African Safaris

African Safaris

At African Vacation Safaris, we specialized in crafting safaris in Africa that are customized to your unique preferences. Our seasoned Africa safari experts have extensively explored the diverse landscapes of Southern and East Africa.

The African continent in a birth place of safari with some of the world’s most iconic safari destination, each offering a unique safari experience. From the expansive Kruger National Park in South Africa, Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya to the rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.

Africa Safari Destinations

Our Africa safari planners tailor – make luxury Africa Tours for unforgettable adventures.

Discover Africa’s top destinations, from the Serengeti to the Okavango Delta, with incredible wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes.

African safaris in Tanzania

An African safari in Tanzania is like no other, witness the great migration across the Serengeti Plains, conquer Kilimanjaro, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater and watch hippos in Lake Manyara.

On a Tanzania Safari you will tick off Africa’s Big Five, then after then relax on the beautiful island beach resorts.

Here are the best safari destinations to visit in Tanzania.

1. Serengeti National Park

 The Serengeti is an epic expanse of grasslands and plains, home to the Big Five – lion, leopard, cape buffaloes, elephants and rhinos, predators like cheetahs and the Great Wildebeest Migration, the largest migration of wildlife on the planet with over 2 million wildebeests accompanied by thousands of gazelles and gazelles.

2. Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to Ngorongoro Crater – the largest intact caldera in the world formed around two to three million years ago when a large volcano erupted and collapsed on itself. The crater covers 260 square kilometers and is 610 metres deep, creating a microcosmic environment for an abundance of vegetation and wildlife, as well as the Maasai people, all calling the crater home.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the only conservation area in the country to protect wildlife while allowing human habitation.

The Ngorongoro Crater – a breathtaking natural wonder is the jewel in Ngorongoro’s crown, it is a deep, volcanic crater formed nearly 2.5 million years ago, the largest un-flooded and unbroken caldera in the world. About 20 kms across, 600 meters deep and 300 square kilometers in area.

3. Ruaha National Park

Nested in the heart of Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is an exquisite gem and an epitome of unspoiled wilderness and refined adventure. Spanning 20,000 square kilometers, Ruaha National Park stands as a monument to East Africa’s raw beauty offering unparalleled Tanzania safari tour for the discerning travelers.

With its undulating landscapes, ranging from rugged hills to vast savannahs. Ruaha is home to some of the continent’s most iconic wildlife.

4. Zanzibar

Also known as the “Spice Island” Zanzibar Island is the main island of the semi-autonomous Zanzibar Archipelago off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean famous for its white-sand beaches, rich Swahili culture, historic Stone Town and spice plantations.

The island is heaven for water sports activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving with lots of luminous fish or just grazing over nearby coral gardens and pods of dolphins frolic offshore.

African Safaris in Kenya

A Kenya Safari offers you a step into the realm of unparalleled adventure where bespoke experiences await amidst the breathtaking landscapes of East Africa. Kenya is renowned for vibrant tribes, expansive savannahs, an abundance of wildlife and the majestic spectacle of the Great Migration.

Below are some of the best tourist destinations to visit on an African safari in Kenya

1. Masai Mara National Reserve

Arguably, the world’s greatest wildlife safari destination, the iconic Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the best game viewing areas in Africa and home to the Big Five, herds of zebras, impalas, and wildebeests.

A Masai Mara Safari takes you into a world where lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas reign supreme. Their presence is a testament to the wild beauty of the area and if you visit in the right you will witness the breathtaking spectacle of the Great Migration, as over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebras embark on a daring journey from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara.

2. Laikipia

The vast and luscious Laikipia Plateau is one of the best places to visit in Kenya for wildlife sighting. Located in between Mount Kenya and Samburu, Laikipia is made up of several private and community-owned conservancies.

Visitors on a Kenya Safari in Laikipia can encounter the most precious Kenya wildlife in a pristine, unfenced wilderness without encountering large crowds. Expect incredible sightings of majestic elephants, giraffes, lions, buffaloes, hippos and warthogs, as well as the elusive leopard, striped hyena and wild dogs.

3. Amboseli National Park

Located in Southern Kenya on the border with Tanzania, Amboseli National Park is one of the most popular parks in the country. This beautiful park is nestled at the foot of Africa’s towering pinnacle, Mount Kilimanjaro – the tallest mountain on the continent.

Spanning 392 square kilometers, the park encompasses a blend of plains, acacia woodlands, and rocky thorn bushes, creating an exquisite canvas for wildlife encounters. Witness the spectacle of over 900 elephants roaming freely, alongside graceful giraffes, wildebeests, and zebras and colorful birds recorded to be over 600 bird species.

5. Kenya South Coast

Experience the pristine beaches of Kenya South Coast and discover the white sandy beaches of Kenya.

Kenya is renowned for offering world-class luxury beach holidays, the pristine, palm fringed southern coastline is rimmed by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, fostering a balmy, tropical climate. Situated around bustling Mombasa and southward, Diani and Msambweni beaches are a blissful option for travelers seeking a relaxing beach holiday after an exhilarating Kenya safari.

Africa Safaris in Uganda

Home to chimpanzees, mountain gorillas and the Big Five, Uganda often nicknamed the “Pearl of Africa” is a lush, green mountainous region kept watered by its lakes and streams. A Uganda offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Located in Southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the best place to see the endangered mountain gorillas. Home to half of the remaining mountain gorilla populations and the largest number of habituated gorillas.

The impenetrable Bwindi Forest is situated on the edge of the Rift Valley and is one of the Africa’s most ancient and biologically diverse rainforests. Dating back over 25,000 years, this mist-covered jungle is home to an incredible 400 plant species and is home to some of the world’s rarest wildlife – the endangered mountain gorillas.

2. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Located in the southwest about 400 km from Kampala – Uganda’s Capital, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the second largest and most popular conservation area in Uganda. The park is popular for its breathtaking biodiversity and is a haven to over 600 bird species and 95 mammals, including elephants, hippos, African leopards and 10 species of primates.

With over 600 bird species, Queen Elizabeth National Park has been recognized by Birding International as an International Birding Area.

3. Kibale Forest National Park

Home to a huge population of chimpanzees, Kibale Forest National Park is a great chimpanzee trekking destination in Africa, world famous for endangered chimpanzees and the diversity of its habitats. At a size of 795 square kilometers, Kibale Forest is a rare expanse containing both lowland and montane forests, including the last large tract of pre-montane forests, including the last large tract of pre-montane forest in East Africa.

Kibale Forest is a perfect destination for visitors seeking out an encounter with chimpanzees and other 12 primate chimpanzees including black and white colobus monkeys, olive baboons, L’Hoest’s monkeys among others.

– The primate capital of Africa is one of the must visit places in Uganda, the forest offers an accessible and enlightening insight into life in a tropical rainforest

4. Murchison Falls National Park

At a size of 3,840 square kilometers of Murchison Falls National Park is the largest national park in Uganda found approximately 300 kilometers northwest of Kampala. This beautiful park is famous as the location of Murchison Falls – the thunderous cataract where the Nile River squeeze through a size – meter gap and then plunges 43 meters.

African Safaris in Botswana

Regarded as the Jewel of Africa, Botswana isn’t just a destination, it is an experience that will ignite fire in your soul. The abundant wildlife, awe-inspiring vistas, and a steadfast commitment to conservation make it a paradise for adventurers and dreamers alike.

1. Okavango Delta

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Big Five Safari destination, the Okavango Delta is a highlight of a Botswana Safari. The permanent swamps, seasonal floodplains, and dry woodlands support a variety of fauna and flora.

The stunning natural beauty of the region combined with an abundance of wildlife makes an Okavango Delta safari a life-changing experience.

The Delta hosts a variety of wildlife including the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinos, wild dogs, rare semi-aquatic Sitatunga antelope. With over 400 bird species, the Okavango Delta is a haven for bird watchers, the wetlands being prime locations for waders and water birds. Some of the birds to lookout for include the Pel’s fishing owl, wattled crane, greater swamp warbler and the slaty egret.

2. Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park and Savuti Marsh is the most biologically diverse park in Botswana, thus being a haven for wildlife, and a must-visit destination in South Africa for safari goers. From large herds of elephants roaming the wilderness to dramatic interactions between predators and their prey.

Top destinations to visit in Chobe National Park include Chobe Riverfront which forms the northern border of the national park, its lush plains and forests are home to large herds of elephants and buffaloes. The riverfront hosts the largest population of elephants in the world (around 120,000).

Chobe National Park is the best place to see elephants in action, they often congregate by the riverfront along with other animals such as zebras and antelope species.

3. Makgadikgadi Plains

The world’s largest salt flats, the Makgadikgadi Plains offer stark, breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife experiences including the impressive Zebra Migration. Botswana is known for its annual Zebra Migration with thousands of zebras moving between the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. This migration spans approximately 1,000 km, making it one of the longest mammal migrations known to man.

During the dry season, the cracked expanse of the Kalahari Basin an otherworldly landscape that may look utterly empty of life, but during the wet season, it completely transforms to attract a wealth wildlife.

4. Tsodilo Hills

Raising dramatically from the Kalahari Desert, Tsodilo Hills is a place of deep spiritual and historical significance. The hills create a striking contrast to the surrounding arid landscape.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is often referred to as the “Louvre of the Desert” as a result of its remarkable collection of ancient rock art. With over 4,500 rock paintings spread across its towering quartzite formations, the hills offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heritage of the San people, who have lived in the region for tens of thousands of years.

African Safaris in South Africa

South Africa is one of the greatest destinations in Africa with amazing attractions from wildlife, rolling vineyards of the Cape Winelands, where world-class wines await, to the Drakensberg Mountain’s dramatic cliffs and the Wild Coast’s untouched beaches.

1. Cape Town

Also known as the Mother City, Cape Town boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, all set against the iconic backdrop of Table Mountain. On a Cape Town Holiday, spend a morning climbing a mountain for stunning panoramic city views before heading to the beach to swim with penguins.

Then wander around museums or sip cocktails and dine at a world – famous food market.

Must visit areas in Cape Town include Table Mountain – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, V&A Waterfront- a shopping paradise and Robben Island among others.

2. Hermanus and Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

The Hermanus and Grootbos regions is where acres of undisturbed wilderness meet the ocean. Just 30 minutes away from each other, these two destinations are prime spots for nature lovers. Here you get to watch the massive whales breach the ocean’s surface and go for bush walks exploring through pristine habitats, spotting an incredible array of birdlife.

Must visit areas in Hermanus and Grootbos include Milkwood Forest where you take a walk through ancient trees, Klipgat Cave where the Khoi San dwelled, Grotto Beach and Hermanus Cliff Path for whale watching.

3. Addo Elephant National Park

Addo Elephant National Park is one of the largest parks in South Africa famous for its massive elephant population and diverse ecosystems. The park is not only home to the Big Five but is also the Big Seven.

Along with lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes and rhinos on land, the two remaining species are in the ocean, the southern right whale and the great white shark.

Must visit areas in Addo Elephant National Park include the main rest camp – a hub of activity and Zuurberg Mountain Trails known for its incredible scenery.

4. Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is among the famous parks in Africa and is for many reasons, from the extensive biodiversity and numerous safari options to the large numbers of Big Five animal species.

At a size of about 20,000 square kilometers, Kruger National Park offer an unmatched wildlife experience with incredible sightings of several wildlife species including lion, leopard, buffalo, elephants and rhinos.

Must visit areas in Kruger National Park are Southern Kruger – for white rhino sightings, Central Kruger – home to large lion pride and Northern Kruger for bird watching.

African Safaris in Namibia

Namibia is a land of dreamlike and otherworldly landscapes, where towering red dunes meet endless desert plains and rugged mountains cast long shadows over vast, untamed wilderness.

Here are the best parks to visit on a Namibia Safari

1. Sossusvlei

The Sossusvlei is Namibia’s most visited attraction due to its landscape of undulating burnt orange and apricot-colored dunes towering above the desert floor. During your visit to these out of the world sand dunes, don’t miss climbing one of the tallest dunes in the world and exploring iconic photographic safari locations.

Must visit areas in Sossusvlei are the Big Daddy Dune – the tallest dune in Sossusvlei, Deadvlei – a photographer’s paradise and Sesriem Canyon for its unique rock formations.

2. Windhoek

Windhoek, Namibia’s capital is a place where modern amenities and rich cultural heritage meet to create a spectacular holiday destination in the African desert. The city is a primary gateway to luxury safari experiences in Namibia, offering upscale accommodation, fine dining and insights to Nambia.

Must visit spots in Windhoek are Christuskirche – an early 1900s Church, the Independence Memorial Museum and Joe’s Beerhouse among others

3. Skeleton Coast

The Skeleton Coast is named so due to the whale bones on the shore and the remains of shipwrecks just off the coast. It is here at the 500 km coast, that travelers can explore one of the most fascinating wilderness areas on the continent.

Must visit areas on the Skeleton Coast are Cape Fur Seal Colony – the largest in the world and Clay Castles.

4. Etosha National Park

Comprising of grasslands and woodland savannah and dominated by a giant salt pan – Etosha Salt Pan, Etosha National Park is home to 114 species of mammals, including four of the Big Five and the world’s largest concentration of black rhinos.

African Safaris in Zambia

Zambia remains as one of Africa’s most unspoiled safari destinations offering raw and immersive safari experiences.

1. Kasanka National Park

Even though it is one of the smallest parks in Zambia, Kasanka National Park doesn’t disappoint. The park is the scene for the largest mammal migration in the world – the Kasanka bat migration.

The park encompasses papyrus marshes, swamp forests, and miombo woodlands which are home to fascinating bird species during a Zambia Safari.

Must-visit areas in Kasanka National Park are Fibwe Hide best for wildlife photographers and Luwombwa River for boat safaris.

2. Livingstone and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Experience the immense power of Victoria Falls from Livingstone, a vibrant town for which a host of exciting activities can be launched. On the borders of the falls lies Mosi – oa – Tunya National Park where a variety of wildlife thrives along the might Zambezi River.

Must visit areas in Livingstone and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park are Victoria Falls – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Knife – Edge Bridge – The dramatic viewpoint, the Zambezi River for water activities and the Devil’s Pool.

3. Lower Zambezi National Park

The waterways, towering escarpment, and rugged landscapes make Lower Zambezi National Park a perfect choice for an adventurous Zambezi Safari. Here you will be travelling across the plains to sight leopards, canoeing on the calm waters seeing elephants playing in the water, go for night drives and catch and release tiger fishing.

4. North Luangwa National Park

The North Luangwa National Park is a perfect spot for those interesting in wilderness entirely not affected by modern society. In the park there is few camps in this region, making it a perfect African safari adventure for you if you dream of immersing yourself in raw nature.

Must visit areas in North Luangwa National Park are Muchinga Mountains for bird watching expeditions and Mwaleshi River – a wildlife hotspot.

African Safaris in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe is arguably the most underrated safari destination in South Africa, where the legacy of ancient empires collides with raw untamed nature.

Here are the best spots to visit in Zimbabwe on an African Safari

1. Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park is one of Africa’s most renowned safari destination, a sanctuary for incredible wildlife sightings and diverse landscapes. Hwange is also the largest game reserve in Zimbabwe at 14600 square kilometers and is a must visit for an authentic safari experience with luxury accommodation.

2. Mana Pools National Park

Experience an authentic safari experience in Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s most spectacular safari destinations.

Mana Pools National Park is famed for its four large pools of water formed by the Zambezi River, which attracts an array of wildlife.

3. Lake Kariba

Lake Kariba is one of the world’s largest man-made lakes, offering a tranquil retreat with opportunities for water safaris, fishing, and viewing fiery sunsets over its expansive waters.

Lake Kariba is one of the best destinations in Zimbabwe for houseboat safaris, relax on deck as you pass hippos and crocodiles in the serene waters and elephants on the banks.

4. Victoria Falls

Also known as the “Smoke That Thunders”, Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, coming in at 1,708 m (5,604 ft) wide and 108m (354 ft) high. The Falls are one of the main draw cards in Zimbabwe for its awe-inspiring views, adventure activities and luxury accommodations.

What is the Best Time of Year for an African Safari Tour?

When planning an African safari or holiday, the best time to visit depends on your experience. You wouldn’t want to start your holiday in cyclone season or find that the migrating herds you have arrived to see have moved on.

Generally, Africa is warm and sunny throughout the year. But certain countries, and even regions within those countries, experience a variety of climates. The Key point to remember about the weather when you are planning an African safari is the difference between each region’s dry and wet seasons.

	Southern Africa	East Africa
Safari Destinations	·        South Africa ·        Botswana ·        Namibia ·        Zimbabwe ·        Zambia	·        Kenya ·        Tanzania ·        Uganda ·        Rwanda
Dry Seasons	May to October	January to March and June to October
Wet Seasons	Around November to April	Around April to June and November to December

What to wear on an African Safari

Your packing list is very important for an African safari, here is the essential list of what to wear for your African safari.

• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers (mostly neutral colors)
• A cap or hat
• Comfortable shoes
• Sweaters
• Sunglasses
• Poncho or rain jackets

What to Pack for Safaris in Africa?

Here is a list of the important items to pack for your safaris and tours in Africa

• A camera with extra batteries
• A day backpack
• Pair of binoculars
• Insect Repellents
• Personal first aid kit
• Sunscreen
• Personal medication prescription

Where to stay on an Africa Safari

African safari destinations have a range of accommodation options ranging from budget, midrange to luxury offers a perfect place to stay during your tour.  Your budget determines the kind of accommodation you stay at.

What is the Average Cost of an African Safari Trip?

The total cost of your Africa safari trip depends on your traveler’s budget. Many safaris offer per person pricing of around $ 150 to $ 15,000 per day. For example midrange African safari packages usually range between $ 250 to $350 per person per day.

What are the Best Safaris in Africa?

African offers some of the best safaris in the world and you can choose from various safari destinations and experiences including game viewing, cultural encounters, birding and enjoying natural African beauty.

Vaccination and Visa Requirements for African countries

Most of Africa countries require some vaccinations for international travelers to be allowed entry as tourists. Countries like Kenya, Botswana, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda all require you to be vaccinated against yellow fever so you should carry proof of these vaccinations.

Additionally, many tour destinations are not free of malaria, so it is necessary to ask your doctor for anti-malaria medication on your trip.