If you’re looking for an adventure of a lifetime, there’s no better way to do it than by going on an African safari.
Southern and East Africa’s top destinations – Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana and others – are home to some of the most amazing wildlife on the planet, and there’s nothing quite like getting up close and personal with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
When it comes to choosing a safari tour, there are a few things you need to consider. First, what time of year do you want to go? The best time to see the animals is during the dry season (generally from June to October), when the vegetation is not as thick, and the animals congregate around waterholes. Second, how long do you want to go for? We recommend at least four days on safari if you’re combining your trip with a city or beach stay, but if you’re doing a full safari, then anything from 5 to 10 days is ideal. And finally, what kind of tour do you want to go on?
Here are our top five picks for safari tours in 2023:
1. The Classic African Safari Experience
This is the safari tour for those who want to see it all. From lions and elephants to giraffes and zebras, you’ll get to see all the iconic African animals up close and personal. And of course, no safari would be complete without staying in a luxury lodge or tented camp under the stars. We are experts in planning the classic African safari, whether it’s a land-and-water-based experience in Botswana, a tented safari in Kenya or Tanzania, or a luxury lodge in the Sabi Sands.
2. A Walking Safari
For those who really want to get away from it all, a walking safari is the perfect choice. You’ll spend your days exploring the bush on foot, led by an experienced guide who will teach you all about the plants and animals you encounter along the way. At night, you’ll sleep in a simple tent or under the stars, surrounded by nothing but the sounds of nature. Walking safaris are most popular in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, as well as in Zambia’s Kafue and South Luangwa National Parks. Depending on your fitness level, we can easily recommend the ideal length of your safari.
3. A Photographic Safari
This type of tour is perfect for amateur photographers or anyone who wants to improve their skills. Led by a professional photographer, you’ll spend your days tracking down that perfect shot of Africa’s Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), as well as special moments – a bird flying overhead, a flick of an impala’s ear, a dung beetle struggling with his load. You’ll also get tips on how to capture those magical moments so that you can relive them long after your trip is over.
4. A Cultural Safari
If you’re interested in learning about African culture and history, this is the tour for you. You’ll visit traditional villages and households, where you’ll learn about everyday life and meet some of the local people. You’ll also get plenty of opportunities to try traditional foods and participate in local ceremonies and dances. We support community-based safaris and accommodation in Africa that ensure their local community are made a significant part of the operational and sustainable aspects of what they do.
5. A Luxury Safari
For those who want nothing but the best, a luxury safari is the way to go. You’ll spend your days relaxing in luxurious accommodation, being pampered with world-class service, and enjoying gourmet meals prepared by top chefs. When you’re not enjoying the amenities at your lodge or camp, you’ll be out on game drives or walking safaris led by experienced guides who will share their knowledge of Africa’s wildlife with you. Top spots for a luxury safari include South Africa’s Kruger Park and Sabi Sands, Botswana’s Okavango Delta (we recommend Xigera Safari Lodge), and various exceptional properties in the Masai Mara and the Serengeti.
If you’re looking for some safari tour destination inspiration, here are a few of our top recommended places to visit in 2023 for your African adventure:
1. Tanzania
If you want to see the Big Five animals, Tanzania is the place to go. The Serengeti National Park is one of the best places in Africa to see lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. And don’t forget about Mount Kilimanjaro — the tallest mountain in Africa — which provides a stunning backdrop to your Tanzania safari tour. Plus, the Serengeti is the base of the annual Wildebeest Migration.
2. Kenya
Kenya is another great option for seeing the Big Five. The Masai Mara offers some of the most spectacular game-viewing on the planet, especially between July and August when the river crossings occur during the migration. However, Amboseli National Park is also a top destination for us – large elephant herds are seen daily, and spectacular views of Kili can be enjoyed.
3. Botswana
If you’re looking for a more relaxed safari experience, Botswana is the perfect destination. Home to the Okavango Delta — the world’s largest inland delta — Botswana offers a unique safari experience where you can see animals like hippos and elephants up close while cruising through the waterways on a traditional mokoro boat. Hop over to Chobe National Park for amazing river boating, and some of the largest elephant herds in Africa.
4. Zambia
Zambia is home to some of Africa’s most iconic animals, including lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo. It’s considered more of an off-the-beaten-track destination, but this is a drawcard for those who are looking for something wilder and more spectacular. It’s also home to Victoria Falls—one of the Seven Wonders of the World — which makes for a truly unforgettable safari experience.
5. South Africa
Finally, South Africa is an excellent safari destination for first-timers or those looking for a more budget-friendly option. Other than the flagship Kruger Park, there are malaria-free and family-friendly safaris to be enjoyed in the Eastern Cape and Madikwe Game Reserves. Plus, South Africa is home to some of the best wine country in the world — so you can enjoy a glass or two after a long day of game drives!
No matter what type of safari tour you’re looking for, there’s sure to be one that’s perfect for you. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your 2023 African safari today. Our experienced team of expert safari Travel Planners will gladly assist with whatever concern or query you may have.
