12 Best Countries In The World For Safari

An African safari has to be one of the most exciting adventures to experience as Africa bounces back as a tourist destination. More travelers are heading to iconic safari destinations as the pandemic’s restrictions fade into history. Go2Africa says July is the most popular month to take an African safari. South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania account for 60% of all inquiries about safaris.

These countries stand out because they combine unequaled wildlife viewing, assorted landscapes, and distinctive experiences, making them tops for wildlife lovers. Read on to discover 12 countries redefining safari travel this year​.

Kenya 

Take in the majesty of the African heartland on a Kenya safari that will take you to the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara. Watch thousands of wildebeest thundering across the plains while lions, leopards, and elephants follow close behind.

There is no better view of Kenya’s spectacular wildernesses than when taking a hot air balloon ride or enjoying your sunset cocktail.

Tanzania 

Tanzania is absolutely magical, with the Serengeti’s endless golden grasslands stretching afar and the Ngorongoro Crater, a stunning natural amphitheater swarming with wildlife.

Here, you can roam freely with the “Big Five” and watch thousands of the Great Migration cross the Mara River. After a safari adventure, relish Zanzibar’s sparkling beaches for a few days.

South Africa 

A safari in South Africa is like having the best of both worlds: top-tier wildlife viewing, world-class accommodations, and fascinating cultural experiences. One of the best places to see the Big Five species is Kruger National Park.

Private game reserves like Sabi Sands have expert rangers who take you up close and personal with Africa’s wildlife. After the safari, enjoy a glass of local wine or a coastal road trip along the Garden Route.

Botswana 

One of the most beautiful and unique safari destinations in the world is Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Hop onto a mokoro (traditional canoe) for a beautiful day of gliding through crystal-clear waterways, where you’ll see elephants, hippos, and beautiful birds.

You can also take a trip to the remote Kalahari Desert and the Makgadikgadi Pans, where wildlife roams the abstract backdrop of one of the most dramatic places on earth.

Namibia 

The majestic sand dunes of Sossusvlei, combined with bright blue skies stretching as far as the eye can see, will take your breath away.

Experience the greatest wildlife at Etosha National Park, from elephants to the endangered Black rhinoceros. Namibia’s desert-adapted animals, like the elusive desert lions, make it a safari destination like no other.

Zambia 

Zambia can boast of inventing the walking safari. There’s no better way to experience the wilderness than walking with professional guides. Here, the safari is all about up-close, heart-racing encounters with nature on foot or in a jeep.

The South Luangwa National Park is renowned for its leopards and wild dogs. The park’s wilderness and isolation combine to ensure that you’re visiting some of Africa’s last true wilderness.

Zimbabwe 

Although not as well-known as its neighboring safari hot spots, Zimbabwe is a safari gem. Hwange National Park has one of Africa’s largest elephant populations, incredible wildlife sightings, and few tourists.

Add the mighty Victoria Falls, and you have an absolutely unforgettable safari experience—a combination of nature in all its power and wildness.

Uganda 

Uganda is the place to go for the adventurer who needs more than just the standard safari. See giant mountain gorillas in the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park—one of the best places in the world to have an up-close gorilla experience.

Uganda’s wildlife doesn’t stop there: The big game in Queen Elizabeth National Park, boat safaris along the Nile, and chimpanzee trekking make this a must-visit destination.

Rwanda 

Trek in lush forests to glimpse the elusive mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Add to that the country’s dramatic landscape with volcanoes looming above misty valleys, and you’ll have an exceptional safari.

You can also check out Akagera National Park, where lions, giraffes, and elephants roam free.

Mozambique 

Mozambique is a destination that is often overlooked by safari operators. Although it is most famous for its idyllic beaches, it is also home to incredible wildlife.

Go to Gorongosa National Park, where a conservation success story plays out, or the Niassa Reserve, one of the world’s most remote and unspoiled places, with elephants, wild dogs, and rare species.

Madagascar 

Madagascar is another world where the wildlife is entirely distinct from anything you will find in other countries. The island is home to over 100 species of the world’s rarest lemurs, chameleons, and even baobab trees. This is a safari you won’t forget.

Here, you can wander along the Avenue of the Baobabs or visit the tropical forests to enjoy the sights of species unique to this part of the world—making this a real piece of heaven for any nature enthusiast.

Ethiopia 

Ethiopia is a safari paradise that integrates a fascinating cultural history with exciting wildlife. You can trek the Simien Mountains to spot rare gelada monkeys or explore the remote Omo Valley, where some of the world’s most unique tribes live.

Ethiopia’s varied landscapes—highland plateaus and deserts—offer many opportunities to explore the woods, see wildlife, and become part of the culture.

Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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