The Best Safari Parks in Africa

Africa is home to some of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on the planet. From the rolling savannahs of Kenya to the wetlands of Botswana and the deserts of Namibia, the continent offers unforgettable encounters with the Big Five and beyond. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned adventurer, these are the best safari parks in Africa.


1. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

  • Why go: Famous for the Great Migration, the Serengeti is the ultimate safari destination.
  • Highlights: River crossings, lion prides, and endless plains.
  • Best time to visit: June to October.
  • Average cost (7 days):
    • Budget: £1,800–£2,200
    • Mid-range: £2,500–£3,500
    • Luxury: £4,000–£7,000+

2. Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

  • Why go: Predator-rich and home to the Great Migration.
  • Highlights: Big cat encounters, hot-air balloon rides.
  • Best time to visit: July to September.
  • Average cost (7 days):
    • Budget: £1,500–£2,000
    • Mid-range: £2,200–£3,000
    • Luxury: £4,000–£6,000

3. Kruger National Park, South Africa

  • Why go: Excellent roads and infrastructure, great for self-drives.
  • Highlights: Big Five, diverse landscapes, affordable options.
  • Best time to visit: May to October.
  • Average cost (7 days):
    • Budget: £1,000–£1,400
    • Mid-range: £1,800–£2,500
    • Luxury: £3,000–£5,000

4. Okavango Delta, Botswana

  • Why go: A lush oasis with water-based safaris.
  • Highlights: Elephants, mokoro trips, luxury camps.
  • Best time to visit: June to August.
  • Average cost (7 days):
    • Budget: £2,500–£3,000
    • Mid-range: £4,000–£6,000
    • Luxury: £7,000–£10,000+

5. Etosha National Park, Namibia

  • Why go: Easy wildlife spotting around waterholes.
  • Highlights: Black rhino, elephants, stark salt pans.
  • Best time to visit: July to September.
  • Average cost (7 days):
    • Budget: £1,200–£1,600
    • Mid-range: £2,000–£3,000
    • Luxury: £3,500–£5,500

6. Chobe National Park, Botswana

  • Why go: Known for its vast elephant herds.
  • Highlights: River cruises, hippos, buffalo.
  • Best time to visit: May to October.
  • Average cost (7 days):
    • Budget: £1,800–£2,200
    • Mid-range: £3,000–£4,500
    • Luxury: £6,000–£9,000

7. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

  • Why go: Renowned for walking safaris and leopards.
  • Highlights: Intimate camps, night drives, less crowded.
  • Best time to visit: July to October.
  • Average cost (7 days):
    • Budget: £1,800–£2,400
    • Mid-range: £3,000–£4,000
    • Luxury: £5,000–£7,500

8. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

  • Why go: Rich biodiversity and excellent elephant sightings.
  • Highlights: Painted dogs, wild camps, fewer tourists.
  • Best time to visit: July to October.
  • Average cost (7 days):
    • Budget: £1,500–£2,000
    • Mid-range: £2,500–£3,500
    • Luxury: £4,000–£6,000

9. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

  • Why go: A natural wonder with dense wildlife.
  • Highlights: Black rhino, scenic crater floor.
  • Best time to visit: June to October.
  • Average cost (7 days, often combined with Serengeti):
    • Budget: £1,800–£2,500
    • Mid-range: £2,800–£4,000
    • Luxury: £5,000–£7,500

10. Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa

  • Why go: Great for combining safari with the Garden Route.
  • Highlights: Elephants, self-drive safaris, malaria-free.
  • Best time to visit: May to September.
  • Average cost (7 days):
    • Budget: £900–£1,200
    • Mid-range: £1,500–£2,200
    • Luxury: £3,000–£4,500

An African safari can range from surprisingly affordable to ultra-luxurious, depending on where you go and how you travel. South Africa and Namibia offer excellent value, while Botswana and Tanzania deliver once-in-a-lifetime exclusivity. Whatever your budget, the thrill of seeing lions at dawn or elephants at sunset is priceless.

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