Africa has a wide range of exceptional safari destinations, each offering a different experience. Botswana is known for the Okavango Delta and remote wilderness, Kenya and Tanzania for iconic savannah landscapes and the Great Migration, South Africa for diverse wildlife and easy combinations with other experiences, while Zambia and Zimbabwe offer excellent walking and wilderness safaris. Namibia combines wildlife with some of Africa's most dramatic landscapes.

The best destination for a first safari depends on the experience you are looking for. Kenya and Tanzania offer classic African landscapes and abundant wildlife, Botswana provides exceptional wilderness and water-based experiences, while South Africa offers the opportunity to combine safari with cities, coast and other attractions. We can help you choose based on your interests, travel dates and preferred style of safari.

The Great Migration takes place across the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya. The location of the herds changes throughout the year as millions of wildebeest and other animals move in search of fresh grazing and water. The timing of specific crossings and concentrations of wildlife can vary, so your travel dates are an important consideration when planning a migration safari.

Botswana, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe all offer opportunities to see lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. The chances of seeing particular species vary between parks, reserves and regions, and wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed. Choosing the right area and time of year can help maximise your opportunities.

Zambia is particularly renowned for walking safaris, especially in areas such as South Luangwa. Walking experiences are also available in parts of Botswana, Zimbabwe and other African safari destinations, depending on the location, season and local regulations. Walking offers a very different perspective on the bush, allowing you to experience wildlife, tracks, plants and smaller details that can easily be missed from a vehicle.

South Africa, Botswana, Kenya and Tanzania can all be excellent choices for a family safari. The most suitable destination depends on the ages of your children, the activities you would like to include, the length of your trip and the type of accommodation you prefer. Some camps have minimum-age requirements, particularly for walking and other specialist activities.

There is no single best time to visit every African safari destination. Wildlife, weather, landscapes and migration patterns vary considerably between countries and regions. The dry seasons often provide excellent wildlife viewing because animals can be easier to spot around water sources, while other times of year can offer lush landscapes, fewer visitors and excellent photographic opportunities. Your preferred destination and experiences should determine when you travel.