ABTA 38 Years | Mon - Fri: 9am to 5:30pm | Sat: 9am to 5pm | Sun & Bank Holidays: 10am to 4:00pm

0800 707 6229

Ultimate Guide to Africa’s Best Safari Destinations

Africa’s Best Safari Destinations 

Kenya

Kenya is the epitome of the African adventure. From the wide expanses of the Masai Mara to the white sandy beaches bathed by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, it is easy to fall in love with Kenya. There are few places that can offer the combination of safari and beach so effortlessly. Experience the magical mix and beautiful diversity of incredible landscapes, abundant wildlife and fascinating culture, Kenya has it all. Head to Lake Nakuru to see the flocks of thousands of flamingos, or relax on the beautiful beaches of the South Coast.

Best Time To Visit:

The weather is hot and humid on the coast, temperate inland and very dry in the north and northeast of the country. The hottest months are usually February and March and the coolest months July and August. Rainfall is at its heaviest in April, May and November

Click here for Kenya Tours and Holidays.  

The migration

The migration between Tanzania and Kenya follows the annual rains in search of good grazing pastures. The following is a general guide. As the movement is constant, exact locations cannot be guaranteed. The animals congregate on the short grassy plains of the Ngorongoro Conservation area. Apr/May/Jun: Following the end of the rains, the migration gradually heads northwest towards the western corridor and Grumeti. Jun/Jul/Aug: During these months most of the migration overflows into the Masai Mara. Aug/Nov: The migration stays in the Masai Mara during this period, until the new rains prompt the move southwards again.

Tanzania & Zanzibar

From the open plains of the Serengeti to the natural amphitheatre of the Ngorongoro Crater – one of the world’s natural wonders – and to the sunkissed beaches of Zanzibar, you’ll find genuine warmth and hospitality in Tanzania and Zanzibar. The profusion of wildlife means that you are more than likely to spot the ‘Big Five’. Kilimanjaro is a magnet for trekkers, whilst the island of Zanzibar offers stunning sandy beaches and fantastic scuba diving.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Serengeti is January – March, when grazing animals are calving and there are plenty of lions around. The vast animal migrations, which occur at the onset of the dry season and again with the first rains, are one of nature’s greatest spectacles. The coastal resorts of Zanzibar enjoy a warm year-round climate tempered by sea breezes, but with heavy rains from April – May

Click here for Tanzania Tours and Holidays. 

South Africa

South Africa is a ‘world in one country’, from cosmopolitan Cape Town to the mountain peaks of KwaZulu-Natal, from the crashing surf of the Atlantic to the magic of the African bush, the sheer variety on offer is quite astounding and comes as a surprise to all who visit. This, together with an interesting and diverse cultural mix and delightful climate, means that whatever type of holiday you’re looking for you’ll find it in South Africa.

Take in the fabulous views of Cape Town from Table Mountain and why not wine and dine in vineyards around Franschhoek and Stellenbosch? Discover the beautiful beaches and scenery of the Garden Route, and why not search for the ‘Big Five’ on safari in the world-famous Kruger National Park.

Best time to visit:

South Africa is situated in the Southern Hemisphere and the seasons are the opposite to our own. The most popular time to visit is October to April. Game viewing is at its best during May – September

 Click here for South Africa Tours and Holidays.

Botswana

Botswana is a land of dramatic contrasts; from the crystal-clear waters of the Okavango Delta to the large elephant herds in the Chobe National Park, and the desert-like landscape of Savute. Marvel at huge herds of elephant from a boat on the Chobe River, and explore the crystal-clear waters of the Okavango Delta by mekoro (traditional canoe) while searching for game. Staying in authentic camps in spectacular settings, this is real Africa.

Best time to visit:

April to September – the days are sunny and warm and game viewing is at its best between June and August. October sees warm weather and the Okavango Delta floods the plains. The rainy season is late October to March when the Victoria Falls are at their most spectacular and huge flocks of birds can be seen migrating south from Europe.

Zimbabwe

 From the Eastern Highlands to the Mana Pools National Park and the mighty Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe’s incredible diversity makes it one of Africa’s finest untouched wilderness areas. Zimbabwe offers a taste of ‘real Africa’ from the mighty mountain peaks of the Eastern Highlands to the plains of the Hwange National Park.

Best time to visit:

April to September – the days are sunny and warm and game viewing is at its best between June and August. The rainy season is late October to March when the Victoria Falls are at their most spectacular and huge flocks of birds can be seen migrating south from Europe.

 Click here for Zimbabwe Tours and Holidays.

Zambia

Visit the majestic Victoria Falls, see animals up close on an adventurous walking safari, and discover some of the world’s great national parks.  

Best time to visit:

April to September – the days are sunny and warm and game viewing is at its best between June and August. The rainy season is late October to March when the Victoria Falls are at their most spectacular and huge flocks of birds can be seen migrating south from Europe.

Click here for Zambia Tours and Holidays.

Namibia

Referred to by the ancient San people as ‘the land God made in anger’, Namibia’s essence lies within the deep blue skies and wide-open vistas that melt idly into the far horizon. The startling scenery is varied but the greatest drama comes from the two deserts the country straddles. The red sands of Namibia stretch along the Atlantic coast, while the vast savannah of the Kalahari stretches eastward and into neighbouring Botswana. Climb the highest sand dunes, descend to the floor of the deepest canyon in Africa or watch wildlife in abundance  against one of the most intriguing pans on Earth.

Take a guided excursion to the awe-inspiring sand dunes of Sossusvlei, the highest on Earth. Enjoy the unique solitude and dramatic environment of Damaraland, or stay at the quaint seaside town of Swakopmund, where the desert meets the sea.

Best time to visit:

Namibia is a year round destination. Temperatures from November to January may reach 35°C. June to August remains warm and it can become quite cool in the evening. Some rain can occur between October and March, but most falls between mid January and April.

 Click here for Namibia Tours and Holidays.

And beyond…..

Why not make your adventure complete and extend your stay by hopping over to the beautiful islands of Mauritius, Mozambique or the Seychelles? A stunning variety of resorts overlooking the Indian Ocean are waiting to be discovered.

Mozambique

 Sitting on Africa’s east coast and washed by the balmy waters of the Indian Ocean, Mozambique is probably the best-kept secret on the continent. Discover unspoilt sugary white sand and crystal-clear seas with world-class snorkelling and diving. The beach resorts offer an ideal place to relax and unwind after a safari in South or East Africa due to their ease of access. Once settled by the Portuguese, you will find a strong colonial influence that remains to this day. The Bazaruto Archipelago lies off the southern coast and is a wonderful string of jewel-like islands which offer the perfect escape from everyday life.

Mauritius

Mauritius, known for its exceptional service and accommodation, lies in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. The coastline is almost entirely surrounded by coral reefs and white-sand beaches. Today, the one million plus population consists of a variety of cultures including Chinese, Creole, and European. It is this very variety of different languages, customs and cuisine that makes Mauritius such a vibrant and appealing destination.

Best time to visit:

Mauritius enjoys a mild tropical climate with a warm humid summer from November to April and a cool dry winter from June to September. The warmest months are January and February, the coolest months are July and August. The wettest months are February and March, the driest is October.

 Click here for Mauritius Holidays.

Seychelles

The Seychelles archipelago consists of 115 diverse islands which are delicately scattered like jewels in the sapphireblue waters of the Indian Ocean. The islands are renowned for their immaculate, un-crowded beaches and unspoilt tropical hideaways, but for all the islands share, there’s also much that makes them different. With a diverse range of things to do and sights to see, each of the islands have their own unique appeal.

Best time to visit:

Seychelles islands are blessed with a year-long warm, tropical climate; it’s always a good time to visit. The weather is hottest from December to April, while May to September are the months for the southeast monsoon trade winds.

Click here for Seychelles Holidays.

Feeling inspired?

Take a look at our fascinating Africa brochure here or give us a quick free call on 0800 707 6229 (email Info@travelclubelite.com) and our expert travel team will have your dream holiday sorted out for you in no time. 

Sign Up to Our Newsletter

Get The Latest Offers

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.