A safari is not a trip like any other. Going on a safari vacation requires a lot of preparation before the trip. To help you target the best place, we have listed some of the most emblematic destinations below:
Mala Mala Hunting Reserve
Among the best safaris in Africa, Mala Mala is one of the best places to see lions in their natural habitat. Mala Mala borders the Kruger National Park, the largest game reserve in South Africa.
The Big Five animals thrive in this luxury private reserve, as do cheetahs, giraffes and wild dogs. During the dry season, especially in May, it is the ideal place to see a wide variety of animals, including :
- Wildebeest
- Hippos
- Hyenas
- Cheetahs
- Giraffes
- Zebras
- Wild Dogs of the Cape
This park is also considered a top destination for photographers. The terrain is different from that of the Kruger, as it is flat, which makes it perfect for safaris.
You can watch the lions during the day, when they are resting in their dens, or at night, when they go to the waterholes. Another reason why Mala Mala Game Reserve is one of the best safaris in Africa is that you can also go on bush walks.
You will be able to see wild dogs and cheetahs up close. Night game drives are also safe and popular in this world-class park.
Masai Mara National Reserve
The Masai Forest is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa as can be read on Twaloan agency that allows you toorganize your trip efficiently. Located in the Great Rift Valley, this vast wilderness is home to the Big Five, as well as a large population of cheetahs and wild dogs.
Game drives here are incredible because the area is known for its high density of wildlife. There are many dedicated safari areas in this national reserve, and people usually book months or even years in advance.
If you want to see some of the Big Five in their natural habitat, the Masai Mara National Reserve is worth considering. In addition to the animals, you will also enjoy the majestic hills, acacia forests and grasslands.
Be sure to visit between August and October if you want to witness the wildebeest migration across Tanzania to Kenya.
The Sabi Sand Reserve
The Sabi Sand Game Reserve, located near the southern part of the Kruger, is a collection of private reserves. This wide open savannah is a great attraction for safaris and walks.
The big five are among the most common animals you will see in the reserve. The Sabi Sand Reserve is also a great place for those who want to meet the animals up close:
- white rhinoceros
- lions
- cheetahs
In addition, this reserve is popular because of its incredible night driving experiences, where you will see nocturnal animals.
The reserve is also known for its exceptional birdlife. If you like bird watching, you will be delighted. It is recommended to visit this destination during the winter or the low season, from May to September.
Moremi Reserve
If you are looking for an incredible game reserve in Botswana, then Moremi Game Reserve is the best destination for you.
This safari is part of the Okavango Delta, known as the 1000th UNESCO World Heritage Site. This reserve is known to be home to four of the Big Five, and you will likely see many of them on your safari.
It is also home to over 400 species of birds. Game viewing is also popular here. The best time to visit this reserve is the dry season, from June to September.
You can also explore the wilderness on a mokoro canoe safari or a walking safari. As you gaze at the floodplains and baobab trees, you will feel the grandeur of nature.
South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park is one of the ultimate destinations in Zambia if you want to see wildlife, which includes endemic species such as the Thornicroft giraffe and Crawshay's zebra.
There are also lions, leopards and elephants. The park is home to tons of beautiful tent campsThese can be very busy during the high season.
If you want to see this park, be sure to plan and book in advance. This park is famous for its walking safaris led by expert guides.
The best time to visit is from July to October, during the dry season. This is the time when the animals come out of the high temperature bush areas to seek water in the rivers.
Bas-Zambezi National Park
Another Zambian park you should add to your list is the Lower Zambezi National Park. This is one of the best safaris in Africa today, as it has recovered from poaching, although its rhino population has been wiped out.
The Lower Zambezi is home to a variety of animals and birds, including the big five and several other species. You can also find many species of birds, including:
- the black lapwing
- Southern Ground Hornbills
- African jacanas.
Keep in mind that you will not find any campsites in the area, only medium and luxury lodges and tented camps.
Hluhluwe Game Reserve
Hluhluwe Game Reserve is located in South Africa, and is one of the oldest game reserves in the region. The Hluhluwe Game Reserve is a good safari destination to enjoy the natural beauty of the flora and fauna.
The reserve is best known for its amazing plants and wildlife. It is home to the Big Five and dozens of other mammals, reptiles and birds. One of the highlights of this safari is the Hluhluwe River, which is a popular spot for game viewing.
There are plenty of animals in this 96,000-hectare reserve, and you can also visit the neighboring Mkhuze Reserve. For the adventurous, be sure to drive a 4×4 on its dusty roads. The park also offers boat safaris.
