13 Must-Visit Places on African Safari: Captivating Stops You Can’t Miss

An African safari is the epitome of adventure for any traveler, pulsing with the spirit of exploration and discovery. This vast continent unfolds as a mesmerizing tapestry of landscapes—from verdant wetlands to sprawling savannahs, each corner teeming with wildlife and woven with captivating stories. 

Whether you’re plotting your next major getaway or simply daydreaming about the ultimate escape, get ready to dive into a curated list of top African safari destinations that offer much more than just a standard wildlife tour. 

It’s no secret—a safari is more than just ticking off animal sightings from a list. It’s a deep dive into nature’s subtleties, where you witness the raw, unscripted dramas of the wild and understand the critical conservation efforts shaping our world today.  

So, the big question is: where should you go? 

If you’re eager to spot the iconic Big Five—lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalo—Kenya could be your ideal starting point. The original safari destination offers a range of experiences suited to all budgets, with excellent tourism infrastructure. South Africa is another superb Big Five destination with family-friendly options in malaria-free zones and varied, non-wilderness experiences such as Cape Town and Johannesburg city breaks, and wine touring in the Cape Winelands.  If you’re looking to explore less-trodden paths or crave a bit more adventure, consider the seclusion of South Luangwa National Park in Zambia or the unique desert-adapted wildlife of Etosha National Park in Namibia. 

Timing is also key when planning your perfect African safari. While the dry months from June to September generally provide the best wildlife viewing, the wet season has its own charm with lush, green landscapes, fewer crowds, and vibrant birding opportunities. 

Ready to embark? Let’s dive into the best of African safaris, from the iconic Maasai Mara to the remote wilderness of Katavi and beyond, ensuring extraordinary experiences that will linger long after your journey ends. 

13 Best Safari in Africa

Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Okavango Delta, Botswana
Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Katavi National Park, Tanzania 
Ruaha National Park, Tanzania 
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia 
Greater Kruger, South Africa
Etosha National Park, Namibia
Nairobi National Park, Kenya
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Chobe National Park, Botswana
Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda 
Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

1. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

The Maasai Mara is synonymous with “safari” for good reason. This legendary national reserve in Kenya is a hotspot for witnessing the spectacular annual migration of wildebeest and zebra, which peaks between July and October as the herds cross over from Tanzania. Outside of these months, the herds are predominantly in the Serengeti. The Mara’s rolling grasslands and riverine forests also host a remarkable array of resident wildlife year-round, making it an exceptional spot for those eager to experience nature in its rawest form. 

If you’re picturing the ultimate safari, chances are you’re thinking of the Maasai Mara. It embodies the classic savannah experience—a vast grassland where animals roam freely and the views are nothing short of epic. For part of the year, this iconic region hosts one of the world’s most incredible wildlife spectacles, the Great Migration, and is teeming with resident game like lions, cheetahs, elephants, leopards, hippos, and more than 500 species of birds. For a more exclusive and intimate experience, consider staying in one of the private conservancies adjacent to the Mara, such as Mara North, Naboisho, or Olare Orok Conservancy. These conservancies offer the same breathtaking wildlife encounters with added benefits like fewer crowds and opportunities for night drives. 

Beyond the wildlife, the Maasai Mara is steeped in rich cultural heritage. Visiting local Maasai villages provides a glimpse into the vibrant, semi-nomadic lifestyle of the Maasai people, whose traditions have been intertwined with the East African landscape for centuries. Engaging with the Maasai is a highlight of the Mara experience, offering a firsthand look at their unique culture and the inspiring ways they steward conservation efforts. 

As the sun sets on the Mara, the sky lights up with stars, offering one of the most breathtaking celestial views on the planet. While night game drives and off-roading are restricted to the private conservancies adjacent to the Mara—due to the reserve’s strict operating hours and rules—you’re free to enjoy one or both at select conservancy camps.  

If you’re an early riser, balloon safaris provide a unique vantage point. Float whimsically above the landscape and then land in a secluded setting for a Champagne bush breakfast.  

With its stunning sunsets and star-studded skies, the Maasai Mara is not just a safari—it’s a wild ride through nature’s grandest show. For an extra touch of magic, think about visiting during the off-season, often known as the “secret season.” You’ll dodge the crowds and experience the landscape bursting with vibrant greens after some refreshing showers. 

2. Okavango Delta, Botswana 

Now, imagine trading the savannah for a scene straight out of a dream: gliding through crystal-clear waters in a traditional mokoro canoe as elephants meander along the water’s edge. Welcome to the Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta. 

Located in the heart of Botswana, the delta is an oasis of islands, lagoons, and lush grasslands, alive with a dizzying array of wildlife. From predatory lions and elusive leopards to a diverse birdlife that captivates ornithologists, the Delta is a dynamic natural paradise. 

The waterways of the Okavango are the arteries that feed this lush landscape, making water-based safaris a thrilling way to explore. Each twist and turn around the papyrus-lined channels can bring you face-to-face with nature’s dramas.  

The rainy season greens the Delta’s landscapes, but with water more abundant, animals tend to disperse rather than gather. It’s during the dry season that the floodwaters from Angola arrive, transforming the landscape into a watery oasis. This unusual shift concentrates animals on smaller tracts of land and newly formed islands, offering a unique spectacle.  

To fully experience the Delta’s dual nature, we recommend staying at two different camps—one for a land experience and another for a water experience—along with a visit to Linyanti for a well-rounded and sublime Botswana safari. If you have the time, venture south of the Delta to the country’s arid Central Kalahari heartland.  

3. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania 

Ready for a dramatic change of scenery? Descending into the Ngorongoro Crater feels like stepping onto the stage of a natural amphitheater. This volcanic caldera, nestled within the Eastern Rift of northern Tanzania, is a conservation area and a unique ecosystem that supports a stunning diversity of wildlife, including the densest population of lions in the world. 

The fertile soils and abundant water of the crater floor support a wide array of wildlife, from herds of wildebeest and zebra to the elusive endangered black rhino. Above, the surrounding highlands offer sweeping panoramas and a cooler climate, providing a pleasant break from the Tanzanian heat. 

The area’s nutrient-rich grasses support an impressive array of life, drawing 25,000 larger animals, more than 100 bird species, and the famed Big Five—making game viewing here absolutely spectacular. While overnight stays are not allowed inside the crater, day-trip game drives from nearby lodges on the crater rim or the verdant highlands allow for full-day explorations. 

Visiting the Ngorongoro Crater is ideal during the dry season from June to October, when sparse vegetation makes wildlife easier to spot and animals gather around water sources. However, the Crater is no hidden gem and during peak season, can feel very crowded. Those looking to avoid crowds should visit during secret season, from November to May.  

4. Katavi National Park, Tanzania 

If solitude and a relatively untouched wilderness paradise appeal to you, Katavi National Park in western Tanzania should be high on your list. As part of the Southwest Circuit, alongside Selous, Ruaha, and Mahale, Katavi stands as the ultimate safari frontier. 

Katavi is celebrated for exceptional game viewing in one of East Africa’s most rugged and relatively untouched wilderness paradises. The dramatic landscape features vast floodplains that dry out during the hot season, attracting large concentrations of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species. This seclusion, combined with some of the most intense dry season game viewing in Africa, creates a truly exclusive safari experience. 

During the wet season, Katavi transforms into a lush, verdant paradise. It draws herds of Tanzania’s last big buffalo and becomes a haven for giraffes, antelopes, and elephants. The park’s isolation often means you’ll experience wildlife viewing without the interruptions of other vehicles, providing a deeply immersive experience. 

Katavi’s raw, unspoiled beauty is matched by the rugged nature of the safari experience. With limited camps, including our favorite property, Chada Katavi, the challenging terrain and sparse accommodations cater to adventurous souls, promising a level of authenticity and wildlife viewing that is hard to find elsewhere. 

5. Ruaha National Park, Tanzania 

Ruaha National Park is a lesser-visited gem among Africa’s safari destinations. Located in the heart of Tanzania, Ruaha represents a striking convergence of East and Southern African ecosystems. This fusion creates a biodiversity hotspot brimming with wildlife. As a key part of Tanzania’s remote and wild southern circuit—which also includes Selous, Katavi, and Mahale—Ruaha offers a breathtaking experience that remains vastly underappreciated. 

The park is renowned for its large populations of elephants and buffaloes, as well as a vibrant mix of bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. The dramatic landscapes of Ruaha, from rolling hills to sweeping plains dotted with ancient baobab trees, offer a dramatic backdrop for wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities. 

Visiting Ruaha from June to October is not just ideal—it’s the only time we recommend. During the dry season, viewing conditions are optimal, access is easier, and the climate is more bearable compared to other times of the year, when heat can be oppressive, bugs proliferate, and roads may become impassable.  

Regular, reasonably priced flights from Dar es Salaam make the park readily accessible. For a truly remote safari experience, pair a visit to Ruaha with Nyerere National Park, or opt for the ultimate Tanzania adventure by combining it with a trip to the Serengeti, where direct flights are available. 

6. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia 

South Luangwa National Park, often hailed as one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world, lies at the end of the Great Rift Valley in Zambia. Known as the birthplace of the walking safari, it offers an unrivaled wilderness experience, where visitors can tread paths less traveled and stand eye-to-eye with nature. The Luangwa River, winding through the park, supports a dense population of game, including elephant, buffalo, leopard, and lion. 

The park is especially famous for its thriving leopard population, providing some of the best opportunities to witness these elusive cats in their natural habitat. The diverse landscapes of South Luangwa—from thick forests of mopane trees and acacia to wide open savannah—are a backdrop to a spectacular array of wildlife, including more than 400 species of birds. Night safaris are a standout too, offering glimpses into the predatory nightlife, where the real drama of nature unfolds under the cover of darkness. 

The prime time to explore South Luangwa National Park is during the drier months, from April through October, extending into early November when temperatures peak—which is not for everyone. This dry period not only highlights the park’s abundant wildlife but also favors walking safaris, a specialty here. Most camps provide both walking safaris in the cool of the morning and game drives in the afternoon, utilizing accessible road networks. 

South Luangwa’s seclusion enhances its allure, offering visitors a unique sense of exclusivity and a deeper connection with nature. Its remote charm and the exceptional safari experiences it offers rank it among the top destinations for an African safari. 

7. Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa 

Is it Greater Kruger time? Absolutely. Greater Kruger National Park is a vast territory that epitomizes one of Africa’s most iconic ecosystems. It comprises Kruger National Park and several private reserves along its borders, where fences have been removed to allow wildlife to roam freely across this expansive area. Here, the Big Five wander at will, providing encounters that are both awe-inspiring and humbling. 

The park’s biodiversity stretches beyond the Big Five, boasting more than 500 bird species and a rich variety of other wildlife. This diversity makes it a premier destination not just for big game enthusiasts but also for birdwatchers and those interested in exploring the broader ecological fabric. 

Because of some challenges with crowds and paved roads within the main areas of the national park, it’s well worth exploring the private game reseves along the western side for a more secluded and intimate safari experience. Sabi Sand, Thornybush, and Timbavati are some of our favorites, offering a more secluded and intimate safari experience.  

Getting to Greater Kruger is straightforward with daily direct flights to the park’s main airport, as well as to smaller airports to the north and south. From Johannesburg, lodge hop flights bring you directly to the camps’ nearby airstrips. Additionally, from Nelspruit, you can extend your journey to Livingstone (Victoria Falls) or fly to Vilanculos to explore Mozambique‘s pristine southern beaches. 

8. Etosha National Park, Namibia 

Etosha National Park stands as one of the premier wildlife sanctuaries in Africa. Known for the Etosha Pan—a vast, stark expanse of white salt encrusted earth visible even from space—the park offers one of the most unique landscapes for safari-goers. During the dry season, this pan attracts animals from across the region to its waterholes, creating spectacular opportunities for wildlife viewing. Etosha National Park is home to a variety of animals including elephants, lions, rhinos, and a plethora of bird species, making it a biodiversity hotspot. 

The design of Etosha revolves around the various waterholes, both natural and artificial, providing visitors with almost guaranteed wildlife sightings. Each waterhole presents a different tableau of wildlife interactions and dynamics, offering a fascinating insight into the survival strategies of different species. As the sun sets, the floodlit waterholes near the rest camps allow for nocturnal wildlife watching—an enchanting experience as the African night comes alive with sounds and movements. 

It’s highly recommended to explore the private conservancies surrounding the national park, like Onguma and Ongava, which offer a more secluded and exclusive game-viewing experience while still providing full access to the national park itself. This is especially beneficial in July and August when Etosha can be crowded. 

When planning your safari adventure, consider splitting your stay between the private reserves on both the Eastern and Western sides of the park. Also, set aside a day or more to drive through the center of the park for a complete experience of this majestic landscape. 

9. Nairobi National Park, Kenya 

Nairobi National Park, nestled within the heart of Kenya’s capital, offers an unparalleled safari experience just a stone’s throw from the urban hustle. As the oldest national park in Kenya and the only one in the world that borders a capital city, it presents a unique blend of urban convenience with untamed wilderness. This proximity makes it perfect for those looking to squeeze in a quick safari during a long layover. 

Imagine capturing breathtaking photos of giraffes and zebras with Nairobi’s skyscrapers forming a surreal backdrop. The park’s well-maintained trails and strategic viewing points offer up-close wildlife encounters within a natural setting. The park’s ease of access from the city center or leafy Karen suburb, combined with its diverse wildlife, makes it a standout destination on the African safari circuit, appealing to both seasoned safari-goers and newcomers alike. 

For those spending more time in Nairobi, there are numerous things to do and sites to explore. From cultural landmarks to culinary adventures, the city offers a range of experiences that complement the natural wonders of the national park. 

10. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania 

Oh, the famous Serengeti National Park—a symbol of African wildlife and the quintessential safari landscape. Renowned for its vast, open plains that stretch endlessly, the Serengeti is most celebrated for the Great Migration. As noted earlier, this annual spectacle sees more than two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle traversing the plains in search of fresh grazing, closely followed by predators. It’s one of the most breathtaking and largest animal movements in the world. The park’s ecosystem is one of the oldest on earth, with its climate, vegetation, and fauna having changed very little over the past million years, offering a living window into the past. 

The Serengeti’s biodiversity is unparalleled, hosting more than 70 large mammal species and 500 bird species, making it one of the richest areas for wildlife viewing in Africa. Beyond the migratory herds, the park supports well-established populations of lion, leopard, elephant, and buffalo.  

For those seeking a quieter, more secluded safari, the lesser-known areas of the park, such as the Western Corridor or the Northern Lobo area, provide tranquil settings where visitors can enjoy wildlife without the crowds. The park’s diverse habitats, from riverine forests and swamps to kopjes and volcanic landscapes, ensure a rich variety of experiences and sights. 

As a rule of thumb, the best time to visit the Serengeti depends on what you want to see. The Great Migration is typically in the southern plains from December to March, in the western corridor around May to July, and crossing the Mara River in the north from July to September. Each season offers unique spectacles, ensuring a memorable safari experience no matter when you visit. 

11. Chobe National Park, Botswana 

Chobe National Park is yet another prime example of an exceptional African safari experience. Known for its impressive elephant herds and its strategic location at the meeting point of four African countries, Chobe boasts an incredible ecological diversity that supports a wealth of wildlife throughout the year. The Chobe River, a lifeline during the dry season, draws large congregations of elephants, antelopes, and predators, offering some of the best game viewing opportunities available. 

With a landscape that ranges from dense woodlands and lush floodplains to the dramatic Savuti Marsh, Chobe provides a variety of safari experiences. The riverfront area is the most accessible and popular, allowing for both land and water-based safaris. Water safaris here are particularly unique, providing intimate encounters with aquatic species and a fresh perspective on the wildlife drawn to the river. 

During the final months of the dry season, especially in September and October, you can witness massive herds of elephants, with boat trips offering a spectacular view of these giants. Chobe’s game viewing is superb, featuring a wide range of animals and birds. Notably, the Chobe River near Kasane is the only place in Botswana where puku can be found, often alongside lechwe and impala. 

While Chobe’s popularity and accessibility from Victoria Falls and Livingstone can mean it gets crowded. An Extraordinary Journeys Botswana specialist can help design a more exclusive Chobe experience.  

12. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda 

Nestled in the misty jungles of the Virunga Mountains, Volcanoes National Park is as a striking testament to nature’s raw power, offering one of Africa’s most immersive safari experiences. 

Home to a significant portion of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, this park is the ultimate destination for those eager to encounter these majestic yet gentle giants in their natural habitat. Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, and visits to the golden monkeys involve hikes deep into the forest, where you’ll spend an hour observing these habituated primate families in their serene environment.  

Gorilla trekking is Volcanoes’ main attraction, but the friendly locals, fascinating villages, excellent hiking trails, and dramatic landscapes—including the iconic volcanoes—add to the park’s diverse appeal. 

For the adventurous, the trek up Mount Bisoke offers breathtaking views of a tranquil crater lake, with the hike also leading to the grave site of renowned gorilla researcher Dian Fossey, adding historical significance to your journey. 

Located just a three-hour scenic drive from Kigali or a quick helicopter transfer away, Volcanoes National Park seamlessly blends pristine wilderness with luxurious comfort. Whether you’re diving into a gorilla trekking adventure or enjoying a relaxing stay between treks, Volcanoes National Park promises a unique African experience, combining thrilling wildlife encounters with serene moments amidst nature’s splendor. 

13. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe 

Capping off our list of must-visit African safari destinations, Hwange National Park is a premier choice for an off-the-beaten-path Zim adventure, offering a quieter yet equally thrilling safari experience. 

Imagine the sun beating down on an expansive, rugged landscape, drawing wildlife to the few waterholes scattered across the park. Here, elephants and zebras gather in surprising groups, while giraffes awkwardly stretch their necks for a drink, and predators linger nearby, adding an exciting edge to the scene. During the dry season, the lack of permanent water sources drives animals to the pumped boreholes, creating a scene that’s both dramatic and captivating. 

Transitioning from the waterholes to the campsites, the close encounters with wildlife are truly remarkable. Imagine elephants just an arm’s length away, their trunks submerged in the pool as they drink. 

The park also includes several private concessions, home to some of Zimbabwe’s best luxury safari lodges. Staying in one of these concessions grants access to exclusive activities such as walking safari, and night/sunset game drives—experiences not available in the national park areas. This ensures a distinctive and private safari experience. 

Hwange is the perfect complement to other iconic landmarks, with easy connections to breathtaking Victoria Falls and Botswana’s Okavango Delta.  

Begin Your Journey to the Perfect African Safari 

Embarking on an African safari is an adventure that stays with you long after you’ve left. Whether you’re drawn to the iconic plains of the Maasai Mara, the lush channels of the Okavango Delta, or the dramatic vistas of Ngorongoro Crater, each destination offers something special. 

It’s more than just ticking animals off your list. It’s about feeling the raw, unscripted dramas of the wild and understanding the efforts to conserve these incredible landscapes. Each place, from the secluded trails of South Luangwa to the unique desert wildlife of Etosha, offers a distinct experience that’s just waiting to be explored. 

Remember, timing is key. Whether you go during the dry season for the best wildlife viewing or the wet season for lush landscapes and vibrant birding, each season has its own perks. And while some spots might be more popular, the secret seasons offer a quieter, more intimate experience. 

As you dream about your perfect safari, let Extraordinary Journeys make it a reality. With our deep knowledge and passion for Africa, we craft one-of-a-kind luxury and life-changing travel experiences. Ready for the journey of a lifetime? Reach out to us and tell us about the trip you dream of taking, and we will make it a reality!