Best Place to Go on an Africa Safari: Top Destinations by Wildlife & Budget

Discover the Best Place to Go on an Africa Safari in 2026. Compare top destinations like Serengeti, Masai Mara, Kruger, Okavango, Uganda, and Rwanda for wildlife, budgets, and unique experiences. Plan your dream safari today!

Introduction: Where Is the Best Place for an African Safari?

If you’re wondering about the best place to go on an Africa safari, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it truly depends on your priorities, such as the wildlife you want to see, your budget, the time of year, and the type of experience you’re seeking.

For many, Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park stands out as the ultimate destination due to its iconic Great Migration and abundant Big Five sightings.

However, Kenya’s Masai Mara offers thrilling river crossings and cultural immersion, while South Africa’s Kruger National Park provides affordable, self-drive options.

For luxury seekers, Botswana’s Okavango Delta delivers exclusive water-based safaris, and Uganda or Rwanda shine for intimate gorilla treks.

In this expert guide to the best African safari destinations, we’ll break down where to go on safari in Africa based on real traveler insights, seasonal tips, and cost comparisons. Whether you’re a first-timer chasing the Big Five or an adventure enthusiast eyeing gorilla safaris, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to plan? At Gorilla Nests Safaris, we specialize in tailored tours across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Congo—book a consultation today to make your dream safari a reality.

What Makes a Safari Destination the “Best”?

Google and travelers alike value context when searching for the best place to go on an Africa safari. “Best” is subjective, but key factors include:

Wildlife Density and Diversity: High concentrations of animals, especially the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino), make for unforgettable sightings.
Big Five Presence: Not all parks guarantee all five, but spots like Kruger and Serengeti excel here.
Landscape Variety: From endless savannas and river deltas to misty mountains and forests, diverse terrains enhance the experience.
Cost and Accessibility: Budget-friendly options in South Africa contrast with exclusive, high-end Botswana safaris.
Safety and Infrastructure: Well-maintained roads, guides, and health protocols ensure peace of mind.
Unique Experiences: Think gorilla trekking in Uganda, the Great Migration in Tanzania/Kenya, or mokoro canoe rides in Botswana.

Top Best Place to Go on an Africa Safari

Africa boasts over 50 countries, but a handful of destinations dominate for safaris. Below, we dive into the top picks, each with unique draws. For a quick overview, see our destination comparison table later in this guide.

Serengeti National Park – Tanzania

The Serengeti is often hailed as the best African safari destination for its sheer scale and drama. Spanning 14,763 square kilometers, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Great Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains in search of fresh grass. From July to October, witness calving seasons and predator hunts—lions, cheetahs, and hyenas thrive here.

Key highlights:

Big Five Sightings: Excellent for all five, with leopards often spotted in acacia trees.
Endless Plains: Iconic landscapes perfect for hot-air balloon safaris at dawn.
Year-Round Wildlife: Even in the green season (November–May), birdwatching is phenomenal with over 500 species.
Cultural Add-Ons: Visit Maasai villages for authentic insights.

Tanzania’s Serengeti suits mid-to-luxury budgets, with lodges like Singita Sasakwa offering opulent tents. Accessibility via Kilimanjaro International Airport makes it a top choice for international visitors. If you’re inspired, explore our Serengeti packages at Gorilla Nests Safaris—customize your Tanzania safari here.

Masai Mara National Reserve – Kenya

Just across the border from the Serengeti, Kenya’s Masai Mara is a close contender for the best place to go on an Africa safari, especially for action-packed wildlife drama. Covering 1,510 square kilometers, it’s renowned for the Mara River crossings during the Great Migration (July–October), where crocodiles ambush herds—nature’s ultimate spectacle.

Standout features:

High Predator Density: Lions (including the famous Marsh Pride) and cheetahs are abundant.
Cultural Maasai Experiences: Stay in eco-camps and join warrior dances or bead-making sessions.
Hot-Air Balloon Rides: Soar over the savanna for panoramic views.
Diverse Ecosystems: Grasslands, rivers, and acacia woodlands host over 95 mammal species.

Kenya’s infrastructure is visitor-friendly, with flights into Nairobi and short drives to the reserve. Budget options include tented camps, while luxury seekers love Angama Mara. For seamless planning, check our Kenya safari tours at Gorilla Nests Safaris—book now for exclusive deals.

Kruger National Park – South Africa

For affordability and ease, Kruger National Park in South Africa is arguably the best African safari destination for beginners and families. At 19,485 square kilometers, it’s one of Africa’s largest game reserves, offering self-drive safaris that keep costs down.

Why it’s top-rated:

Affordable Options: Entry fees start at $20/day, with rest camps for budget stays.
Self-Drive Freedom: Rent a car and explore at your pace—no guide required.
Excellent Infrastructure: Paved roads, hides, and apps for real-time sightings.
Big Five and More: Rhinos are a highlight, alongside wild dogs and over 500 bird species.

Open year-round, Kruger’s dry season (May–September) is ideal for sightings. Fly into Johannesburg for easy access. While not our primary focus, we can integrate Kruger into multi-country itineraries—contact Gorilla Nests Safaris for details.

Okavango Delta – Botswana

Botswana’s Okavango Delta is the pinnacle of luxury safaris, making it the best place to go on an Africa safari for exclusivity and serenity. This inland delta floods annually, creating a mosaic of waterways and islands teeming with life.

Unique attractions:

Mokoro Canoe Safaris: Glide silently through channels for close-up elephant and hippo views.
Exclusive Wildlife Viewing: Fewer crowds mean intimate encounters with leopards and African wild dogs.
Luxury Camps: Spots like Mombo Camp offer plunge pools and gourmet dining.
Birding Paradise: Over 400 species, including pelicans and eagles.

Best from June to October during high water. Access via Maun Airport, but expect higher costs. For a taste of luxury, pair it with our Botswana extensions—inquire at Gorilla Nests Safaris.

Uganda – Gorilla & Wildlife Safaris

Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” excels as the best African safari destination for primate lovers and biodiversity seekers. With fewer tourists, it offers authentic, crowd-free experiences.

Must-sees:

Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi: Trek to habituated families in misty forests—life-changing.
Chimpanzees in Kibale: Habituation experiences for up-close observations.
Tree-Climbing Lions in Queen Elizabeth: Rare behaviors in savanna settings.
High Biodiversity: 1,000+ bird species and Big Five in Murchison Falls.

Uganda’s compact size means short transfers. Budget-friendly with community lodges. As experts in Uganda safaris, Gorilla Nests Safaris offers personalized gorilla permits and tours—secure your spot today.

Rwanda – Premium Gorilla Safaris

Rwanda rivals Uganda for gorilla safaris but amps up the luxury, making it ideal for premium travelers seeking the best place to go on an Africa safari with short hikes and eco-lodges.

Highlights:

Volcanoes National Park: Home to over 400 gorillas; treks last 1–4 hours.
Luxury Eco-Lodges: One&Only Gorilla’s Nest features spas and volcano views.
Short Travel Distances: Kigali Airport is just 2.5 hours away.
Golden Monkeys and More: Add primate diversity to your itinerary.

Year-round access, but dry seasons (June–September, December–February) are best. For high-end experiences, our Rwanda packages at Gorilla Nests Safaris include everything—plan your luxury trek.

Destination Comparison Table

To help you compare these top spots, here’s a handy table:

Destination	Wildlife Highlights	Best For	Budget Range (per person/day)	Accessibility	Unique Experience
Serengeti, Tanzania	Great Migration, Big Five	Migration Spectacles	$300–$1,000	Good (flights to Kilimanjaro)	Hot-air balloons
Masai Mara, Kenya	River crossings, predators	Cultural Immersion	$250–$800	Excellent (Nairobi hub)	Maasai village visits
Kruger, South Africa	Big Five, self-drive	Budget & Families	$100–$500	Easy (Johannesburg)	Night drives
Okavango Delta, Botswana	Water wildlife, exclusives	Luxury & Serenity	$500–$2,000	Moderate (Maun)	Mokoro canoes
Uganda	Gorillas, chimps, lions	Primates & Biodiversity	$200–$700	Good (Entebbe)	Gorilla trekking
Rwanda	Gorillas, monkeys	Premium Short Trips	$400–$1,500	Excellent (Kigali)	Luxury lodges

This table captures key differences for quick decision-making. For personalized comparisons, reach out to Gorilla Nests Safaris.

Best African Safari by Travel Style

Matching your style ensures the best experience. Here’s how:

Best Safari for First-Timers: Masai Mara or Kruger—easy access, high success rates for sightings.
Best Safari for Big Five: Serengeti or Kruger, with near-guaranteed views.
Best Safari for Gorillas: Uganda (Bwindi) for affordability, Rwanda for luxury.
Best Luxury Safari Destination: Okavango Delta, with private concessions.
Best Budget Safari Destination: Kruger, thanks to self-drives and camps.
Best Family Safari Destination: Masai Mara, with kid-friendly activities and balloon rides.

Tailor your trip with us at Gorilla Nests Safaris—explore styles here.

Best Time to Go on an African Safari

Timing is crucial for the best place to go on an Africa safari. Dry seasons (June–October) offer better visibility as animals congregate at waterholes. Green seasons (November–May) bring lush landscapes, births, and fewer crowds—but expect rain.

Great Migration: July–September in Masai Mara/Serengeti for crossings.
Gorilla Trekking: Year-round, but June–September and December–February in Uganda/Rwanda for drier trails.
Month-by-Month: January–March (calving in Serengeti), April–May (green bargains), October–December (birding peaks).

Plan around your goals—our experts at Gorilla Nests Safaris can advise on optimal dates.

Africa Safari Cost Comparison

Costs vary widely, attracting high-intent buyers.

Budget Safaris: $100–$300/day (e.g., Kruger self-drives, Uganda group tours). Includes basic camps, shared game drives.
Mid-Range Safaris: $300–$700/day (Masai Mara tents, Serengeti lodges). Adds comforts like en-suite baths.
Luxury Safaris: $700–$2,000+/day (Okavango fly-ins, Rwanda eco-resorts). Features private guides, gourmet meals.

Factors: Season (peak adds 20–50%), group size, inclusions (flights, permits). Gorilla permits alone cost $700–$1,500. Save with our packages at Gorilla Nests Safaris—get a quote.

Africa Safari Wildlife Highlights

Africa’s wildlife is legendary:

Big Five: Lions (predator kings), leopards (elusive climbers), elephants (herds of 100+), buffalo (herd dynamics), rhinos (conservation successes).
Great Migration Animals: Wildebeest, zebras, gazelles—millions on the move.
Gorillas & Chimpanzees: Uganda/Rwanda for emotional encounters.
Rare Species: Cheetahs (fastest land animal), wild dogs (pack hunters).

Spot them all on multi-destination trips with Gorilla Nests Safaris.

Safari Safety & Travel Tips

Africa is safe for safaris with precautions:

Safety by Country: Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania are stable; avoid border areas in Congo.
Vaccinations: Yellow fever, hepatitis, malaria prophylaxis required.
Visa Requirements: e-Visas for most; check via official sites.
Packing Essentials: Neutral clothes, binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent.

Follow guides, stay in vehicles. For worry-free travel, book with trusted operators like Gorilla Nests Safaris.

FAQs: People Also Ask

Which African Country Has the Best Safari?

Tanzania for migrations, but Uganda for primates—depends on your focus.

Is Africa Safe for Safari Tourists?

Yes, with reputable operators; parks are secure, but follow health advisories.

Where Is the Cheapest Safari in Africa?

South Africa (Kruger) or Uganda for value.

Which Safari Destination Has the Big Five?

Serengeti, Masai Mara, Kruger.

How Many Days Are Enough for a Safari?

5–10 days; 7 ideal for depth.

Conclusion: Your Perfect African Safari Awaits

In summary, the best place to go on an Africa safari hinges on your goals—Serengeti for migrations, Uganda for gorillas, or Okavango for luxury. For first-timers, start with Masai Mara; budgets favor Kruger.

But why wait? Embark on an unforgettable journey with Gorilla Nests Safaris, your experts in East and Central Africa.

We craft bespoke safaris in Uganda (gorilla heartland), Kenya (Mara magic), Tanzania (Serengeti spectacles), Rwanda (premium primates), and Congo (untamed adventures).

With over a decade of experience, sustainable practices, and glowing reviews, we’ll handle permits, lodges, and transfers for seamless magic. Don’t miss out—book your Africa safari today with Gorilla Nests Safaris and create memories that last a lifetime!