What Are The Best Destinations For African Safari?
Africa is known for the Sphinx and Giza, Victoria Falls, Cape Town, and of course, the alluring National Parks. A trip to the continent entails a plethora of options for travelers so they can indulge in some mesmerizing experiences. The moments you enjoy will be everlasting. If you are hoping to indulge in an adventurous Safari, then Africa is the best destination. When you spot a wildebeest strolling amid the green forests, your heartbeat will race, and your hands will shiver while you try to click the perfect picture. The tourism industry is well-developed, so you will always have a travel guide along with you, who could answer all your questions related to the animals or the region.
Here are a few countries known for their iconic national parks and exotic wildlife:
Botswana
The country boasts of exceptional wilderness as 38% of its land area is devoted to wildlife reserves and national parks. Animals here roam around free, without any fences to trap them for the most part. Home to the world’s largest intact inland delta – Okavango Delta, is located here. It sustains a variety of seasonal and permanent wildlife like tigerfish, tilapia and aquatic plans like water-buck. The country is home to numerous endangered bird and animal species like Wild Dog, Cheetah, Brown Hyena, Pel’s Fishing Owl. Along with it, you could also explore the rich cultural heritage of people inhabited here.
Kenya
Take many pictures, but nothing would compete with the moments you’ll experience amid the wildlife that belongs in Kenya. It is the country where safaris first began. A large game reserve – the Masai Mara is home to a vast population of lions, leopards and cheetahs. It also witnesses migration of zebras, Thomson’s gazelle, and even wildebeest. There are several other National Parks where you can enjoy an exceptional safari including Amboseli National Park, Samburu National Park, and Mount Kenya. So much that you’ll experience a unique thrill.
Malawi
‘The warm heart of Africa’ – Malawi sustains beautiful forests and reserves. The country offers plenty of options for safari including Liwonde National Park, Nyika, Vwaza and Nkhotakota. The striking beauty of Lake Malawi adds the spark to its tourism. Moreover, the Majete Wildlife Reserve has splendid vegetation and is home to over 2,000 animals who were relocated to the reserve for their protection. When in Malawi, you could spot endangered mammals like Johnston’s River Frog and Checkered Sengi, along with various bird and plant species.
Mozambique
The south of the country has well-established tourism, having beautiful beach resorts, delectable Portuguese food and not to forget, the charms of wildlife. The increasing numbers of lions, hippos and elephants have pushed people to explore the realms of Gorongosa game park. Either drive in a jeep or walk through the park, you can’t help being mesmerized by the idyllic animal life that persists here. The safari camps are quite traditional, and you will have a relatively unique experience.
Namibia
When in Namibia, you can step inside the world’s oldest desert – Namib. The desert is a pool of red sand and has a marvelous landscape. You could spot the animals who are adapted to the harsh climatic conditions of the desert. The lucky ones can witness a black rhino walking freely in the wilderness. Visit the renowned Etosha National Park, the coastal area of Swakopmund and the Namib Naukluft Park. The wildlife experience will be enchanting as you have options to visit cheetah and leopard reserve as well.
Rwanda
Known for the epic gorilla trekking – Rwanda has a Volcanoes National Park which is considered to be the safest option to spot the exciting species. Nyungwe Forest National Park is another having numerous other primate species like L’hoests monkey, red-tailed monkey, vervet monkey and olive baboon. If these weren’t the only species you wanted to take pictures of – you can also explore Akagera National Park which is home to elephants, zebras, lions, giraffes and hundreds of bird species.
South Africa
Providing you with a combination of “old” Africa and modern-day photographic safaris, South Africa has the famous Kruger National Park. It has been widely claimed as the most exciting African safari destination, as you are likely to spot Africa’s Big Five: Elephant, Lion, Rhino, Leopard and Buffalo. The tours and packages are provided as per your requirements. It could be more thrilling, or as a typical family safari, or could be well-guided. There are numerous private game reserves like Cape Town and Cape Winelands, the Garden Route, and Madikwe Game Reserve you can explore when in South Africa.
Tanzania
If you are looking for a romantic and most sought-after safari destination, then Tanzania could be the perfect African country to explore. If you visit in April and May, you could witness the Wildebeest Migration. Between June and September, you can spot the entire herd at the river crossing at Grumeti or the Mara River, and the climate is also exceptional. However, due to peak time, the prices are higher, and you will spend your vacation with a more massive crowd. Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area are two more destinations which are worth visiting as they are fantastic places to spot lions, elephants, buffalo, hyenas, hippos, and much more.
Zambia
Safari camps and wildlife viewing – Zambia offers tourists abundant opportunities to explore the wilderness by staying in remote bush camps or via walking safaris. Zambia might be known for the Victoria Falls, but the magnificent waters serve as a magnet for flora and fauna. Night drives are a bonus as one can visit almost all national parks even in subtle darkness. One of the most visited destinations in Zambia is Lion Camp in South Luangwa National Park.
Zimbabwe
Last but not the least significant, Zimbabwe might be stuck in its political woes, but the country has magnificent national parks which have been inhabited by diverse wildlife. Victoria Falls contribute to the epic landscape, and big herds of elephants assemble near the waters when the season is dry. You can also catch sight of sable antelope as well as brown hyena, bat-eared fox and spring-hare.
The dry season between June and October is the best time for African Safari as the bush becomes less dense, thus enabling people to spot the wildlife easily. Animals also gather near water holes to quench their thirst. The African safaris are not only enchanting but also light on your pocket. Indian Ocean Mainland with some fantastic lodges adds the charm of tourism.
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