Witnessing this incredible movement of wildlife is truly one of the most breathtaking experiences on a safari in Africa. Thousands of species make their way seeking better grazing and water over hundreds of miles, creating a bend of color and dust and thundering noise. TIP: watch from the air in a hot air balloon!
Masai Mara National Park, located in southwest
Tanzania, on the border with Kenya, is a classic destination for your first Safari. Here you’ll see many of the classic Africa wildlife you’d hope to see on safari (including the Big 5). It is also a very popular travel destination for visiting traditional African communities and villages.
Located in Botswana, this gorgeous national park is known for the incredibly biodiversity and ecosystems. The dry season is the best time to visit for observing herds of elephants - approximately 120,000 elephants make their home in this protected area and they are a main draw for visitors to the park.
In the northeastern part of South Africa, Kruger remains one of the most popular destinations for safaris, in particular first time safari goers. The park is well known for its many bird species - birders should plan to visit between October and March when Kruger is home to several hundred more birds than usual due to migratory seasons. This park also features several different accommodation options making it perfect for families and couples.
Ahh the Serengeti. Just the name conjures up images of classic Africa. This park in Tanzania definitely has one of the most quintessential landscapes in Africa, and it’s massive size makes it feel much more remote than some of the other parks in Africa. For watching the Great Migration, this is where you want to travel to.
The volcanic crater here is perhaps the main draw, secondary to the wildlife (which is also extraordinary). The crater serves as an incredible backdrop for the animals here, especially black rhino, making for great photographs. Ngorongoro crater is also great for hiking and nature walks. The other thing not to miss here is the paleoanthropological site at Olduvai Gorge. This area has been incredibly significant to the study of human evolution, providing many key findings.
The “Big 5” refers to five major species that people often hope to see when they travel to Africa on a safari. Originally a term used by hunters to describe the most prized kills (in terms of difficulty), it has been somewhat reclaimed by the travel industry. These animals include: African Elephant, Black Rhinoceros, African Buffalo, African Lion, and the African Leopard. The best safari destinations to see the Big 5 include: South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Step away from the safari jeep and head into the bush for an unforgettable African safari experience. This brings you up even closer and more personal to the surrounding wildlife, following a knowledgeable guide who can educate on the many animals, plants, ecosystems and nature you encounter. These walks are typically easy, flat, well maintained and guided. You’ll also have the opportunity for amazing photographs when you don’t have to constantly use a long telephoto lens from far away.
There are many ways to experience Africa on safari. Some may crave the camping under the stars experience, while others consider safaris more as a day trip from a hotel. But without a doubt one of the most unique ways is staying at luxury safari lodge. It’s a great way to relax after a long day in the sun watching amazing wildlife, they provide comfort, good food, good drink, and amazing customer service.
The Okavango Delta in Botswana is a great safari travel experience. Perhaps not for the first time safari goer, but if you are
traveling to Africafor a second, third, or fourth time this is highly recommended to check out. The gathering of animals at this beautiful delta include wildebeest, elephant, crocodiles, giraffes, and hyenas.