Whether you track the incredible Serengeti migration or watch the mighty Duba lions hunting by day, a safari trip into the African wilderness is bound to be a life-changing experience.
But with so many countries and national parks to choose between, where is best to go?
Here are the five top destinations to see the majestic African wildlife up close:
1. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
‘Serengeti’ is the Maasai description of this fabulous landscape, meaning ‘endless plain’. This is a land of rolling plains, dramatic cloud formations, unforgettable sunsets, and oceans of the greenest grass stretching out towards distant mountains on the horizon. Star-billing has to go to the Great Migration of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle – the planet’s most spectacular mammal migration. The Serengeti’s huge herds can be seen at most seasons, but the Seronera River Valley is the most populous wildlife region of all. Expect to see a host of species including lion, elephant, leopard, cheetah, raptors and exotic birds.
2. Ngorongoro Crater National Park, Tanzania
A world heritage site where early traces of mankind have been found, the Ngorongoro Crater harbours most species of East African wildlife. The rim of this 10-mile wide volcanic crater affords panoramic views of the crater floor and its varied habitats far below. These include swamps, grassland, forest and a soda lake. Due to the Ngorongoro’s rich soils and spring-fed waters, an abundance of resident wildlife can be seen – some even at close quarters. The likely list includes lion, cheetah, elephant, black rhino, hippo, zebra, wildebeest and antelopes. Find Tanzania tours.
3. Kruger National Park, South Africa
Mostly flat or gently undulating, the subtropical Kruger Park is ideal for a self-drive safari. Several rivers run through its vast area, bordered by mountains to the east. The prime time for wildlife watching is during the milder days of the dry winter season. This is when most animals frequent waterholes, and when the sparse vegetation makes them easiest to spot. With more large species on view than elsewhere in Africa, you should see lion, black rhino, zebra, cheetah, giraffe, hippo, elephant, wildebeest and more. Search South Africa tours.
4. Okavango Delta, Botswana
Formed by the spectacular flow of the Kavango River into the arid Kalahari Desert, the Okavango is one of the world’s largest inland deltas, and one of Africa’s most beautiful landscapes. This mosaic of dry and wet environments not only attracts a rich animal population, but also supports a diverse range of bird habitats which harbour raptors and waders amongst over 400 colourful avian species. There is a wealth of mammal species on view, including large, seasonal herds of elephant and buffalo; and the lions at Duba are Africa’s biggest. Browse Botswana tours.
5. Maasai Mara, Kenya
Home of the BBC’s Big Cats and much more, the Maasai Mara reserve jointly hosts the Great Migration of immense herds of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle with Tanzania’s Serengeti, including the harsh dénouement for some at the Mara River. A superb location for observing the hunting behaviours of large predators, the Maasai Mara provides numerous opportunities for close-up viewing of its magnificent array of wildlife, including balloon trips above the boundless savannah grasslands. Amongst the many species you will see are lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant, crocodile, and many more. Search Kenya tours.
There are so many reasons to go on a safari and if you are keen to explore this continent search Africa tours and book a dream trip today. If you would to combine experiences then you might also want to consider going to volunteer in Africa where you can help animals.