Planning your first African safari can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. With so many destinations and an abundance of information available, it’s easy to feel lost. A common question we get is, “Where is the best area to go on safari in Africa?” The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Africa boasts numerous incredible safari destinations, and the best choice depends on your preferences, travel style, and interests.
We recommend starting your safari planning by having a chat with one of our specialists. Our experts know Africa inside out and can guide you based on your unique needs.
For many first-time safari-goers, the top choices are Botswana, Kenya, and Tanzania. These destinations are well-known and often recommended by friends or featured in wildlife documentaries.
Botswana
Botswana is known for its high-end, exclusive safaris. The Okavango Delta is the star attraction, offering low-impact, private safari experiences away from the crowds seen in Kenya and Tanzania. This means you’ll enjoy more privacy and exceptional wildlife sightings. However, safaris in Botswana can be quite expensive.
In Botswana, the real action happens in private concession areas like those in the Okavango Delta and Linyanti. These areas allow for off-roading, night drives, and specialized activities like mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions and horseback safaris. Though more costly, these private concessions offer a flexible and personalized safari experience compared to the national parks like Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park, where off-roading and night drives are restricted.
Kenya
Kenya is a popular and well-developed safari destination with a rich history of wildlife conservation. While some of its parks have been affected by mass tourism, Kenya has pioneered the concept of private, group, and community conservancies. These conservancies, such as those in the Maasai Mara, play a crucial role in wildlife protection and offer more exclusive safari experiences away from the busy national parks.
Private conservancies in Kenya allow for off-road driving, night drives, and nature walks, providing a more intimate and flexible safari experience. These areas are not fenced, allowing animals to roam freely, but they are inaccessible to the general public, ensuring a private and authentic experience.
Tanzania
Tanzania is another excellent destination for first-time safari travelers. It boasts some of Africa’s most famous parks, like Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. While Tanzania doesn’t have as many private conservancies as Kenya, its parks are generally larger, meaning fewer vehicles and a more relaxed safari experience.
The northern circuit, including Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara, is the most popular safari region in Tanzania. It offers a chance to witness the annual migration and see a diverse range of wildlife. Although some areas, like Ngorongoro Crater, can get crowded, the sheer size of these parks means you can still find peaceful spots with incredible wildlife viewing opportunities.
Whether you choose Botswana, Kenya, or Tanzania for your first African safari, each destination offers unique experiences and unforgettable adventures. Chat with our safari specialists to find the perfect fit for your journey into the wild