botswana
Staying at Jack’s Camp in Botswana
Staying at Meno a Kwena in Botswana
Staying at Mahali Mzuri in Kenya
Visiting Giraffe Manor in Kenya
Staying at Wolwedans Dunes Lodge in Namibia
Staying at Spitzkoppen Lodge in Namibia
Staying at Lion Sands Ivory Lodge and Treehouses
Staying at Tongabezi Lodge near Victoria Falls
Staying at Royal Malewane in South Africa
Visiting Gondwana Game Reserve in South Africa
The Beginner’s Guide to Photographing an African Safari
Staying at L’Ma Lodge in Morocco
The article The Top Safari Destinations in Africa originally appeared on The Blonde Abroad.
