Safari in Africa: 10 Best African Countries

When you think of Africa, what comes to mind? Endless savannahs, wild animals roaming free, and birds at sunrise. That’s the magic of a safari, a journey into nature where you witness wildlife up close in their natural home.

A safari in Africa is not just a vacation; it’s an adventure, a learning experience, and a dream come true for many. Whether you’re watching lions hunt in the Serengeti, elephants march through the plains of Botswana, or zebras gather near a waterhole in South Africa, every moment is unforgettable.

In this article, we’ll see everything you need to know about safari in Africa, the best African countries safari to visit, what to expect, when to go, and how to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What is a Safari?

The word “safari” comes from the Swahili language, and it means “journey.” Long ago, safaris were hunting trips in the wild. But today, a safari means going into nature to watch and enjoy wild animals in their natural homes, no hunting involved.

When people think of Africa, they imagine wide open lands, roaring lions, giant elephants, and exciting adventures. That’s exactly what a safari offers. It is one of the best ways to experience nature up close — not through screens or cages, but in real life.

Types of Safaris in Africa

Safaris come in different forms. Here are the most common types:

1. Game Drives

This is the most popular type. You ride in a 4×4 safari vehicle, often open-roofed, and drive through national parks or game reserves. A guide helps spot animals like lions, elephants, zebras, and giraffes.

2. Walking Safaris

Want to get even closer to nature? Walking safaris let you see the bush on foot with an armed ranger. You’ll learn about animal tracks, plants, and maybe see animals like giraffes or antelopes from a safe distance.

3. Balloon Safaris

In some places like the Serengeti or Masai Mara, you can take a hot air balloon safari. You float quietly above the land at sunrise and see animals from the sky, a magical and peaceful experience.

4. Photographic Safaris

These safaris are designed for wildlife photography lovers. You get special vehicles, camera support, and guides who know where to find the best photo moments — from lions hunting to elephants bathing.

Wildlife to See on an African Safari

Africa is home to some of the most famous animals in the world. Most people go on safari to see the Big Five, which are:

• Lion – The king of the jungle

• Elephant – The largest land animal

• Buffalo – Strong and dangerous, often seen in herds

• Rhino – Both black and white rhinos, now endangered

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• Leopard – Beautiful and shy, hard to spot

But the Big Five are not the only animals you’ll see. You might also spot:

• Zebras

• Giraffes

• Cheetahs

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• Hippos

• Hyenas

• Warthogs

• Ostriches

• Crocodiles

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• Many types of birds and monkeys

Every park or reserve offers different animals and experiences.

Best Time to Go on Safari in Africa

Africa has two main seasons: the dry season and the wet (rainy) season. When to go depends on what you want to see.

Dry Season (Best Time to Visit)

• Usually from June to October

• Fewer leaves on trees = easier to spot animals

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• Animals gather around rivers and waterholes

• Great time to see the Great Migration in East Africa (July–September)

Wet Season (Green Season)

• Usually from November to April

• Lush, green landscapes and fewer tourists

• Great for birdwatching and photography

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• Some roads may be muddy and harder to pass

10 Best African Countries for Safari

🌍 EAST AFRICA – Wild Plains & the Great Migration

East Africa is the heart of traditional safaris. This region is famous for the Great Migration, the Big Five, and open savannahs full of wildlife. It’s also where you can go gorilla trekking in the forests.

1. 🇰🇪 Kenya

Kenya is one of the most popular safari destinations in the world. The Masai Mara National Reserve is the highlight, especially during the Great Migration when millions of wildebeest and zebras cross over from Tanzania between July and October.

• Best parks: Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo East and West, Samburu
• Top animals: Lions, elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, wildebeest
• What makes it special: Classic safari scenery, excellent guides, and many tour packages
• Who it’s for: First-time travelers, photographers, wildlife lovers

2. 🇹🇿 Tanzania

Tanzania is the home of the world-famous Serengeti National Park, where the Great Migration begins. You can also visit the Ngorongoro Crater, a giant volcanic caldera packed with wildlife.

• Best parks: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Selous
• Top animals: Big Five, wildebeest, zebras, flamingos
• What makes it special: The Great Migration, diverse landscapes from savannah to crater
• Who it’s for: Nature lovers, luxury travelers, honeymooners

3. 🇺🇬 Uganda

Uganda is known as the “Pearl of Africa.” It’s one of the few countries where you can go gorilla trekking, which is a life-changing experience. Safaris in Uganda offer a mix of forest, mountain, and savannah wildlife.

• Best parks: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queen Elizabeth NP, Murchison Falls
• Top animals: Mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, lions, hippos
• What makes it special: Gorilla trekking, boat safaris, tree-climbing lions
• Who it’s for: Adventurers, wildlife researchers, eco-tourists

4. 🇷🇼 Rwanda

Rwanda is small but rich in natural beauty. It offers a more luxury and organized gorilla trekking experience than Uganda. The country is clean, safe, and full of beautiful hills and volcanoes.

• Best parks: Volcanoes NP, Akagera NP, Nyungwe Forest
• Top animals: Mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, elephants, lions
• What makes it special: High-end gorilla safaris, peaceful environment
• Who it’s for: Couples, conservation lovers, premium travelers

🌍 SOUTHERN AFRICA – Diverse Landscapes & Fewer Crowds

Southern Africa is perfect for those who want more freedom and fewer tourists. You can self-drive, enjoy private reserves, or even take walking safaris. The parks are big, the landscapes are different, and the wildlife is just as exciting.

5. 🇿🇦 South Africa

South Africa is one of the easiest and most affordable places for safari. The Kruger National Park is a top choice, and there are many private game reserves around it. You can drive yourself or go with a guide.

• Best parks: Kruger, Addo Elephant Park, Sabi Sands
• Top animals: Big Five, wild dogs, birds
• What makes it special: Self-drive options, malaria-free parks, family-friendly lodges
• Who it’s for: Families, first-timers, budget or luxury travellers

See>>> 20 Best Luxury Safari Companies

6. 🇧🇼 Botswana

Botswana offers some of the most exclusive and untouched safari experiences in Africa. The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is full of water channels, and you can explore it by boat or canoe.

• Best parks: Okavango Delta, Chobe, Moremi
• Top animals: Elephants, hippos, leopards, crocodiles
• What makes it special: Water safaris, peaceful and private camps
• Who it’s for: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, birdwatchers

7. 🇳🇦 Namibia

Namibia offers a different kind of safari. The landscapes are dry and open, making it easy to spot animals. The country is also known for the red sand dunes of Sossusvlei and the salt pans of Etosha.

• Best parks: Etosha National Park, Skeleton Coast, Damaraland
• Top animals: Rhinos, giraffes, oryx, cheetahs
• What makes it special: Unique desert safari, easy self-drive, dramatic scenery
• Who it’s for: Photographers, road trippers, off-the-beaten-path travellers

See>>> Meet Africa’s Big Five: Top Safari Animals & Where to See Them

8. 🇿🇲 Zambia

Zambia is the birthplace of walking safaris. It offers a wild and authentic safari experience, with fewer crowds and more nature. The South Luangwa National Park is one of the best in the country.

• Best parks: South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, Kafue
• Top animals: Leopards, lions, hippos, elephants
• What makes it special: Walking safaris, expert guides, riverside camps
• Who it’s for: Adventurers, photographers, second-time safari-goers

9. 🇿🇼 Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe has beautiful national parks and some of the largest elephant herds in Africa. You can also visit Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

• Best parks: Hwange NP, Mana Pools, Gonarezhou
• Top animals: Elephants, lions, wild dogs
• What makes it special: Less crowded, excellent guides, Victoria Falls nearby
• Who it’s for: Nature lovers, serious safari travellers

🌍 SOUTHEAST AFRICA – Hidden Gem

10. 🇲🇿 Mozambique

Mozambique is not yet well known for safaris, but it’s rising fast. The Gorongosa National Park has been restored after years of conflict and is now full of wildlife. You can also relax at the beach after your safari.

• Best parks: Gorongosa, Niassa Reserve
• Top animals: Elephants, antelope, lions, crocodiles
• What makes it special: Safari + beach combo, less touristy
• Who it’s for: Explorers, nature lovers, off-the-map travelers

🧭 Summary Table – Safari Countries by Region

Why Africa is the #1 Safari Destination

Africa is rich in wildlife, culture, landscapes, and adventure. No other continent offers such a wide variety of animals in their natural environment. Whether you’re travelling on a budget or looking for luxury, there’s a safari for everyone.

• Africa has well-managed parks and guides who know the land and animals.

• You can see nature untouched and wild, just as it has been for centuries.

• You’ll experience sunsets that take your breath away and nights under the stars with the sound of lions in the distance.

A safari in Africa is not just a trip. It’s a life-changing experience, one that stays in your heart forever.