If you have been considering setting out sometime soon to the wilds of Africa and you aren’t sure which country (or countries) you should check out for the best options in safaris, look no further than this quick rundown of what we think are some of the top options on the continent. With so many options for safaris across the board it can be a daunting prospect to narrow it down to just one or two places to visit, but hopefully this short list will help you!
Uganda
Uganda is Africa’s tourist hot spot destination right now, and with a number of great Uganda safari options to choose from throughout the country, it’s easy to see why. From Kampala’s bustling streets and colourful neighbourhoods to the banks of the Nile River near Murchison Falls, there are a whole host of lush, thriving places in which you can enjoy safaris throughout the country. A safari in Uganda can include seeing a number of great types of wildlife from hippos to crocodiles, numerous birds, chimps, antelope, giraffes and more.
Tanzania
Tanzania is home to two major areas where safaris can take place – the Serengeti to the north and the Selous Game Reserve in the south. The Serengeti is more popular and therefore more crowded and touristic, so if you want to feel like you have all of Africa to yourself, the Selous is a great choice. You can see typically most of the same types of animals in both locations including lions, zebra, giraffe, hippos, crocodiles, baboons and hyenas with cheetahs being more likely on the Serengeti. The Serengeti does have the added benefit of being close to other popular tourist destinations of the Ngorongoro Crater as well as Mount Kilimanjaro, so it can be a better place for safaris if you want to do both of those things as well.
Botswana
Botswana is one of the most popular destinations to date for safaris, being hugely popular with older people due to the high quality and luxury options for safari lodges that are dotted around the country. Generally speaking, Botswana has it all in terms of animals along with a whole array of different rated safari lodges to choose from. With close proximity to the likes of Namibia, South Africa and Mozambique, Botswana is a favourite for many who want to explore more than just one or two countries and their safari options.
Rwanda
While Rwanda is awash with mainly rainforests in terms of wildlife, the popular safari option here is to take off into the highlands to view mountain gorillas. Permits can fetch a pretty penny and sell out months in advance due to conservation efforts to minimise the effect of tourism on these mountain inhabitants. Check with the Rwandan Wildlife Authority for details on permits and how to go about booking a trek for your time in the country.
South Africa
South Africa is probably one of the most popular options for first timers to the safari game, mainly due to the more European feel of the country. While it’s not without its difficulties and dangers, South Africa is a great introduction to Africa for those who don’t want to plunge right into the likes of Kenya, Tanzania or Rwanda. The best spot for safaris here is in the north east corner, in Kruger National Park near the border with Mozambique. Here you will find almost every manner of wild life you want, with knowledgeable guides and comfortable lodges.
So if you’ve been looking at going on a safari for your next big getaway, consider one of the above locations. A safari can be a once in a lifetime experience often due to the cost for many, so choose wisely and make sure you create the most exhilarating experience for yourself. Most importantly, enjoy the trip! You won’t regret it.
