african journey safaris

Explore the Best of Africa with Boundless Journeys

Follow the great herds of the Serengeti on a migration safari in Tanzania . Journey into the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta , one of the most remote and unspoiled adventures you can experience on the African continent. Get up close and personal with the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards—on our Ultimate Cape Town and Kruger Safari in South Africa . Explore the wilds of Zimbabwe , from the elephant-filled Hwange National Park to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Mana Pools on the Zambezi River. Go gorilla tracking in Rwanda , discover the epic landscapes and deserts of Namibia , or swim in the turquoise waters off the spice island of Zanzibar .

Welcome to Boundless Journeys in Africa, where every active travel experience we create is complemented by signature accommodations, regional cuisine, and the company of remarkable local guides who can show you the greatest hits and hidden gems of each destination. No matter where you want to go—or what you want to do—Boundless Journeys has the handcrafted African tour to satisfy your most adventurous spirit.

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Why Our Guests Love Africa Tours

This trip was hands down the best vacation we have taken. The guides were excellent, the food was amazing (and plentiful), and the scenery and wildlife were unmatched by anything I have ever seen.

We continue to bathe in the rich memories of the trip and want to thank you, Karen, and all of your people who helped make it such an enjoyable, flawless trip. It certainly did exceed our expectations and we could not be more satisfied with your efforts….It was truly a lifetime experience we will treasure always.

We did a mix of mokoro and game drives: saw lots of lions, giraffes, elephants, hippos, and hyenas, as well as lots of birds while on the water. Saw large groups of giraffes and elephants crossing water, very close-up and impressive! The closeness that we were able to get to the game was awesome. We were literally just feet away from mating lions, stalking leopards, lions eating their kill, the wild dogs, etc, etc. etc. I had no idea that we would ever get that close!

Featured African Destinations

Okavango Delta in Botswana , home to some of the world’s most endangered species

The extraordinary wildlife sanctuary of Etosha National Park in Namibia

Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area , one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa

The spectacular  Victoria Falls , one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World

Boundless Journeys in Africa

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12 Top African Safari Tours

Cross this must-do activity off your bucket list.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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African Safari - Compare 10,857 Tours

Does an African safari feature on your bucket list? It should! Africa has so much to offer, from spectacular scenery, friendly people and cultural treasures to blissful beaches. But above all else, it is the wildlife and safari lifestyle that will draw you back, again and again. This well-known quote by Richard Mullin is so very true: ‘The only man I envy, is the man who has not yet been to Africa – for he has so much to look forward to’. Once you go on your first safari, Africa gets into your blood. You develop a deep longing to return to this magical continent, and to start planning your next African safari holiday. Be warned, Africa is very addictive!

4-Day Classic Tour to Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro

$1,602 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Serengeti Smile

5.0 /5  –  232 Reviews

6-Day Great Migration Safari Mid Range & Luxury Comfort

$2,706 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Central Serengeti NP, Northern Serengeti NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

See Endless Adventures Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  28 Reviews

5-Day Melia Luxury Lodge Safari to Most Celebrated Parks

$3,036 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Hotel

Tanzania Roadside Expeditions

5.0 /5  –  252 Reviews

7-Day Mara -Nakuru -Naivasha Amboseli Mid Range Joining

$1,485 to $1,925 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 7 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Amboseli NP, Nairobi (End)

Safari Line Defender

4.9 /5  –  69 Reviews

7-Day Luxury Kenya Safari Holiday

$5,671 to $7,927 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Samburu NR, Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Wayfairer Travel

4.9 /5  –  151 Reviews

8-Day Great Migration Safari

$3,135 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Central Serengeti NP, Northern Serengeti NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro, Arusha (End)

Safari Soles

5.0 /5  –  248 Reviews

13-Day Amazing of Tanzania Wildlife Nature

$5,445 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 5 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Moshi (Start) , Arusha (City) , Arusha NP, Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Lake Eyasi, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Northern Serengeti NP, Materuni Waterfalls (Highlight) , Moshi (End)

Mirisho Expedition Safaris

5.0 /5  –  14 Reviews

10-Day Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Zanzibar & Others

$4,230 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Northern Serengeti NP, Serengeti NP, Zanzibar (End)

Savannah Explorers

5.0 /5  –  489 Reviews

4-Day Exotic Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru Safari

$1,683 to $1,870 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Nairobi (End)

Madukha Tours and Safaris

4.7 /5  –  27 Reviews

7-Day Mara River Crossing Migration Safari

$3,357 to $3,520 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 7 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Northern Serengeti NP, Central Serengeti NP, Arusha (End)

Benson Safaris Tanzania

4.8 /5  –  220 Reviews

7-Day Masai Mara Nakuru Amboseli Kenya Budget Safari

$770 to $1,045 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 7 people per vehicle) Budget Tented Camp & Hotel

Bienvenido Kenya Tours and Safaris

4.3 /5  –  79 Reviews

6-Day Mikumi and Nyerere Classic Adventure Safari

$1,155 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Dar Es Salaam (Start) , Mikumi NP, Nyerere NP, Dar Es Salaam (End)

Kima Safaris

4.7 /5  –  41 Reviews

6-Day Private Big 5 Mid Range Tour in Tanzania

$1,870 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Kilimanjaro Airport (End)

Meru Slopes Tours & Safaris

5.0 /5  –  314 Reviews

5-Day Comfort Safari Experience

$1,755 to $1,914 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Lake Manyara NP, Arusha (End)

African Big Cats Safaris

5.0 /5  –  369 Reviews

4-Day The Ultimate Tarangire, Ngorongoro & Serengeti

$1,820 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Arusha (End)

Paradise & Wilderness

4.9 /5  –  133 Reviews

7-Day Kenya Adventure Safari

$1,032 to $1,307 pp (USD)

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Lake Nakuru NP, Amboseli NP, Nairobi (End)

Super Eagles Travel and Tours

4.8 /5  –  169 Reviews

5-Day Mid-Range Tour at Manyara, Serengeti & Ngorongoro

$1,727 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Central Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Januz Safaris

4.9 /5  –  34 Reviews

11-Day Complete Africa Safari Tour Comfort

$3,595 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Lake Natron, Pololeti GR (Greater Serengeti) , Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Tarangire NP, Kilimanjaro Airport, Moshi (End)

Shemeji Safari Tanzania

4.8 /5  –  283 Reviews

4-Day Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp Luxury Masai Mara Fly In

$2,352 to $3,483 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Luxury+ Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Image Travel

4.6 /5  –  192 Reviews

6-Day Majestic Tanzania - High-End

$4,070 to $5,290 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury+ Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Unlimited Expeditions: The Soul of Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  442 Reviews

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7 Questions About African Safari Tours

Answered by

Harriet nimmo.

Why should I choose an African safari tour?

“There are so many reasons to choose an African safari. Going on safari is an unforgettable experience, offering a heady mix of adventure, thrilling wildlife sightings, cultural encounters and spectacular scenery. It is a chance to escape the fast pace of the modern world. You’ll retreat to a simpler, more peaceful way of life, reconnecting with the daily rhythms of nature. For me, the wildlife sightings provide the adrenaline that keeps me coming back, time and time again. Who can ever forget their first sighting of an elephant in the wild or realizing just how tall a giraffe really is? And there is something so primeval when hearing the roar of a lion under a glittering night sky. Finally, going on safari can help protect Africa’s wild animals and wild places. The more paying visitors, the more local people are employed and the more incentive there is to protect Africa’s natural wonders.”

Which are the best African countries for going on safari?

“All the classic safari countries make wonderful destinations for African safari tours. These countries are Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia and South Africa. Which country you choose may depend on whether you’d like to combine your safari with another activity. For example you may like to add some beaches and/or Zanzibar in East Africa. Or perhaps Victoria Falls between Zambia and Zimbabwe, or fine dining around Cape Town and the winelands of South Africa. If this is your first safari, South Africa makes a good option. The private reserves bordering Kruger National Park can almost guarantee sightings of the Big Five. South Africa also has good infrastructure and excellent levels of service. However, you will not get the sweeping savannahs and ‘Out of Africa’ scenes here. For these you need to travel to Kenya or Tanzania. Of course, these two countries also offer the incredible wildebeest migration. Note though, you need to travel here at the right time of year to see this. Zambia and Zimbabwe should also be considered. They have stunning national parks, including South Luangwa and Hwange respectively. Both countries are slightly more off the beaten track with less mass tourism. Botswana perhaps feels the wildest of the safari countries, although this comes with a price.”

What time of year is best for going on a safari?

“The best time of year, and the peak season, for most safaris is the Dry season. This is when the bush is less dense, and the wildlife is drawn to waterholes. Generally the wildlife is easier to find and see at this time. The Dry season means bright sunny days, and cooler nights. Of course, as the Dry season is peak safari season, there are more travelers and prices are higher. Dry season generally falls from May/June to September/October. You may also wish to consider going during the ‘Green season’ (also known as the Wet season or Emerald season). Although it may rain, often the showers are short downpours and then the sun comes back out again. It can be much cheaper to travel then, the bush is lush and green, and this is the breeding season for many of the animals. In East Africa, there are two Green seasons – the long rains between March and May, and the short rains from approximately October to December. In southern Africa the Green season is approximately from November to March. Temperatures can get very hot. Note that when it is wet there are more bugs and a greater risk of malaria.”

What wildlife can I expect to see?

“When it comes to seeing wildlife while on safari, this is wild nature and nothing can be guaranteed. You may see plenty of animals, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant). But there will be game drives when you don’t see very much at all. That will make the sightings you do see all the more special. The joy of safaris, and what makes them so addictive, is that you just never know what you might see around the next corner. If you listen closely to, and learn from your guide, you’ll be able to enjoy all aspects of Africa’s wildlife. Everything from baobab trees to dung beetle, to chameleon and cheeky mongoose. Don’t forget to also focus on the birds, as even a very quiet game drive usually delivers some great bird sightings.”

What does a typical day look like on safari?

“All African safari holidays run to the same typical timetable. The best times to see wildlife, particularly predators being active, is at the beginning and end of the day. These golden hours at dawn and dusk are also the best times for photography. So be prepared for very early starts! You will usually be woken at dawn, and given tea, coffee, rusks or cereal. The aim is to get going on your game drive as early as possible at first light. The morning game drive usually lasts three to four hours, including a coffee and comfort break. You return to your camp or lodge for brunch. Then you are free to relax and take a siesta, or perhaps lie by the pool, during the middle of the day. It’s a good idea to bring something to read for this down time. Later in the afternoon you will meet again for tea and snacks, before setting out on your second game drive of the day. This will usually include a stop for sundowner drinks, to watch the setting sun. The game drive then returns to your accommodation in the dark, using a spotlight to look for nocturnal animals. Evening meals are usually served just after returning to camp. In some countries night drives are offered after dinner at around 8pm. Such drives can be a unique opportunity to spot nocturnal (only active at night) wildlife such as genets. Unless you have paid for exclusive use, be prepared for sharing your game-drive vehicle with other guests. This can be huge fun (although sometimes you need to be quite tolerant). It is always a good idea to offer to swap around your seating positions during your safari. ”

How much will this safari cost?

“The costs of an African safari can vary enormously. You could pay anything from US$125 to US$1000 per person, per night. Sometimes considerably more. Safaris can be an expensive holiday, and you generally get what you pay for. At the budget end of the spectrum are African safari packages where you join organized tours, departing on set dates, with other groups of people. South Africa and Kenya offer some of the best value-for-money safaris. Your choice of accommodation will affect the cost of your safari. Mobile safaris, where you sleep in tents, are great for groups of friends or families traveling together. Some safari lodges have taken luxury to the extreme, with private plunge pools etc. That said, you will probably have the same wildlife-viewing experience as staying in a more rustic lodge. It’s a matter of deciding what features are most important to you. If your reserve or lodge is remote, getting there will also impact the price. To visit the Okavango Delta, in Botswana, you can only fly into the Delta. There are no road transfers, so this adds to the price of your trip. The Serengeti is accessible by road, but this is a long, bone-rattling journey. It’s much easier and more comfortable to take a quick trip in a small plane. Whatever the costs of your safari, if you’ve experienced good service, do tip generously. A few extra dollars or Euros will make a huge difference to your guide or lodge staff.”

What should I consider when choosing an African safari tour?

“There is a lot of considerations to be taken into account when choosing an African safari tour operator. These include: If you are traveling with children, choose a family-friendly tour or lodge. In addition, you may prefer to choose a safari in a malaria-free area, for example in parts of South Africa. What type of safari do you want to go on? There are organized tours, departing on set dates, joining other groups of people. Or do you want an exclusive, tailor-made safari just for you? Are you happy to camp or do you want to stay in a luxury lodge? Your budget will probably determine your choices. Do you want to combine your safari with beaches, South Africa’s winelands, or a trip to Victoria Falls? This will help determine which country to choose.”

Safari Reviews

I traveled as a solo female and had an amazing time! Communication was great, and I always felt comfortable and safe. I got to see many sites and had a really fun time seeing the area. Would highly recommend!

Full Review

Keep loving what You do.!

What an amazing time in Tanzania. Big thanks to Samora Explorers for wonderful safari experience and a little insight in country's culture. We took 3 day safari tour to Lake Manyara NP, Tarangire NP and went for hike in 3rd day to...

Everybody very friendly and professional.

We traveled as a group of five the first week in June, all accommodation chosen for us was very good, and our safari experience was above and beyond expectations the amount of animals we saw, the wilderbeest migration, and herds of...

Professional, Hospitable, personalised attention, soft spoken and reliable service.

One of my friend suggested me about Ozon Light tours for planning my Tanzania safari tour. Initially we were a bit wary about not having heard this name as it is a fairly new company started in 2020, but after speaking with the company...

Great, friendly and informative your

Our Peoria tour was very informative. The guide, Ali was very knowledgeable and friendly and both the adults and kids learned a lot about the nuanced history of South Africa

wonderful and incredible trip

It was a great experience, our guide Gerald was calm and reliable, the manager Raphael was very professional, I had a great time with my mom!looking forward to travel again.

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Africa Safari Tours & Vacations

• Africa Safari Tours & Holidays

Take a walk on the wild side on an African safari.

The word “safari” means “journey” in Swahili. And a safari in Africa is all about the journey. While seeing a leopard munch on a freshly caught gazelle or spying a curious lion cub venture away from its mother’s protective embrace will be highlights of your trip, you’ll discover the journey is as much a part of your trip as the destination.

The road-trip games you play with your new travel mates, the feeling of the wind (and maybe a little dust) in your hair when you’re travelling down long, winding roads, and the young Maasai boy who waved at you as you passed him along the road will stay with you long after you return.

Our African safari tours

Okavango experience, 10 days from 1778.

Tour through Johannesburg, Maun, Chobe National Park, the Okavango Delta and Victoria...

Explore Southern Africa

18 days from 3315.

Spend some time exploring Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe with included safari...

Gorillas & Game Parks

16 days from 4208.

Encounter the wildlife of Kenya and Uganda on this overland adventure including a...

Cape Town to Vic Falls

22 days from 2903.

Spend three weeks exploring South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, from Cape...

East Africa Highlights

10 days from 4122.

Explore East Africa, like Kenya, Masai Mara National Reserve, Serengeti National Park...

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Kenya Wildlife Safari

8 days from 1515.

Experience Kenyan wildlife on an adventure from Nairobi to Lake Naivasha. Visit the...

Botswana Highlights

9 days from 2518.

Discover the culture, wildlife and waterways of Botswana on an adventure that visits...

Road to Zanzibar

12 days from 2695.

Experience the beauty of the Ngorongoro and Serengeti, Usambara Mountains and Zanzibar...

The Masai Heartlands

15 days from 3424.

Uncover Kenya and Tanzania on a 2 week trip with Serengeti safaris, Ngorongoro, Nakuru,...

Serengeti Trail

8 days from 2176.

Roam the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Amboseli National Park to spot Africa's Big...

Vic Falls to Kruger

9 days from 1534.

Take on a safari adventure through Hwange National Park, Matobo National Park, Kruger...

Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches

27 days from 7213.

Go deep in East Africa on this epic trip, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Zanzibar.

Botswana Adventure

10 days from 4620.

Visit Africa and travel through Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe on a tour from Windhoek...

Namibia Discovery

13 days from 3765.

Travel from Cape Town in South Africa to Namibia’s Windhoek through coastlines, sand...

Amazing Southern Africa

22 days from 8208.

Jump onboard an exhilarating journey from Cape Town to Victoria Falls through the...

Vic Falls to Cape Town

22 days from 2992.

Discover the unique and contrasting lands of Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and South...

Remarkable Rwanda & Gorillas of Uganda

9 days from 4786.

Travel through Rwanda and Uganda in search of natural beauty and the gentle mountain...

Garden Route Adventure

14 days from 1819.

See Africa from Durban to Cape Town on a 14-day adventure. Tour Tsitsikamma, Addo...

Best of East Africa

20 days from 4469.

Step out onto the Serengeti and keep your eyes out for rhinos, lions, leopards and a...

Cape Town to Zanzibar

41 days from 5496.

See Africa on this incredible overland adventure from South Africa to Tanzania. Soak up...

Serengeti & Kilimanjaro

15 days from 5160.

Explore the wonders of Tanzania and Kenya, including a trek to the summit of Mt...

Okavango & Beyond

9 days from 2074.

Travel from Zimbabwe to South Africa via Botswana. The Okavango and Beyond trip is the...

Vic Falls to Stone Town

17 days from 2261.

See East Africa in 17 days including Victoria Falls, Matobo, South Luwanga, Lake Malawi...

Southern Africa Adventure

30 days from 4560.

Take a month long southern African adventure from Cape Town into Namibia, Botswana and...

Essential East Africa

10 days from 1845.

Hit the (dirt) road through Kenya and Tanzania. Safari in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro...

Africa Encompassed Northbound

64 days from 12505.

This epic journey with explores Southern Africa in detail including Botswana, Kenya,...

Johannesburg to Kenya

37 days from 7010.

Travel the waterways of Botswana, the beaches of Zanzibar and the savannahs of the...

Cape Town to Kenya

49 days from 6912.

Experience the ultimate African adventure on this epic trip including Kenya, Botswana,...

Kruger & Coast

9 days from 1258.

Explore diverse southern Africa on this nine-day adventure, including Kruger National...

Gorillas to Vic Falls

42 days from 9244.

Explore Kenya, Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe on this epic trip that included a...

Safari to Kilimanjaro - Machame Route

16 days from 5992.

Explore the wonders of Tanzania and Kenya including a trek to the summit of Mt...

Africa Encompassed Southbound

63 days from 11875.

Set out on a mighty African adventure through Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe...

Vic Falls to Kenya

28 days from 3983.

Discover East African wilderness and the animals that call it home on an adventure...

Zanzibar to Cape Town

40 days from 5048.

Explore Africa on an epic wildlife-rich adventure from Tanzania to South Africa while...

Kenya to Cape Town

48 days from 8384.

Tour Africa's best from Kenya to Cape Town through Tanzania, Zanzibar, Malawi, Zimbabwe...

Stone Town to Nairobi

9 days from 2390.

Explore Tanzania on this trip travelling to Nairobi via the Serengeti and the Usambara...

Stone Town to Vic Falls

16 days from 1999.

Track rhinos on foot and embrace the sights and sounds of Eastern Africa on this unique...

Johannesburg to Gorillas

52 days from 11780.

Experience the waterways of Botswana, the beaches of Zanzibar, the savannahs of the...

Kenya to Vic Falls

27 days from 5078.

Explore the wilds of East Africa on a trip from Nairobi to the Serengeti, Usambara...

Kilimanjaro & Serengeti Adventure

15 days from 5629, beaches, game parks & gorillas, 27 days from 7255.

Spend 27 days exploring the wonders, wildlife and tribal cultures of East Africa to...

Zanzibar to Vic Falls

19 days from 2352.

Explore East Africa from Zanzibar's beaches to the roar of Victoria Falls, seeing...

Johannesburg to Zanzibar

29 days from 4575.

From Johannesburg to Botswana, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Lake Malawi and...

Zanzibar to Nairobi

12 days from 2803.

Get a true taste of eastern Africa on a 12-day trip to Zanzibar, the Serengeti,...

Vic Falls to Zanzibar

20 days from 2684.

Travel from the thundering Victoria Falls to the spice plantations of Zanzibar via...

Vic Falls to Gorillas

43 days from 9491.

Take an epic trip through eastern Africa, via Victoria Falls, the Serengeti and...

Africa safari h ighlights

Spot the Big 5 in South Africa

Go on safari through Kruger National Park, one of the largest game reserves in Southern Africa . This massive park is one of the premier safari spots in all of Africa and for good reason; it’s home to over 500 bird species, 100 species of reptile and 150 mammal species, including the Big Five and the endangered African wild dog.

Go gorilla trekking in Uganda

Venture deep into the steamy jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in search of the rare mountain gorilla. With a local guide to lead you, you’ll trek into the forest to spend one unforgettable hour watching and hanging out with a family of gorillas. A close encounter with these gentle giants is an extraordinary African experience that will always stay with you.

Float over the Serengeti

The only thing more magical than witnessing the great wildebeest migration across the Serengeti? Seeing it from the sky in a hot air balloon. As the herds of wildebeest and thousands of other animals travel from Serengeti National Park to the greener pastures of the Masai Mara National Reserve, you can watch their journey and enjoy incredible views from a unique perspective.

Canoe in the Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta has a unique system of waterways that are home to an immense array of wildlife. The best way to explore it is in a mokoro, a traditional dugout canoe. Visit in May to September, when animals are confined to small islands created by the annual flood, making it easy to spot great herds of elephant and antelope, hippos, crocodiles, lions, cheetahs and more. 

Popular safari destinations

Kruger National Park

Serengeti National Park

The Okavango Delta

Region comparisons

Chobe or Okavango?

Serengeti or Masai Mara?

View our range of gorilla treks

Where we stay on safari.

On our safari trips you’ll stay in billion-star accommodation. That’s our way of saying you’re sleeping under the night sky, camping in the great outdoors. On our Basix and sections of Original trips, you’ll stay in two-person canvas tents that our crew will help you set up. And on our Comfort trips, you’ll be staying in permanent tented camps and lodges (think glamping instead of camping).

Campsite facilities can sometimes be basic, but wherever possible, we make sure there are Western-style toilets and warm water available. But you’ll find it’s worth sacrificing a warm shower or two when you’re waking up to sunrise over the Masai Mara.

How we get around

On our safari trips, your main mode of transport is an overland truck, a purpose-built vehicle made for driving through Africa’s winding, and sometimes bumpy, country roads. While the trucks don’t have air conditioning, they do have sliding windows which let in the breeze and make it even easier to take spectacular snaps of the local wildlife. The trucks are also equipped with power outlets to charge your camera, phone and other devices on the go.

For more info on our overland trucks, see our Africa overland page .

African Safari FAQs

When is the best time to go on safari.

Generally speaking, January, February and June to October are the best times to go on safari in Africa. This is the dry season, so animals tend to come out into more open spaces in search of water, making them easier to spot. However, you’ll be able to spot animals all year round and you’ll enjoy fewer crowds if you travel outside peak season.

Read more about the best time to go on safari .

Where is the best place to go on safari?

The best place to go on safari depends on what kind of animals you’d like to see and what other activities you’d like to do in destination. We offer safaris to some of the best safari destinations in eastern and southern Africa, like Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and more.

Read more about how to choose your ideal African safari . 

Am I guaranteed to see animals on safari?

While we can’t guarantee you’ll spot the Big 5, you’d have to be profoundly unlucky to see no animals at all. On our trips, you’ll explore some of the best game parks and national reserves in the world. These protected areas are filled with a huge variety of different species and your expert driver and local leader will help you spot animals.

What are the “Big 5”?

The “Big 5” used to refer to the five big game animals that were the most difficult to hunt. Now that most shooting is done on a camera, the Big 5 are the most exciting animals to spot while on safari: the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo.

What should I pack for safari?

Loose, light clothing in neutral colours is the best attire for a safari (dark colours will get hot in the sun and can attract the Tsetse fly). You’ll also want a sun hat, some good walking shoes, a camera, sunscreen and bug spray. For more details, check out our ultimate Africa packing guide . 

What type of food will be served on safari?

On our Basix trips you’ll have a cook travelling with you while you are on safari who will whip up a variety of local flavours and Western-style dishes. Along your route, your cook will stop to purchase fresh, locally sourced food for your meals. You can expect a variety of things for breakfast like fruit, eggs, toast and cereal; lunch is often sandwiches and salads; and dinner is usually a hearty meal like pasta, curry or a BBQ.

On our Original and Comfort trips there will be more meals at camps and lodges along the way. No matter what you’re craving, you definitely will not be going hungry on safari.

What are the toilets and showers like on safari?

Most of the permanent tented camps will have a private bathroom with flushing toilets and showers with warm water. 

Many of the campsites we stay at have communal facilities with flushing toilets and showers with warm water. However, in some of the more remote areas, there may only be basic facilities (toilets and cold running water). 

Can you accommodate accessibility requirements on your safari tours?

We are committed to making travel accessible to everyone, so we will work with you to assess whether you will be able to complete an existing itinerary, or whether we will be able to make reasonable adjustments to meet your needs before you book. Please see our accessible travel page for more information. 

What is internet and phone access like on safari?

Some of our hotels and campsites will have Wi-Fi, however Internet and phone access may be limited in more remote areas. But you won’t miss it when you’re watching a pride of lions prowl through long grass or enjoying a drink around the campfire with your group. 

Responsible travel

Our stance on Animal Welfare

This world and the animals that call it home are precious, and we believe it’s our responsibility to help preserve them. We do not include or condone any activities that exploit animals on our safari trips, including hunting, feeding or interacting with animals in any way. We believe that wild animals should be observed in the wild, from a respectful distance. 

Some tips for being a wildlife-friendly traveller include never buying animal products, not participating in activities that include contact with the animals, and not including location tags on social media posts (some poachers have gone high-tech and use social media to track rare animals’ locations).

Read more about our Animal Welfare Policy here . 

Read more about African safaris

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Everything you need to know before booking your first African safari

​For many, a safari represents the optimal escape and lifelong travel dream. If you’re going to invest in turning this dream into reality, there are some things worth considering. Plus, we recommend five incredible wildlife itineraries for 2023.

From the first waft of dewy morning air to the gentle owl hoots that drift into camp after dark, there’s a satisfying natural rhythm to a day on safari in Africa. Even if you’re not normally an early riser, you’ll quickly fall into the routine of pre-dawn starts, lazy lunchtimes, active afternoons and mellow evenings, making the most of the best hours both for wildlife-watching and for chilling out. Deep at night, if you’re lucky, you may hear the distant whoop of a hyena, the rasping call of a leopard or the bassy roar of a lion.

But more often than not, you’ll sleep soundly, drunk on fresh air. Soon after you wake, you’ll head out into the wild, eager to discover what the day will deliver. Perhaps you’ll find yourself inching up on some rhinos, watching boisterous elephants bathe in a waterhole or spotting the youngest, cutest members of a mighty big cat dynasty.

If this sounds like the kind of escape you’ve been craving, but you’re puzzling over possible itineraries, what’s the best way to choose?

Green means go

While every luxury safari offers unforgettable wildlife encounters, there are plenty of options to consider. High-end African trips and settings vary hugely in their atmosphere and style.

Some itineraries, for example, are much greener than others. If you’re passionate about nature, you’ll want to make ethical choices, mindful of climate change and biodiversity, perhaps by minimising your time in the air. While every long-haul trip has a high carbon footprint, you can limit your safari’s impact by choosing a destination near an international airport and sharing a vehicle rather than continuing by taking domestic flights.

With superb wildlife-watching opportunities within driving distance, Nairobi makes an excellent starting point for a low-airmiles luxury safari. “You could head for the stunning mountains and waterfalls of the Aberdare range, where lions hunt giant forest hogs”, says Kenya specialist Richard Trillo of Expert Africa. “The tree-dotted plains of the Maasai Mara, which host East Africa’s annual Great Migration, are also within reach,” Richard adds.

There are other ways to dial down the net impact of your trip without compromising on quality, however. While carbon offset schemes can help compensate for your emissions, for a more targeted approach, you could book your trip through a specialist safari operator that has established working partnerships with African conservation charities.  

“We’re proud to support South Africa’s all-female Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit, and Greenpop, a non-profit Sub-Saharan forest restoration and urban greening organisation,” says Marcelo Novais of luxury operator Ker and Downey Africa.  

“We give all our clients the opportunity to donate to these worthy causes, since leaving a positive legacy is one of our core values,” he adds. Other deserving organisations include African Parks, the African Wildlife Foundation, Tusk and the World Land Trust.  

Another effective way of maximising the benefits of your trip is to choose lodges that go the extra mile in their vicinity, doing more for environmental protection, community partnerships and rural development than   merely covering park fees and basic wages. In Tanzania, the Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge invites guests to visit the craft project they support, Shanga, where locals with disabilities upcycle glass, textiles and fishing wire into cute elephant cushions, jewellery and clothing.

When it comes to shortlisting properties, membership of Ecotourism Kenya, Responsible Tourism Tanzania, Fair Trade Tourism and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council are generally useful indicators.

Settling in

Once you’ve arrived in the bush, what will your surroundings feel like? Anyone who’s cautious about camping in the wilderness will be relieved to discover that most top-end operators put their guests at ease by focusing on creature comforts: cool drinks, gourmet dining, indulgently appointed private bathrooms and sumptuous beds, for example. As a rule, their staff — from the head guide to the housekeepers — are superb at their jobs.  

That said, there are significant differences between, on the one hand, intimate, minimalist camps with just a handful of canvas tents and, at the other extreme, sizeable lodges featuring swimming pools, gyms and perhaps even a spa, photography hide, editing suite, research centre, library and observatory. It’s a matter of weighing up how close to nature you’d like to feel — hearing all those thrilling sounds in the night, for example — against the range of facilities and creature comforts you’d like to enjoy.

When deciding, honest opinions from people who know the properties well can be invaluable. “Our safari specialists always have detailed conversations with our clients to understand their preferences and offer advice”, says Liberty Gilmour of Audley Travel. “Conventional aircon, for example, is rarely essential: Zambia in May and high-altitude destinations such as Ngorongoro can be quite cool, particularly at night. If it’s hot, natural ventilation may be sufficient, but many camps also have solar-powered cooling systems.”

Whether opulent, nostalgic or quirky, surroundings that suit your aesthetic aspirations can elevate your experience. The family heirlooms that decorate Camp Jabulani in South Africa’s Kapama Reserve, for example, create a uniquely cosy atmosphere, while Xigera Safari Lodge in Botswana’s Okavango Delta is so proud of its collection of original pieces by contemporary African artists and artisans that staff offer art and design tours of the premises. To strike a contemporary note, Loisaba Lodo Springs in Kenya’s Loisaba Conservancy has rooms dotted with hand-stitched West African textiles and elegant upcycled Edwardian furniture.

Peaceful days

Almost every safari programme revolves around guided excursions called game drives, a name dating back to the days of Big Five hunting trips, but the style of the vehicles you ride in isn’t discussed as much as perhaps it should be. While some outfits settle for basic open-sided 4x4s, others invest in supremely comfortable, easy-access vehicles with charging points, dustproof storage space and a fridge. If you’re a keen photographer, top quality private vehicles are a must. Electric safari vehicles offer a particularly smooth ride; while still rare, they’re the future, and are starting to catch on.

Ila Safari Lodge in Zambia’s Kafue National Park offers the rare luxury of total peace and quiet. Founder Vincent Kouwenhoven, who has pioneered electric transport at Ila and its sister lodges in Zambia and Malawi, explains: “Our love for Africa led us to develop technologies that enable guests to experience the bush in near-silent, pollution-free vehicles, charged by our own solar panels. It’s an ecologically conscious way to watch wildlife and very calming, too. Instead of the engine, you hear birdsong.”

Some safaris also promise near-solitude in a vast natural landscape — an intoxicating feeling. One way to dodge the crowds is to travel during low season, the dates of which vary from location to location; alternatively, you could choose private reserves where the only vehicles you’ll see will be those of your fellow guests. As well as providing daytime activities, guides may offer night drives, using spotlights to search for nocturnal activity, such as birds roosting or lions stalking their prey.

For the ultimate in exclusivity, it’s possible to book an entire camp or lodge, with the staff handcrafting everything to your precise specifications, from wake-up times to the cocktails and canapes. According to Ash Jarvis of Best of South Africa Travel, exclusive-use properties work particularly well for mixed-generation families: “With their private game drives, multiple living areas, private pool and the undivided attention of the whole staff, including the chefs (fussy eaters welcome), they eliminate stress and ensure that nobody has to compromise. That’s what good family holidays are all about.”

The ultimate adventure

If serenity is your scene, you may be dreaming of floating over herds of zebras and wildebeest in a hot-air balloon, or wandering across the savannah on a bushwalk or cycle ride. The most interesting safaris offer a mixed programme of imaginative guided activities such as these, enlivening the days with little surprises: picnics in beauty spots, perhaps, or lantern-lit barbecues.  

The possibilities depend, to a large extent, on your choice of location. In Kenya’s northern conservancies, for example, you could explore the semi-desert by camel, while in Rwanda or Uganda, the activity you probably won’t want to miss is venturing into the depths of the rainforest on foot for a precious one-hour audience with mountain gorillas.

On a gorilla trek, you’ll be guided by rangers at the top of their game — a hallmark of an excellent safari. A knowledgeable, communicative guide can transform any trip, keeping you safe, entertained and intrigued.

“The inside track is what you really want, whether that’s in guiding, photography or conservation”, says Will Bolsover of Natural World Safaris. “In-depth knowledge leads you beneath the surface, for true insights into how conservation works, how wildlife benefits and how you can contribute.”

Since quality time with experts is one of the ultimate luxuries you can enjoy on safari, some top-end safaris, particularly in Kenya and South Africa, include a philanthropic element, whereby in exchange for a substantial donation to a conservation fund, you gain access to specialists in the field, perhaps even helping collar predators or collecting DNA samples from juvenile rhinos. Conservation safari companies such as Great Plains and AWF Safaris can assist with this. There’s no better way to start unlocking the mysteries of the African wilderness.

Five luxury safari trips in Africa to try in 2023 and beyond  

1. low-carbon luxury in kenya.

After a night at Nairobi’s fabled Giraffe Manor, travel overland to Solio Lodge in the Central Highlands to explore Kenya’s oldest rhino conservation sanctuary, then continue to Sala’s Camp, in one of the least-visited corners of the Maasai Mara. Eight days from £8,400 with Expert Africa. expertafrica.com

2. Take to the skies in Tanzania

Flip from park to park in style on a SkySafari, travelling by private plane and touching down at luxurious Elewana Collection properties. This classic circuit takes in Arusha, Tarangire, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti, for blockbuster wildlife-watching. Ten days from £8,300 with Sky Safari. skysafari.com

3. Family adventures in South Africa

South Africa has a host of prospects to suit muti-generational families. Delightful safari properties such as Morukuru River House team well with Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route. Fourteen days from £4,500 with Best of South Africa Travel. bestofsouthafricatravel.com

4. Clock the Big Five in the safari heartlands

To experience some of southern Africa’s most exclusive wilderness retreats, string together Bushmans Kloof in South Africa’s Cederberg region, Sossusvlei Desert Lodge in Namibia, DumaTau in Linyanti and Xigera in the Okavango Delta. Twelve days from £24,797 with Beyond Green. staybeyondgreen.com

5. Meet mountain gorillas in Rwanda

Nothing can prepare you for the surge of emotions you’ll feel when, after an exhilarating trek, you first encounter a family of gorillas in the rainforest. Combine your hike with game drives in Rwanda’s Big Five national park, Akagera. Eight days from £7,493 with Jacada Travel. jacadatravel.com  

Published in the 2022 edition of National Geographic Traveller (UK) The Luxury Collection

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The best African safaris

Your Guide to Africa

Experiences

Our Collective

Julian Carter-Manning

Discover Earth's untamed wilderness

I’ve always believed that Africa is all about the 'wild'. For me, the more you explore the remote reaches of the continent, the better Africa becomes. It may sound clichéd to say it, but the wilder you travel, the more of an effect the experience will have on you. It’s no exaggeration to say that many of our clients describe their safari with us as genuinely life-changing. Pristine landscapes, untouched habitats seem to resonate deeply. 

That feeling, that experience, is in essence the very foundation of what we do at Wilderness. Our belief is that the very best safaris take place in pristine natural environments, habitats that are rich in wildlife and truly wild. That degree of wild is in part how we rate the quality of a safari, and it is certainly how we rate the quality of a game-viewing environment. How pristine is the environment and the ecosystem you’re exploring? It’s such an important question to answer; very few places can stake their claim to be genuinely wild. 

The Wilderness experience

What we offer at Wilderness is unique to the safari industry. Our safaris take place virtually entirely in our own private reserves. These reserves are truly wild, big game areas that guarantee incredible natural beauty and exceptional wildlife. There are several private reserves in Africa, but ours are vast. The sheer acreage of land we protect is unrivalled, and ultimately significantly more exclusive than any other safari company.

Inside those private areas, we are incredibly proud to run a collection of award-winning authentic safari camps.

And so, our focus is unrivalled hospitality; to help you explore the very best parts of Africa safely. However, at our core we are a conservation company; a conservation company that helps protect Africa’s great wildlife sanctuaries and the way of life for the people and ancient cultures within them. 

Where to choose for your safari?

When choosing where to go on safari, the decision can be overwhelming. The famous national parks consistently appear—Botswana’s Moremi in the Okavango Delta, Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, Kenya’s Masai Mara, and South Africa’s Kruger National Park. It doesn’t help that every location claims to be the best!

'Safari Africa' is often divided into two: the open plains of East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda) and the rich habitats of Southern Africa, (including Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia and South Africa). Trying to get a handle on the actual differences between these destinations and the safaris they offer is very difficult. For over 40 years however, we have looked to protect a specific part of the continent, a part of Safari Africa that is truly wild. 

Running through the heart of Safari Africa is a strip of land where animals migrate vast unfenced areas, following ancient migratory routes seemingly embedded in their genes. These areas are where you’ll find animals living in habitats and ecosystems, in pristine form. We’ve worked to protect this specific part of Africa's wilderness for more than 40 years, and have developed a collection of amazing private reserves and camps that are well respected as the finest game viewing environments on the continent.

That strip of land stretches from the desert landscapes of Namibia, up through the wetlands of Botswana's Okavango Delta, and into the wild heartlands of Zimbabwe and Zambia. It then continues into East Africa, where we have camps in the open plains of the Serengeti and Masai Mara, as well as the montane rainforests of Rwanda. It's in these genuinely wild places, across Africa’s greatest wilderness areas, that you'll find something truly special: four specific areas, and four specific safaris, that showcase Africa’s finest game viewing environments.

Botswana safaris

The first safari destination to consider is Botswana, our company’s birthplace and a destination well respected as the purest, most beautiful safari destination on the continent. We manage a vast amount of private land here; habitats that are well respected as Botswana’s best wildlife areas. The sheer beauty and quality of the safari here is astonishing.

The Okavango Delta, Linyanti, and Mababe are where our camps and private reserves are located. The Okavango is rightly one of Africa’s most famous protected areas, a wetland paradise filled with palm-fringed islands, channels, and lagoons... and an impressively high density of wildlife. Meanwhile, the Linyanti and Mababe are two of Africa's most intense game viewing areas, and most exclusive private concessions.

Prices are high across Botswana as standard – this is Africa's most expensive destination. However, focus on the private reserves here (parts of the wilderness areas are public) and you'll understand why. Botswana is home to our flagship camps and finest private reserves.

We have designed two Botswana safaris to show you the best of what we offer.

Botswana's exclusive reserves

Okavango Delta discovery

Zambia and Zimbabwe safaris

Zambia and Zimbabwe are the home of the ‘off the beaten track’ safari, the adventure destinations where fewer visitors travel yet the quality of the experience is seriously high. Small camps and quiet parks are the norm here; this is authenticity on safari in its purest form.

The parks themselves are truly wild and utterly stunning; elephant and buffalo herds are absolutely huge, and predator densities are intense. Massive rivers provide dramatic backdrops to game drives, and the Zambezi Valley itself is home to the best boating trips on the continent. This is also an area, a small microcosm of the safari industry, where some of Africa’s finest guides have set up base. 

Walking safaris and canoe safaris are hugely popular whilst the value on offer is also undeniable in both destinations. Our properties in Zimbabwe and Zambia are the most affordable camps we own.

An example of two of our most popular Zimbabwe safaris can be found here.

Adventure through Zim and Zam

A Zambezi exploration

East African safaris

Our third safari destination takes you to the open plains of East Africa – the vast savannahs of 'The Lion King', and many famous wildlife documentaries. The Great Migration and open plains of Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara are major attractions; the sheer volume of wildlife, especially the predators, is phenomenal. 

It's worth noting that safaris are noticeably busier in these ‘marquee’ parks, and off-road driving is often simply not possible. It's especially important to take care when designing trips here, to make the most of a busy area. One of our most adventurous products – our mobile luxury Serengeti property Wilderness Usawa – makes the most of the Great Migration and the Serengeti's immense cat concentrations, away from the crowds.

East Africa also has stunning beaches, especially on the Zanzibar Archipelago. However, it’s the mountain gorillas and Rwanda’s lesser-known Akagera National Park that we are most passionate about. Combining the gorillas with Akagera and the open plains of the Serengeti showcases the best parts of East Africa away from the crowds.

An example of a safari that makes the most of the best parts of East Africa can be found here.

The best of East Africa

Namibia safaris

Our fourth and final safari destination is Namibia. Truly unique, Namibia is a country that offers an experience that’s totally different from anywhere else we operate safaris. 

Known for the towering sand dunes and dune fields of Sossusvlei and the wild Skeleton Coast, Namibia is all about extraordinary scenery. Our wildest and most remote camps are found here.

Desert-adapted wildlife can be found hidden away in specific areas, known only to the best guides. Black rhinos find solitude here while lions patrol the coastline and desert elephants find water in ancient riverbeds. The diversity of wildlife in such arid landscapes is astonishing.

Travel to the far north, and you will find the Himba people living semi-nomadically between Angola and northern Namibia. Visiting one of the last remaining itinerant tribes is a special addition to our safaris here. Namibia is an astonishing destination, a real favourite at Wilderness for offering something different from the classic game viewing countries. It is a genuine bucket list destination.

Have a look at a safari that showcases the best parts of Namibia.

Desert dreams in Namibia

South Africa safaris

And finally, South Africa. ’Why doesn’t Wilderness have camps in South Africa?’ is a common question we are asked. Many of our staff are South African, and our main company offices are based in Johannesburg. We also have a team of superb guides and our own touring department looking after guests in and around Cape Town...so ‘what’s missing’ in South Africa needs to be addressed.

Ultimately, it’s that degree of 'wild' that we feel South Africa doesn’t quite deliver on. The safari reserves, often surrounded by large communities and fences, are simply a little too built up and often too busy. South African camps are some of the most luxurious anywhere in Africa, and the game viewing – of cats in particular – is undeniably great. However, we believe the experience itself is slightly compromised when considering the authenticity of safari on offer here. 

There is an argument that if you only travel to Africa once in your life, and that destination is South Africa, you are missing the very point of Africa. You are missing that ‘degree of wild’ that makes the very best safaris, and ultimately that degree of wild that we like to represent as a brand.

Why should I book with Wilderness?

With so many companies and destinations to choose from, choosing who to travel with can be just as daunting as choosing the destination! All we can really say is that we’re supremely passionate about the ‘real’ Africa at Wilderness. We focus on the very best parts of the continent, full of incredible wildlife and exclusive experiences. 

When you travel to our camps, you are travelling with a company that is recognised for putting that wildlife experience at the forefront of everything we do. However, conservation and sustainability is the heart of our brand. We are very proud to make a genuine difference in the habitats, wildlife, and communities we work with. 

And our consultants are here to look after you every step of the way. Their experience guarantees you genuinely expert advice, fully tailored safari design, and finely tuned attention to detail. We know this wild continent inside out. It’s our home, and we take great pride in showing you the very best parts of it.

And so, when you travel with us, you are playing a part in a much bigger picture; you are helping us protect the finest wildlife sanctuaries on the continent, for future generations to come.

And we believe that’s an extraordinary thing to be a part of…

Let’s plan your next journey

When we say we’re there every step of the way, we mean it, literally. From planning the perfect circuit, to private inter-camp transfers on Wilderness Air, and easing you through Customs. We’re with you on the ground, at your side, 24-7, from start to finish. Ready to take the road less travelled? Contact our Travel Designers to plan an unforgettable journey.

Need some inspiration?

Be inspired by the latest news from Wilderness. Subscribe to our newsletter.

African Journey

the process

the journey

the stories

the foundation

Discover the

Unconventional

Africa’s appeal lies in her infinite variety

Decisions made each day can shape the course of the whole trip. Preserving that spontaneity, and having the right team to make it happen, is a vital part of what we do.

How do you like to travel? What is your family like? Is this your first time to Africa? What are your hopes and expectations?

Your Partner’s first job is to gain these insights and design your ultimate journey, curating extraordinary places to stay across the continent of Africa. Much depends on your appetite for activity or adrenaline and the make-up of your group. Our journeys have included spectacular walks, horse-riding across the Serengeti plains, trout fishing or gorilla trekking, to mention but a few. You may wish to go that extra step and sleep out under the stars, or mount an expedition with donkeys, boats, or camel trains to carry your equipment. Private planes and helicopters allow us to move quickly between reserves and wilderness areas – ensuring you make the most of every single hour on safari. The choice is always yours.

However, the real flexibility of a Royal African Safari lies in its mobility. Rather than permanent or seasonal camps, the Royal African operators offer fully-equipped, self-contained mobile camps that allow you to visit areas with no tourist infrastructure – small game reserves and wildlife- rich trust lands where you are likely to be the only visitor. We refer to ours as Private Canvas.

Our PRIVATE CANVAS

The professional set-up and the hospitality of your camp are as wonderful to first-timers as to ‘oldies’

Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands Personal letter to Royal African Safaris

Mobility is the essential ingredient to a great safari. Only with true mobility can one ensure one is in the right place at the right time, anticipate the movement of the herds, or find an authentic cultural experience.

There is no other travel experience that brings families and friends closer together.

Inspired by the traditions of the grand safaris of yesteryear, with designs improved over generations, they are built to be moved, sometimes in a single day. The crews that run them become an integral part of your safari, with all the skills and experience to move tons of equipment into the most remote and beautiful areas. So, you will arrive to perfection: delicious meals, welcoming smiles, comfortable beds, en suite facilities and large airy tents with not an inkling of the roads taken to get your camp there – or the teamwork required to make it all happen.

The camps also offer privacy, an often-overlooked ingredient, mixed with real adventure, the romance of canvas, the camaraderie and spirit of your safari crew, the occasional dose of adrenaline and the steady hands of a seasoned leader.

Due to the size of ecosystems, infrastructure, and local regulations, authentic private canvas safaris are only possible in the great wilderness areas of Kenya , Tanzania and Botswana .

Mobile Kenya

Kenya pioneered the art of the safari through the early hunter-guides. From Denys Finch-Hatton’s luxury camps to the great parks credited with saving so much of our natural heritage, it is a country that boasts the most remarkable wildlife and scenery and is home to some of the world’s most fascinating cultures.

These are the areas that retain the raw and wild edge of ‘old Africa.’

Royal African knows Kenya’s wilderness better than anyone. Before the present generation, our parents and grandparents helped to establish and conserve many of the wildlife-rich areas that would later become Kenya’s national parks. But while much of our inherited knowledge was gained inside the parks, it is the private conservancies and tribal trust lands that often provide the focus for today’s Royal African safaris. These are the areas that retain the raw and wild edge of ‘old Africa.’

From the spectacular wilds of Samburu to the Meru bush where the lions Elsa and Christian were set free; from the wild glamour of Laikipia’s lodges and the deep forests of the Aberdares to the sweeping savannahs of the Maasai Mara, Kenya is home to some of the continent’s most diverse range of landscapes and ecosystems and a wide choice of safari activities.

Mobile Tanzania

Tanzania has Africa’s largest herds of buffalo and elephant, its biggest packs of predators and plains game, its oldest rainforests, largest game reserve, highest mountain and deepest lake; and – in the wildebeest migration it shares with Kenya – the single greatest wildlife spectacle left on earth.

It is also home to some of the most interesting peoples and cultures of Africa: the Maasai, Iraqw, the Barabaig, Hadza and Wa’arush.  Royal African’s Partners know when to visit and where to stay in this vast land, where the unguided tourist can get lost, flooded out and otherwise disheartened.

Royal African’s many years of experience mean that we visit Ruaha when the temperature is bearable, we know when to see the great Selous Game Reserve and where to go in the million-acre Katavi.

Our grasp of logistics means that your private camp will be ready and waiting when you have flown over the long distances required. We may visit Mahale on Lake Tanganyika while your safari crew move your camp to its next destination, or maybe we’ll go to Zanzibar, the Indian Ocean island where harmless Whale Sharks cruise the pristine reefs.

In Northern Tanzania, there is almost a complete absence of fences. Wildlife remains unfettered, freely able to move with the changing seasons. Some areas can be spectacular one month and almost barren three months later. Getting you to the right place at the right time in comfort and safety is part of our professional challenge as Royal African Safaris Partners.

Mobile Botswana

Botswana has one of the lowest human population densities on earth yet plays host to some of the highest wildlife densities. A land of paradox, it is best known for both a swamp and a desert – the miraculous Okavango and the remote Kalahari. Both offer wonderful game viewing far from the reach of modern man – true wilderness known only to the few, among them your Royal African guides.

Renowned for its vast herds of desert-dwelling elephants, Botswana is bordered by Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. It has a vibrant economy, based on diamond mining and is one of the most economically strong countries in Africa. Fortune and geography have saved its unfenced wilderness areas as they have its ancient peoples; the San hunter-gatherers still survive in the Kalahari, their continuing existence a miracle in itself.

Botswana hosts the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in the south, which it shares with South Africa. The world-renowned Central Kalahari Game Reserve, the ancient pans of the Makgadikgadi and the imposing elephant-killing lions of the Chobe are just a few of the highlights of this fascinating country. With Royal African guiding you, you won’t miss a thing and you will be able to share in the profound beauty of this demanding but infinitely rewarding landscape.

Vast spaces of emptiness, dramatic, harsh and ancient deserts dotted with rugged mountains and endless sand dunes collide with the wild Atlantic coastline.

South Africa

South Africa is a whole world within one country, from fish-rich oceans to majestic mountains, award-winning vineyards to arid desert and wildlife-stalked bushveld to tropical forest.

Tanzania is home to some of the earliest known human development, it was at Olduvai Gorge that the Leakey family made revelatory anthropological discoveries and at Gombe Stream that Jane Goodall began to unlock the secrets of our cousins and our evolution.

‘Safari’ is the Swahili word for ‘a journey’ and Kenya evokes a nostalgia for the earliest origins of the African Safari.

Botswana’s diversity is incredible; from tracking wildlife on foot with the San Bushman, following the Kalahari zebra migration on horseback, to gliding through the Okavango Delta in a mokoro; this is the Africa one dreams about.

Chad is Africa for the ‘hardcore’ adventurer - beneath the rough exterior lies a wealth of warmth, culture and undiscovered natural wonders.

Uganda aptly named the 'Pearl of Africa', has some of the most stunning African landscapes condensed into a relatively small area including the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Zambia epitomises the safari adventures of bygone days; walking in the iconic Luangwa valley, small intimate bushcamps, canoeing the mighty Zambezi and the buffalo filled plains of the Busanga flats.

An untamed land of endless horizon, huge mountain massifs, spectacular canyons, wreck adorned coastline and the clearest starry night skies witnessed.

• Our Partners

The Process

• How it works
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• Build your Safari

The Journey

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The Stories

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• More Projects...

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International: +1-416-915-4145

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© 2024 Royal African Safaris

Design and Development by Focus Online

7 Epic Safari Cruise Destinations in Africa

The unique ecosystems along Africa’s great rivers are home to a staggering array of wildlife, impressive ancient cities, and temples, as well as fascinating tribes and cultures that flourished on their banks.

A great alternative to a traditional safari is a  safari cruise . And by that, I mean an epic river voyage that will show you Africa’s charming nature from a different perspective.  Game viewing  on the water is a bewildering experience – intimate for the visitor and unobtrusive for the wildlife.

Safari cruises focus on the wildlife reserves and tourist attractions that are located in the proximity of the river and offer a great opportunity to visit less crowded national parks and off-the-beaten-path destinations that are by no means less rewarding than the popular ones located further inland. A safari cruise will also allow you to cover more ground, while at the same time avoiding those long dusty roads.

One of the best ways to explore Africa is from the very rivers that sustain its rich wildlife and varied ecosystems. So go ahead and save your front-row seats for the great spectacle that nature has to offer in Africa’s best river cruise destinations:

The Chobe River, Botswana

The life-giving Chobe River springs in Angola and travels through the Kalahari before reaching  Botswana , where the waterway forms the northern border of the Chobe National Park. Being one of the few water sources for the rich wildlife in the area, it supports one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet.

During the dry winter months (April to October), large herds of elephants, buffalo, giraffe, and antelope, as well as big cats, come to drink, bathe, and play on the riverbanks. This translates to incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. Home to over 400 bird species, the Chobe River is also a paradise for bird lovers. The stunning backdrop lures photographers from far and wide, and wildlife photography cannot get any better than from on board a quiet boat trip.

There a few houseboats operating on the river, the most acclaimed of which is the Zambezi Queen and the Chobe Princesses. The 28-passenger ship Zambezi Queen travels from Namibia to the Chobe National Park, home to the world’s largest population of elephants, estimated at 50,000 individuals. Due to the moist terrain, the best way to get close to these gentle giants is on a safari cruise.

The Zambezi River

Africa’s fourth-largest river flows for 1,599 miles (2,574 km) through six countries, from northwestern  Zambia  to  Mozambique , where it enters the Indian Ocean. The mighty Victoria Falls marks the border between the Upper and Middle Zambezi, and there are boats and luxury houseboats offering cruises on both the Upper and Lower Zambezi.

Catamarans and old steamers take nature lovers on the Upper Zambezi, where you are bound to see crocodiles and hippos. Chances are that you’ll also see elephants, antelopes, and big cats on the riverbanks. While the wildlife viewing may be unpredictable, a stellar sunset while sipping sundowners is always guaranteed.

Some ships that operate in shallow water can take passengers much closer to Victoria Falls than bigger ships, which usually take off 3 miles (5 km) upstream. Unfortunately, you still cannot see the falls from there, but you can take a short land trip to explore them and the surrounding landscape. While here, why not take a dip in Devil’s Pool, a natural infinity pool where you can swim to the very edge of the thundering Victoria Falls?

The best time of year to go on a river cruise on the Zambezi River is between May and September. Combine a sunset river cruise through the Lower Zambezi National Park with guided walks through rainforests to get up close and personal with the elephants and observe as many of the 300 recorded species of birds as you can.

The Congo River

“Going up that river was like traveling back to the earliest beginnings of the world, when vegetation rioted on the earth and the big trees were kings. An empty stream, a great silence, an impenetrable forest. […] We penetrated deeper and deeper into the heart of darkness.” Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness (1902) describes a journey up the Congo River towards the end of the 19th century that continues to inspire avid travelers seeking adventure to go on the same path over a century later.

The second longest river in Africa after the Nile, the second largest river in the world after the Amazon, and the world’s deepest river, the Congo River flows for 2,900 miles (4,700 km) from the Katanga Plateau to the Atlantic Ocean. There are over 4,000 islands in the Congo River basin and the river crosses the Equator twice. And let us not forget that it gives life to the Congo Rainforest, the second largest rainforest in the world after the Amazon.

Cruise the Congo River in a pirogue, traditional dugout canoes, and embark on a journey through one of the world’s least explored corners. Retrace the footsteps of renowned explorers Stanley and Livingston and discover remote villages, barely-touched rainforests, and get the chance to meet some of the last remaining pygmy tribes.

On your way, stop at Ekolo Ya Bonobo to see the bonobo apes that can only be found in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a critically endangered species with as few as 50,000 individuals still left in the wild. Here, Lola Ya Bonobo rescues orphaned bonobos and rehabilitates them to be reintroduced to the wild.

Exploring the Congo River by boat is the ultimate river cruising experience and can take several weeks to complete, usually more than 22 days, and is not for the faint-hearted. Shorter trips are also available.

The Nile, Egypt

The Nile is probably the first thing that comes to mind when mentioning river cruises in Africa. Walk like an Egyptian and cruise the world’s longest river through the heart of Egypt. Although 4,160 miles (6,695 km) from source to mouth, the highest concentration of ancient relics can be found along the stretch of the Nile between Aswan and Luxor. That’s where the most popular cruises sail.The journey between Aswan and Luxor typically takes three to four days to complete and covers approximately 120 miles (200 km). It is combined with land trips and visits to famous archaeological sites like the Karnak Temples, Hatshepsut’s Temple, the Valley of the Queens and the Valley of the Kings.

Longer cruises are available, though less frequent. There are only a few companies that offer six to seven-day cruises that sail north of Luxor to Dendera, one of the best-preserved temples complexes in  Egypt .

Home to one-third of the world’s antiques, immerse yourself in Egypt’s ancient past on a luxury cruise ship or on a felucca, the traditional sailboats of Egypt’s Nile that rely solely on wind power. Make sure you include camel-back rides, visits to the Great Pyramids and add Cairo to your bucket list, too. At the end of the day, lay back and relax on the deck while admiring some of the best sunsets on the planet.

Niger River, Mali

The third longest river in Africa, the Niger River runs for 2,600 miles (4,180 km) through West Africa before entering the Atlantic Ocean. Despite its charm, major cruise lines do not include the Niger River in their itineraries. Luckily, passenger boats operate on the river between August and mid-December, during the high-water season, and regular ferries set sail from Mopti, Mali’s touristic hub.

The most popular trips on the Niger River are from Mopti to the Dogon villages and Timbuktu. The Cliff of Bandiagara, also known as the Land of the Dogons, is one of the most impressive sites in West Africa and includes 289 villages.

Around 65 percent of Mali is covered in desert and semi-desert, with the Sahara Desert occupying most of the northern half of the country. At the gateway to the Sahara Desert, 12 miles (20 km) north of the Niger River, the fabled ancient city of Timbuktu fights for its very existence and is currently on the UNESCO List of World Heritage in Danger. Nicknamed “The City of 333 Saints” and “The Pearl of the Desert,” Timbuktu is a former Arab-African trade hub that was once synonymous with Africa’s inaccessibility.

Cruising Lake Malawi

Also known as Lake Nyasa, Lake Malawi is the third largest in Africa and the ninth largest in the world, occupying about one-third of Malawi. It is here that steamer MV Ilala, a relic from the colonial times, has been carrying passengers and cargo across the lake ever since 1951. Nowadays, the ship offers six-day round trips once every week, from Monkey Bay in the southern region of Malawi to Chilumba near the lake’s northern end.

The trip is about 300 miles (480 km) long, and the motor ship makes 13 stops on its way, in the major towns on both Malawi and Mozambique’s coasts, but also on Likoma Island, where David Livingstone established his missionary headquarters.

Steamer MV Ilala can accommodate 120 passengers. It is certainly not a luxury cruise, but it is an African adventure that should not be missed, especially when combined with an off-the-beaten-path safari in Malawi.

The Senegal River

In West Africa, the Senegal River draws a watery line between Senegal and Mauritania. Here, Bou El Mogdad is an old colonial French steamer dating from 1950 that takes tourists and locals some 125 miles (200 km) up on the river on a seven-day round trip.

Starting from Saint-Louis, a city on the Atlantic coast with charming French colonial architecture, the journey will take you through mangrove forests, lagoons and sand channels, and past open markets with exotic flavors and colors. You will stop in harbors, former trading posts, and in Toucouleur villages.

On your way, stop at the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary in the Senegal River Delta for a birdwatching safari, a stronghold for more than 1.5 million migratory birds and the third most important ornithological reserve in the world.

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Alison Sweeney Shares Emotional Family Journey: ‘Can Hardly Describe’

A lison Sweeney and her family embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that was two years in the making. She shared the emotional news with her friends and followers on social media, revealing a “mind-blowing” experience that has been “glorious.”

Sweeney & Her Family Went on a Safari in South Africa That She Can ‘Hardly Describe’

In a series of posts on Instagram, Sweeney revealed that she, her husband Dave Sanov, and two children, Ben and Megan, went on an “incredible” safari in South Africa.

First, she posted about finally making it to South Africa.

“We are finally on our family safari adventure in South Africa,” she shared. “I’ve been planning this for almost two years. I can’t believe it’s finally happening! … So many majestic animals roaming.”

She also shared a series of videos on her Instagram Stories, revealing close encounters with lions, giraffes, and more.

Her Hallmark colleagues joined in to share their enthusiasm for her trip.

“So cool!!” Nikki DeLoach wrote in response.

A fan who lives in South Africa replied, “Welcome home ❤️ So stunning to have you here! How my grandmother would be so chuffed to hear ‘Sammy’ is in SA. 😂 Will be sure to tell her, it is because of her that we all grow up following both Sammy and Brooke Logan (B&B). Global stars 🌟 Enjoy Mzansi! 🇿🇦”

Sweeney shared a photo from their second day, sharing that they watched the sun rise and even got to see baboons and giraffes.

“Such an incredible experience we’re having!” she shared.

When one person asked about the coats they were wearing, Sweeney replied, “the mornings are chilly. Gets warm by 9am. But we start the drive at 5. So you know, us west coasters are not used to it!”

In a third post, where she shared a photo with her and her two children, she couldn’t say enough about how much she was loving the adventure.

“The sun sets on another glorious day in South Africa,” Sweeney wrote. “I can hardly describe what an incredible experience this is. Every minute in nature … had been mind blowing. Dave & I are so grateful to be able to share this with our kids. So many memories to treasure. 🇿🇦 🦁”

In response to a fan, she shared that she had met “many kind Days fans” while visiting.

In one Instagram Story, she posted a photo of her laptop, with the lush landscape and wildlife in the background, writing: “Getting some work done.”

Andrew Walker Filmed a Hallmark Movie in South Africa in 2023

In response to one of Sweeney’s posts, Andrew Walker wrote: “Epic!! South Africa has my ❤️.”

In fact, he just filmed a Hallmark movie in South Africa in 2023. On the same trip, he and his wife, Cassandray Troy, celebrated their 40th birthdays there too.

The movie that Walker filmed was called “A Safari Romance,” and Brittany Bristow co-starred.

The cast filmed part of the movie at KwaZulu-Natal’s Phinda Private Game Reserve, Walker told Heavy. According to the Phinda Private Game Reserve’s website, the location includes luxury lodges, safari game drives, bush walking adventures, and impact and community experiences.

In an Instagram post, Walker also tagged Lion & Safari Park while they were filming.

Another filming location was the Mabula Game Reserve, which Bristow tagged in a photo while filming.

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