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Best North Africa Safari Tours

Pick the perfect Safari tour package in North Africa. There are 30 North Africa safaris to choose from, that range in length from 2 days up to 25 days. The most popular month for these tours is March. Click here to see all African safaris .

30 North Africa safari tour packages with 214 reviews

Morocco Dune Buggy Adventure - Off Road & Wild Camps Tour

  • Christmas & New Year

Morocco Dune Buggy Adventure - Off Road & Wild Camps

Amazing adventure, excellent tour guide, great hotels. I highly recommend this active 5-day tour starting from Marrakech. Thank you so much Mohamed!

10 Days Imperial Cities And Desert Tour

10 Days Imperial Cities And Desert

I recently had the incredible opportunity to embark on a journey with Morocco Magic Trip, and I am absolutely thrilled to share my positive experience. From the moment I booked my trip to the final farewell, every aspect of the adventure was nothing short of magical. Morocco Magic Trip's attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction truly set them apart. The itinerary they crafted was a perfect blend of cultural exploration, breathtaking landscapes, and immersive experiences. From the bustling markets of Marrakech to the serene vastness of the Sahara Desert, each destination was carefully selected to showcase the diverse beauty of Morocco.

\"Embark on a 9-day journey starting from Casablanca, passing through Chefchaouen, Fez, and concluding in Marrakech.\" Tour

"Embark on a 9-day journey starting from Casablanca, passing through Chefchaouen, Fez, and concluding in Marrakech."

I would highly recommend the morocco magic trip. Our local guide sabir was absolutely fantastic. He made sure everything ran smoothly and that everyone was having a good time, whilst also teaching us loads about the history and culture of Morocco. This trip is a great way to see a lot of Morocco in a short period of time

Tunisia Expedition 10 Days/ 9 Nights ( Comfort) Tour

Tunisia Expedition 10 Days/ 9 Nights ( Comfort)

From Cairo - Private 3 Days 2 Nights White Desert and Bahariya Oasis Tour Tour

From Cairo - Private 3 Days 2 Nights White Desert and Bahariya Oasis Tour

We spent a lovely day with Omar, Tamir and Mahmoud! The landscape surprises us every second: black and white sand, remarkable stones. The weather was unexpected as well but we were lucky and the rain didn’t catch us at all, only in a car???? I can recommend this company to my friends, they will never forget such experience!

5 Days 4 Nights to Gara Cave Desert Tour Tour

5 Days 4 Nights to Gara Cave Desert Tour

Morocco 7 Days Tour From Casablanca Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

Morocco 7 Days Tour From Casablanca

The 7 day Kasbah tour from casablanca was amazing. Minibus very comfortable, driver was excellent, guide amazing & had sufficient time to see & explore the locations. Not having all meals included, gave us the chance to go out to choose & eat at local resturants. Hotels were comfortable.

Fun Outdoor Experience :  5 Days Siwa Safari From Cairo Tour

Fun Outdoor Experience : 5 Days Siwa Safari From Cairo

9 Days Morocco Tours From Casablanca Tour

9 Days Morocco Tours From Casablanca

Excellent private tour. Our guide (Aissa) was incredibly knowledgable and gave us a fantastic tour of Morocco. He provided us with a great mix of history, local knowledge and personal stories to keep our group entertained and engaged throughout the 09 days. We visited many cities and were given ample time to take in the beautiful scenery, as well as given personal tours of a few of the cities with local tour guides. Highlight of the trip was visiting the Sahara Desert and staying at the luxury camp. Everyone was very hospitable and accommodating throughout the whole trip, and every Riad we stayed at was beautiful and homey. Time and money well invested, highly recommend.

Black and White Desert Tour 2 Days 1 Night From Cairo Or Giza Tour

Black and White Desert Tour 2 Days 1 Night From Cairo Or Giza

Marrakech Desert Trip Chigaga Dunes Riding Camel Sandboarding Tour

Marrakech Desert Trip Chigaga Dunes Riding Camel Sandboarding

Thula Thula Game Reserve Experience 3Day/2nights Tour

Thula Thula Game Reserve Experience 3Day/2nights

Prime Sahara 8 days full board Tour

Prime Sahara 8 days full board

4 days tour package to Siwa oasis from Cairo Tour

4 days tour package to Siwa oasis from Cairo

3 days tour package to Siwa oasis from Cairo Tour

3 days tour package to Siwa oasis from Cairo

North africa safari tour reviews.

The five-day desert buggy journey was an incredible enjoyable! The exhilaration was never-ending as we drove across sand dunes and rocky terrain. Each day provided fresh scenery and activities, and the nights spent beneath the starry desert sky were magnificent. Expert guidance ensured that everything went well, making for a wonderful experience. If you're seeking for an exhilarating desert trip, this tour is a must!
We decided to go to Morocco for our Honeymoon and it most definitely did not disappoint! We started off with doing our own research and trip planning but all the major cities that we wanted to visit were very far apart and long driving distance. We went back & forth for awhile debating whether we wanted to join a tour or continue with our own planning as we enjoy the freedom of our own traveling schedule. Ended up going with the 12 Day Tour of Morocco but was able to work with sabir to tailor the itinerary to fit what we were looking for. We ended up fitting everything we wanted into 10 days as that was our max travel dates. sabir went ABOVE & BEYOND our expectations. He is super knowledgeable about all the destinations we attended and gave us historic details. He really did plan every bit of the day for us, including hotel stays, restaurants that are less touristy and more local, he helped us with our bags to our room, organized local tour guides if we wanted in each city. On top of that he is a very funny and outgoing individual, which made the long drives together that much more fun. We couldnt have had a better honeymoon trip! Everything about Morocco was absolutely beautiful and so cultural! sabir added a huge value to the great time we had. We now gained a new good friend out of sabir. We will be back to Morocco again & will definitely book another tour with sabir!
From the moment we started our journey in Marrakech, I was impressed by the seamless organization and attention to detail provided by Morocco Magic Trip. Our itinerary was thoughtfully crafted to include the best of what Morocco has to offer, and the diversity of destinations truly exceeded my expectations. The highlight of the trip was undoubtedly the visit to the desert. The vast golden dunes of the Sahara were unlike anything I had ever seen before. The camel trekking experience during sunset was breathtaking, and spending a night in a traditional desert camp under a canopy of stars was a dream come true.

Travel Styles

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  • 10 Best Safaris in April 2024/2025
  • 10 Best Safaris in March 2024/2025
  • 10 Best Safaris in February 2024/2025
  • 10 Best Luxury African Safari Tours 2024/2025

International Versions

  • Deutsch: Nordafrika Safari
  • Français: Afrique du Nord Safaris 2024/2025
  • Español: Safaris en Norte de África
  • Nederlands: Safari Rondreizen in Noord-Afrika

Protect Your Trip »

12 Top African Safari Tours

Cross this must-do activity off your bucket list.

Top African Safari elephant

Courtesy of Micato Safaris

Spot the big five on your safari adventure.

Safari tours in Africa are just as diverse as the continent itself, though these types of trips typically require a large sum of money. Whether you want to spend a few days gorilla trekking in Uganda or a couple weeks spotting the "big five" – lions, leopards, African elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalos – in South Africa, you'll find an array of tours to best suit your needs. To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News compiled a list of 12 can't-miss African safari tours. Read on to find your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Note: Some of the African countries in this article may require travelers to get an entry visa and certain vaccinations in order to visit. Jump to the list of visa and vaccination requirements by country at the bottom of this page for more information.

&Beyond

African Safari vacation

Courtesy of &Beyond

Visitors who don't want to sacrifice creature comforts while on safari will appreciate &Beyond's offerings. During the tour operator's 10-day Kings of the Jungle safari – which starts at $11,340 per person – travelers will see breathtaking natural wonders like the Ngorongoro Crater and the Maasai Mara savanna. But the highlight of this journey is its four-night stay at Tanzania's Serengeti National Park . After watching animals like wildebeest and zebras partake in the great migration while also spotting lions, giraffes and more, vacationers retreat to high-end tents and lodges with private bathrooms.

[See more of Serengeti National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Wilderness Safaris

African Safari camp vacation

Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris

For some of Africa's most jaw-dropping scenery, opt for the seven-night Namibian Adventure Safari tour offered by Wilderness Safaris. This weeklong trip features visits to the Namib Desert's dune-filled Sossusvlei region (which you may recognize from the film "Mad Max: Fury Road") and the mountainous Palmwag Concession – a protected area with springboks, giraffes, black rhinos and more. The package's per person fee starts at $6,725, which covers most meals, park entrance fees, and transfers from Namibia's capital Windhoek and between the safari destinations. It also covers your stay at properties like the fully solar-powered Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp and the five-star Little Kulala lodge amid the stunning desert.

Wild Rwanda Safaris

African Safari gorilla in Rwanda

Courtesy of Wild Rwanda Safaris)

Adventurous travelers sticking to a more conservative budget should consider Wild Rwanda Safaris' Bwindi Gorilla Safari. The three-day package features a full day in southwestern Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (a haven for silverback gorillas) and an adjacent Batwa Pygmy community. Wild Rwanda Safaris allows guests to choose between midrange, luxury and super luxury accommodation, which can help keep costs down if necessary. The company's packages include the $700 permit required to visit the gorilla park. The round-trip journey by safari vehicle to and from Kigali, Rwanda, and English-speaking guide services are also covered in all rates. The tour can begin from Kampala, Uganda, as well, although you'll spend longer on the road to the park.

Nomad Tanzania

African Safari in Tanzania

Courtesy of nomad-tanzania.com

Sign up for Nomad Tanzania's Southern Tanzania safari and you're bound to get an up-close look at Tanzania's diverse wildlife. Offering eight days of activities, including game drives and boat trips in Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park, this safari gives you prime opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards and elephants, among other species. What's more, lodging at the company's campsites, select meals, and flights to and from Dar es Salaam are factored into the package's prices. Expect to pay a minimum of $5,700 per person; prices vary depending on the time of year, and the tour isn't offered in April and May.

Micato Safaris

(Courtesy of Micato Safaris)

If you want to explore multiple destinations while on safari with plenty of comfort (but a price tag to match), book the 15-day Micato Grand Safari. This outing by Micato Safaris starts with a two-day visit to Nairobi, Kenya, before continuing to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and the Amboseli and Serengeti national parks for wildlife-viewing excursions. During your trip, you'll see Mount Kilimanjaro as zebras, gazelles and more roam in the foreground. The package costs at least $22,450 per person (based on double occupancy rates) and includes a hot air balloon ride, a camel tour led by members of the Samburu tribe, and lodging at upscale properties like Serengeti's Four Seasons outpost. The company also offers various extensions allowing you to explore other parts of Africa, from the island paradise of Zanzibar to the deserts of Namibia.

Rothschild Safaris

African safari vacation

Courtesy of Rothschild Safaris

If your ideal safari vacation consists of customizing your trip from start to finish, consider an outing with Rothschild Safaris. The company offers itineraries in locales like Zambia and Madagascar , but if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the big five animals, the Essence of Tanzania safari is a good bet. This nine-day experience, which embarks from Arusha and returns there by plane, includes game-viewing drives in Tarangire National Park and accommodations like canvas tents and farmhouse lodges. Elephants, zebras and lions are just some of the animals you may spot during your journey. You'll also have the opportunity to go on a nighttime safari to spot nocturnal wildlife.

Lion World Travel

African safari vacation

Courtesy of Lion World Travel

As the trip name implies, Lion World Travel's 10-day Best of Cape Town & Botswana vacation package combines sightseeing in Cape Town, South Africa , with a classic safari in Botswana. During the latter half of the itinerary, visitors will explore Botswana's Okavango Delta (home to cheetahs, crocodiles, hippos and more) and Chobe National Park, which is believed to have Africa's largest elephant population. Prices start at $4,299 per person and cover game drives; many of your meals; and stays at luxury hotels, camps and lodges. You'll need to pay an extra charge for the flights within the tour (Cape Town to Botswana as well as Botswana to Johannesburg ).

[See more of Cape Town: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Bearded Heron Safaris

African safari vacation

Neil Heron | Courtesy of Bearded Heron Safaris

Travelers keen on seeing South Africa's Kruger National Park through the eyes of a local naturalist will appreciate the 15-day safari with Bearded Heron Safaris. Led by Neil Heron, a nature guide and wildlife photographer and writer, Bearded Heron Safaris' longest option features small game drives that may include lion, rhino, zebra and leopard sightings throughout all corners of Kruger. Rates are inclusive of in-park cottage accommodations and all breakfasts, dinners, snacks and drinks. Flights and park fees are not included. For a 15-day safari, expect to pay 76,900 South African rand (about $4,500) per person.

[See more of Kruger National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Discover Africa

Black rhinoceros in the african savannah

Getty Images

For an inside-out trip through the natural wonders of Botswana, Discover Africa's nine-day Epic Botswana Adventure is a formidable option. You'll start out at a riverside lodge on the Chobe River – a great location for elephant spotting – before moving onto the marshy Okavango Delta, a wildlife-rich area where you can spot a huge range of animals from leopards to rhinos. The safari ends at the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, a good place to admire wildlife like zebras and buffalo on the savanna as well as salt pans from a former lake. You'll stay in upscale lodges and campsites within close reach of the wilderness. All meals and transport along the tour are included in the price tag (which starts at $4,800 per person), but international flights are excluded.

Wild Wings Safaris

north african safari

If you're looking to have a broader experience that mixes in some history and beach time, consider Wild Wings Safaris' eight-day Battlefields, Bush and Beach Safari. You'll start off visiting some of South Africa's historic sites from the Boer wars, before moving on to the Phinda Private Game Reserve, which doesn't allow day visitors, so you should be able to look out for the big five without too many crowds. The tour wraps up at Thonga Beach Lodge, where you can snorkel or scuba dive near coral reefs in the Indian Ocean. As far as safaris go, this one is an affordable option, starting at about $2,795 per person with all meals included as well as a rental car; for the cheapest price, you will need to drive yourself between the destinations, but it's possible to pay an additional fee for a driver to guide you instead.

Cuckoo Safaris

Aerial few of the world famous Victoria Falls with a large rainbow over the falls. This is right at the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe in Southern Africa. The mighty Victoria Falls at Zambezi river are one of the most visited touristic places in Africa.

This tour company kicks off its tours from the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, with a host of safaris that range from two days to nine, across Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana, including some family-friendly choices. For an affordable option, there's the four-day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe and Hwange Park safari, which will take you on two full-day tours to Chobe National Park (across the border in Botswana) and to Hwange, Zimbabwe's largest national park, where you should keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants and more. This safari also includes a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. The price starts at $900 per person, which includes the tours plus breakfast, lunch and lodging in Victoria Falls; travelers will need to pay for entrance fees to the parks and dinner.

Compass Odyssey

north african safari

Courtesy of Compass Odyssey

Explore the savanna and deserts of southwest Africa with Compass Odyssey's eight-day Namibia Wildlife Safari. You'll visit a community-based conservation area in Damaraland – known for its desert-adapted elephants, oryx, giraffes and other wildlife – while staying in the rustic-chic Doro Nawas Camp. You'll also spend two days in Etosha National Park, seeking wildlife at the park's bustling waterholes by day and embarking on an evening game drive as well. Starting at $3,750 per person, the tour includes most meals and all park entry fees, but not flights; the company does allow the tour to be customized on request.

Vaccination and visa requirements for African countries

Some popular safari destinations may require you to have received certain vaccinations in order to enter the country as a tourist. Inoculation requirements can include vaccination against COVID-19 and yellow fever, and you'll need to get these vaccines before departing on your trip. Be sure to bring proof of vaccinations with you. If you are transiting through another country en route to your safari tour, you must check that you also meet immunization requirements for the stopover location.

Note that, outside of what's required, there are a number of other vaccinations that are recommended, so ensure you're up to date and fully protected before you travel. In addition, many safari locations are prone to malaria; you should consult with your doctor to see if you need to bring anti-malaria medication on your trip.

Safari countries have varying visa requirements for travelers from the U.S. – these are detailed below. Depending on your itinerary, you may need a single- or multiple-entry visa, and some visas require you to apply in advance of traveling and/or have a certain number of blank pages in your passport. Regardless of your destination, your passport should be valid for at least six months before you leave for your trip.

Here are the vaccine and visa requirements for major safari destinations as of November 2022:

Botswana: If you have recently visited a country where yellow fever is common, you will need to be vaccinated against this illness. This does not include the U.S. but does include a number of countries in Africa, Central and South America. Consult the World Health Organization's website for a list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, including Kenya and Uganda.

U.S. citizens and nationals can stay in Botswana for 90 days without a visa.

Kenya: Travelers to Kenya must have been vaccinated against COVID-19 with the last shot administered more than 14 days before arrival in the country. Unvaccinated visitors can enter with a negative PCR test, conducted no more than 72 hours before departure. Proof of COVID-19 tests or vaccines must be uploaded to an online system called Panabios. Kenya is a country where you'll be at risk of yellow fever transmission; it also requires those traveling from other places with yellow fever or cholera outbreaks to be vaccinated against these illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you protect yourself against yellow fever before your trip here.

Americans need an e-visa to enter Kenya. You should apply online at the eVisa government website no more than eight weeks before your trip, as visas are not available upon arrival in Kenya. See more on the U.S. Department of State's website .

Namibia: Those traveling from a country where yellow fever is common need to be vaccinated against it. No visa is required as long as you're staying for 90 days or less.

Rwanda: If you're coming from a country where yellow fever is endemic, a yellow fever vaccination is required before departure.

U.S. citizens and nationals can be issued a 30-day visitor visa on arrival in Rwanda or through the Rwandan Embassy in Washington, D.C. A single-entry visa costs $50, and it's recommended you bring sufficient cash in U.S. dollars to pay for this (although credit card payment may be accepted at Kigali International Airport). Consult the State Department website for more information.

South Africa: A yellow fever vaccination is required if you're traveling from a country with a risk of transmission. No visa is required for stays of 90 days or less.

Tanzania: Travelers must be able to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination with a QR code to enter Tanzania. Unvaccinated travelers must take a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure, and the test results should be accessible by QR code. Yellow fever vaccines are mandatory if you're traveling from a location where yellow fever is present – including if you spend more than 12 hours in transit in such a country.

Visas are required for tourism in Tanzania. You can apply for a single-entry, 90-day visa online for $50 – and be sure to print a copy of the approval to bring with you. The processing period takes up to 10 days. You can also obtain a visa on arrival for a $100 fee; it's recommended you bring cash to cover this. Find more Tanzanian visa information on the State Department website .

Uganda: To enter Uganda, you must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or present a negative test taken no more than 72 hours before departure. Like Kenya, Uganda is a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. All visitors must show proof of vaccination against yellow fever to enter Uganda, regardless of where you're traveling from.

American visitors to Uganda must apply online for an electronic visa before departure; arriving in Uganda without completing this process could result in your detainment. Visit the State Department website to learn more.

Zambia: Visitors who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must show proof of vaccination but do not need a test to enter Zambia; unvaccinated travelers must undergo a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure. Yellow fever vaccines are only required if you're coming from an area considered at risk.

Visas are required to visit Zambia, but these can be obtained online before your departure or at a port of entry. Check the State Department website for more details.

Zimbabwe: To enter Zimbabwe, travelers must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or must take a negative PCR test no more than 48 hours before your departure. As with other countries on this list, visitors from countries with yellow fever outbreaks also require a vaccine against this illness.

U.S. visitors can obtain a 30-day, single-entry visa upon arrival in Zimbabwe for $30. If you're taking a tour that requires you to leave and reenter Zimbabwe, be sure to get a double-entry visa for $45. You can learn more from the State Department website .

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north african safari

  • A Kubu Island Adventure
  • A Spot of Romance: Botswana Honeymoon Safari
  • A Wellness Safari with Robyn Sheldon
  • Botswana Conservation Safari
  • Botswana Explorer
  • Botswana Horse Safari on the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
  • Guided Botswana Cycling Safari
  • Kalahari Desert Woman’s Safari & Expedition
  • My First Botswana Safari
  • Sama Mobile Camp
  • Uncharted Expeditions Botswana Mobile Camping Safari
  • Walk of Ancient Wisdom
  • A Desert Adventure
  • Journey through Northern Namibia
  • Namibia Flying Safari

Expeditions

  • Angola Expedition
  • Angola, Namibia & Botswana Expedition
  • Zakouma Expedition

North Island Okavango

  • Duke’s East
  • Duke’s Camp
  • Thamo Telele
  • Little Sable
  • Sable Alley
  • Okavango Spirit
  • Jack’s Camp
  • Jack’s Private Camp
  • Camp Kalahari
  • Meno a Kwena
  • Planet Baobab
  • Kwessi Dunes
  • Hoanib Valley Camp
  • Shipwreck Lodge
  • Safari House
  • Etosha Mountain Lodge
  • South Africa
  • GweGwe Beach Lodge
  • Lekkerwater Beach Lodge
  • Accommodations
  • When to Visit
  • Landscape & Wildlife

Click here if you are interested in booking a stay at this single camp.

Okavango Delta, Northern Botswana

NUMBER OF ROOMS:

PRICE RANGE:

US$ 1,395 — US$ 3,195 per night

DATES OPEN:

Quintessentially Okavango Delta

You can’t dream this kind of adventure up. North Island Okavango safari camp itself is located on a private island, surrounded by a mosaic of other islands all netted together by shining lagoons and transient channels. Between the floodplains, open savannah and woodlands, there is an abundance of wildlife everywhere.

Each tent has been designed around a congregation of beautiful big trees, with exceptional lagoon views. Delights of ebony, mangosteen, rain trees, leadwood and wild fig. The adventure here comes to you in waves, as you safari amongst the islands, rich with wild things and extraordinary beauty. This is without doubt, an incredible Okavango Delta safari experience.

Designed around comfort and luxury, it won’t take you long to settle right in. Here you’ll be blissfully unaware of anything else, other than the tranquility and beauty of your surroundings. This is also an exciting opportunity to experience the joy of the Okavango Delta done three ways. On land, on water and in the air. Each new adventure, as extraordinary as the last. The wildlife opportunities in and around camp are exceptional and discovering this idyllic island landscape for yourself will not only delight, but also leave you full to the brim with adventure filled stories to share.

Why You’ll Love North Island Okavango:

  • This is an intimate little camp that packs a lot of punch! Enjoy blissful comfort and African-inspired sophistication in what is undoubtedly one of the most famous wildlife-watching destinations in the world.
  • With only three tents, set on raised wooden platforms overlooking stunning views of the lagoon, it won’t take you long to relax and soak in the tranquility.
  • Here you get to experience the Delta three ways; on land (game drives), on water (mokoro and boat meanders) and in the air (on a scenic helicopter flight). This is a safari experience that's hard to beat.
  • Located in an utterly beautiful and semi-private game rich concession on the northern fringes of the Okavango Delta the camps position, unlike most other camps, has water-based activities are almost all year round.
  • You’ll find yourself in the thick of it! Home to all the stars of the animal kingdom, from big cats, to buffalo, antelope and aardvark.
  • After a visit to our other premier camps; Jack’s Camp in the Kalahari and Tuludi in Khwai Private Reserve, add this to your circuit to complete the thrill of experiencing three of our luxury camps, in three different eco-systems – this really is getting to enjoy the very best of Botswana’s wild and wonderful places!

Select Your Travel Dates

Ready to book the safari of a lifetime? Get started by checking availability below.

We recommend booking North Island Okavango as part of a complete Natural Selection safari, but if you want to book it separately or just check availability, click here to select dates and book.

Interested in learning more about the prices? View Rates

north african safari

North Island Okavango Accommodations

north african safari

Now here’s where it gets exciting. Styled by bold shapes, textures and contemporary African inspired design, this is exceptional comfort, style and luxury all blended into one.

There are only 3 spacious tents in camp, each resting on a raised wooden deck under the shady boughs of wild ebony trees. Each tent offers stunning views of the lagoon in front of it and a private plunge pool with a sunken sundeck for cooling off, for you to enjoy while watching the wildlife that comes into view. At night sit on the deck listening to the bell frogs tinkle like windchimes and watch as fireflies wink at you across the water. For the hotter summer nights, each bed comes with its very own ‘over-the-bed’ cooling system. And in winter, there is a cosy fireplace to relax in front of, making each tent a romantic safari experience.

The camp sits peacefully in front of a glorious hippo-filled lagoon, shaded by a congregation of enormous trees, with a separate lounge and dining area to enjoy delicious dinners, connected by a wooden deck that extends onwards for stargazing around a crackling firepit at night. To the side, there is a separate library for resting and reading and an outdoor gym to exercise in, while surrounded by the wild. This colourful little camp, packs a lot of punch. From the contemporary African inspired design, to the activities on offer, this is a small island haven for wild adventure.

Accommodation & Amenities

  • 4 tented suites on raised wooden platforms, each with twin beds that can be converted to doubles.
  • Plus a sleeper couch to accommodate two children with their own bathroom.
  • Ensuite bathroom with indoor and outdoor shower, plus bathtub.
  • Sunken deck and private plunge pool at each suite.
  • Total unit floor space of 140 square metres (including deck, outside shower, pool etc); 80 square metres of interior floor space.
  • Minibar in each room.
  • The camp is 100% solar-powered.
  • Ceiling fans and an environmentally friendly air-conditioning system over the bed.
  • Outdoor gym.
  • Well stocked library with books about Botswana and the Okavango Delta.
  • Wi-Fi available in the suites only.
  • Hairdryers available.
  • Battery charging facilities available in the suites only.
  • Complimentary laundry service.
  • Child policy: we welcome children aged 6 years and older.
  • Disabled access: please enquire with reservations.

When to Visit North Island Okavango

north african safari

North Island Okavango is open all year round. We’re always asked which is the ‘best’ time of year to visit, and our answer? There isn’t one. It all depends on your preferences, what you would like to see and do, and how you like to safari.

April to October in the Delta are the dry, winter months. Confusingly, this means the water levels are at their highest and it’s the best time of year for water and mokoro safaris when you’ll be able to access remote areas. However, in saying that, what makes North Island Okavango so unique, is that there is water around the camp almost all year round. This means that guests can enjoy water based activities sooner in the year and for longer than most other areas of the Delta.

Game viewing at this time of year is exceptional (it always is) and this combined with the pleasant, mid-20s temperatures and sunshine-filled skies, makes it a great time to experience the Delta.

October to March are the green season months. Rain comes in the form of short, sharp thunderstorms and the dramatic skies make for even more dramatic sunsets. Water levels are slightly lower at this time of year, but there is always permanent water around North Island Okavango and mokoro and boat safaris are still possible. It’s also the best time of year to spot breeding animals and the migrant birds.

Seasonality

  •   Green season: 10 January – 31 March
  •   Shoulder season: 01 April – 31 May | 01 November – 19 December
  •   High season: 01 June – 30 June | 01 September – 31 October | 20 December – 09 January
  •   Peak season: 01 July – 31 August

North Island Okavango Activities

north african safari

Wild adventure is kind of our thing at North Island Okavango. Here you get to experience the Delta three ways – on land, on water and in the air:

  • Game drive through vast tracts of pristine wilderness in search of lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant, hippo and the rare sitatunga antelope.
  • View the wildlife at eye level on a boat or traditional mokoro safari through the lily-filled channels (NB water activities are subject to water levels in the Delta but the best part about North Island Okavango is that it gets water almost all year round).
  • Try your hand at a spot of fishing (01 Mar – 31 Dec); fishing is not permitted from January to February due to breeding season).
  • Tick off some of the Okavango specials from your bird-list – the slaty egret, Pel’s fishing owl and the African skimmer to name a few.
  • Cruise over the vast landscapes of the Okavango Delta on a soaring helicopter flight or to view ancient rock art at Tsodilo Hills, less than 100km away (at an additional cost).
  • Take to the skies on a scenic helicopter flight (at an additional cost).
  • Head out (by heli) on a community visit to meet with some of our community based outreach partners in the nearby villages. You’ll also spend time with one of our conservation partners to see first hand how together we are able to make a difference to wildlife conservation in the area (at an additional cost).
  • Spend time with one of our conservation partners, to see first-hand how we are making a difference to wildlife conservation in the area.

North Island Okavango Landscape & Wildlife

north african safari

This enormous concession is slightly to the west of the renowned Vumbura and Duba Plains concessions on the northern side of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. With the large size, an abundance of game, and very little evidence of other people, this is a prime destination for those looking for an exclusive experience in a blissfully uncrowded area.

The landscape is iconic in all its Delta-esque beauty. It’s a pristine wilderness of floodplains and grasslands, lagoons and palm-strewn islands, and the diverse habitats support an extraordinary range of wildlife. It really is one of the most unique wetland areas in the world, unchanged for centuries, and, in our eyes (and many others!) one of the best safari destinations there is.

Imagine a mosaic of forest islands, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, where channels flow one way this year, another the next. The camp is ringed by a congregation of beautiful trees, delights of ebony, mangosteen, rain trees, leadwood and wild fig and home to an abundance of beautiful birds, hives and nests, making this a magical haven buzzing with life.

The adventure comes to you in waves, as you safari amongst the islands, savannah grasslands and woodlands all rich in wildlife and extraordinary beauty. This is without doubt, an incredible Okavango Delta safari experience.

We’ve already established that this incredible concession in the Okavango Delta is a true wildlife stronghold and whether this is your first time on safari or you’ve traversed the continent with your binos, you won’t be disappointed by what’s on offer. In fact, those in the know (and who’ve been around the safari block more than a few times!) say that the area has the highest concentration of lion anywhere in the Okavango Delta. But the allure isn’t simply in the number of animals you’ll see, but in the diversity of species in the reserve.

The area around North Island is famed for its large buffalo herds and the lions that hunt them. Far from being a one trick pony though the plains are also home to a strong population of cheetah and wild dog, while the woodlands host leopard in high numbers. You’ll also spot elusive and lesser-known predators like caracal, serval and mongoose. Each year approximately 40 000 elephants transit through the area, making it one of the most elephant rich areas not just in Botswana but the entire planet!

On the edge of the water, buffalo congregate en masse, lechwe leap in bounding cascades and the water dwelling sitatunga shyly graze. While trunk-swinging elephant bathe, watched beadily from the channels by sun-basking crocs and hippo. Antelope dot the floodplains in every direction, and zebra and giraffe appear at the flash of a camera. The birdlife here is especially noteworthy, withover 350-bird species, including the endangered wattled crane, carmine bee-eaters, secretary birds and the Pel’s fishing-owl, all regularly spotted to the delight of many a twitcher.

North Island Okavango Story

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For decades, we have loved this game-rich area. For us, it’s what wild Okavango Delta safaris epitomize. So, when the opportunity arose to work with local partners Nakwa and the Magobagoba Youth Trust, we jumped at it.

Being at the upstream end of the Okavango Delta, this area receives the annual floodwaters first. This opens up water-based viewing activities for most of the year, to offer off-the-charts wildlife watching experiences.

Equally attractive to us, as a purpose driven business though, is that the presence of a camp here can have a very positive impact on both conservation and local communities.

When you visit North Island Okavango, you will be directly supporting the following Natural Selection conservation initiatives:

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Where to go on your first safari in Africa

Melanie van Zyl

Feb 20, 2024 • 17 min read

Tourist watching an elephant crossing a river in the Chobe National Park in Botswana, Africa; Concept for travel safari and travel in Africa

Botswana is an excellent choice for a well-rounded, first-time safari – though it can be a pricey one © Getty Images

So you want to see a lion in the wild? Terrific. Now comes the tricky part: choosing where to go on your first safari.

Which countries offer the easiest introduction to the continent for first-time travelers? Which countries are best for wildlife?

Let us help you cut through the overwhelming options and plan your first safari to Africa for blockbuster wildlife watching – without feeling overwhelmed.

Meerkats stand to attention as humans walk by

Planning a safari in Botswana

Why botswana.

Water-based safaris, exclusivity, privacy and high-quality camps in captivating areas: Botswana is one of Africa’s premier wildlife-watching destinations. Its prolific wildlife inhabits extraordinary landscapes, including the Chobe River, the Okavango Delta  and the salt pans of Makgadikgadi .

The easiest choice for your trip,  Chobe National Park is home to the world’s largest concentration of elephants, as well as a host of easy-to-spot big cats, buffaloes, giraffes and zebras, making it perfect for first-timers. The best way to see Africa’s elephant capital is to board a boat and cruise the Chobe River’s wildlife-rich shores. From here, you can travel into the Okavango Delta, where you can splurge on a luxury safari and take a mokoro  (dugout canoe) through the wetlands, before forging on into the Makgadikgadi salt pans to mingle with meerkats.

Botswana’s appeal and ease, however, come with a (big) caveat: the cost. To avoid the pitfalls of mass tourism, most luxury lodges and camps lie in concession areas rented out by the government to enforce a high-value, low-volume responsible-tourism strategy. The best reserves sit in the swamps of the Okavango Delta, and visitors fly in on small bush planes from Maun or Kasane. Mobile safaris – group trips that take you from site to site, often involving camping along the way – are a more cost-effective alternative: you can combine time in  Moremi Game Reserve  with Chobe National Park.

Best time to visit for a safari in Botswana

The high and dry season from June to October is the best wildlife-watching time , and also when water levels are generally at their highest in the Okavango Delta, allowing you to glide along the channels in a mokoro .

Where to stay on safari in Botswana

In and around Chobe National Park, we recommend  Chobe Game Lodge , Chobe Safari Lodge  and Chobe Bakwena , with Chobe Game Lodge being the only one inside the park. For photographers, Pangolin Chobe Hotel has specialist boats with swivel seats and gimbal mounts to snap that Attenborough moment on the Chobe River.

You can combine Chobe with the Okavango Delta through scheduled group mobile safaris with Bush Ways or Letaka . If you’re after a luxury experience in an exceptionally wild, isolated area, Mombo Camp is probably the Okavango’s most exclusive and legendary lodge, with predators galore (and a pretty price tag). Mma Dinare Camp (which offers affordable road transfers), 4 Rivers Camp , Shinde Camp and Camp Moremi are well situated for spotting excellent big game. Xugana Island Lodge , Setari Camp and Mopiri Camp are wonderful for experiencing the waterways, and offer fishing and birding opportunities by boat. Mogotlho Safari Lodge is also accessible for self-drivers, and occupies a lovely position on the Khwai River near Mababe. Want a more adventurous, budget-friendly option? Try a fully catered, accommodated mokoro campout excursion that departs from Sitatunga Camp , south of Maun.

Trips to meet the cute meerkats of the Makgadikgadi salt pans can be arranged through San Camp, Jack’s Camp or Camp Kalahari, with Planet Baobab as the best budget-friendly option with self-drive access.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Botswana

Stays at isolated camps in the Okavango Delta start at roughly $650 per person, per night and can go up to an eye-watering $4000 a night. At approximately $300, Chobe National Park lodges are more affordable – so stretch out your days here to keep costs down. For better pricing on accommodations, travel during the shoulder season (April to May and October to November). Finally, check the distance between your luxury lodge and Maun to reduce the return-ticket cost. Some camps offer road transfers or boating access between camps to minimize travel costs.

Animals crossing the Mara River during the Great Migration between Tanzania and Kenya

Planning a safari in Kenya

Kenya ’s wildlife offering is outstanding, with the Great Migration in particular at the top of many bucket lists – so it’s no surprise that safaris have been a thing in Kenya since the very concept was invented (indeed, safari translates to “journey” in Swahili). Do keep in mind, though, that this track record does make Kenya one of the busiest, most popular wildlife destinations on the continent.

A renowned annual phenomenon, the Great Migration sees millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River from the Serengeti in southern Tanzania into Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve . The country’s semi-nomadic Maasai communities and their time-honored warrior traditions are another source of fascination. Visitors can support community-powered tourism by visiting the private reserves surrounding the Mara, which are leased to different safari companies. A guided bush walk with a Maasai warrior will let you experience this culture’s deep connection with the land.

The main safari circuit couples Lake Nakuru with the Masai Mara and Amboseli (where Mt Kilimanjaro provides a staggering backdrop). Tsavo West , Tsavo East and Samburu are popular add-ons, if you have extra time. Any combination of these parks should ensure ample sightings of big cats, plenty of elephants, a few rhinos and all of the plains animals, such as buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and all manner of gazelle and antelope species. Want even more? Extend your stay by another week and scale Mt Kenya , Africa’s second-highest peak (after Kilimanjaro).

Most travelers just pass through Nairobi , staying long enough to visit Nairobi National Park . An extraordinarily well-stocked park on the cusp of one of Africa’s largest cities and easily accessible, Kenya’s original game reserve has wildlife in abundance, from lions, leopards, and buffaloes to the endangered black rhino and around 400 species of birdlife.

Generally, Kenya is viewed as a better choice for family safaris, those on a budget and those on a tight timeline.

Best time to visit for a safari in Kenya

July to October and January to February are the best times to see the Great Migration, when a million-plus wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles, cross the crocodile-infested Mara River to graze on the lush grasses of the Masai Mara. With unrestricted visitor numbers, some areas can get crowded.

Where to stay on safari in Kenya

Kenya has hundreds of excellent lodges and tented camps, standards of service from local staff are generally high, and tour operators are experts at the logistics of moving between national parks for each leg of your safari itinerary.

Cottar’s 1920s Camp has entertained guests in high style for over 100 years, while “gentle on the earth” takes on a whole new meaning at Emboo River Camp , whose team will have you floating through the grasslands of the Masai Mara in the region’s first electric game drive vehicles.

Good value but still luxurious, Ol Tukai Lodge sits within Amboseli Park, with views of Kilimanjaro from the bar; nearby Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge is a comfortable family-friendly option. In Nairobi,  Giraffe Manor  provides a memorable breakfast spread before a visit to the city’s park; all accommodations in the upmarket Karen and Langata areas are close to the main entrance.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Kenya

Masai Mara National Reserve is the most wallet-friendly location for seeing the wildebeest migration. Despite having a shorter migration season, Kenya has more flights, more tourists, stiffer competition and a greater variety of affordable accommodations than next-door Tanzania. Expect to pay anything from $150 to $1000 per person, per night.

For a cheaper safari, book between the short and long rains (January to March), when prices are usually lower than during the peak season. Nairobi National Park charges $40 to non-residents for entry, while admission to Masai Mara is $80 for 24 hours if you stay outside the reserve, and $70 if you stay inside.

A family of five wild giraffes standing in a dry savannah landscape near Okaukuejo waterhole in Etosha National Park in Namibia, Africa.

Planning a safari in Namibia

Why namibia.

Two reasons: self-driving independence and dramatic desert scenery. While a 4WD African safari is always an ambitious undertaking, Namibia has good roads, well-equipped campsites and reasonably priced rental vehicles. This is one of the easiest Southern African countries to explore from the driver’s seat.

The classic circuit starts in Windhoek , where you’ll rent a fully equipped 4WD camper van or a decent gravel-road car. From there, you’ll head to Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert for incredible vistas, circle up to Swakopmund for coastal adventures and end at Etosha National Park , where elephants, rhinos and giraffes strut their stuff.

Etosha is Namibia’s version of South Africa’s Kruger National Park, with roads and facilities suitable for a self-driving budget safari. Each public camp overlooks a busy water hole, where game moves in and out to drink during the dry season. The camp is floodlit by night, which means you won’t need to leave once you settle in.

Best time to visit for a safari in Namibia

Etosha is well-known for its productive water holes, and peak game viewing is from June to October, when wildlife flocks to these oases dotted throughout the park. This is also a cooler time of year to climb the dramatic dunes such as  Dune 45 at Sossusvlei.

Where to stay on safari in Namibia

Arranging everything through the  Gondwana Collection is hands-down the easiest and best way to organize a self-driving safari. This group has a portfolio of accommodations in all the key tourist spots, ranging from well-serviced campsites to glamping tents and swank lodges filled with character. Favorites include the quirky Desert Grace and Namib Dune Star Camp (with its alfresco beds) near Sossusvlei, and The Delight in Swakopmund. A sister company,  Namibia2Go , offers car rentals with comprehensive insurance.

As an alternative, you can book campsites and chalets inside the parks with the government-run Namibia Wildlife Resorts . Okaukuejo Rest Camp lies inside the perimeter of Etosha and is the place to watch at the water hole.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Namibia

At about $800, a full week’s vehicle rental is cheaper than a single night’s stay at a luxury lodge in the Okavango Delta. Due to the vast distances between destinations in Namibia, however, fuel expenses can add up fast. National parks and private campsites offer affordable camping fees, though luxury accommodations will (understandably) be more expensive. For camping, expect to pay $20 to $50 per person, per night for camping; for lodges, $100 to $300.

Visitors watch a lion walk in front of their open safari vehicle at Madikwe Game Reserve at the border with Botswana

Planning a safari in South Africa

Why south africa.

Expect bush, beach and fine wine. From iconic Kruger National Park to the picturesque landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal , South Africa offers a safari experience that caters to all levels of adventurers. 

Kruger is the easiest and most rewarding safari destination for first-timers and budget travelers. You can see the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes), as well as cheetahs, giraffes, African wild dogs and hundreds of bird species. Drive the park’s paved roads yourself if you’re on a budget, or visit private reserves like Sabi Sands or Thornybush for exclusive guided experiences, plus a better chance to see the Big Five in a short period.

Lesser-known reserves in KwaZulu-Natal are equally impressive. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is just as accessible as Kruger from the city of Durban , and has excellent facilities for travelers on all budgets; expect to spot rhinos, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes and wildebeest. (The big cats are a little more challenging to see here.) Nearby Phinda Private Game Reserve offers stunning high-end stays – plus the possibility of a beach day or scuba diving at Sodwana Bay .

Madikwe Game Reserve in North West Province is close to the Botswana border and a four-hour drive from Johannesburg , making it popular for South Africans looking for a safari. It’s also a malaria-free option for families with young children.

Combine any of these safari parks with a flight south to Cape Town , and you’ll add fine wine, world-class restaurants and a seaside safari – visiting the  African penguins of Boulders Beach – to your itinerary.

Best time to visit for a safari in South Africa

While South Africa is a year-round destination , most visitors love the cooler, dry season between May and August. During these months, wildlife is easier to spot as vegetation is more sparse and animals gather around water holes.

Where to stay on safari in South Africa

There are plenty of affordable self-catering rest camps in Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi run by SANParks , the government parks agency. Kruger’s southern zone is prime game-viewing territory, with Skukuza , Lower Sabie and Letaba rest camps all favorites. Hilltop Camp in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi has terrific views, while Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge is a superb, privately run option that supports the local community.

Plush camps and lodges in the private reserves come with highly trained guides who can take you out on foot or by vehicle. You can’t go wrong at Saseka in Thornybush, Dulini in Sabi Sands, Tanda Tula in  Timbavati , Jaci’s Safari Lodge in Madikwe or any of the &Beyond accommodations in Phinda.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in South Africa

Rates range from $100 to $200 per person, per night in government-run camps. Mid-range prices start at $300 to $700 per person, per night, with a corresponding bump in accommodation and guiding quality.

Hippos in the Seronera area of the Serengeti N P, Tanzania

Planning a safari in Tanzania

Why tanzania.

Limitless plains, the epic migration and relaxing dips in the Indian Ocean. Tanzania ’s northern safari circuit includes the amazing  Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater . Exploring these places for 10 days to two weeks is a sure way to fall in love with Africa. You should consider adding a few days on the island of Zanzibar  (officially called Unguja) to make your dream trip even more memorable.

Tanzania and Kenya share similarities, both having plentiful wildlife parks and excellent safari operators. Tanzania’s vibe, though, is generally less stressful – perhaps due to the fact that the Serengeti is nearly 10 times bigger than Kenya’s Masai Mara, offering endless horizons and greater habitat variety.

In the heart of the Serengeti, the Seronera River provides big-cat and herbivore sightings year round, making it popular with visitors. Kogatende and Lamai, on the Mara River, are ideal for observing river crossings – with fewer tourists. Private reserves such as  Grumeti allow viewings of the migration without the crowds (and for a price).

The Ngorongoro Crater is only a short drive to the east from the Serengeti. In this giant collapsed volcano (or caldera), animals like lions, elephants and black rhinos are enclosed as they prowl a complete ecosystem of pretty plains and dramatic forests. Note that such assets do draw the crowds in peak season.

Best time to visit for a safari in Tanzania

Plan a visit between January and March to witness the migration of wildebeest – and their newborns – passing through the Ngorongoro and Ndutu regions. (Get as early a start as possible to avoid day-trippers.) The best time to witness the famous wildebeest river crossings in the Serengeti is during the peak season, from July to August.

Where to stay on safari in Tanzania

Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge is an upmarket accommodation inspired by traditional Tanzanian architecture; its popular mobile-safari offering is Kiota Camp. Run entirely by women,  Dunia Camp is a luxury tented property situated in prime lion territory. Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is a great value-for-money permanent lodge conveniently located near the entrance to the Ngorongoro Crater. For an even more budget-friendly option, consider  Bougainvillea Safari Lodge . For a different kind of stay, book a stay  Gibb’s Farm , which is situated on a working coffee farm and offers campfire storytelling and other fun extras.

On the coast, Chumbe Island in Zanzibar/Unguja is a highly rated, ecofriendly property that offers sensational snorkeling in a protected marine reserve. In the historic heart of  Stone Town , the best-value stay is Zanzibar Coffee House , dating from the 19th century.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Tanzania

Expect to pay anything from $250 to $950 per room, per night, during your stay in Tanzania. Entry fees at Serengeti National Park for foreign tourists are $70 (peak season) and $60 (low season). To visit the Ngorongoro Crater, you’ll pay $250 for a vehicle, in addition to the same entry fee. These fees are typically included in organized safari packages.

Several southern carmine bee-eaters perching on an ochre-coloured rock in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Planning a safari in Zambia

Why zambia.

Track rhinos, witness an awe-inspiring cascade and join a walking safari to experience nature up close. Indeed,  Zambia is celebrated worldwide as the birthplace of the safari on foot, during which, under the guidance of two armed rangers, rhino tracking in nearby Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park will bring you close to these magnificent animals – only a taste of what’s to come at South Luangwa.

Livingstone , the tourist capital of Zambia, lets you gaze at another (non-living) marvel: mighty Mosi-oa-Tunya, better known as  Victoria Falls . If the 935 cu meters (33,000 cu ft) of water that pours over the falls each second is not heart-pumping enough, there are plenty of other thrilling activities to enjoy , such as white-water rafting on the Zambezi River and bungee jumping (also available on the Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls). During July and August, you can even take a refreshing dip in the natural infinity pool at the edge of the falls.

Several small and rustic camps in the Luangwa Valley cater just to walking safaris – a thrilling alternative to traditional game drives. These camps are mainly located in South Luangwa National Park .

Best time to visit for a safari in Zambia

Peak game viewing is from June to October, and Victoria Falls is at its best on the Zambia side from March to May.

Where to stay on safari in Zambia

Flatdogs Camp in South Luangwa National Park offers family-friendly luxury. In Livingstone, Jollyboys Backpackers provides a vibey base from which to explore town. The Victoria Falls Waterfront provides a free shuttle to the main event – but if you want to stay at the falls with unlimited access, the swish Royal Livingstone Resort is top-notch; the three-star Avani Victoria Falls Resort is next door.

Green Safaris operates a great circuit of camps in Zambia if you want to combine Victoria Falls with South Luangwa. Live the Robinson Crusoe life at Sindabezi Island Lodge on the Zambezi, and then head into the bush at Shawa Luangwa Camp . You can’t go wrong with walking-safari operators Time + Tide (its  Kakuli is a classic camp that’s been open since 1950), or Robin Pope .

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Zambia

Consider getting the KAZA UniVisa , a special $50 pass that allows for unlimited crossings between Zambia and Zimbabwe, plus a one-day trip to Botswana (via the Kazungula border crossing), within 30 days. Budget $250 to $700 per person, per night for lodging.

Young woman sitting at the edge of Victoria Falls, Livingstone, Zambia

Planning a safari in Zimbabwe

Why zimbabwe.

The adventurous choice for a first-time safari, Zimbabwe has arguably the best guides in Africa. The easiest way to experience it all? Spend three days in Victoria Falls. Since it’s one of the country’s most popular tourist towns, you’ll find plenty to see, do and eat.

The meandering rainforest walkway in Zimbabwe is where the majority of Victoria Falls viewpoints lie. This is a better option for experiencing the falls during during the dry season (May to October), when water levels on the Zambian side lessen. On some evenings and during the full moon,  Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe remains open at night for dazzling stargazing.

After a day of adrenaline-fueled bungee jumping, white-water rafting, zip-lining or hovering in a helicopter above Batoka Gorge, afternoon tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel , served every day between 3pm and 6pm, offers some refined relaxation, as you share a tiered stand of pretty sandwiches and delicate pastries beside the manicured lawns. If this lies beyond your budget, enjoy a simple gin-and-tonic sundowner – or head to the Wild Horizons Lookout Café .

The wildlife around here is less prolific than nearby Chobe National Park in Botswana (which you can visit on a day trip or easily combine with Victoria Falls). Yet a boat cruise allows for spottings of hippos, crocodiles and the occasional elephant. A 45-minute flight or two-hour drive away,  Hwange National Park is where you’ll find bigger game.

Best time to visit for a safari in Zimbabwe

There is fantastic wildlife viewing during the dry months, from May to October. Victoria Falls is at its peak from March to May.

Where to stay on safari in Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge sits on a ridge and overlooks a water hole frequented by buffaloes and other beasts. Nkosi Guest Lodge is a pretty, upmarket inn, while Ilala Lodge Hotel is just a 10-minute walk from Victoria Falls. The Victoria Falls Hotel, the iconic grande dame, offers perhaps the best views. Further afield, you can ensconce yourself in the bush at  Mpala Jena , about 40km (25 miles) upstream. In Hwange, The Hide , Camp Hwange  and Somalisa are all visitor favorites.

Budgeting and costs for a safari in Zimbabwe

Entry to Victoria Falls is $50. With the wide range of accommodation options, you can spend $150 to $700 per person, per night.

This article was first published October 2019 and updated February 2024

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elephant in Chobe National Park in Botswana

17 unforgettable African safaris

Set off into the wild and see the world like never before with this guide to the best experiences in 11 countries.

Chobe National Park in Botswana holds one of Africa’s largest elephant populations.

What images come to mind when you hear the words “African safari”? Sitting in the bush on a moonlit night, so close to a lion that you can feel the rumble of its roar in your chest?

Many travelers might conjure up visions of tented camps, gourmet meals under a baobab tree, game drives through golden savanna, and sundowners at the end of the day. But safaris can also involve self-guided rental cars , game walks, and fly-fishing. Safaris can be as varied as the continent of Africa itself.

One recent trend: expeditions that enlist travelers in the fight to save endangered wildlife. Tourists make a difference by joining rhino or lion conservationists at work in South Africa or accompanying researchers working on a chimpanzee habituation project in Kibale National Park in Uganda . ( Read about the dark truth behind wildlife tourism. )

three adult zebras line up at a waterhole in Kruger National Park, South Africa

Three zebras line a waterhole in South Africa's Kruger National Park.

No matter where you go and what type of safari you choose, timing is key. Once you’ve narrowed your options, look into the best time to visit. South Africa’s summer (December through February), for example, is prime safari season in that region. You’ll still see wildlife if you go during South Africa’s winter (June through August), but pack a jacket, as temperatures can be chilly, especially before the sun rises.

Set off into the wild and see the world like never before with our guide to top safari experiences in 11 African countries.

a map of Southern Africa

Spot animals in these natural wonders.

South Africa

Kruger National Park: South Africa ’s largest game reserve, Kruger National Park makes a perfect home base for self-guided and first-time safaris. Stay in one of the park’s fenced camps, such as the Crocodile Bridge Rest Camp on the northern bank of the Crocodile River. Head into the bush early to explore the Southern Circle, famous for its competing lion prides and their varied hunting practices. Don’t miss the nearby hippo pool, but be sure to stay in your car outside of the camp. ( Take a solo safari through South Africa’s wild grasslands. )

Hazyview: Not far from Kruger’s southwestern Phabeni Gate, Hazyview is a family-friendly hub for horseback safaris, zip-lining, safari golf, and trout fishing. Check in to one of the lodges, such as Hippo Hollow Country Estate , and then head out into the Kruger before sunrise on a self-guided game drive to scout lions and white rhinos. Break for lunch in the town of Skukuza.

Timbavati Private Nature Reserve: The rugged Timbavati is one of the private nature reserves that make up the greater Kruger area. Guests can choose from eight lodges there. An upscale chalet at fence-free Simbavati Safari Lodges , for example, is perfect for families. Wake up early for game drives, perhaps to search for African wild dogs . Mid-morning, kids head into the bush for a scavenger hunt with a guide.

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve: Animals aren’t the only sights to track on safari. In South Africa’s Western Cape region, wildflowers provide the dazzle. The two lodges at Grootbos , part of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World , sit amid the smallest of the world’s six floral kingdoms, home to some 800 plant species. Watch for sharks and southern right whales from your suite’s deck. ( See the world’s best places for flowers. )

wildflowers in Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, located in South Africa

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, located in South Africa’s Western Cape, offers a "flower safari" to guests.

Hlane Royal National Park: Head to Swaziland , a country landlocked between South Africa and Mozambique , to see Hlane ’s fiercely protected rhinos and marabou storks. Stay in one of the park’s two lodges, Ndlovu Camp or Bhubesi, and enjoy self-guided drives on the safe game-viewing roads that crisscross the park’s flat terrain. Spot lions, hyenas, giraffes, and vulturess, then picnic at the Mahlindza water hole.

Central Kalahari Game Reserve: Black-maned Kalahari lions roam this reserve in central Botswana . Stay just north of the reserve at Deception Valley Lodge , where you can watch magical sunsets dip into the horizon from the deck of your chalet.

Chobe National Park: To the north of Central Kalahari, Chobe National Park is home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations. And Chobe Game Lodge boasts the only all-female safari guide team in Africa. ( Meet the all-female anti-poaching unit saving rhinos and other wildlife. )

elephants in Botswana’s Chobe National Park

Elephants enjoy a sunny day in Botswana’s Chobe National Park.

Hwange National Park: All aboard the Elephant Express to tour the Ngamo Forest Area and Hwange National Park, known for its pachyderms and 400-plus species of birds. The two-hour safari rail trip is easily accessible to Imvelo Safari Lodges’ Bomani Tented Lodge or Camelthorn Lodge . Check out the game-viewing underground hide at nearby Stoffie’s Pan. North from Hwange, a four-hour drive or a one-hour flight gets you to regal Victoria Falls, a thundering natural wonder you can hear long before you first catch sight of it.

Mana Pools National Park: Try a river-based safari in a kayak at this remote park. The best time to go may be in April, when large herds of elephants, buffalo, kudu, and the elusive eland return to the four (or mana in the local language) large permanent pools along the south bank of the Zambezi River after the rainy season. Accommodations in the park include lodges, thatched chalets, and campsites.

Namib Desert: A safari here means brilliant stargazing, silky sand, age-old views, and resilient desert animals such as oryx, bat-eared foxes, Burchell’s zebras, and loads of lizards. Stay at & Beyond’s Sossusvlei Desert Lodge , located at the desert’s eastern edge. Explore the Namib dunes on a quad bike, and hike a craggy slope to see ancient rock paintings in a nearby cave, making sure to pack water, a hat, and sunscreen. ( See eerie photos of a Namibian ghost town. )

Gorongosa National Park: Located in central Mozambique , Gorongosa has been brought back to life after suffering the devastations of many years of civil conflict. Today, when you visit, you become a part of one of Africa’s most successful wildlife restoration stories. Home to floodplains and preserved palm forests, Gorongosa has an amazing diversity of wildlife, from antelope to primates and huge Nile crocodiles, as well as lions, elephants, and hippos.

crocodile in Mozambique's Gorongosa National Park

A female crocodile guards her nest of eggs beside the Mussicadzi River in Mozambique's Gorongosa National Park.

Selous Game Reserve: Visit this off-the-beaten-track and tranquil reserve in southern Tanzania for walking safaris and traditional game drives. Then cruise the Rufiji River to watch for elephants, hippos, lions, leopards, and brindled gnu. Stay at Beho Beho , a hilltop lodge that also has secluded tree-house accommodations for the extra adventurous.

Serengeti National Park: At Asilia’s Namiri Plains camp in northern Tanzania, visitors become part of the migration as they travel in a luxury mobile camp alongside herds of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles. Walking safaris get you closer to the action, with veteran Serengeti safari guides giving the play-by-play. The animals—often stalked by big predators, such as lions and cheetahs—follow one of Earth’s most ancient routes. And if you come too close to an animal, never run. Move away quietly.

Olare Motorogi Conservancy: Cross the border from Tanzania into southern Kenya for an iconic East African lodge experience at the Mara Plains Camp. About a 2.5-hour drive from the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve, the eco-friendly camp was built by National Geographic Explorers-in-Residence Dereck and Beverly Joubert with their partners at Great Plains Conservation . From camp, you’ll head out on safari to watch migrating zebras and wildebeests make exciting and risky river crossings. You may even see a few big cats. ( Experience an air safari through Kenya. )

a lioness resting in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Kenya

A lioness takes in the view of Kenya's Olare Motorogi Conservancy.

Ragati Conservancy: Kenya may be a great place to see the migrations, but it’s also a surprisingly fantastic spot for fly-fishing. On the southern slopes of Mount Kenya (Africa’s second highest peak), the Ragati Conservancy has mountain streams stocked with glistening rainbow trout. What makes the Ragati worth the trip? Nat Geo photographer and fly fisherman Pete Muller says that while Idaho fishing is amazing, “anglers won’t encounter an elephant along the Lochsa!” Fishing in Kenya, he says, also gives fishing enthusiasts the chance to visit locations such as Aberdare National Park.

Rwanda/Uganda

Volcanoes National Park/kalinzu Forest Reserve: Rwanda ’s Volcanoes National Park allows a limited number of visitors per day to hike into the jungle to view endangered mountain gorillas up close, as they groom each other, play, and eat bamboo shoots and fruits. Keep your eyes open for golden monkeys too. Nat Geo Expeditions offers an itinerary that includes a gorilla trek, then heads north into Uganda for a chimpanzee trek through the lush Kalinzu Forest Reserve near Queen Elizabeth National Park. ( Here’s how to visit the endangered mountain gorillas of Uganda and Rwanda. )

Zakouma National Park: Intense wildlife experiences await at this park known for the number of animals that make it their home. A herd of more than 500 elephants and flocks of birds, such as the black-crowned crane, in the tens of thousands, congregate here. Zakouma had a tremendous comeback after enduring civil unrest in the region. Visit between December and April, and stay at traditional Camp Nomade, its tents decorated with local carpets and brass bells.

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Explore the unparalleled abundance of wildlife in an exhilarating safari adventure with One Nature Mara River and indulge yourself in the untamed beauty of the Serengeti.

Secure your front-row seats to the iconic encounters with the Big Five, their majestic presence etching memories that endure a lifetime. Experience the pulse of the wild as wildebeests navigate the Mara River during their grand river crossing, while a symphony of diverse birdlife paints the sky during thrilling game drives.

One Nature Mara River invites you to uncover the intrinsic beauty of a safari adventure.

Indulge in our tailored activities promising timeless memories. Opt for a thrilling balloon safari or a walking safari. From bush dinners to Maasai Village excursions, each endeavor is an exceptional encounter. Join us on a voyage of discovery, where every instant becomes a chance to contribute to the conservation of this extraordinary wilderness.

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Rejuvenate in the luxurious wellness treatments offered on the private deck of your villa. Surrounded by the stunning savannah, allow the untamed beauty of nature enhance your relaxation while our expert therapists deliver revitalizing massages. Indulge yourself in a peaceful retreat, where the therapeutic care of our treatments create an unforgettable wellness journey for you.

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We are committed to crafting wildlife escapades that leave an indelible mark on children, kindling a lifelong affection for nature. Our dynamic game drives and hands-on activities foster a profound bond with the natural world. Your little explorers will be nurtured with unforgettable moments, instilling a deep passion for nature's significance and the intricate dance of life.

Unearth a haven of tranquility and unity where luxury and nature intertwine. Enjoy the warmth of the fireplace while savoring signature cocktails in our refined lounge and bar, or rejuvenate in your room's private pool. Relish a delectable culinary experience in our opulent dining area. Discover hidden gems at the trading post beneath the enchanting Serengeti skies.

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Our culinary masterpieces are a sensory delight. From global delicacies to dishes inspired by the heart of Africa, our skillful chefs fill every plate with the essence of Tanzanian herbs and spices, crafting a harmony of tastes. Complement your meal with an array of exceptional wines and artisanal cocktails, elevating your dining experience with each indulgent sip.

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Venture on a captivating photo safari at One Nature Mara River. Our open safari vehicles, designed with photographers in mind, offer luxurious comfort and essential equipment for capturing the perfect shot in the raw wilderness. Our lodge features a dedicated photography room where guests can edit, view their photos, and even rent high-quality cameras and lenses for an enhanced photographic experience.

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10 Types of African Safaris: Different Ways to Experience a Safari

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Hot air balloon safari in South Africa

Aerial safari

There are countless ways to experience a safari, from open-vehicle game drives to guided walks and horseback riding, and we have compiled 10 types of African safaris you can choose from.

From open savannahs and forested havens to breathtaking mountain landscapes with rolling hills overlooking water channels, the scene is set for a dramatic animal encounter, no matter how you choose to safari.

Whether it's a complete experience or a combination of options, your safari is bound to be unforgettable, no matter which option you decide upon.

1. Guided Game Drives

2. walking safaris, 3. aerial safaris, 4. mountain bike safaris, 5. water safaris, 6. horseback safaris, 7. primate safaris, 8. mobile safaris, 9. photographic safaris, 10. hideout safari experiences, experience the best types of african safaris.

Game drive in Kruger National Park, South Africa

Game drive in Kruger National Park, South Africa

Stepping into an open 4x4 safari vehicle, you may get a sense that something quite unique is about to begin. The optimum viewing platform, a game drive is not only the most popular way to experience a safari, but one that allows you to traverse vast landscapes for a stunning experience in Africa.

Journey across open savannahs, through rocky outcrops, and forested hideouts, coming across a herd of elephants or a lone kudu as you quietly pass wildlife in action. Game drives are an excellent way to see the wildlife, whether on Kruger National Park safaris or Serengeti safaris .

Night drives provide an opportunity to spot nocturnal favorites such as aardvark and civet, and experience the haunting yet exhilarating sounds of the bush after dark. Guides and trackers will use spotlights to reveal wildlife in trees and on land as you navigate under a brilliant African night sky.

Best Places for Guided Game Drives: Kruger National Park, South Africa • Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa • Masai Mara National Park, Kenya • Serengeti National Park, Tanzania • Chobe National Park, Botswana • Okavango Delta, Botswana • South Luangwa, Zambia

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Bush walk with Marataba Safari in South Africa. Photo courtesy MORE Family Collection

Bush walk with Marataba Safari in South Africa. Photo courtesy MORE Family Collection

A walking safari gives you a more intimate experience of the land and wildlife, guided by a trained professional who understands the terrain and animal life across the best African safari countries .

Tribal communities have lived in proximity to wildlife for millennia, with guides sharing their respect for the environment and its inhabitants with safari walkers.

Get a deeper understanding of the flora and fauna around you and enjoy up-close and personal encounters with the smaller members of the animal kingdom, such as beetles and small birds.

Best Places for Walking Safaris: Chief’s Island, Okavango Delta • Kruger National Park, South Africa •  North Luangwa, Zambia • Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania • Serengeti National Park, Tanzania • Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Morning view from balloon of wildebeest migration in Tanzania

Aerial safari in Tanzania

An aerial safari gives you a macro panorama of the landscape and wildlife of any destination, the action and drama unfolding beneath you.

Such a safari could take the form of a hot-air balloon ride, microlight flight, helicopter flip, or one on a small plane conducting air-hops between destinations, each providing a view of the scale and wonder of the wilderness, no matter when you go on an African safari .

You may find herds swirling across the grasslands or plains lined with marching elephants, each sighting unique in its unfolding. A safari from the air is one of the most incredible ways to enhance such an experience, with exceptional options on Masai Mara safaris .

Best Places for Aerial Safaris: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania • Masai Mara National Park, Kenya • Okavango Delta, Botswana • Virunga National Park, Rwanda • Kafue National Park, Zambia

Woman with a mountain bike observing zebras

Biking in Kenya

Picture traversing a vast landscape on 27-inch tires as you take a mountain bike safari through nature reserves and parks, keeping an eye out for game along the way.

Terrain changes from open savannahs to rugged pathways set among lush rainforests, with opportunities to spot animals in trees and around rocky outcrops. Your qualified guide will point out, from a safe distance, a variety of wildlife.

Enjoy the freshness of the great outdoors, the satisfaction of being active, and the thrill of cycling through parks and reserves, immediately at one with the African bush.

Best Places for Mountain Bike Safaris: Northern Tuli Reserve, Botswana • Laikipia, Kenya • Lower Zambezi, Zambia • Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve, South Africa • Gonarezhou-Malilangwe, Zimbabwe

Mokoro boat meandering down the river in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

Mokoro boat safari in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

With a huge focus on water for the land’s survival, it makes sense that one of the more popular ways of experiencing a safari is on water.

With predators and prey tentatively eyeing permanent water sources, game viewing from a mokoro (dugout canoe) or small boat brings you close to the action in a unique way, even when looking for the Big Five and Little Five .

Channels, rivers, and lakes reveal wildlife beneath the surface and on land nearby, creating an immersive yet slow-paced exploration. Boat safaris are one of the best ways to experience the wilderness by waterways, especially on Okavango Delta safaris .

Best Places For Water Safaris: Okavango Delta, Botswana • Chobe Game Reserve, Botswana • Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania • Lake Manyara, Tanzania • Lake Nakuru, Kenya  • Kruger National Park, South Africa • Etosha National Park, Namibia

Horseback riding African safari in Lewa Conservancy, Kenya

Lewa Conservancy, Kenya

A horseback safari is one of the most unusual yet inspiring ways to experience the wilderness. Skilled and semi-skilled riders follow trails and tracks through nature reserves and forested parks where predators are a safe distance away.

Imagine coming across a tower of giraffe grazing in the trees above or leading your horse to a shaded rest spot where, once dismounted, a warm beverage awaits you.

Discover parts of a game park or reserve where vehicles may not be allowed to take advantage of snapping some wonderful wildlife shots as you quietly approach antelope, birds, and diverse and breathtaking landscapes and habitats .

Best Places for Horseback Safaris: Makalali Game Reserve, South Africa • Matlapeng Reserve, Botswana • Tuli Reserve, Botswana • Pakamisa Private Game Reserve, South Africa • Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe • Masai Mara, Kenya

Encounter with mountain gorilla while on walking safari in Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda

A primate safari takes you deep into the jungle or forested terrain of East Africa in search of wildlife like mountain gorillas or chimpanzees.

Discover the wonders of a guided trek through otherwise impenetrable forests, ending up on lush mountain slopes in search of primates swinging from tree to tree or chewing on plant matter. From Rwanda gorilla trekking to Uganda safaris , the encounters with primates are sensational on these expeditions.

This type of safari requires planning well ahead, with opportunities to incorporate other safari types before or after a gorilla or chimpanzee trek.

Best Places for Primate Safaris: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda • Volcanoes National Park • Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda • Kibale Forest, Uganda • Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania • Mahale Mountains National Park, Tanzania

Mobile tented camp in Tanzania

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The beauty of a mobile safari is being able to wake up in one location, then end your day sipping a beverage of choice beneath the stars in a different spot.

Reducing a safari-goer’s carbon footprint and being able to relocate as often as your itinerary allows make mobile safaris popular.

Accommodations are comfortable and simple, easy to pack up and move, with all the mod cons necessary for this kind of experience. Gain access to more sites and sounds with a mobile camping safari.

Best Places for Mobile Safaris: Chobe Game Reserve, Botswana • Serengeti National Park, Tanzania • Masai Mara National Park, Kenya • Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Photo vehicle with photographers on safari game drive photographing zebras and antelope

Game Drive Photo Vehicle in South Africa. Photo courtesy of MalaMala Camp. Photo courtesy of MalaMala Camp

Embark on a photographic-focused safari, during which time doesn’t seem to exist as you patiently wait to capture that perfect shot, the African bush your inspiration.

Professional guides help direct you to ensure you are positioned just right to get that winning picture. Staying on a siting or venturing into unique locations within parks and reserves, your time out on safari is yours to get as creative as you want.

Vehicles are fitted with special camera holders, each guest assured of optimal viewing throughout the drive. For a walking safari experience, your guide will ensure open spaces, great lighting, and perfect timing are the order of the day. How you want to experience your photographic safari is one of the many reasons to plan your trip with a safari travel specialist .

Best Places for Photographic Safaris: Okavango Delta, Botswana • Tsavo West, Kenya • Kruger National Park, South Africa •  Sabi Sands, South Africa • Amboseli National Park, Kenya •  Timbavati Game Reserve, South Africa • Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Tourist watches and films wildlife from a hide at the Olifantsrus waterhole in Etosha National Park, Namibia

Etosha National Park, Namibia

This may seem a strange way to conduct a safari, but viewing animals from the safety and comfort of a hideout offers a unique perspective on game viewing.

Whether coming upon a hidden locale or strategically located structure, sometimes slightly underground, hides offer seating and windows to the show unfolding before you. Unseen, you have the chance to spot without being spotted, including when exploring the best places to visit in Africa on safari .

Some have you placed at eye level with game at a watering hole, while others may see you set high up in a tree, a bird’s-eye view of your surroundings offering an opportunity to spot wildlife far and wide.

Best Places for a Hide Safari Experience: Kruger National Park, South Africa • Sabi Sands, South Africa • Timbavati Game Reserve, South Africa • Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa • South Luangwa, Zambia • Etosha National Park, Namibia

Safari game drive in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

With a variety of ways to experience an African safari, the choices may seem impossible. However, depending on time and preferences, options are available as stand-alone adventures or a combination of a few. Imagine a few days on a guided game drive followed by a walking safari expedition or primate discovery.

To discover a wealth of information and inspiration, visit our African safari travel guide and take a look at our African safaris . One of our expert safari specialists will be on hand to assist you when you are ready to book your specific safari style.

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North Africa

North Africa is fascinating region offering some of the most interesting cultural experiences on the continent. The main countries for travel in this area are currently Morocco and Egypt. Home to some of the earliest know civilizations, North Africa has an incredibly rich and interesting history to discover. Today, both Morocco and Egypt have a beautiful mix of ancient traditions blended with modern culture that has evolved over generations. With ruins and relics dating back thousands of years, travelers can walk in bygone footsteps and uncover the remnants of once-powerful and influential kingdoms.

Peruse a bustling Moroccan souk with its stacks of handwoven carpets, baskets of fragrant spices and clusters of lanterns twinkling overhead. Hike through the Atlas Mountains to visit a remote Berber village or sample locally grown olives preserved using a recipe passed down between the generations. Wander through the Pyramids of Giza at first light, with no other person in sight. Cruise along the Nile River on your private dahabiya, seeing how the lifegiving waters nourished millennia of civilization. Spend an afternoon getting lost in the storied museums of Cairo, discovering the countless treasures housed there.

Whether your travel style is luxurious and chic, off-the-beaten track or somewhere in between, we have scoped out the best properties in the most coveted locations in Morocco and Egypt. From restored riads in the heart of Fez to stunning kasbahs hidden away in a palm oasis, there is something for every type of traveler.

Click on the different countries to discover each destination and what makes it so interesting.

Countries in North Africa

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African Wildlife Safaris Logo

Travel to Africa on safari with African Wildlife Safaris

An African safari is one of the most exciting and rewarding holidays you could ever experience. Discover the real spirit of Africa on our personalised, tailor made African safaris and tours ,  from up-close encounters with Africa’s iconic wildlife to authentic cultural experiences.

The sheer abundance of animals will take your breath away, as well as the variety of species and the ease of viewing them. In addition to the famous gameviewing locations such as the  Masai Mara  in  Kenya , the  Serengeti  in Tanzania,  Kruger National Park  in South Africa, and the  Okavango  in Botswana, we also have intimate knowledge of some of the lesser known locations where incredible wildlife viewing can be experienced.

At the same time the continent has even more to offer: dramatic landscapes, colourful tribes, interesting cultures, and a wide range of outdoor adventures. From  Morocco  to  Madagascar ,  Cairo  to Cape Town, we offer a range of fabulous  African safaris, tours  and beach holidays.

There are also a wide variety of accommodation options to choose from. Whether you are looking for an experience staying in modest bush camps and lodges, or are wishing to travel in total luxury staying at exclusive premier tented camps located in the heart of prime game viewing locations, we have the expert advice to create the safari experience you are looking for.

We understand that every traveller is different, so we tailor our Africa safaris and tours to suit your requirements. You choose where and when you want to go, where you want to stay, and our experienced Africa staff will custom design an itinerary to suit your specific style, interests and budget. We also offer one or two escorted set-departures every year for those travellers who prefer to travel in a group.

Experience the diversity of a Botswana safari, from the Kalahari to the beautiful Okavango Delta wetlands...

Sail the iconic Nile River and spend an evening watching the sun set by the grand Pyramids of Giza...

Broaden your travel to Africa by visiting historical and cultural Ethiopia with a civilisation dating back thousands...

Safari in wildlife-rich parks such as the Masai Mara and visit the tribal lands of the Samburu people...

Visit the world’s fourth largest island, a strange and exotic land ringed by golden beaches and palm trees...

The land-locked country of Malawi is dominated by the Rift Valley and the astonishing expanse of Lake Malawi...

Experience a tropical island paradise of unspoiled white sandy beaches that give way to a warm turquoise sea...

Explore Morocco, land of mystery and romance, offers a profusion of historical, cultural and scenic splendours...

Relax on tropical islands, rimmed by sandy beaches and coral reefs, set in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean…

Discover Namibia's sand dunes and deserts, unique animals, nomadic tribes people and spectacular coast...

Experience the most unforgettable wildlife encounter of your lifetime – a trek to see the magnificent mountain gorillas.

The sovereign African nation of Seychelles is heaven for snorkellers, scuba divers and bird-watchers as well as a hideaway for honeymooners.

Search for big game in Kruger National Park, take a luxury rail journey or enjoy a gourmet experience in the Cape...

South Africa

Take a safari to the savannas of the Serengeti with its herds of wildlife, or trek to the top of Kilimanjaro...

Uganda is a country of snow-capped mountains, dense rainforests where gorillas and other primates roam free...

Walk with wildlife in Zambia's Luangwa Valley National Park, marvel at Victoria Falls, explore the Lower Zambezi...

Canoe in Zimbabwe‘s Mana Pools whilst elephants feed just metres away and visit the awesome Victoria Falls...

Best things to do in Africa

What are the best places to visit in Africa? What are the best things to do in Africa? When is the best month to travel to Africa? We are here to help, be inspired with our range of recommended Africa Safaris & Tours across our range of destinations including Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, Ethiopia, South Africa and Tanzania. This information provides a good starting point in planning your African adventure and has been chosen by our expert staff.

Vumbura Plains Botswana

Wilderness Safaris Luxury Camps

Dedicated to sharing Africa’s wildest places with guests in a responsible manner, Wilderness Safaris operates on 2.6 million hectares of southern Africa’s best wildlife parks and reserves, using only camps that are designed to be as eco-friendly as possible, in some of the world’s best wilderness and wildlife locations. For more information, please view the following destination pages: Botswana , Namibia , Zambia & Zimbabwe .

Luxury Rail Journeys with Rovos Rail

Travel Agatha Christie style on opulent Rovos Rail which easily rivals the Orient Express. Re-live history and step back in time to the romantic days of pre-war rail travel with luxurious suites, lavish period decor and an elegant Victorian dining car. Journey from the historic railway station in Pretoria to beautiful Cape Town, or travel north to the renowned Victoria Falls. For details please view the following destination page: South Africa .

Pride of Lions at Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

South Africa – Legendary Kruger Safari

For the ultimate wildlife experience there is little to rival South Africa’s Kruger National Park and its surrounding exclusive private game reserves. Offering an unrivalled opportunity to view Africa’s famous “Big 5” as well as wild dog, cheetah, and herds of plains game, famous lodges include Mala Mala, Sabi Sabi, Singita, and Londolozi. For more information, please view the following destination page: South Africa .

Family of cheetahs in Kenya

Kenya Safari – Masai Mara

The famous Masai Mara encompasses both a national reserve and a Maasai tribal area on Kenya’s south west border with Tanzania. It is considered to offer the best game viewing in Kenya due to its abundant species of birds and animals including grazers such as zebra, giraffe and elephant, as well as predators such as lion, leopard and cheetah. For more information, please view the following destination page: Kenya .

Grootbos Forest Lodge

South Africa – Grootbos Private Reserve

The award winning Grootbos Private Nature Reserve offers 5 star luxury accommodation overlooking the Cape’s famous Walker Bay where up to 160 Southern Right whales make their home between June and December. It is possible to see the “Marine Big 5” – whales, great white sharks, dolphins, seals and penguins – all in one day. For more information, please view the following destination page: South Africa .

A Troop of Gorillas in Rwanda

Rwanda & Uganda Gorilla Trekking

An encounter with a family of mountain gorillas in the mountainous forests of Rwanda or Uganda is without doubt one of the world’s most inspiring wildlife experiences. These endangered primates live in the cool, mist-swathed forests of the Virunga Volcanoes, or in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. For more information, please view the following destination pages: Rwanda and Uganda .

Mana Pools Walking Safaris

Zambia Wild – A True Safari

Victoria Falls Helicopter Flight

Victoria Falls

The Victoria Falls are on the Zambezi River, and border the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Also called Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke that Thunders) the falls plummet 108 metres over a width of nearly 2 kilometres into the deep gorge below and are considered to be one of the seven natural wonders of the world. For details, please view the following destination pages: Zimbabwe and Zambia .

Canoeing at Mana Pools

Canoeing the Zambezi River

Experience the adventure of canoeing down the mighty Zambezi River through some of Africa’s most beautiful wilderness. Imagine the thrill as your canoe passes close to a herd of elephants drinking and bathing in the river, or a pod of hippo wallowing in the shallows. No method of travel could bring you closer to the beauty of the African bush. For details, please view the following destination page: Zimbabwe.

Mauritius Wedding

A jewel in the heart of the Indian Ocean, the tropical island paradise of Mauritius is both an exotic holiday destination and an ideal stopover en route to Africa. Dramatic volcanic mountains form the centre of the island, whilst most of the spectacular coastline is protected by a coral reef, and white sandy beaches give way to a warm torqiuse sea. For details, please view the following destination page: Mauritius .

Tanzania Wilderbeest Migration

Tanzania – Serengeti Migration

The unique Serengeti ecosystem is world famous for its spectacular scenery and wildlife. It covers 30,000 square kms and is the arena for the largest terrestrial mammal migration in the world. Every year over 1.5 million wildebeest, 250,000 zebra and 400,000 Thomson’s gazelles migrate across these “endless plains” as they have done for millennia. For details, please view the following destination page: Tanzania .

The Pyramids of Giza

Step back in time and explore the cultural treasures, rich history and spectacular desert landscapes of Egypt.A curious mix of old and new, Egypt offers fascinating historic sites, exotic culture, colourful souks, tantalising cuisine, a sunny climate and gorgeous beaches. For more information, please view the following destination page: Egypt

Recommended Africa Safaris

The following tours are private, independent and can be easily customised to suit your personal travelling requirements. Please contact us to begin designing your personalised Africa experience.

African Safari Extravaganza

This epic itinerary encompasses an epic five-country train journey aboard the Rovos Rail, a safari in Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti as well as a beach getaway on the Indian Ocean coast.

Antiquities & Wildlife

Explore the antiquities of Africa on this 16 day tour to Tanzania and Egypt. Explore the Pyramids of Giza and Marvel at the mighty Shypnx

Beautiful Botswana

Discover Botswana's most beautiful wilderness areas and an abundance of incredible wildlife on this luxury 10 night safari.

Best of Kenya and Tanzania

This safari combines the best wildlife experiences of Kenya and Tanzania, including the Samburu, Lake Nakuru, the Masai Mara and Serengeti.

Best of South Africa

Experience the very best of South Africa from vibrant Johannesburg and spectacular Cape Town to seeking out the 'Big 5' on safari and discovering the beautiful Cape Peninsula.

Cape Town and Garden Route Discovery

Experience the sites of Cape Town, Cape Winelands, the Karoo semi-desert and the lush forests and lagoons of the famous Garden Route.

Cape, Kruger and a Castaway Island

This 13 day African getaway has it all: Cape Town, the winelands, Kruger National Park and even a castaway island off the coast of Mozambique.

Exclusive Botswana

Take in the best of Botswana on this 12 day exclusive safari, travelling from the Makgadikgadi Pans through the Linyanti into the Okavango Delta.

Highlights of Botswana and Zambia

This trip combines Zambia's wild South Luangwa National Park and iconic Victoria Falls with Botswana's magnificent Okavango Delta and elephant-rich Chobe National Park.

Kruger and The Cape

Discover some of South Africa's best known attractions on this journey that begins with a big game safari in the world-renowned Sabi Sand and concludes in beautiful Cape Town.

Malaria Free Safari

This malaria-free South Africa safari means that you don't need to worry about taking medication on your holiday. This is an ideal option for families with young children or travellers with health concerns.

Mana Pools Canoe and Walking Trail

This thrilling safari provides incredibly close encounters with wildlife either from your canoe or on foot in Zimbabwe's stunning Mana Pools National Park.

Find out more about our tailor made African safaris. Get in touch with one of our Destination Specialists.

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Exploring the waterways of the Okavango Delta, Bushmen of the Kalahari, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Kenya, exploring the Serengeti, the great wildebeest and zebra migration in Tanzania, the world’s most magnificent ancient monuments in Egypt, the unique landscape and animals in the deserts of Namibia and the Gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda.

What are the best things to do in Africa?

Stunning safari drives, walking safaris, Mokoro excursions and cultural experiences.

When is the best month to travel to Africa?

Generally the best time to Travel to Africa is during the dry season (May-Oct), but game can be seen year-round in many parts.

Is it dangerous to travel to Africa?

Africa is a huge continent with many countries and some are considered dangerous. Generally the Southern and East African countries are safe and peaceful such as Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa. These are also the best countries to visit for seeing incredible wildlife and scenery. For more information, please contact one of our specialists .

Are African Safaris Dangerous?

African safaris can be exhilarating. Getting up close to animals in the wild is and experience like no other. Most African safaris are conducted in 4WD Land Rovers or Land Cruisers and therefore generally very safe. Some safaris can be done on foot or by Mokoro (traditional canoe) and this can create a higher level of risk however these tours are still considered safe as most animals keep there distant from humans. Guides can also carry rifles to be used as a last resort.

north african safari

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We know why you travel. You’d rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you.

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Africa Safari & Tours

Safari to Africa - Cosmos® Africa Safari Tours

Wildest Dreams Come True

Say hello to adventure on an affordable tour of Africa. Cosmos offers a choice of north Africa tours featuring mesmerizing Morocco with its Imperial Capitals, colorful souks, millennial heritage and Moorish design; exciting South Africa itineraries showcasing the best of this diverse country with unforgettable natural wonders, rich culture, and world-famous wines; or safari adventures in Kenya and Tanzania, with the possibility of also visiting the Victoria Falls. Awaken each morning to a safari dream in Africa's most amazing wild places and meet the local people who welcome you with time to share stories and legends of this great continent. When you embark on a safari to Africa with Cosmos, you get insights and cultural interactions that turn your once-in-a-lifetime Africa tour into a truly one-of-a-kind vacation experience. Embark on safari with luxurious safari lodge accommodations and expert guides to explore some of Africa’s most revered National Parks, such as Serengeti, Kruger, Maasai Mara, Amboseli and Ngorongoro Crater! Follow adventure to spot elephant, lion, Cape buffalo, cheetah, zebra, giraffe, and many more fascinating creatures.

The Ultimate Packing List for Your African Safari

north african safari

Packing for an African safari is somewhat different to most other trips you'll take. Navigating rural roads in an open-top jeep means that you'll get covered in dust, so you'll need clothes that hide dirt well. Because temperatures can change dramatically throughout the day, layers are essential (after all, pre-dawn game drives are often chilly even in the height of summer). If your itinerary includes flights in a bush plane between different parks or camps, you'll need to pack extra light to comply with charter flight baggage restrictions.

In this article, we provide a comprehensive packing list that should cover most 7-10 day safaris (while still leaving room in your suitcase for a few curios ).

Dressing for Your Safari

Safaris are generally casual affairs, so you can leave your evening-wear at home. The best clothes are loose-fitting and lightweight, so that they keep you cool and dry quickly if you get caught in a rain shower. Make sure to bring at least one good fleece or jacket for warding off the chill on early morning game drives. At night, there will usually be a campfire to keep you warm, but you'll want to wear long sleeves and trousers to protect yourself from mosquitoes . This is particularly important in malarial areas.

When it comes to colors, pick neutral tones over brighter shades for optimum camouflage in the bush. Khaki is a safari favorite for a reason: it's cool, camouflaged and hides dirt well. If you're in tsetse fly country, avoid wearing blue – it's an attractant for the disease-carrying insects.

Clothes and Accessories

  • 2 long-sleeve shirts
  • 1 sweatshirt or fleece
  • 1 lightweight raincoat 
  • 1 pair of comfortable shorts
  • 2 pairs of cotton trousers/pants
  • 3 pairs of socks
  • 4 pairs of underwear (cotton, so that you can easily wash and dry them overnight)
  • 1 pair of sunglasses (preferably with UV protection)
  • 1 warm woollen hat 
  • 1 swimsuit 
  • 1 pair of lightweight, durable walking shoes or hiking boots
  • 1 pair of flip-flops or sandals (for wearing around camp)
  • A supply of Ziploc bags to keep your dirty laundry separate from your clean clothes

Top Tip: Ladies, on the bumpy roads of Africa, a decent sports bra is your best friend. 

Toiletries and First Aid

Every camp or lodge will have at least a basic first aid kit , and most safari vehicles will too (especially those operated by higher-end camps). However, it's always a good idea to bring your own small supply of hygiene and health essentials. 

  • Personal toiletries, including travel size shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, moisturizer, toothpaste and toothbrush
  • Sunscreen (minimum SPF 30+)
  • After-sun cream
  • Antiseptic gel (for washing your hands when there's no water around)
  • Sanitary products for ladies
  • Contraceptives (including a supply of the pill, if you're on it)
  • Mosquito repellant (the most effective includes DEET)
  • Malaria pills (if needed)
  • Antihistamines for bug bites and allergic reactions
  • Painkillers, e.g. aspirin or Tylenol
  • Cold and flu medicines 
  • Diarrhea medication, e.g. loperamide
  • Antiseptic cream
  • Prescription medicines
  • A spare pair of glasses for those that wear contact lenses (it's often too dusty to wear them comfortably)

​Electronic Devices

  • Camera (this can be a basic point-and-shoot or an SLR with detachable lenses and a tripod, depending on how serious a photographer you are)
  • Spare memory cards 
  • Spare camera battery (consider a solar charger if you're going to be camping)
  • Binoculars (if you have them, otherwise your safari guide will likely have a pair you can borrow)
  • Spare AA and AAA batteries
  • Electrical adaptor 
  • Small flashlight (to use inside your tent or to find your way around camp at night)
  • iPad or tablet for storing e-books, photos and handy travel apps

Pack For a Purpose

Many safari camps and lodges now support local community initiatives in and around the wildlife parks, reserves and concession areas. If you want to make a positive difference during your time away, ask if you can bring any supplies that will help these projects (usually school supplies, medication or clothing). Check out  Pack For a Purpose  for lists of specific requests from lodges around Africa as well as suggestions on how best to pack the items they need. 

Before you start packing, make sure to research your options carefully. If there are two parts to your trip, you may be able to pack a separate duffel or backpack for the safari section and leave your main suitcase with your tour operator or hotel back at base. This keeps things light for your bush flight to Ngorongoro Crater , for example, while still allowing you to pack your scuba gear for your second week on the beach in Zanzibar .

You should also try to find out ahead of time whether your safari camp or lodge offers a laundry service. If not, you can recycle clothes by packing a small bottle of travel detergent and a length of thin nylon rope to serve as a makeshift laundry line. 

When choosing your suitcase, a soft-sided duffel is almost always a better bet than a rigid hardshell case. Duffels are easier to fit into narrow overhead compartments or into the back of a safari vehicle – and they're more likely to withstand the wear and tear of life in the bush. Because poverty and corruption lead to theft at many third world airports , we recommend plastic wrapping your bags before your flights and investing in a decent luggage lock. Always pack your valuables (and especially your camera with all your precious memories) in your hand luggage.

This article was updated by Jessica Macdonald on March 20 2019. 

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What to Pack for An African Safari, According to Trip Organizers

north african safari

Packing is hard. Especially when the destination might involve giant mosquitoes or Instagram-worthy hiking trails. What do frequent travelers to these spots — the ones who best know how to prepare for the conditions — put in their suitcases ? We’ll be tackling this in our series “ The Trip List .”

Going on an African safari and spotting animals like lions and zebras in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Since it’s not something most people do very often, it’s also not the easiest trip to pack for. For those lucky enough to have a safari in their future, we’ve rounded up a group of experienced tour guides and travel planners (with hundreds of safaris collectively under their belts) to help you out.

“People always overpack. I think that’s the biggest mistake,” says Deborah Calmeyer, founder and CEO of the safari trip organizer Roar Africa . She explains that, in terms of clothing, you generally just need a few casual pieces, as there aren’t many occasions to dress up on safari. Most lodges also offer laundry service with a quick turnaround time, so there’s no need to pack a new outfit for each day of your trip. Instead of prioritizing style, safari experts say to focus on layering , as you’ll spend most of your time outdoors on game drives in open-air vehicles. It might be chilly when you leave your lodge in the early morning but heat up quickly when the sun comes out. “If you’re out after sunset when the temperature drops, those layers will come in handy again,” says Calmeyer.

Before you start packing, learn the luggage requirements of your particular trip, which will determine how much you can bring. Even if you fly to Africa on a major international airline, once you’re in the bush, you’ll travel from site to site on small aircrafts with limited space. “The portal leading into the luggage compartments is quite small, and the bags have to be smushed and manipulated into these little cargo areas,” explains Kota Tabuchi, the managing director for African travel at the trip-planning consultancy Travel Beyond . Depending on your destination, weight limits can range from roughly 33 to 42 pounds, with lower limits more common in East Africa and higher maximums generally seen in South Africa. Choose a soft duffel bag (check your airline’s rules to confirm whether wheeled bags are allowed), as you can’t bring hard-sided luggage on many small planes.

You’re likely going on safari to encounter wild animals (especially the big five: lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, elephants, and buffalo), so don’t scrimp on binoculars and cameras that will help you get the best view and capture the best memories of your sightings. Below, our experts share their top picks for the gear that’ll make your trip comfortable and memorable, plus everything else you’ll need for a perfect safari.

The North Face Base Camp S 50L Duffel Bag

As stated above, a soft-sided duffel bag is your best bet for traveling on safari. Tabuchi has owned this North Face bag for more than 15 years now and has brought it on multiple safaris each year. He calls it “absolutely bombproof.” The lightweight and roomy duffel should hold everything you need, and it is compliant with most African airline requirements. If you want another option, Tabuchi also likes the very similar Patagonia Black Hole bag (a longtime Strategist favorite ).

Eagle Creek No Matter What Duffel

At under $100, this bag is an affordable pick that was mentioned by several safari pros, including Ina Steinhilber, president of tour operator Thomson Safaris . It’s lightweight, too, clocking in at just over two pounds, leaving plenty of room under the weight allowance for your stuff.

Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel 40

If you’re allowed to bring a soft duffel with wheels, this Osprey bag gets rave reviews from Wil Smith, founder and director of travel organizer Deeper Africa . “Make sure the bag is water resistant and has a storm flap over the zipper,” he says. “On a safari, you’re out on bumpy roads, and you never know if your bag’s going to end up out in the rain, dust, or dirt. It probably won’t, but you want to prepare for anything.” He says this bag checks all his boxes and even has lockable zippers.

eBags Classic Packing Cubes 3Pc Set

“These are a must for finding clothing easily in the soft-sided duffel,” says Kristina Jackson, a senior safari and Kilimanjaro travel consultant at Thomson Safaris. Many frequent travelers have recommended packing cubes to us in the past (including the eBags set) because they compress your gear to save space — even more crucial when you have a tight luggage allotment. “After safari, you may find yourself using them more often,” says Jackson. “They make traveling so easy.”

Paravel Fold-Up Backpack

According to Joel Cody, sales and marketing director at Thomson Safaris, you’ll also want a backpack for your daily game drives to carry things like extra layers, bug spray , and binoculars. Because it folds down into a compact pouch, he suggests this Paravel backpack, as you can easily fit it into your larger luggage.

Columbia Women’s PFG Tamiami II Long Sleeve Shirt

“Layers are the most practical way to cope with fluctuating daytime and nighttime temperatures,” says Sherwin Banda, president of the safari trip operator African Travel , and pretty much all of our experts agree. A basic tee is a good first layer, and in the summer you might not need more than a long-sleeved shirt on top for the chilly morning and evenings. “We all have one of these,” says Ali Riley, art director of Thomson Safaris, of this polyester button-up. She likes that it’s comfortable, moisture-wicking, and offers UPF 40 protection from the sun.

Uniqlo Women’s Premium Linen Long Sleeve Shirt

If you prefer natural fibers, Cody recommends these linen long-sleeved shirts from Uniqlo. “They’re lightweight and comfortable, and you can wear a T-shirt or tank underneath for layering,” he says. “They look good after they’re washed and are available at an excellent price point.”

Patagonia Women’s Capilene Midweight Zip-Neck Base Layer Top

Patagonia pieces came up a lot among our experts, who like how they’re made sustainably and designed for travel and adventure. For a slightly warmer second layer, Cody likes this half-zip, which is made from a moisture-wicking fabric and locks in body heat. He tells us it “provides warmth without bulk, and doesn’t take up much room in a backpack.”

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket (Men’s)

An even warmer jacket is a good option to have with you even in the summer. Elizabeth Gordon, co-founder and CEO of the safari company Extraordinary Journeys , explains that many popular safari locations, such as Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater, are located at high altitudes and may be chilly year-round. For cold nights and mornings, she loves Patagonia’s Nano Puff jackets. “They weigh practically nothing and somehow always keep me at the right temperature,” she says. For a less-expensive option, Gordon also likes ultralight down jackets from Uniqlo, available for both men and women .

Patagonia Women’s Torrentshell 3L Jacket

“A light rain jacket can double as a windbreaker, so it’s good to bring no matter the time of year, [especially] with the changing rain patterns,” says Gordon. She says spring and fall are typically the rainy seasons in East Africa, but climate change has made the weather less predictable. To make sure you’ll have coverage in the event of an unexpected storm, she recommends this packable, lightweight Patagonia jacket.

Eddie Bauer Sightscape Convertible Roll-up Pants

There’s no need to go out and buy special pants for your safari — chinos , leggings , and shorts are all generally fine (though some experts advise against jeans because they’re heavy to pack). If you want to really get in the spirit, however, Riley suggests these convertible pants from Eddie Bauer. You can wear them as long pants in the morning and then roll them up into capris when the weather heats up. “They’re extremely comfortable, if not overly stylish,” she says. Here’s a similar style for men that unzips into shorts. Even if it’s warm out, our experts like having the option of long pants in the evenings when mosquitos are out.

Hanes Style Essentials Fleece Lined Leggings

Leggings and yoga pants are especially popular on safari because they’re lightweight and comfortable, especially if you’re going to be sitting in a Jeep all day. If you anticipate being cold, a fleece-lined pair is good to have too. “In case you get a cold night in Ngorongoro, these are great to sleep in, are inexpensive, and don’t take up a lot of room,” says Cody.

ExOfficio Give-N-Go 2.0 Bikini Briefs

Although most lodges have laundry services — often complimentary for guests — many won’t wash women’s underwear because of cultural norms in certain countries. Since you may have to wash your own underwear in your bathroom sink, go with pairs made for exercise or travel that are designed to be fast-drying. “Ideally you want clothing that is easy to wash and dry,” says Smith. He includes underwear in this category, especially for women. Ex Officio (which makes some of our favorite men’s and women’s underwear) specializes in quick-drying materials that’ll make it easy for you to do your own wash.

Andie Swim — The Amalfi One Piece

Gordon points out that most lodges have pools, and getting in an afternoon dip is a great way to cool down after a long day out in the bush. Obviously, go with whatever swimsuit you love, but if you want some Strategist-approved picks, check out out recommendations for men and women (plus bikinis ). Here are two crowd-pleasers that earned our seal of approval.

Tom’s Women’s Parker Slip-on

Unless you’re trekking through the mountains to see gorillas, safaris are mostly sedentary experiences spent on Jeeps or Land Rovers driving through wildlife preserves to catch a glimpse of the big five. Our experts say there’s no need to waste precious luggage space on heavy hiking boots , as you’ll likely be doing only a bit of walking outside the vehicle. Jackson suggests wearing Toms. “They’re perfect to slip on and off while in the vehicle throughout the day and are also very lightweight.” Similarly, her colleague Cody swears by Vans, telling us, “They’re so easy to take off and on and are washable. I wore these all the time.”

Hoka Torrent 2 Trail-Running Shoes - Men's

If you do anticipate doing more active walking on your trip, both Smith and Tabuchi recommend trail-running shoes. They’re not as bulky as hiking boots (which our experts say aren’t necessary for most safari terrain) but still offer stability and traction. “They’re very sturdy,” says Smith. “You want good traction because if you get out of the car and it has been raining, the ground may be a little slippery.” Tabuchi says any trail runners with a solid rubber sole should do the trick. The lightweight Hoka One One Torrent is popular among trail runners and should be rugged enough to get you through your safari adventure.

Havaianas Womens Top Flip-flop

Although our experts recommend closed-toe shoes while you’re out on game drives, they say to also bring a pair of flip-flops or sandals for when you’re relaxing back at your home base. “It’s great to have some comfortable flip flops for your tent or your lodge or around the campfire,” says Smith. You’ll also want to wear your flip-flops at the pool if your lodge has one. Brazilian-made Havaianas are an affordable yet stylish option that we’ve written about before .

Accessories

Smartwool Men’s Classic Hike Full Cushion Crew Socks

In the past, we’ve covered how merino-wool socks are ideal for all types of activities including running , biking , and hiking . Their temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking properties also make them perfect for safari. Steinhilber says Smartwool socks will “keep your feet warm on cool nights” and, given their lightness, will also be comfortable on daytime game drives.

Coolibar Bhakti Sun Shawl UPF 50+

Calmeyer says a shawl or pashmina will “never go to waste on safari” because it’s an all-in-one piece that you can use to stay warm, block out the sun, or even zhuzh up your casual clothes for a candlelit dinner back at the lodge. Gordon agrees, telling us she always brings a scarf “to dress everything up, or protect from dust.” Nicole Scherr, a former marketing project manager at Thomson Safaris, likes this specific shawl because it’s lightweight, quick-drying, and has UPF sun protection. “It’s great for the plane because it becomes a small blanket, and it’s also light enough to drape over yourself in the vehicle to protect from getting a burn,” she says.

100 Percent Cotton Western Paisley Bandannas

If you’re not into shawls, a bandana or multipurpose gaiter can help with sun protection and keeping dust off your face. These two are favorites of the Thomson Safaris team. The UV-protective Buff also has built-in insect repellent, which you’ll appreciate when the mosquitoes come out.

Tilley Hikers Hat

Since you’ll be out in the sun for most of the day, all of our experts recommend a hat — both to prevent burning and to keep the sun out of your eyes so you can focus on the wildebeest migration or whatever amazing sight you’ve come across on your drive. Tabuchi recommends “a baseball cap at the very minimum,” but if you want even more coverage, several of our experts suggested a wide-brimmed hat like this one from Tilley, which is a top choice among Thomson Safari guides. It’ll cover the front and back of your neck, and it’s also packable, so you can cram it into your luggage and it will retain its shape when you take it out.

J.Crew Panama Hat

While the classic safari hat above is practical, Gordon admits it’s not the most stylish; she prefers a Panama hat like this one. You’ll get nearly as much sun protection in a bit more fashionable of a package.

Binoculars and cameras

Zeiss Terra ED Compact Binoculars 10x42

“You can’t go on safari without these,” says Steinhilber, and nearly all of our experts agree that a good pair of binoculars will enhance your trip. How close you’re able to get to animals will depend on where exactly you’re going on safari, but Tabuchi explains that in many national parks and game reserves, vehicles are restricted to the road networks, so your driver won’t be able to go off-road to follow a pride of lions or elephants bathing in a river. That’s when binoculars will really come in handy. Although some lodges and game drives provide loaner pairs, Calmeyer says you’ll often end up having to share these with other guests, so it’s worth bringing your own. Gordon adds that “not having binoculars holds you back.”

All binoculars are labeled with two numbers. The first represents the magnification power (for example, “10” means objects will appear ten times bigger than they actually are), and the second is the lens diameter, which determines the field of vision. Binoculars can range in price from under $100 to well into the four figures for a Swarovski pair that Smith calls “the envy of every safari guide and bird enthusiast.” For a safari, Smith says to look for a pair with minimum specs of 8x42, like this mid-range model from Zeiss. With these, Smith says you’ll be able to zoom in on incredible sights like a rhinoceros 1,000 yards away.

Vortex Optics Viper HD Roof Prism Binoculars 10x42

If you’re willing to make more of an investment, the Vortex Viper 10x42 are Smith’s personal favorite binoculars. “Those are really good binoculars at a very reasonable price,” he says. “I think the glass is good; it’s stable. I’ve had people compare them with much more expensive binoculars.”

Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX10 IV Digital Camera

Smartphone cameras are so high-quality these days that experts say you’ll be able to get a lot of great shots with your iPhone — but on safari there are occasions when you’ll want a traditional camera. Like binoculars, a camera will be useful when your drive can’t get close to an animal and your phone camera’s zoom isn’t strong enough to shoot a clear picture from 50 yards away. Tabuchi adds that there are some areas where smartphone photography is banned to protect rhinoceroses, as poachers have used geotagged photos to track down the animals. And, as Gordon points out, if there’s any occasion to break out your fancy cameras and lenses, it’s Africa. Experts say you’ll want a minimum of 300-400mm zoom lenses for shooting at typical safari distances.

This Sony is a favorite of both Smith’s and Tabuchi’s. A bridge between an entry-level point-and-shoot and a high-end DSLR, it has an adjustable telescopic lens that zooms out to 600mm, more than enough to capture lion paws or the eyes of an elephant from a distance. Compared to a DSLR camera with multiple lenses, this one “takes up less space,” Smith says, “and you don’t have to mess around changing lenses.” Tabuchi calls it “stellar,” telling us “it’s got the functionality and zoom capabilities of a DSLR but has enough automatic features in there for dummies like myself.” (If you do choose to go the DSLR route, Tabuchi recommends renting additional lenses from Lensrentals.com to save money on expensive kits you might not use after your safari.)

Nikon CoolPix B500 Digital Camera

Here’s a more affordable bridge camera that made Calmeyer’s list of recommended models for Roar Africa safari guests. She admits it won’t be as powerful as a DSLR, but for the price it’s a solid option for capturing both close-ups of animals and sweeping landscape shots.

EO Organic Hand Sanitizer Spray: French Lavender, 6-Count

Even pre-pandemic, experts recommended packing hand sanitizer, since you might be eating lunch straight off a game drive or need to take a bathroom break out in the bush and far from running water. Of course, by now we all have our own sanitizer preferences, but Steinhilber especially likes this lavender one because she says it “doesn’t have that terrible antiseptic odor.” (Interestingly, it’s also Sarah Michelle Gellar’s favorite .)

Badger SPF 30 Active Mineral Sunscreen Cream

“The African sun is brutal,” says Calmeyer, and a good sunscreen is an absolute must. Any type you prefer will work as long as it has a high SPF, but if you want a safari-approved pick, Jackson says Badger is a solid “all-natural brand to use all day long.”

Dermatone Lip Balm SPF 30, 3-Pack

Don’t forget lip protection. Steinhilber says any lip balm you choose must have a strong SPF. She uses this one from Dermatone.

Ben's 30 Insect Repellent Pack 3.4 oz, Pack of 4

Mosquitos, tsetse flies, chiggers, and other critters are often unavoidable on safari, but a good bug spray can reduce your chances of getting bitten. Now’s not the time for organic essential-oil-based repellents that experts say won’t be up to the task. Instead, you’ve got to bring in the DEET. Brittany Silva, a safari trip manager at Thomson Safaris, says this 30 percent DEET spray is one of the best. Another good option is to wait until you land, so that you can buy bug spray from an African company and feel confident that it’s designed to repel the local insects. Calmeyer suggests the brands Peaceful Sleep and Tabard . “They work better than anything I’ve ever got from anywhere else,” she says. Gordon agrees, calling Peaceful Sleep “magical.”

Sawyer Products Premium Permethrin Clothing Insect Repellent

If you’ve read our coverage of the best tick repellents , you know we’re already big fans of this permethrin spray, which can be used to treat clothing and gear. Smith, along with the team at Thomson Safaris, also uses it and likes the extra protection it provides. You can spray it on your shoes, your hat, and anything else you might be wearing to keep bugs at bay.

Sawyer Products Premium Insect Repellent with 20 Percent Picaridin

If you really don’t want to use DEET (which can be smelly and irritate skin), Smith suggests the non-toxic ingredient picaridin as an alternative. “It comes in nice, soft lotions that smell good,” he says, “and it’s just as effective as high-concentration DEET.” He says this Sawyer lotion feels gentle and non-greasy on your skin.

Dr. Bronner's 5-Ounce Pure-Castile Bar Soap in Peppermint

Even if your lodge has a laundry service, if you’re moving between places quickly and won’t be at a specific lodge for more than one night, Smith recommends packing soap for washing your own clothes. He says, “You can just wash your stuff and hang it up to dry while you’re sleeping, so you always have something clean.” Also, bringing your own soap is a must if your lodge won’t wash your underwear. Jackson recommends this eco-friendly, biodegradable soap for easy cleaning.

Additional gear

Anker PowerCore Fusion

“On glamping safaris to the Serengeti, charging opportunities are generally limited to the vehicles and central lounge areas,” says Andrew Doherty, manager of special-interest travel at Thomson Safaris. Since you might not have a personal charging station in your tent or lodge, he recommends bringing a power bank that you can charge up when you’re near an outlet and then use to keep your phone and other gadgets running when you’re out of reach. “That way, you can continue to scan through selfies and edit safari shots on your phone while lying in bed listening to lions roaring in the distance.”

Ceptics Africa Power Plug Adapter Travel Set

“There are three different plugs in Africa,” says Gordon. “A universal adapter is good to have because if you’re entering different countries, you’re just going to want to have all three in one.” This adapter will work in popular safari countries like South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.

Hooga Book Light

Similarly, not all tents and lodges will have lights and electricity at all times. “A lot of places are on generators or solar panels that aren’t going to be on all day or all night,” says Gordon. “The lights are getting better, but they’re not super-strong.” While she used to bring a flashlight on safari, she says she now just uses the one on her phone, but still packs a book light for reading at night. A headlamp works too, if you prefer, and we’ve recommended our favorite one here .

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Best walking safaris in Africa - The top 11

A walking safari allows you to experience Africa in a more natural way, opening your senses and exploring the wilderness on foot under the expert guidance of trained rangers. It's an experience not to miss.

Richard

26 Apr 2021

25 oct 2022.

Top 11 Walking Safaris Africa

Having worked as a guide and spent a lot of time in the bush, there is genuinely not a better feeling than that which you get from a walking safari and the sense of excitement you get from getting out of the vehicle and exploring on foot. Stepping out of the vehicle and away from the noise on the engine opens up your senses to what is happening around you, allowing you to notice signs and creatures you would usually have driven past and missed.

Below is a list of our top 10 favourite walking safaris we have put together that not only appeal to travellers with an interest in wildlife but also the rich culture found throughout Africa.

We have divided these up into short walking safaris for those who perhaps have not done a walking safari before and want to dip their toe in the water, animal specific for those looking to trek to find wildlife such as gorillas, longer walking safaris where walking is a large focus of the trip and alternative walking holidays where you might do safari and walking separately such as in Namibia.

Got a question about walking safaris? Chat with a specialist via WhatsApp for a quick response.

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Short Walking Safaris

These short walking safaris are perfect if this is your first time walking in the African bush and you want to experience what it is like, but you don’t want to commit to several days or make it the main focus of your trip. It allows you to get a taster for the experience, typically focusing on seeing smaller animals and learning about the fauna, rather than spotting larger, more dangerous animals. In many camps, if you like it, you can always request to do more short walks, or you can plan a return to Africa for a longer walking safari.

1. Zimbabwe Safari Adventure

Zambezi Expeditions Camp Bush Walk

Head to the home of the walking safari on the Zimbabwe Safari Adventure. Hwange, Mana Pools and Lake Kariba offer some of the best and most remote game viewing in all of Africa.

A personal favourite of mine I have fond memories of walking through Mana Pool with armed guide coming across my first wild dog sighting, elephant and maybe getting a little too close to a number of buffalo.

Zimbabwe is famed for its intense and long guide training and they have produced some of the best guides in the business due to their high standards so you know you are in good hands.

Somalisa Camp

Highlights:

  • Game drives and guided walks in Hwange National Park
  • Luxury tented accommodation throughout
  • Experience Mana Pools, the home of the walking safari
  • Unbeatable game viewing.
  • Optional Victoria Falls add on

Best time to go : May – October

After flying to Victoria Falls via Johannesburg you will fly straight into Hwange National Park where you will spend three nights at the incredible Somalisa Camp . Game drives, guided walks and birding safaris are all on offer. Wildlife in the area includes the usual plains game, plus lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, hyena, cheetah and much more.

Your next stop is the breath-taking Lake Kariba for three days. There are no shortage of activities to try here, with many based around the lake. Spend your days with a mixture of fishing, boat safaris, sunset cruises, as well as game drives and guided walks in the wildlife rich Matusadona National Park . Keeping up with the luxurious accommodation your three nights will be spent staying at Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

Finally, onto a personal favourite of mine, Mana Pools National Park , arguably one of the best places to walk in the whole of Africa. Zimbabwe is famed for its incredible guiding and strict standards, essential when walking in remote wilderness such as Mana Pools. Your base for the next three nights will be Zambezi Expeditions Camp overlooking the Zambezi River. Although canoeing safaris and game drives are also on offer, make the most of the walking opportunities here which are second to none.

Explore Zimbabwe on foot

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2. Classic Zambia Safari

Sta8390 Lc1 Copy

Zambia is famed for its walking safaris with South Luangwa National Park said to be the birthplace of them, and still one of the best locations in the country to undertake these magical experiences. As well as the incredible wildlife and camps, Zambia remains hugely popular for walking safaris due to the country’s strict guiding exams and consistently high standards.

This safari combines Victoria Falls, the Lower Zambezi National Park and the South Luangwa National Park, 3 must visit locations for any trip to Zambia with excellent opportunities for walking.

Chiawa  Camp Elephant

  • Visit Victoria Falls
  • Cruise along the Zambezi River
  • Canoe in the Lower Zambezi National Park
  • Game drive in one of the most predator rich areas in Africa.
  • Walk in some of the most exciting game areas

Best time to go: April – August

After your overnight flight to Johannesburg you will connect up to Livingstone where you will spend three nights at the Waterberry Zambezi Lodge which is located near the stunning Victoria Falls . Perfectly located on the banks of the Zambezi, be sure you make the most of all the activities available from walking tours to bungee jumping to helicopter flights and of course, the chance to walk across the bridge to the Zimbabwean side to see the falls from another angle.

Your next stop is Baines’ River Camp in the Lower Zambezi which falls between the mighty Zambezi River and the mountains to the north. The game viewing begins here, and it won’t disappoint. The sheer range of activities available here is a joy with the choice of game drives, guided walks, boat and canoe safaris, fishing trips and sunset river cruises. Walking safaris not only give you the chance to stretch your legs, but also to truly appreciate the park's flora and fauna, and to understand what makes the ecosystem here so special. As many activities focus around the rivers here where game congregates, especially during the dryer months, walking safaris may be combined with boat trips to reach more remote areas.

The final destination on your safari is the famous South Luangwa Park where walking safaris originated. Four nights at Kafunta will give you plenty of time to see what this incredible park has to offer. Famous for its leopards and high predator numbers this is the best way to finish off your trip. South Luangwa is renowned for its excellent walking terrain, and the remote location of Kafunta ensures that you are away from the crowds to give you a truly private experience. Walking here is best from April through to October, however, temperatures will rise the later you go.

Experience wild Zambia

Krl Fireplace 3

3. Botswana Under Luxury Canvas

Botswana Savuti - Jez Hollinshead

A Botswana safari is hard to beat, and this walking safari is no exception. This 9-night trip covers 3 must visit regions in Botswana, each fantastic for walking in their own right.

Botswana is particularly good for walking, however, you will need to take the time of year into account. With such a high elephant population and much of the Okavango Delta comprising of thick mopane woodland and dense bush I would suggest avoiding the green seasons as many of the guides will not walk. that being said walking in down by the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans is possible year round. The majority of walking in Botswana is not strenuous as it’s a very flat country, making it an enjoyable stroll as you learn about your surroundings.

Jacks Camp Suite Lounge

  • Fly between each camp on a private charter spotting game from the air.
  • Mokoro along the waterways of the Okavango Delta
  • Enjoy some of the most game rich environments in Africa
  • Walk with the Zu/’hoasi bushmen
  • Spend the morning with a habituated family of meerkats
  • Take an ATV on to the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
  • Enjoy luxury, exclusive and remote tented accommodation

Best time to go: May – October

The first two camps are particularly wildlife orientated. Although the main focus will be game drive orientated, both camps will offer walking activities. After your overnight flight form London to Johannesburg you will take a light aircraft north to Duba Explorers Camp where you will spend three nights on game drives and exploring the waterways on the northern boundaries of the Okavango Delta, this area is particularly well known for the big 5.

From here fly south to Gomoti Plains Camp on the edge of the Gomoti River, again, very much orientated around game viewing and game drives be sure to spend a few hours during a cool morning walking with your guide and taking in the small creatures often missed from the game drive vehicle.

Your last stop is a particular highlight of mine at Jack's Camp you will get the opportunity to walk and spend time with the Zu/’hoasi bushmen. Speaking no English you will have an interpreter with you who will explain everything along the way as they pass on their knowledge. This is a once in a lifetime experience and real privilege. The Makgadikgadi Salt pans are also renowned for their incredible vistas and diverse wildlife such as the brown hyena, aardwolf and other desert adapted species such as gemsbok and ostrich.

Be inspired by Botswana under canvas

Duba Explorers Camp Mokoro Safari

Long Walking Safaris

These walking safaris are perfect for safari goers who want to walking to be a key feature of their holiday and are comfortable spending several hours walking in the bush with a guide, often walking between camps. Some of these also give you the opportunity to encounter larger game on a foot which is an exhilarating experience.

4. Walk, mountain bike and drive Northern Tanzania

Wayo Walking In Serengeti

The Serengeti is synonymous with a Tanzania safari , and undoubtedly one of the best destinations in the world for wildlife viewing. Home to the Great Migration , as well as the Big Five, the Serengeti is a safari hotspot, and a walking safari offers the unique opportunity to get away from the crowds and experience wildlife from a unique perspective – a true highlight of this trip.

Ngorongoro Crater

  • Visit Lake Manyara National Park
  • Chance to view the tree climbing lions and the flamingos
  • Mountain bike through the rural villages
  • Walk along the rim and drive in the Ngorongoro Crater
  • View the great migration in the Serengeti
  • Walk the plains of the Serengeti

Best time to go : June – October

This trip combines three spectacular locations providing a great overview of the incredible game viewing that can be found in Tanzania.

Begin your adventure by visiting Lake Manyara which is famous for its tree climbing lions and flamingos. Staying in Manyara Green Camp for two nights, you are located right on the river so you can explore the nearby waterfalls and swim in rockpools to cool off in the afternoons. The perfect place to sit and enjoy a G&T, you can see fish eagles swooping down to catch their dinner, as elephants wander past.

Here, as well as game drives, you will have the option to mountain bike through the rural villages soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying riverside picnics, to walk alongside the shores of Lake Manyara and get close to the flamingos or enjoy forest hikes in the Great Rift Valley. A truly unique experience, is to take a canoeing excursion on the lake, watching the wildlife graze on the shoreline, or for a completely new perspective, try Tanzania’s first treetop walkway through the forest putting you at eye-level with the monkeys, butterflies and birds.

From here you will game drive out of Manyara and head to the infamous Ngorongoro Crater where you will spend a night at Sanctuary Crater Camp . Spend the afternoon walking the crater rim which offers some incredible views, before heading back to camp. Early the following morning you will use your close proximity to the crater floor to get in early and enjoy all the wildlife and amazing views – the Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places in Tanzania to see the Big Five.

Your final destination will be the infamous Serengeti where you experience one of the most wildlife rich areas and get up close and personal with the Great Migration. Your first two nights will be spent at Naabi Green Camp exploring as much as possible during your game drives, before you begin your walking safari where you will stay in the Serengeti walking camps.

The Serengeti walking camps move with the seasons to be near the migration and are located in remote areas of the Serengeti where there are gentle rolling hills, small steams and grassy plains. You will set off early in the mornings to avoid the heat of the day and make the most of when the animals are most active, accompanied of course by a qualified walking guide and armed ranger. Enjoys al fresco breakfasts perched on a rock as you marvel at the nature surrounding you, before heading back to camp for a sit-down lunch and afternoon rest. Short evening walks allow you to experience the bush as the African sun goes down providing incredible lighting.

This Tanzania active safari is truly a once in a lifetime experience, combining comfortable camps with the chance to fully immerse yourself in the bush.

Experience Tanzania on foot

Wayo Walking Safari

5 Remote Zambia Walking Safari

North Luanwa Walking Safari

Zambia is famed for its walking safaris and this trip gets you truly off the beaten track and into the wilderness.

This 11-day trip in the heart the Luangwa concentrates on the best this park has to offer and does it on foot. Really wild walking safaris are difficult to find these days, so this is not to be missed. This trip ticks all the boxes for the keen safari goer; adventurous, off the beaten track and lead by incredible guides. Ideal for someone looking for something a little out of the norm.

Chikoko  Tree  Camp Chikoko River

  • Off the beaten track exploration
  • Incredible wildlife viewing
  • Move between camps on foot
  • Dine and even sleep under the stars
  • Chance to walk with rhino and see wild dog on foot
  • Sleep in huts in the trees
  • Swim in the clear waters of the Mwaleshi River

Best time to go : April - August

Start off with a night in a safari style camp situated on the outskirts of Lusaka, catch up on some sleep and relax after your flights. The following morning you will fly from Lusaka up to Mfuwe and then transfer on a leisurely game drive to you first camp positioned perfectly on the banks of the Luangwa River. The game here is fantastic and you can expect to see lion, leopard, wild dog, elephant and giraffe as highlights.

From here you will continue on foot to a remote bush camp deep in the South Luangwa where the focus is on walking safaris and a truly immersive bush experience. On your walking safaris, you will be accompanied by both a guide to find animals for you and also a scout to keep an eye out for animals and ensure you are kept safe. You’ll walk for about four hours a day, some days staying a couple of nights in a camp, and other days moving straight on to a new camp. Afternoons can be spent relaxing and watching the nearby game.

A highlight is staying at Chikoko Tree Camp in two story reed huts, giving you a unique perspective of the wildlife. Chikoko Tree Camp is focused purely on walking safaris and is in an area with no roads at all. Your luggage will be carried for you by porters to and from camp. Dine under the stars, sleep in open-fronted reed-built rooms and enjoy the sights and sounds of the bush all around you.

A scenic flight will take you from the South to the North Luangwa National Park , a beautiful part of the country which is only visited by a handful of people every year. With only three camps in the park, you are guaranteed a truly intimate safari experiences and no crowds. Staying at Mwaleshi Camp , you will be in perfect walking terrain with vast open plains giving you a good chance of seeing rare wild dog and the camp being located within a rhino sanctuary giving you a unique opportunity to see these magnificent beasts on foot. You can swim in the shallow, clear waters of the Mwaleshi River, enjoy visits to the Mwaleshi Falls and even enjoy a sleepout under the stars if the weather allows.

This Zambia walking safari is a chance to really feel at one with nature and an experience hard to replicate anywhere else in Africa.

Explore remarkable Zambia

Mfuwe Lodge Elephants In Reception

6. Walk with iconic wildlife, South Africa

With its huge diversity in environments our Walk in the footsteps of African icons trip idea if the perfect itinerary for anyone wanting an active and adventurous trip. South Africa has some of the best walking spots in Africa. Its different habitats and environments are any walker’s dream.

This trip is one of my favourites for heading straight into the bush and having a high possibility for some incredible sightings, often walking where 4x4 can’t reach. The walking here is at a relaxing pace, however, be prepared for high chances of coming across any of the big five on foot – don’t worry, your guide is there to keep you safe.

Emgatland 99421

  • Exclusive mobile safari
  • Authentic style safari
  • Guided walking safaris by highly trained guides
  • Potential of experiencing the Big Five on foot
  • Relax and unwind in Cape Town

After your flight into Johannesburg, you will fly directly to the Kruger where you will prepare for the next few days walking. You will be staying at the Africa on Foot accommodation that is in the heart of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve which shares unfenced borders with Kruger National Park . Lovely, comfortable and authentically rustic, the focus is on your ‘bush’ experience in canvas tents as opposed to luxury. As you fall asleep listening to the sounds of the bush, you will feel a new appreciation for nature.

The next few days will be spent tracking the iconic African wildlife of South Africa , led by your professional guides you will have the potential of encountering buffalo, lion, leopard, elephant and rhino along the way. You’ll discover the final details of ecosystem that surrounds you and learn how to read and interpret the discreet signs of the wildlife which allow you to track and follow them. .

The second half of your trip is in Cape Town where the walking possibilities are endless. Strolling along the waterfront in the evenings is a must, as well as a trip up Table Mountain - skip the cable car and take time hiking up, the rewards at the top are well worth it.

Walk with South Africa's iconic wildlife

Jo9 A06101

Animal Specific Walking Safaris

These walking safaris all focus on spotting a specific animal that many people plan their trip around as a bucket list activity.

7. Gorilla trekking, Rwanda

Bisate Lodge

Rwanda is full of incredible walking opportunities but the highlight for most people, is trekking to see the Mountain Gorillas.

Gorilla tracking occurs in the forest and can be challenging across slippery slopes and going up and down gradients, and at a bit of an altitude. To avoid disappointment and so you can enjoy the experience as much as possible, I would suggest even doing a little training before you trip, ideally as much walking as possible. Where possible, they will put less mobile people into a gorilla group which is closer.

Not only are you able to trek into the mountains to see the gorillas but there are plenty of other opportunities with the golden monkeys and exploring Lake Kivu and surrounding forests.

Undoubtedly one of the most rewarding trips you can do is our Rwanda Gorillas, Primates & Landscapes , this trip combines wildlife, culture, adventure and history in one

Nyungwe Forest Np C Rwanda Development Board

  • Gorilla tracking in Parc National Des Volcans
  • Chimp Tracking in Cyamudongo forest
  • Canopy walks
  • Boating on lake Kivu
  • Golden Monkey Tracking
  • Learn about Rwanda’s history at the Genocide Memorial Centre

Best time to go : December – February and June – September

Rwanda is often seen as the more luxury option for gorilla tracking, thanks to the numerous boutique hotels that have popped up here and the ease with which it can be combined with Tanzania’s Serengeti for a safari.

After overnighting in Kilgali on arrival you will head into Nyungwe Forest National Park where you will spend two nights at Nyungwe Hill Top View Hotel. From here you will have the opportunity to trek with chimpanzees and go on guided canopy walks looking spotting the birdlife, butterflies and monkeys.

From Nyungwe Forest take a scenic drive to Lake Kivu where you can enjoy plenty of walking and trekking, as well as boating on the lake, fishing and swimming.

The real highlight of this 11-day trip is the time you will spend with the gorillas and also trek to find golden monkeys. For this experience you will head to Parc National Des Volcans where you will be staying in Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel .

This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and something which you will remember forever. In the morning you will head to the Park HQ where you will be allocated a team of experience ranger-guides who will take you into the park to see out one of the residents, habituated gorilla groups. Each group consists of at least one silverback gorilla, and a number of females and youngsters. Time taken to reach the gorillas varies from as little as 45 minutes to a few hours depending on where the gorillas are on that particular day. Once they have been located you will be allowed to spend an hour with them.

Read more about gorilla trekking experiences

As the number of permits is limited to under a 100 a day, spread across the different gorilla groups, it is essential to book well in advance for this trip.

Discover gorilla trekking in Rwanda

Gorilla With Baby Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

8. Rhino tracking, Kenya

Saruni Rhino

Spending 10 nights on our Discovering Conservation Safari in Kenya is perfect for any safari goer wanting to get out of the vehicle and explore at a slower pace on foot.

Although Kenya hasn’t always been top of the list for people wanting to walk, its is becoming increasingly popular. Walking is not allowed in the majority of national parks and reserves but it is within a number of new conservancies and private ranches. Unlike a lot of the walking in Southern Africa, walking in Kenya is a more relaxed affair. Often referred to as bush walks these are a great way to look at the smaller creatures rather than focusing on the large mammals.

Saruni Rhino 1

  • Track black rhino
  • Learn about the importance of conservation first-hand
  • Interact with authentic tribal communities
  • Stay in exclusive and authentic safari camps and lodges
  • Walking opportunities throughout your trip.
  • Unbeatable game viewing in the Masai Mara

On arrival in Nairobi board to small plane transfer and head to the stunning Saruni Samburu overlooking the Kalama conservancy. This area has plenty of wildlife and activities to keep you occupied for your two-night stay. Game drives and night drives are both on offer, however, use this opportunity to get away from the vehicle and discover the sights, smells and small details in the bush.

Your next stop is the near Saruni Rhino Camp in the nearby Sera Conservancy. Known for its healthy Black Rhino population which are one of the most endangered species on the planet, thanks to the considerable conservation work that has been done to boost numbers over the recent years. Here you will get the opportunity to track these magnificent animals on foot with the help of Samburu rangers and Samburu warriors in one of the most isolated and most beautiful un-spoilt areas of Africa, is truly a privilege that it is impossible to forget. There are very few places in Africa where this is possible and it is a true trip highlight.

Following two nights at Saruni Rhino you will head to your penultimate camp in the famous Lewa Conservancy , again another game rich, fascinating environment with plenty to do. Discover the incredible conservation projects that have resulted in Lewa Wildlife Conservancy being home to the world's largest population of Grevy's zebra and over 130 endangered Black & White rhino. The game drives here are lead by knowledgeable guides who will also take you on bush walks throughout the area. You also have the option here of horseback safaris and even camel treks.

Finishing on the ultimate high you will be taking a short flight into the gem that is the Masai Mara . It will live up to its reputation of incredible game viewing. Spend three nights exploring the Mara from your base at Richard’s River Camp this is the perfect way to end any trip to Kenya.

Track rhino on foot in Kenya

Tracking Rhino In Sera Image Credit Nomad Magazine Brian Siambi

9. Active Uganda - Gorillas, chimps and big game

Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp Gorilla Tracking

Trekking with gorillas and chimps is one of those once in a lifetime trip and our Active Uganda trip idea ticks all of the boxes.

A true bucket list experience and simply awe inspiring to spend time with one of our nearest relative, see Rwanda above for more details on gorilla trekking.

Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp Gorilla

  • Trek and spend time with the mountain gorillas
  • Hike and canoe across Lake Mutanda
  • Meet the Batwa community
  • Hike across Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
  • Tree climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park

Best time to go : January – February or June – September

Nkuringo Bwindi River Lodge, in Bwindi Forest is your first key stop and will act as your base to see the mountain gorillas. Whilst gorilla trekking is undoubtable the main event here, there are plenty of other activities to keep you entertained during your three-night stay including relaxed lake cruises in a dugout canoe and the chance to trek to the ‘Top of the World’ for fantastic views of the Rwenzori Mountains and crater lakes.

Gorilla tracking takes place in the dramatic and dense forest, following trails that allow access for tourists. How long your gorilla tacking takes will depend on the gorillas location, but once you find them, you are in for a treat with a rare and moving experience, as you spend an hour with these incredible creatures.

Next up, it is Queen Elizabeth Park , famous for its tree climbing lions, you will be overnighting in Mweya Safari Lodge. In a great location this is your chance to see some big cats but also tick off some of the incredible bird life that can be seen when cruising along the Kazinga Chanel.

Your final two nights will be spent at Primate Lodge in Kibale National Park. Here, there is plenty of time to explore on foot with the main attraction being trekking with the chimpanzees, where Kibale National Park holds the highest density.

Trek the noble primates of Uganda

Ruwenzori Mountains National Park

Alternative walking safaris

These walking safaris are not traditional ‘safaris’, but still offer a unique opportunity to see incredible wildlife on foot, as well as of course, incredible landscapes.

10. Namibia

Overlooking Fish River Canyon

Whilst you many don’t think of it as a classic walking safari destination due to its more limited wildlife, Namibia’s dramatic scenery make it perfect for exploring on foot with some incredible walking trails.

Sossusvlei Gallery 7

  • Explore the Kalahari desert
  • Hike fish river canyon
  • See desert horse
  • Climb the dunes of Sossusvlei
  • Self-drive means you can explore at your own pace

Best time to go : May – September

Namibia is made for walking and our Southern Namibia Self-Drive Safari allows you to do just that. The beauty of this trip other that the experiences and the scenery is that during a self-drive you can really take your time, stop when you want to and get out and stretch your legs in breath-taking environments.

Although it does have less game than many other Southern African countries this plays to Namibia’s strengths, its stunning scenery and huge expanses of nothing, making it safe, exclusive and ideal for walking and hiking.

Walking through the rolling red dunes of the Kalahari desert , learning about the desert adapted wildlife that survives here, before moving onto to Fish River Lodge , a stunning property right on the edge of the canyon. Here you can hike right down into the canyon floor, finding cooling rock pools to cool off in and with the option to add a multiday hike to truly explore the area.

Sossusvlei is a bucket list for many visitors to Namibia and you will want to be up early to beat the crowds. Spend your morning climbing the towering dunes and marvelling at the seemingly endless sea of red dunes that unfolds in front of you, as well as taking the opportunity to take a stroll through the beautiful Dead Vlei below.

Explore Namibia by foot

Kalahari Red Dunes Desert Walks

11. Ethiopia

Tigray In Ethiopia

If you enjoy walking around breath taking scenery then our Rambling Around Ethiopia trip is perfect for you. This trip has been constructed with our expert knowledge and appeals to anyone who has a love for wildlife, the outdoors and culture. Ethiopia is a sensory overload so taking your time to amble around the churches and take in the scenery of the Simien Mountains National Park makes this country one of our favourite for anyone wanting to spend more time on foot.

Resized Geladas In The Simien Mountains Near Limalimo

  • Explore the Simien Mountains National Park
  • Take in the castles of Gondar
  • Wonder around the iconic churches of Lalibela
  • Go on a TESFA community village walking experience.

Best time to go : September – April

This 12-night trip to Ethiopia ticks a lot of boxes but will leave you wanting to come back and explore more. Walking in Ethiopia is the best way to experience all this incredible country has to offer. With such a rich cultural background, taking time to meet people and take it all in is the best way to do it.

Known as the roof of Africa, spend the first few days wondering around the Simien Mountains in search for the geladas and Walia ibexes in the Afro-alpine surrounds with your guide. After your African wildlife fix you will head to Gondar and the stunning rock churches of Lalibela , it is difficult to describe these without seeing them.

Your Ethiopia trip will finish with 2 nights at the TESFA community village where you will stay in traditions rustic accommodation. As well as getting the opportunity to learn about every day life you will get to explore the surrounding area on foot, this is a real highlight.

Explore mesmerising Ethiopia on foot

Rock  Church In  Lalibela

A note on safety

While a walking safari is one of ultimate ways to experience Africa, remember you're in an environment with potentially dangerous wildlife. We only partner with and recommend those who have proven safety records and are highly experienced - meaning you can enjoy an authentic and most importantly, safe experience.

  • In areas where there is larger, more dangerous game, at least one of the leading guides will be armed - this is only as a last resort as a walking safari is meant to be a holistic experience, leaving nature undisturbed and untouched.
  • We recommend always wearing closed, sturdy shoes for a walking safari, often long sleeves and long trousers are also recommended as there can be some tricky terrain.
  • Always carry enough water with you for the duration of your walk as it's important to stay hydrated.
  • Always follow the advice of your guide, they are there to keep you safe and have experience of the wilderness you're exploring.
  • Camps often have an ages limits for walking safaris with a minimum age of between 12 to 16 for health and safety reasons.

As you can see there are a number of different trips that allow you to get out and explore on foot. Although these are a few great suggestions, if you are looking for a trip with a focus on walking then let us know and we can chat through different itineraries, camps and countries with you to suit your requirements. It is also handy to remember that a large majority of safari camps and lodges will offer short walks so it is always worth asking if it’s possible to build a walk into your daily activities to stretch your legs and see the bush from a different perspective.

Call us now on 01768 603 715 or click the button below and start planning your tailor-made walking safari experience in Africa.

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north african safari

Africa Safari Trip: A Comprehensive Guide To Crafting Unforgettable Memories

Have you witnessed a lion's roar echo across the savanna or watched a herd of elephants lumber by? It is an Africa safari trip experience.

Camilla Amadi • Mar 19, 2024

north african safari

Have you witnessed a lion’s roar echo across the savanna or watched a herd of elephants lumber by? An Africa safari trip is an otherworldly experience, but where do you even begin? This guide will equip you with all the essentials to plan your unforgettable adventure . Even though it can seem overwhelming at times, if you’re equipped with the right guidance and information, the procedure is rather easy.

To help you plan the perfect safari tour in Africa, in addition to answering the majority of your frequently asked questions, we’re put together some of the greatest tips and useful suggestions.

Choosing the Location of Your African Safari Trip

Kenya

An Africa safari trip promises an enchanted world of discovery, where each expedition and place holds the potential to reveal a captivating tale. Every area of this enormous continent, from the lush deltas of the south to the brilliant savannahs of the east, offers a different fabric of fauna and culture. This is more than just a journey—it’s an exploration of the core of nature, where opportunity abounds at every turn.

African safaris are unique among travel experiences because of the authentic, natural spectacle of the wild. These excursions aim to fully immerse you in the world of animals, not just observe them. Planning your destination is among the most crucial aspects of preparation for any holiday, including this one. Africa is vast, so it’d be helpful to start with a “where to go on an Africa safari trip” Google search if you have no idea what to do.

To select the ideal safari destination, you must consider the things you wish to see. Are there any specific animals or cultural events you would like to see? Kenya and Tanzania from July to October are your best choices if you’ve always wanted to see the Great Wildebeest Migration. Visit either Botswana or South Africa to see a huge herd of African elephants throughout the year.

In East Africa and the majority of Southern African nations, the “Big Five” are also widely distributed. Travel to Uganda, Rwanda or the Congo for gorilla trekking; these countries are all in Central Africa. If you want to see chimpanzees on your Africa safari tour, Uganda is the ideal place to do it.

Top 5 Choice Destinations for Your Africa Safari Trip

Here are our top five African wildlife safari destinations to help you plan your trip.

Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve

At the Maasai Mara Reserves, the Big Five roam free, and boundless plains extend into the horizon on a wildlife safari. Traveling off-road and appreciating the lack of fences and lodging at any of the Mara conservation areas allows you to experience the breathtaking sight of countless wildebeests roaring across the East African savanna around the Great Migration.

From open safari vehicles, watch as lions hunt their prey with unparalleled subtlety. Elephants socialize within their close-knit groups, and elegant giraffes peruse acacia trees with grace. A fascinating insight into the Maasai people’s dynamic local culture, which is entwined with the land, its profusion of wildlife, and the natural beauties of the wildness itself, is provided by Maasai Mara.

Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park

Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is home to a large environment that is brimming with life. See the boundless plains packed with antelopes, zebras, and wildebeests as they migrate in a never-ending dance of survival throughout your Africa safari trip. It’s what you anticipate seeing on game drives following your viewing of National Geographic or PBS programs. You might be amazed watching the big cats lounging in the shade following a good hunt, or you might experience the exhilaration of seeing a cheetah racing across the landscape in a flurry of speed.

There are other methods to observe wildlife, such as taking a hot-air balloon flight across the savanna for breath-inspiring, all-encompassing views of this iconic African terrain. Seasonality is essential when thinking about visiting the Serengeti; never schedule an unplanned online vacation.

Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park

You can feel the African wilderness in Zambia, not just see it. In contrast to safaris that are limited to metal enclosures, South Luangwa encourages you to stroll among the animals rather than drive by them. Imagine your heart racing as you make your way through verdant riverine forests full of leopards hiding in their disguises, only to be astounded by vast herds of buffalo crossing wide-open savannas.

As you approach elephants bathing, listen to the Luangwa River’s rushing waters, which will lead you to the echoes of night safaris. You can unwind in the unexpected comfort of fly tents or treehouse retreats when the stars adorn the sky.

South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park

You can journey across acacia woodlands and tour places with sun-filled savannas along the rushing waters of the Sabi River in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park. Hear the echoes of prehistoric existence and see the exhilarating dance of adventures amidst the rare species. Renowned for its almost assured Big Five meetings, you get to experience the exhilarating thrill of seeing elephants trumpeting by a waterhole or lions relaxing in golden light—you don’t have to imagine it.

There is more to Kruger’s artistry than the Big Five. Higher populations of predators and a more varied array of species can be found in the superb private game reserves found in the Greater Kruger National Park. Wander along the river where crocodiles and hippos sunbathe before becoming lost in the rainbow of more than 500 different bird species.

Botswana’s Okavango Delta

Emerald islands emerge from the reflecting waters of the spreading waterways of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A mokoro is a native dugout canoe in which you may sail softly and intimately while spotting sleeping hippos afar and thirsty elephants sipping at the riverbanks .

Search among the trees for one of the greatest spots to see leopards or take in the aerial views of storks, eagles, and pelicans. In such a distant location, the Okavango Delta boasts one of the largest concentrations of upscale safari resorts in Southern Africa, providing you with exclusive access to convenience and uncrowded rivers for a singular embrace of unspoiled wildlife.

Tips For An Outstanding African Safari Adventure

north african safari

The foundation of a great African safari is effective communication. It makes sure you get the best possible experience out of your trip by bridging the gap between what you expect and the actual conditions of the environment. There are three communication techniques to help you receive the experience you want by interacting with an Africa safari trip guide or travel advisor .

Clearly state your demands and desires. Tell us about your ideal speed, cultural attractions, the wildlife you hope to see, and any unique interests you may have, such as birdwatching or photography. This enables your guide to customize your safari adventures based on your interests and budget. Mention any possible restrictions. Any physical restrictions or sensitivity should be disclosed to your guide to guarantee a fun and safe trip.

Pose inquiries. Never be afraid to ask questions about anything that piques your curiosity, be it local customs or the behavior of animals. Your guide holds a wealth of information that is just waiting to be discovered.

African safaris are an ode to the diversity and grandeur of nature. Every excursion offers a chance for a profound and intimate connection with nature. However, in a world full of breathtaking locations, the real art of travel is in how you take in each one. Each destination has a spirit of its own, and you can make transforming vacation experiences with the correct itinerary in addition to ones that are simply memorable.

Whether you’re traveling to the wild African savannahs or the charming countryside of Tuscany, creating a one-of-a-kind, dreamlike trip requires careful planning and vital information. It all comes down to creating a seamless, stress-free, and uniquely personalized tapestry of memories.

People Also Ask

How far should my Africa safari trip be scheduled? It’s advisable to make reservations eight to twelve months in advance of when you wish to go or depart for your selected African safari location. Enough time guarantees availability and your place at the top of the line for the most desirable experiences that Africa presents. It is always better to schedule your safari trip earlier than undergo a last-minute rush.

When is the ideal time to go on an Africa safari trip? The dry season, which runs from June to October, is the ideal time to go on a safari. Since it’s a warmer period of the year, there’s a greater chance that you’ll spot creatures looking for water. You can also witness the famous Masai Mara migration during these months.

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Africa Cruises

Explore the coast of North Africa on a luxury cruise

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Luxury Cruises to Africa

On a luxury Africa cruise, you will gain a unique perspective of this fascinating, multicultural region, whether you’re browsing the markets of Morocco or exploring the antiquities in the Egyptian port of Alexandria.

Celebrity’s itineraries take you to Casablanca, lying on Morocco’s sun-drenched Atlantic coast, Tangiers, gazing across the Straits of Gibraltar to Spain, and Alexandria, Egypt’s historic Mediterranean port. Each is different and every visit helps you to unpeel the layers of history that have shaped this region.

Africa Cruise Highlights

Ancient history.

From the iconic ancient library of Egypt’s Alexandria to the breathtaking and bold structure of the Hassan II mosque in Casablanca, there’s history at every turn. The Mediterranean is considered the cradle of civilization and a cruise is the ideal opportunity to learn about the different cultures that have passed through the region over the millennia. Sip tea in the squares of Tangier, and follow in the footsteps of 19th-century poets and artists. Visit 2,000-year-old holy sites, or shop in a 500-year-old souk for hand-made souvenirs.

Fun in the Sun and Sand

North Africa is rich in natural beauty, from green mountain ranges to leafy oases and the rolling dunes of the desert. Celebrity’s African ports have access to coastal and water activities, desert tours, hiking trails, and urban adventures that blend nature into human achievement and civilization. Make sure to check out a camel tour on the fringes of the Sahara, or explore the beach clubs on the golden sands around Casablanca.

Art and Artisan Gift Shopping

Cruises to North Africa offer an abundance of incredible shopping experiences. Visit labyrinthine bazaars in Egypt for cotton and clothing, or a Moroccan souk for hand-woven rugs and kilims. You can also shop for hand-carved olivewood and jewelry, dates and spices, and leatherware. Even if you prefer to window shop, the colors, scents and sounds of Africa’s markets and bazaars are irresistible.

Africa Cruise Ports

Casablanca, morocco.

The bustling, vibrant city of Casablanca is a feast for the senses, and one of the busiest ports along this coastline. This city boasts the European charm with Moroccan tradition, and is the country’s commercial center and largest population center. Visit the iconic Hassan II mosque as you stroll the scenic Boulevard de la Corniche along the sea. Sip traditional mint tea in the picturesque medina squares. Finish your day shopping for ​​ornate wood carvings, hand-made leather bags, and decorative tea sets at the Exposition Nationale d’Artisanat emporium.

Alexandria, Egypt

The city of Alexandria is brimming with ancient history, museums, mosques, and modern amenities for travelers looking for an adventure. It’s also a gateway to Cairo and the great pyramids of Giza as an overnight trip.

Make sure to visit the famous Bibliotheca Alexandrina, which commemorates the ancient Great Library of Alexandria, and houses over eight million books. Dine on some of the best of Egyptian seafood, sip on local tea, or sample sheesha (traditional flavored tobacco) in the culturally rich area of Anfushi, just west of the Citadel of Qaitbay. Be sure to make a quick visit to the Ras el-Tin palace, a former Sultanic summer home that’s visually stunning from an architectural perspective.

Tangier, Morocco

As a mid-20th century hub for European and American artists, writers, and expats, Tangier developed a reputation as a cultural center for North Africa. Today, it remains an important cultural heritage city and is a popular stop on Africa cruises. While in Tangier, don’t miss the Kasbah Museum, which showcases many of Morocco’s most treasured artifacts from the Roman and Islamic dynasty periods. For a fascinating day trip, head to Asilah, where you can shop and walk through the fortified Portuguese-built old town before heading back to your ship.

Africa Cruise Itineraries

Typical itineraries for African cruises include 10- to 12-night trips that span either the western Mediterranean or the eastern Mediterranean. These itineraries include additional calls in places such as Greece, Israel, Turkey, Spain, and the Canary Islands.

Itineraries

Why sail to africa with celebrity cruises.

Cruises to Africa are a great way to expand your imagination and delve deeper into the history of the Mediterranean region.

On a state-of-the-art Celebrity ship, no detail is left unattended to. From the moment you step onboard, you’ll receive Celebrity’s world-class service with activities to stimulate both the mind and body. Your days at sea will allow you to relax in true luxury, with fine dining, shows, enrichment and pool time to while away the day.

Each African port offers shopping excursions, fine dining, café culture, museums, visits to natural wonders and heritage sights. Immerse yourself in the souks of Tangier, or Casablanca’s impressive mosque. Visit the famed Library of Alexandria in Egypt, or take a day trip to Cairo to see the Great Pyramids of Giza.

Your cruise to Africa will give you the opportunity to visit ports in Morocco and Egypt made famous for their history of art, learning, trade, cuisine, and faith. From the busy ports of Morocco to historic Alexandria, an adventure awaits.

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Brave Africa

Is an African Safari Worth It? What You Need to Know

May 1, 2020 | Brave Africa Safari , Most Popular Blogs , Safari Tips

Hippo Family in Botswana

Is an African safari worth it? We’re definitely a little biased—okay, we’re a lot biased. We run a safari in Botswana, so of course, we think it’s the best vacation idea ever! But we know that we don’t speak for everyone. So, we’ll try to break down what it’s like to go on an African safari and then let you decide if an African safari is worth it for you.

Safaris Are Expensive: What Do You Get for the Price?

Dollar for dollar, African safaris are probably one of the most expensive vacations you’ll ever have the pleasure of going on. In many cases, a high-quality African safari can cost as much as a car ($5,000 to $50,000 USD). So, is it worth the price? What do you get for the cost of an African safari?

All-Inclusive

Botswana safari camp at sunrise

  • One premium liquor a day
  • All-day game drives
  • Additional safari activities, including mokoro, village visits, walking safaris, etc.
  • Daily laundry services
  • Road transfers between locations/camps while with Brave Africa
  • $50 or $35 nonprofit donation per guest

Exclusivity

Along with the high cost of an African safari, you can expect exclusivity. Safaris are off the beaten path. You won’t be in the middle of thousands of tourists at the Eiffel Tower or pushing your way through crowds at Hobbiton in New Zealand.

A safari is a different experience that is really about you, the animals, and nature. The value of an exclusive African safari experience cannot be overstated. It’s a chance to truly get away from it all: turn off the cell phone, disconnect from WiFi, say goodbye to people, and get in touch with Mother Nature. The key is choosing an African safari experience that focuses on exclusivity.

Single Guest on Safari with Brave Africa

In March 2020, Brave Africa went out on safari with just a single guest—for a highly private and personalized experience.

Ask about how many people the safari operator puts in each vehicle. Budget operators will stuff ten people or more in a vehicle, which means your dream safari could wind up with you in the middle seat—very uncomfortable and disappointed. Some camps might also pack in the tourists to make more money. If you’re going on safari for exclusivity, ask about the size of the camp.

Note: Botswana’s safari tourism model is fewer tourists and better experiences. At Brave Africa, our vehicles max out at six guests (two per row) and six tents (12 guests total at camp and two safari vehicles).

You Can See Animals in a Zoo: What Makes a Safari Better?

Beyond price, the next question many guests have about whether an African safari is worth it has to do with the experience. You can see wild animals in a zoo, what’s so great about an African safari? How much better is the experience, especially when animals are not guaranteed. Let us start by saying the experiences are NOT comparable at all.

The Wildlife

Zebra on Safari

An African safari is an adventure. It’s your chance to see animals in their natural habitat. This makes all the difference. Animals on a safari are engaging. They eat, walk, play, fight, chase, run, and interact in a thousand different ways. This means that you can see the same type of animals every single day and every time it’s a new experience. Natural animal behavior makes a huge difference .

And then there’s the variety of wildlife. Yes, a zoo has all types of animals from all over the world, but the difference of an African safari is that the animals are all together. You can sit in your safari vehicle and watch elephants right alongside hippos, impala, zebra, and wildebeest. And in the next second, you can run across lions or wild dogs.

You never know what type of wildlife you’ll see on your African safari, but every day, every hour, it will be something new . Just make sure you choose an exceptional location for your African safari where wildlife is plentiful. Not all destinations are created equal.

Elephant Mudbath Botswana

For example, Botswana has almost  double the elephants  of  ANY  other country in Africa—over 130,000—along with 163 other species of mammals, including the usual suspects: lions, leopard, cheetah, wild dog, buffalo, giraffe, hippo, wildebeest, zebra, rhino, etc. The country is also home to more than 550 species of birds, including many rare and endangered species you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. And if you’re worried about going on a family safari with kids? Don’t be .

Nature Retreat

Beyond the wildlife, an African safari is about pristine and stunning landscapes. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy Mother Nature’s most impressive theater on a breathtaking scale. It’s about exploring vast swaths of wilderness where everything is raw, rugged, and stunning. Africa boasts a vibrant ecosystem with everything from dusty red deserts to lush swamplands, sweeping floodplains, expansive savannas, and vibrant forests. You’ll drive through rivers, explore lagoons, have lunch at elephant watering holes, hike rocky outcrops, and more.

Brave Africa Vehicle in Water

Brave Africa’s vehicles can handle almost any terrain, including water.

The landscapes on an African safari will enchant you as much as the wildlife. And the best part is that you’ll get to enjoy these gorgeous landscapes without worrying about crowds—if you go to the right safari locations. Regardless of where you choose to go on your African safari, we can almost guarantee you’ll be talking about the beauty of nature for years to come.

What You Need to Know About Going on Safari Before You Book

If you want an African safari to change your life or be “the best trip you’ve ever taken,” not just any safari will do. You have to be VERY careful with what you book, otherwise it won’t be worth the hype.

For example, when two of our co-founders went on their first safari in South Africa, they had a small budget and had to choose a location and camp based on what they could afford. And while the experience sparked their love for safari, it wasn’t until they returned and went on safari in Botswana with a larger budget and more research that they had the trip of a lifetime.

Saying you want to go on an African safari is like saying you want to go on a hike. It can mean a thousand different things depending on what you want, where you go, and who is in charge of your safari.

Tabona Wina Binoculars Brave Africa

Choose the Right Location (Country and Region)

Forget about the name. You might have heard about Kruger and the Serengeti the most because they are well-known safari locations, but that doesn’t automatically make them the best. Most of the time, it’s the lesser-known parks and locations that offer a better experience with fewer crowds and more wildlife.

After all, animals don’t like to be around people so popular is not always better. For example, Botswana’s Okavango Delta might be a lesser-known safari location, but the experience is far superior to the crowded national parks in South Africa. In Botswana, you’re more likely to have untouched wilderness and wildlife that are not used to cars. It’s not a zoo experience at all. You’ll go off-road and hunt for the animals in order to get that once in a lifetime picture.

It’s crucial that you do your research about all the different safari areas in Africa and then choose the destination that best fits your needs and wants. And don’t forget to choose the right timing for your safari ! Not all months are the same.

Pick the Best Safari Lodge or Camp for You

Your African safari experience will vary greatly depending on the camp, lodge, or self-drive experience you choose for your trip. Do you have a tight budget that will limit where you stay or are you willing and able to splurge for some luxury experiences? The bargain safari mindset isn’t the best.

The truth of the matter is that an African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most people, and so planning to do it right is essential. If you want a picture-perfect African safari that exceeds all of your expectations, you need to choose a safari lodge or safari camp that fits what you want .

There are a few things to consider.

  • What luxury amenities are essential to your happiness? Do you need flushing toilets? Is WiFi a must? Are you willing to sleep on a cot, or do you want mattresses? Are you comfortable in a luxury tent, or do you need a lodge? Do you need daily laundry services?
  • What features does your safari vehicle offer? Beyond the camp, you’ll be spending most of your time inside your game drive vehicle. How nice are their vehicles ? Are they new? Do they have charging options, refrigeration, windows, open-air, etc.?
  • How good are the staff? Unlike a big chain hotel, the staff on an African safari play a huge role in your experience. You’ll interact with the staff regularly, especially the guide and camp manager, so you want to choose a safari camp where the staff receive good reviews and are focused on customer service.
  • How important is the food? Not all African safari operators have a permanent chef on staff to create inspired meals that you’ll love.

Is an African safari worth it?

Brave Africa is an all-inclusive and exclusive mobile lodge focused on providing quality experiences.

  • Do you want to change operators between locations or stick with the same operator, guide, staff, the entire time? A mobile lodge, like Brave Africa, offers a consistent experience for guests even while changing safari locations. A traditional lodge requires you to pay for transportation—usually via plane—to get to each new destination.
  • Is caring for the environment important to you? There are many environmentally-friendly operators who use solar power, reduce their plastic use, and give back to conservation efforts.
  • What is their game drive experience like? We’ll discuss this more in a little bit, just remember the entire point of an African safari is to see the animals and get out on game drives. Don’t focus so much on the luxury of your tent that you neglect the most important element: their focus on wildlife viewing.

Get to know Brave Africa’s camp experience here .

Ask About the Quality of Your Guides: It Is Essential

Tabona Wina in an Open Field on Safari

Tabona Wina is Brave Africa’s co-founder and head guide with over a decade of experience in the bush.

A safari guide is essential to a great experience. You might think that you can get away with a lower budget by self-driving, but we can almost guarantee that the money savings won’t be worth it. A safari guide is an expert tour guide by 1,000! Their knowledge and passion for the animals and nature will be what makes or breaks your experience.

They are responsible for:

  • Finding the animals,
  • Telling you about what you’re seeing (it’s the difference between watching a National Geographic special with the voiceover or completely silent),
  • Getting you to the remote locations,
  • Keeping you safe ,

You’ll spend nine to twelve hours a day with your safari guide. They will end up being one of your best friends on your trip and will 100% make your African safari worth it. Without a great safari guide, you might as well head to your local zoo and walk around yourself.

Read more about the importance of safari guiding here .

Focus on Game Drives: That’s What You’ve Paid Big Money For!

The ENTIRE point of going on an African safari is to go on game drives . Only when you’re in the safari vehicle and driving away from camp in search of animals are you actually experiencing the value of your safari. People often forget that the purpose of a safari is to offer the BEST wildlife experiences and not just luxury camping.

For example, when the Points Guy went on his safari in Tanzania, he ended up VERY disappointed because while he paid top dollar for a luxury camp, the game drives failed to deliver. This ruined his entire trip and made his African safari not worth it.

Creature comforts are only one piece of your safari. If you unknowingly compromise your African safari experience by asking for WiFi and forgetting about game drives, you won’t be happy in the end. Think of game drives like going to a theme park.

For most of us, we wake up early, get to the park at open, spend the entire day at the park riding as many rides and enjoying as many experiences as possible, and then only leave the park as it closes. The goal is not to waste a second of our theme park ticket because it’s expensive, and we want the most bang for our buck.

On most traditional safaris, game drives only happen in the morning and evening for three to four hours each outing. This means that—in the middle of the day for four to five hours—you’re sent back to the hotel to wait. The theme park (wilderness) isn’t closed at this time; you just don’t get to enjoy it.

On Safari with Brave Africa

This reason is why we created Brave Africa. When our co-founders went on their first safari, they were disappointed by how much time was spent at camp and how little time was spent out with the animals. So, at Brave Africa, we do ALL-DAY game drives . This means, from sunrise until sunset, you are out on safari to see the animals.

We maximize your chances to see something incredible and experience all that Botswana has to offer. After all, we believe if you’re worried about how much money it costs to go on safari, your money should at least go toward what you care about most: the animals.

Spend Enough Time on Safari

Hippo Family in Botswana

Last, but certainly not least, make sure you plan enough time for your African safari if you want it to be worth it. If you can only spend three to four days on safari, it’s probably not worth the travel and cost. While even a day is amazing on safari, it’s the extended time out in the bush that makes the biggest difference.

Since every single day and hour is unique on an African safari, the more time you have to explore and see what the wildlife has to offer, the better. Three days is barely enough time to get a taste of what an African safari is truly like. Instead, we recommend planning at least seven days and six nights on safari . This will give you enough time to truly immerse yourself in Mother Nature.

If you love animals and adventure, then you need to give yourself the time required to experience it. Remember, National Geographic documentaries are filmed over months. Their photographers spend weeks at a time in the bush to get that once-in-a-lifetime shot. You can’t expect to go out in a few days and see it all.

Check out our 10-day safari adventure if you want to maximize your experience.

Final Thoughts: Is an African Safari Worth It?

Is an African Safari worth it?

Is an African safari worth it? Where else will you see mating lions? Certainly not in a zoo.

At the end of the day, it’s really up to you. Only you can decide if the experience is something you will enjoy. Just make sure you do your research before you plan your trip. Since an African safari is not cheap, you do not want to make the wrong decisions and end up regretting it.

Feel free to reach out to us or an experienced travel agent to get all your questions answered. The only way an African safari is not worth it is if you book the wrong trip for your expectations.

Do you have a brochure for your packages for your Corona specials?

Hi Andrew, We do have PDF versions of our special. Please email us at [email protected] and I’ll send you a copy. Thanks! —Kelly

looking to see what budget safaris you have planned for this year (2021 and 2022)….. 2 people (prior military) looking for as much game drives as possible. thanks!

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Animals Around the Globe

Animals Around the Globe

10 Best African Countries for Safari

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

north african safari

#1 Botswana

Recommended Tours:

Thus, poachers are seen as enemies of the people. As a result, Botswana has come into view as Africa's most sought-after ecotourism destination. Starting from the Chobe National Park to the Moremi Nature Reserve, you'll be able to witness numerous gems all around the country.

Back in 2014, Botswana widely banned the hunting of wild animals and implemented strict laws which are still in practice. The country resumes its zero-tolerance for poaching and their very own environmental minister, Tshekedi Khama, has even launched a shoot-to-kill policy for poachers.

Botswana, with its wildlife conservation and natural parks, is a haven for nature lovers. It is currently in the top 5, as its approach to the protection and conservation of wildlife is worth the praise. As a country, it is very forward-thinking, some may even call it aggressively forward-thinking when it comes to its preservation and anti-poaching laws.

<p><strong>Recommended Tours:</strong></p> <p>Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://www.animalsaroundtheglobe.com/mammals/" title="mammal">mammal</a> species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.</p> <p>Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.</p>

Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 mammal species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.

Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.

north african safari

Most of the land in Namibia is occupied by the Kalahari and Namib Deserts. Along with that, the country also has 12 national parks and many other areas which are protected. So, if you go there for a safari, you'll have many rich areas to see and explore.

When it comes to countries with the least amount of population, Namibia is one of them. Which proves to be a good thing for nature. This is because most of the land in Namibia is still unspoiled by human filth or any sort of development, giving nature a chance to breathe.

north african safari

In the country's Volcanoes National Park, you'll find 10 habituated gorilla families. Groups of 8 trekkers can visit them for one hour per day. But that's enough to get the best African safari experience. And as a nature lover, you'll enjoy the experience to the max.

If you've been around for some time, you'll be familiar with Rwanda's mountain gorillas. They were famously broadcasted and their fight for survival was shown on  National Geographic . This was all thanks to the late  Dian Fossey  back in the 1970s who advocated for the rights of these mountain gorillas throughout her life.

Considering the tragic history surrounding the mass genocide of the people of Rwanda back in 1994, it's truly a blessing what the country has achieved in the past 25 years. There have been countless investments in infrastructure. This has resulted in the country being a very fast-growing destination for ecotourism.

north african safari

#6 South Africa

But given all the advantages, it's safe to conclude that South Africa also suffers from over-tourism. I mean, if you have so many great attractions, people will flock towards it. Chances are that you'll find yourself in the middle of dozens of unruly visitors who are not too keen on obeying the rules. This occurs mostly during the peak seasons.

Annually, the country has one million visitors. Its biggest attraction is the Kruger National Park with its enrichment in biodiversity. Visitors there also have the liberty to self-drive, thus, getting a first-person private but superb experience. 

For some time now, South Africa has been climbing the charts to become one of the most popular destinations for African safaris. Given its location, South Africa is a very convenient and cheap destination for people from the United States. Besides that, the country also boasts a well-developed infrastructure which makes it perfect for luxury travelers as well.

north african safari

#7 Tanzania

One of the most popular locations would be the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The country is also a haven for 1100 different bird species. It's no wonder that Tanzania gets this much rep. Especially when the country boasts so many wonders.

We talked about Kenya being the top destination for Safari. Now Tanzania here takes second place in being the continent's most popular safari destination. And why shouldn't it? The country has 16 national parks and an extraordinary amount of wealth and wildlife wonders for the people to witness.

north african safari

Some of its natural attractions include housing the highest mountain range in Africa. It also has the world's largest free-standing volcano and the second-largest freshwater lake. With its 30 national parks and other wildlife reserves, Uganda boasts many more sanctuaries which are worth the visit. Especially if you're a lover of nature and wildlife.

Often called "The Pearl of Africa", Uganda is certainly a great pick for an African safari. Its reputation as being one of the best ecotourism destinations comes from the country's natural attractions and wildlife.

<p><strong>Recommended Tours:</strong></p> <p>Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.</p> <p>Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.</p>

Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.

Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.

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I visited 5 of the best safari parks in Africa. The trip was filled with surprises, and there are a few things I wish I'd known before leaving.

  • I visited five of Kenya's best safari parks to see some of  Africa's most famous animals in the wild.
  • There were many aspects of the safari that surprised me despite the research I did before my trip.
  • I was surprised by many things, including how long I spent sitting in safari cars. 

Insider Today

Seeing some of Africa's most famous animals in the wild has been on my bucket list for years. With adventure travel on the rise, I decided to take the plunge and make the 20+ hour flight to Africa to visit some of Kenya's best safari parks.

Masai Mara is arguably the most famous for big-cat sightings, but Amboseli National Park , Crescent Island Game Sanctuary, Nairobi National Park, and Hell's Gate National Park are also must-see reserves teeming with wildlife.

I did lots of research beforehand but found I was unprepared for many things I experienced while on safari — and there are things I'll definitely do differently the next time I go.

From what I should have worn to what seeing the animals was really like, here's what surprised me most about going on safari in Kenya.

I sat in the safari vehicle for about 8 hours every day

Between a morning and afternoon game drive, I spent about eight hours in the car daily. It was shocking to see the low number of daily steps on my Oura ring.

I started doing yoga at the end of the night to loosen up my hips. My airplane pillow also helped me stay comfortable, especially during the seven-hour drives to other parks.

My shoes were off for most of the drives

In hindsight, I should have worn sandals on my drives. Most safari vehicles have small windows and a top that lifts up, and you're frequently standing on the chairs to get a better view.

We took off our shoes when we got into the car so we were ready to hop up on the chairs at a moment's notice.

I had lots of early mornings and bedtimes.

The best times for safaris are in the mornings and at dusk, and sometimes, we had 4 a.m. start times. The lack of sleep , paired with the heat, made me eager to get to bed early.

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I'm not a morning person, but I preferred the early drives for the animal activity (and incredible sunrises) we saw. We used the less-ideal safari hours during the day to nap, do other activities in the area, or drive to other parks.

Many animals can be difficult to spot due to distance or camouflage

We had our fair share of close-up sightings, but many of the animals we wanted to see were far away and sometimes not immediately obvious to the naked eye.

We ditched our iPhones and used binoculars and someone's camera viewfinder to get a closer look.

A pair of binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens are essential for getting the best view (and pictures) possible.

There were long periods of time with minimal animal sightings

Safari drives can be frustrating because you can't control what animals you'll see, how far away they are, and how long the sighting will last. But being patient can be rewarding.

During one dusk drive, we spent three hours searching for a pride of lions without any luck. Finally, as the sun set in the last half hour, we stumbled upon three female lions napping, a leopard, and giraffes.

Many of the animals are sleeping during the day

I expected to see animals moving around or hunting, but many were resting during the day. It was only when dusk approached that they started to slowly stake out a spot by the grazing herds.

If I go on safari again, I'll book a night drive so I can see how the lions and other animals act during their peak hours of activity.

My view was largely out of my control

Whenever a less common animal like a lion or cheetah is spotted, a traffic jam of safari vehicles speed over and line up, vying for the best view.

What you see — and sometimes, if you see anything at all — can depend on your driver and what vantage point they can get.

Your view can also depend on your position in the car. I spent a lot of time scrambling around to catch a sighting (and a photo, if I was lucky).

Prey is plentiful, but seeing any action is unlikely

Gazelles and impalas were everywhere, so it was surprising to learn that the lions might not eat for days.

Our driver told us the best thing he's seen on safari was a cheetah hunting a gazelle, and then a pride of lions swooping in to steal his meal. However, these kinds of sightings are rare.

Predators need to consider everything from the direction the wind is blowing to the length of the grass when trying to sneak up on their prey. Many hunts are unsuccessful, so seeing one in person is unlikely.

Watch: Crocodile wrangler rates 12 crocodile and alligator attacks in movies and TV

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  • Main content

THE 5 BEST Moscow Safaris

Safaris in moscow.

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This Norwegian Cruise sailing takes you on a bucket list adventure: What it's like aboard

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For Kylie Herd, an Australian passenger on Norwegian Dawn’s Feb. 25 southern Africa itinerary, cruising has been the best way to check places off her bucket list.

“I just go with whatever cruise line has the itinerary that I want to do at the time that I’m available. It tends to be Norwegian, and when I saw that Norwegian had all these African cruises, I just thought, ‘I’m going to spend summer in Africa,’ because it’s an amazing itinerary,” she told USA TODAY.

When it comes to cruising, most Americans probably think of bopping around the Caribbean or checking out the wilds of Alaska if they’re feeling especially adventurous, but that’s really just scratching the surface. Cruise lines are increasingly offering diverse itineraries including expedition cruises to remote parts of the globe and introductory sailings to help travelers explore countries and regions they might never visit otherwise.

Madagascar was the real draw for months of consecutive cruises on the Dawn for Herd.

“I’ve been trying to go to Madagascar for years. I always wanted to go there way before the movies ever came out. It’s one of those places that’s really difficult to get to,” she said. “When I saw Madagascar on a cruise itinerary I was like, ‘I have to do it.’ ”

Although the Feb. 25 sailing had to skip Madagascar for logistical reasons after a delay departing Mauritius, Herd said she was able to visit the country earlier on her trip and that it was a real highlight.

Norwegian’s Africa itineraries had various changes and missed ports throughout the season. Passenger contracts give cruise lines some leeway to alter itineraries on short notice for reasons including weather or conditions on the ground that prevent ships from reaching or being accommodated safely in a scheduled port. Such changes can be especially common in regions prone to political unrest or that lack sophisticated port facilities.

Even so, Herd said she understood why passengers who missed out would be frustrated, but she encouraged her fellow travelers to keep an eye on the positive. “I understand the disappointment. I was disappointed, too, but we’re still having a great time.”

The Feb. 25 cruise still stopped at Reunion, a French island in the Indian Ocean, which has an active volcano, as well as ports in South Africa where travelers could spot local wildlife.

Safari from a cruise

Norwegian Dawn stopped at four ports in South Africa, three of which offered safari experiences as shore excursions.

▶ From Richard’s Bay, passengers could visit the iSimangasilo Wetland Park , home to elephants, rhinoceroses, hippopotamuses, zebras and other classic African big game. The park is about an hour and a half drive from the port, and Norwegian’s shore excursion included two game drives, snorkeling and a traditional South African braai, or barbecue.

Just as cruise itineraries can sometimes be subject to last-minute changes, safaris are at the whim of wild animals. Sightings are not guaranteed, but patience and vigilance are often rewarded.

▶ In Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), Norwegian Dawn’s passengers had the opportunity to visit Addo Elephant National Park, also about an hour and a half drive from the port.

As the name suggests, Addo is home to a huge and docile population of more than 600 elephants. These animals often congregate around watering holes accessible from well-worn safari tracks.

Even after a strong rainfall the night before the excursion, which allowed elephants to retreat into the bush and temporarily lessen their reliance on overtaxed wells, dozens of the creatures greeted visitors coming from the ship for two-hour game drives.

▶ In Mossel Bay, passengers could also access private game reserves, which often have a higher concentration of wildlife roaming free, but sometimes include animals that are not directly indigenous to the area where they’re located.

Cape Town and the winelands

There’s more to Africa than safaris and Cape Town is an especially good place to experience metropolitan life and other kinds of outdoor activities on the continent.

South Africa’s legislative capital offers excellent hiking, a great foodie culture, beautiful (if slightly chilly) Atlantic beaches, penguins and more.

For travelers willing to explore beyond the city, South Africa’s wine country is close at hand in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, and many vineyards offer tastings and meal experiences. One Norwegian excursion took passengers to the Blaauwklippen wine estate in Stellenbosch, which is best known for its Zinfandel.

Is an Africa cruise worth it?

From a financial standpoint, a cruise around Africa can be an excellent way to explore. However, for American travelers, flights to and from the ship are often more expensive than the cruise itself.

For example, a 13-day Norwegian itinerary that begins in Cape Town on Dec. 7 and ends in Mauritius on Dec. 20 has prices that start at $899 per person for an inside stateroom, but flights can be well over $1,000 round trip. The current cheapest itinerary from Detroit, for example, is a 42-hour slog on multiple airlines via Montreal and Dubai to Cape Town. The return trip is a bit shorter, at 31 hours, also via Dubai and Montreal. That routing would cost $1,694 per person in economy as of March 18, according to Google Flights.

Logistically speaking, though, it can be much easier to book a cruise and rely on the line’s shore excursions to expand one's horizons than to coordinate one's own safari.

“With multiple diverse ports of call within one coastal continental area, our Africa voyages provide our guests the opportunity to explore lush rainforests or volcanoes, experience captivating wildlife tours, learn about the rich culture on the South African coastline, indulge in Cape Town’s incredible wine regions, and so much more,” Brian Gilroy, vice president of revenue management and itinerary planning for Norwegian Cruise Line, said in a statement to USA TODAY.

The one thing to keep in mind is that the African cruise market is less mature than the Caribbean – at many ports, there just aren’t comparable facilities to handle big ships. That doesn’t mean the cruises can’t or don’t happen, just that sometimes the operation is a little less fluid than the well-oiled Miami machine.

“Our 11- and 12-day cruises start and end in either Cape Town, South Africa or Port Louis, Mauritius, and include an overnight stay in one of those magnificent cities giving our guests the chance to fully explore what these regions offer. The variety of adventures our guests can experience in these destinations are endless, which makes for a truly unforgettable cruise experience," Gilroy continued.

Travelers may be more likely to encounter a hiccup on their Africa cruise, but that’s all part of traveling to a new and exciting place. A missed port or an extra sea day can be a great time time to take stock, focus on the highlights, enjoy the experience of unlocking a new destination, and maybe take another sip of the wine your onboard sommelier recommended.

Just take a page out of Herd the Australian’s book. Despite some schedule changes, she said, “I’ve loved every single thing.”

The reporter on this story received access to this sailing from Norwegian. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.  

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected]

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Moscow parks – leisure, nature and historical

Moscow is the most green megapolis in the world. There are over a hundred parks and green spaces like gardens, squares and boulevards. You will definitely bump into a few of them wherever you go. Whether you are interested in memorial, historic parks, parks of wildlife or you just want to have a calm break from the speedy city life – city parks have something special for everyone.

Moscow leisure parks

The leisure Moscow parks are undoubtedly the most popular and famous with the locals and travelers. Today such parks provide a great number of exciting entertainments for Muscovites and city guests, adults and children.

The Gorky Park

The Gorky Park

Gorky Park opened in 1928 and was the first holiday park in the Soviet Union with playgrounds, a sports stadium, exhibition halls and attractions for kids. Today it has a fresh, vibrant appearance. The park features bike rental stations, a comfortable business area with Wi-Fi, an outdoor movie theatre and a greenhouse where you can buy fresh greens such as basil and lettuce. To contemplate the sky and the stars, go to the observatory and look through the telescope while listening to fascinating stories from astronomers. Enjoy many sports in the park: volleyball, handball, football or a peaceful jog around the beautiful surroundings.

Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye Park

Opened in September 2017, Zaryadye is the youngest on our list. Located just a few minutes away from Red Square, it includes various activities like the floating bridge with its thin V-form extension, an ice cave, also concert hall and an amphitheater. The entire territory of the park was divided into four zones of Russia: forest, steppe, tundra, and the floodplains.

Neskuchny Sad

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By walking along the Moskva River’s bank from the Gorky Park towards Vorobievy Gory (Sparrow Hills) you’ll reach Neskuchny Sad («Not Boring» garden), a wonderful place in the Moscow center, one of Moscow’s oldest parks, charming slice of wildlife. The park mostly consists of pristine forest, dotted with old summer pavilions, ponds and quaint little stone bridges. There are a lot of opportunities for different activities lots of children playground, a ping-pong and chess clubs, football fields and tennis courts, horse riding, tree climbing and having rest in one of the nice cafes.

Museon Park

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Hermitage Garden

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Hermitage Garden has always been known as an amusement, entertainment center with theatres, shows, cafes, summer pavilions, pergolas since 1830. Shalyapin, Sobinov, Nezhdanova – great Russian opera singers starred on the garden stage. Famous Russian composer Rakhmaninov conducted the orchestra. Sara Bernar, Maria Yermolova, outstanding actresses, played in the open air performances. Tolstoy and Lenin had a stroll in the garden. So lots of celebrities from different epoques liked it a lot and spent their time in Hermitage Garden. You can find here three theatres in the garden: Hermitage, Sphere and New Opera. During winter an ice rink works here and in summer a musical stage is assembled to host jazz and brass band festivals.

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In Sokolniki Park visitors can play billiard, chess or draughts, table tennis, as well as go cycling, roller blading and swimming in the summer and ice skating or skiing in winter. Each season is highlighted by special memorable and bright events, for example, Summer Jazz Festival or Baby Fest (for future mums), open air beach disco parties, Ice Cream Day, International Clown Festival and many other shows and exhibitions. The park has an observatory, kids center and a co-working zone with free Wi-Fi which is really nice for spending high quality work time there.

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Moscow nature parks

The nature parks are national reserves with the amazing forestry and incredible variety of animals and plants there. The breath of wildlife and the chance to be closer to the virgin nature excites both children and grownups. Hundreds of different species of animals can be found in Moscow nature parks. The richest woodlands with old and even ancient trees, like a 200 years pine-tree in the Elk Island National Nature Park, are the point of passionate interest for visitors.

Aptekarsky Ogorod

Aptekarsky Ogorod (Apothecary Garden)

Aptekarsky Ogorod (Apothecary Garden)

Aptekarsky Ogorod (Apothecary Garden) is one of the oldest gardens in Moscow. It was founded in the XVIII century by Peter the First (great Russian emperor). A larch that he planted himself still grows in the garden, so it’s more than 250 years old. At the time of its foundation, it was a garden with herbs and medicinal plants and was used as an educational center for doctors. Today there are the orangery with its tropical palms, the carp pond, and the immense trees that dot the landscape and turn wonderful golden shades in the autumn. Several restaurants and cafes work here making it a very nice spot for relaxation no matter what season it is. You can book a special tour or join the guided excursion group.

Losiny Ostrov

Losiny Ostrov (Elk Island Park)

Losiny Ostrov (Elk Island Park)

Losiny Ostrov (Elk Island Park) is located at the north of Moscow. It covers 22 km from the west to the east and 10 km from the north to the south and it’s one of the most beautiful national parks in Moscow. Two rivers, Yausa and Pechorka begin here. You can find lots of fields, ponds, meadows, streams in the park as well as elks. Here you can enjoy guided tours, available in English. You can choose a guided tour about flora and fauna of the area, you’ll learn why elks are there, which animals are their neighbors. Or enjoy another excursion, which is totally devoted to historical past of ancient tribes once lived there, you’ll know about old Russian mythology, rituals and traditions.

Serebyany Bor

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Serebyany Bor (Silver Forest)

Serebyany Bor (Silver Forest) is a famous pine forest in the west of Moscow. The park has 230 forms of plant life, and is also home to watersports complex, providing a lot of activities for visitors. The layout of Serebryany Bor is unusual, as it is located on an artificial island between a meander in the Moscow River and a channel. There is an artificial lake, the Deep Gulf and picturesque Bezdonnoe (Bottomless) Lake in the depths of the forest. Serebryany Bor’s beaches are the cleanest in the city and very popular among Muscovites. On weekends it is difficult to find a free spot here, especially because a whole range of services are offered to visitors, from simple deckchairs to catamaran and yacht rides. Driving is prohibited on the territory of the island so be ready to use trolleybus to reach the entrance.

Botanichesky Sad

Greenhouse of Botanical Garden

Greenhouse of Botanical Garden

Main Botanical Garden of The Russian Academy of Sciences is the largest and most famous is Moscow. The garden is a real museum of nature with a very rich (more than 18000 types) collection of plants. The park was founded in 1945 at the place of the 17th century Apothecaries’ Gardens. The garden’s collection is turned into botanical expositions, made with use of modern receptions of landscape architecture. Here you can see a tree nursery, a shadow garden, hothouse complex, collection of flowers, a rosary, exposition of coastal plants, garden of continuous blossoming, Japanese garden and expositions of cultural plants and natural flora plants. The biggest part of Garden is the Tree nursery occupying the space of 75 hectares. About 2 thousand wood plants grow here. Another big exposition of the Garden is nature Flora, divided into six botanic-geographical collections: European part of Russia, Caucuses, Central Asia, Siberia and Far East. Pride of the Main Botanical Garden is the collection of tropical, coastal and water plants, which is considered as the best in Europe. The Japanese garden, a great model of Japanese landscape gardening art has a 13-level stone pagoda of the 18th century, stone Japanese lamps, ponds, falls and streams, tea lodges and more than 100 species of the most character Japan plants. It is especially decorative in spring, during Oriental cherry blossoming and in fall, when foliage blazes in crimson colors.

Moscow historic parks

Historic nature parks and estates once were the mansions of the Moscow aristocracy. At that far times the estates were outside the Moscow city limits, but after the city expansion and urbanization, they became easily accessible.

Kolomenskoye

Kolomenskoe

Kolomenskoye Museum and Park

The chief attraction of the park is undoubtedly the stone Church of the Ascension of the Lord. It was constructed in 1532 by order of Tsar Vasily III to commemorate the birth of his son and heir, Ivan the Terrible. But there is a lot more to see in the park: the pretty Church of the Icon of Our Lady of Kazan – with its bright azure domes and plenty of gold. Further into the park there is a charming Church of the Beheading of St John the Baptist, built by Ivan the Terrible to mark his coronation.

Kuskovo

Kuskovo Park

Kuskovo Park is one of the oldest country estates in Moscow. It was given to General Sheremetev by Peter the Great in 1715, but was left to fall into neglect before being plundered by Napoleon’s troops in 1812. Nowadays the estate has been restored to its former glory and is a good example of Russian 18th Century imperial architecture. The palace is a fine and rare example of wooden neoclassicism. It was completed in 1775, and the rich interiors remain unchanged since 1779. It includes a room hung with exclusive exquisite Flemish tapestries, an abundance of silk wallpaper and an impressive collection of 18th century European and Russian paintings. The palace looks onto the lake, which is surrounded by smaller pavilions: pretty Italian, Dutch and Swiss Cottages, Blank’s Hermitage and the old Orangery, where the State Ceramics Museum is located now, an extensive and absorbing collection of porcelain from the 18th century to the present day. On the other side of the lake is a large wood popular with local cyclists and joggers.

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Moscow Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

63 moscow trips. compare tour itineraries from 45 tour companies. 308 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating., popular moscow tours.

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Winter

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Winter

  • Explore the majestic St Petersburg & Moscow on private city tours
  • Admire the rich Russian history, art and architecture
  • Travel to Moscow on a highspeed train
  • Enjoy the local cuisine in stylish restaurants

Golden Ring of Russia

Golden Ring of Russia

Lower Volga Voyage

Lower Volga Voyage

  • Visit magnificent Red Square and Kremlin and examine the collection at theKremlin’s State Armory.
  • Experience Russia’s diverse musical traditions at lively folk music performances
  • Explore Volgograd, the site of the decisive battle of World War II’s eastern front

Best of Russia

Best of Russia

Volga Dream Russian River Cruise

Volga Dream Russian River Cruise

Highlights of Russia

Highlights of Russia

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Summer

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Summer

White Russian - 7 days

White Russian - 7 days

  • Discover Moscow's UNESCO-listed Red Square, home to spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum and the historic GUM Department store
  • Explore the grounds of Moscow's mighty Kremlin, with its numerous governmentbuildings, gold-domed cathedrals and the giant tsar bell
  • Celebrate New Year's Eve in Moscow!
  • Take in the highlights of St Petersburg including a guided tour of the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Cathedral
  • Take a guided tour of the remarkable Hermitage Museum at the Winter Palace

All Moscow , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Moscow

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Small Group Moscow Tours

Small Group Moscow Tours

Vodka Shot - 6 days

  • Explore the beautiful city of St Petersburg, including the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt
  • Marvel at the dazzling array of art and exhibits in the world-famous Hermitage Museum, at the Winter Palace in St Petersburg
  • Discover a lavish residence of the tsars on a day trip to Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo (winter: mid-October to April) or Peterhof Palace and gardens (summer: May to mid-October)
  • Take in the highlights of the capital on a walking tour, visiting Moscow's famous Red Square, home to the historic GUM Department Store, Lenin’s Mausoleum and spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral
  • Take a guided tour of the Moscow Kremlin, Russia’s political power house. Stroll around the grounds of this fortified complex, visit the Kremlin's cathedrals and see the mighty Tsar Bell

Route of the Romanovs - 10 days

Route of the Romanovs - 10 days

  • Learn about the last days of the Romanovs in Yekaterinburg, visiting the sites where Tsar Nicolas II and his family were assassinated and buried
  • Straddle two continents at the famous obelisk Europe/Asia border marker in Yekaterinburg
  • Experience the Trans-Siberian railway on an overnight train journey from Moscow to Yekaterinburg

New Year's in Moscow - 9 days

New Year's in Moscow - 9 days

  • Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo on Christmas Day and marvel at the incredible Amber Room
  • Spend a night in Novgorod, an ancient city by the Volkhov River - explore the kremlin, cathedral and other sights and enjoy a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

Back in the USSR - 7 days

Back in the USSR - 7 days

Russian Revolution - 9 days

Russian Revolution - 9 days

  • Visit historic Novgorod, an ancient city which straddles the Volkhov River. Explore the attractive riverside kremlin and experience a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

The Snowball - 6 days

The Snowball - 6 days

  • Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo and marvel at the incredible Amber Room

Mood for Moscow - 4 days

Mood for Moscow - 4 days

  • Head underground to visit a Stalinist-era Soviet Bunker on an optional excursion
  • Stroll to the vibrant Izmailovo Market, which lies behind the walls of an ancient Kremlin, and shop for an array of souvenirs

Best Moscow Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

Best Moscow Tours by Price

Top Moscow Attractions & Experiences

Moscow Tours & Travel Guide

Moscow Attractions & Landmarks Guide

Moscow reviews & ratings, capitals of the north.

some hotels could have been better

It was jam packed with every place I wanted to go and see. I especially love my photo of us setting out on the night time river cruise in St Petersburg and the Peter...

I really did not buy much and what I did buy was small gifts for others .

Johanna-Marie

Good hotels, some better than others. Interesting itinerary

Too rushed. Optional tour rather too short

See all Moscow reviews

Traveling to Moscow, an FAQ

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  26. Moscow parks

    Losiny Ostrov. Losiny Ostrov (Elk Island Park) Losiny Ostrov (Elk Island Park) is located at the north of Moscow. It covers 22 km from the west to the east and 10 km from the north to the south and it's one of the most beautiful national parks in Moscow. Two rivers, Yausa and Pechorka begin here.

  27. Top Moscow Tours & Vacations 2024/2025 [reviews & photos]

    63 Moscow trips. Compare tour itineraries from 45 tour companies. 308 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating. Choose your trip style: Design custom trip. Group Tour. Private Guided. Small Group. River Cruise.