african safari january 2023

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• African Safaris in January
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African Safaris in January – African safaris in January 2023-2024 – Discover Africa in January

African safaris in January – January is predominantly when most of Africa is entering its ‘green season when it comes to safari experiences in Africa. The bush is alive with the sounds of insects and wildflowers are abundant. Throughout eastern and southern Africa there is also great birding as the summer migratory visitors are prevalent.

January is a month that sees the majority of ‘ Safari Africa ’ entering its rainy ‘Green Season’. Animals move with the start of the rains, dispersing over huge areas in search of fresh grazing, knowing that waterholes will be everywhere.

Tanzania is a great destination in January; the Northern Circuit especially the Serengeti is outrageously good throughout January, February, and March. The first Great Migration herds have reached the Ndutu plains just south of the Serengeti itself and are starting to get ready for the calving week s in February.

It is at this time of year that the Serengeti becomes the finest place in Africa to view cheetah, and the sheer concentrations of predators on open plains are astonishing. We use a couple of camps down here that also offer some of the finest cultural interactions and walking operations we know of in Africa. Designing a trip around the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater makes for a superb safari for January.

South Africa

South Africa is absolutely beautiful at this time of year. The weather is perfect and driving trips up and down the famous Garden Route are never better. The negative to traveling at this time of year, however, is that combining the fabulous Cape Town and Wine lands with high-quality wilderness safari is hard Botswana is entering its rainy season and the vast majority of Zambia is closed due to rain and floods. Nevertheless, South Africa’s safari, specifically Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands, is still superb (though there is a chance of rain) and this is the area we would combine with Cape Town for a short add-on safari.

January is a lovely time to visit Kenya . With clear hot days and little rain, game viewing in areas such as the Masai Mara is at its peak and the month also heralds the start of the calving season. This means that the country is a popular destination in January. Some areas can get extremely busy, so it’s important to design an itinerary that keeps you away from any overcrowding.

January is a popular time to visit Rwanda, due to warm, sunny weather and largely dry days. This weather makes for pleasant gorilla-trekking conditions , offered by the well-located Sabinyo Silverback Lodge and Bisate Lodge. January is not completely rain-free, however, and the unpredictable weather patterns around Volcanoes National Park mean that a downpour could happen at any time.

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Travel + Leisure Readers’ 10 Favorite Safari Lodges in Africa of 2023

Majestic wildlife, impeccable service, and lasting memories are all but assured at these remote havens in our annual “World’s Best Awards” survey for 2023.

How Voting Works

• What Readers Loved
• The Full List

This year’s top 10 safari lodges are spread across Southern and East Africa and represent a range of wildlife experiences, from classic Big Five safaris in South Africa to gorilla trekking in Uganda. A variety of elements factored into readers' votes, including scenery and food, but in the end Travel + Leisure travelers put special importance on wildlife experiences and deft customer service.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Rooms/facilities

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.

Courtesy of Mount Gahinga Lodge

What Readers Loved 

At the top of the list, The Bushcamp Company’s Mfuwe Lodge won T+L readers’ hearts thanks to the wildlife for which the property is known — in particular, the elephants that walk right through the reception area to access a large wild mango tree that drops its fruit between late October and mid-December.

Two gorilla-trekking lodges made the top ten, further suggesting that once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters can make a place unforgettable for T+L readers. Rwanda’s Virunga Lodge (No. 2), about an hour’s drive from  Volcanoes National Park, is a base for visiting endangered mountain gorillas, an experience described as “incredible” by one guest. One said it was one of the best places they’d ever visited.

At Gibb’s Farm (No. 8), located amid the  foothills of the Ngorongoro Crater in northern Tanzania, multiple voters wrote in that they wished they could have stayed longer, noting the “exceptional” and “outstanding” service from “friendly and very attentive staff.” The dining showcased excellent quality, according to one guest, while another said the culinary offerings “far exceed[ed] expectations.”

Many properties on the list appeared to have the full package. One reader wrote about Elewana Serengeti Migration Camp (No. 3), also in Tanzania: “An outstanding camp with amazing views, service, and location. The staff was attentive and the food was spectacular.” What more could you want?

The Bushcamp Company’s Mfuwe Lodge: South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Guests visiting The Bushcamp Company’s Mfuwe Lodge from late October to December may witness the same sight as one lucky T+L reader: “A visit is not complete without the elephants walking through the lodge. Young and old, they trooped through, and I stood mesmerized by their presence.” One guest warned you “may have to wait before venturing out of your room to breakfast as the wildlife have the right of passage.” A clear favorite for the wild experiences, other readers also mentioned the excellent food, “the personal touch upon arrival and at almost every contact,” and guides that “know the park — from the Big Five to the smallest flora ­­­— better than I know my own home.”

A visit to Mfuwe Lodge is not complete without the elephants walking through the lodge. Young and old, they trooped through, and I stood mesmerized by their presence.

The Full List 

1. The Bushcamp Company’s Mfuwe Lodge : South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Reader Score: 98.93

2. Virunga Lodge : Burera District, Rwanda

Reader Score: 98.48

3. Elewana Serengeti Migration Camp : Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Reader Score: 98.40

4. Royal Malewane : Thornybush Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Reader Score: 98.13

5. Mount Gahinga Lodge : Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

Reader Score: 97.87

6. andBeyond Bateleur Camp : Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Reader Score: 97.75

7. Thornybush Game Lodge : Thornybush Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Reader Score: 97.60

8. Gibb's Farm : Karatu, Tanzania

Reader Score: 96.57

9. andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge : Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

Reader Score: 96.00

10. Angama Mara : Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Reader Score: 95.24

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WHERE TO IN AFRICA IN 2023

Pandemic-weary travellers are ready to channel their wanderlust and plan epic vacations in 2023. Covid changed us all and certainly the way we travel. Luxury has a new meaning… time with friends and family, unique and authentic encounters, giving back … this is the new way of traveling.

Image by Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge

• Here is our list of Where to Go in 2023 in Africa
• South Africa
• 1. Tanzania

Think of Tanzania and The Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater come to mind, as most safari goers head here for The Great Migration and Big Five viewing, especially in Peak Season, when the riverbanks are packed with vehicles in the hopes of seeing a river crossing. We think it’s time you discover the Nyerere National Park (previously Selous) and Mahale Mountain National Park.

Nyerere is a vast area (1.5 the size of Switzerland) and offers incredibly rewarding game viewing. This region has the densest population of wild dog, lion, hippo, elephants, and buffalo in Africa. With only a handful of lodges and accessible via air only, you will have an exceptional safari experience with hardly anyone else around.

Another of Tanzania’s off-the-beaten-track destinations is the Mahale Mountains National Park. Set among the spectacular, forested slopes of the Mahale Mountains, the Park was originally created to protect the chimpanzees that inhabit the region. It is renowned for its fantastic sunsets over Lake Tanganyika and home to a dozen primate species, Mahale’s signature activity is guided chimpanzee trekking. Relaxing on the beach, fishing, birding or chimp trekking in the forest make for a unique safari.

Best time to go:

The June to September dry season offers the best game viewing. December to February also offers good viewing in a pleasant climate. Mahale is best for chimp trekking from July to October.

Where to stay:

• Beho Beho Camp   – was the first permanent camp to be located in the northern sector of the Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park). Sited on Kipalala Hill, above the Msine tributary of the Beho Beho river, it enjoys uninterrupted panoramic views over the Rufiji River flood plain. The camp is unique in the fact that it sits in the center of five different eco-systems – riverine; mountainous; water systems; open and lightly wooded savannah; and mixed to miombo woodland. Located 145 miles southwest of Dar es Salaam, the camp is 3 miles from the grave of Frederick Courteney Selous after whom the reserve is named.
• Greystoke Mahale Camp  sits on a pristine, white sandy beach overlooking the turquoise water of Lake Tanganyika, with the forested slopes of the 8000 ft Mahale Mountains rising behind. With just six wood and thatch bandas set on the edge of the forest line at the base of the mountains your days can start there, eating breakfast whilst waiting to hear news of the chimpanzees and deciding what to do with your day. Evenings end with sundowners on the rocks of the headland, where drinks are served around the lamp-lit bar whilst the mountains, rising behind camp, disappear into the darkness.

Naturally Kenya is known for its Wildlife Safaris and again the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara is the most popular experience here. Kenya is also home to incredible culture, and we want to shine the spotlight on some of the wonderful people you can meet and to step out of your comfort zone. Immerse yourself with the locals. Connect on a deep level with indigenous tribes, discover incredible wildlife on safari, sail the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean, uncover Kenya’s ancient slave-trade history savour authentic home-cooked cuisine in an exclusive homestay and more. This is an experience that will touch your soul.

Image of Great Plains, Kenya

Kenya is a year-round destination, the wildlife viewing is always outstanding, but peak season is from June to September and April.

• Sasaab Luxury Tented Camp  – Perched on the edge of a river valley, the architecture of Sasaab blends Swahili and Moroccan design principals in which the African heat is of primary consideration. Each of the nine canvas-sided rooms is over 100m² with private plunge pools and breath-taking views across the Laikipia Plateau toward the jagged peaks of Mount Kenya. Its position above the river naturally facilitates watching the herds of elephant that come to bathe below as well as a host of other wildlife.
• Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp – Perched on the edge of an escarpment, Loisaba Tented Camp is designed to capitalize on unhindered views across Laikipia’s mottled landscape all the way to Mt Kenya. All accommodations and main areas enjoy a breathtaking vantage point over an expansive panorama.
• Alfajiri Villas   – Alfajiri boasts unparalleled privacy and exclusivity on the edge of Diani Beach. Inspired by African design and hospitality, our villas offer you the freedom to explore with intrigue and to indulge your senses.

Image by Sasaab Luxury Tented Camp

Image by Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp

• 3. Botswana

The Okavango is one of earths true last wilderness regions and a must-see when planning a safari. In Africa, everyone knows about the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara. We highly recommend you combine this with a visit to the Makgadikgadi or the Nxai Pans in Botswana to witness the world’s second largest animal migration. From early December herds head towards the Makadikgadi and Nxai Pan region, south-east of the Okavango Delta. These areas which once formed the largest in land lake in the world, are now the largest network of salt pans in the world. A layer of emerald-green grass stretches out in every direction, pink clouds of flamingo and flocks of migratory birds arrive to nest, and Africa’s second largest mammal migration of wildebeest and our black and white striped friends floods the plains. The green season in the desert is one of Africa’s, great unpredictable spectacles, and a magical time to visit.

Image by Jack's Camp

December to January and March to April when the zebra are arriving or leaving.

• Jack’s Camp  – Jack’s Camp pays homage to the property’s enduring and much-loved 1940s campaign style. The guest tents, seven twins and two doubles, are much larger and each is 270 square metres in size. The iconic interiors remain and are embellished with rich textiles from around the world, Natural History Museum cabinets, and an overhead bed cooling system. Ensuite bathrooms have both indoor and outdoor showers and outside, each veranda has a private plunge pool.
• Leroo La Tau Camp  – Leroo La Tau is situated on the western bank of the Boteti River, which forms the boundary of the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park. The Boteti River provides a lifeline for the wildlife which inhabit the arid national park and is a critical link in the annual zebra migration. Leroo La Tau is the perfect base from which to explore this truly unique piece of Botswana paradise.

A vast country with many regions to explore, the most popular being the Sossusvlei Dunes and Etosha National Park for wildlife. Expand your experience by exploring in game drive vehicles and on foot, as well as excursions to view fascinating geological phenomena, petroglyphs – prehistoric rock engravings – and San rock art at Twyfelfontein, Namibia’s first World Heritage Site. Your days are filled with Rhino tracking on foot and by vehicle with dedicated trackers; learning about the local culture, or explore the area on full-day outings, nature drives and walks, night drives and scorpion night walks.

Image of lions in Namibia

The dry season from the month of May to October is considered as the best time to visit Damaraland. The dry weather with no or negligible rainfall allows the animal to gather near the waterholes, making the game viewing easy and consistent.

• Doro Nawas Camp  – Overlook ancient plains, with glorious views of rough-hewn Damaraland stretching in every direction. Doro Nawas blends in with the surrounding ochres and rusts, embracing the desert in hues of orange, pink, and gold. Fall asleep under one of the least polluted skies on Earth, a canopy of infinite stars.
• Desert Rhino Camp  – Wind down and immerse yourself in this warm, welcoming space, a celebration of earth tones. Look out over sweeping plains dotted with Namibia’s curious national plant, the welwitschia.  Keep a keen eye trained for desert-adapted wildlife.

Image by Wilderness Doro Nawas Camp

Image by Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp

• 5. South Africa

Described as a world in one country, you could spend months exploring. Most first time visitors include Cape Town, the Mother City. There is much to see and do in Cape Town, and if your time is short, you usually just do a quick visit to Kalk Bay. But we encourage you to take a bit of time to explore this eclectic seaside village. From ceramic artists, and jewellers, to watching the fishermen offload their catches at the harbour, it is a fascinating blend of modern and old world, which is sure to charm you.

Image of Cape Town beach

Now! Cape Town is gorgeous any time of the year, but most popular between December and February, with sunny beach weather.

There are a wide variety of accommodation options in Cape Town – we focus on seaside options in and around Cape Town.

• Tintswalo Atlantic  – Perched on a pebbled beach at the foot of the Table Mountain National Park, directly overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the award-winning Tintswalo Atlantic boutique lodge is renowned as one of Cape Town’s most precious hidden gems.
• Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa  – The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa stands at the edge of the world. On one side, a line of majestic mountains – The Twelve Apostles – reaches towards the heavens; on the other, the sun sets on breeching whales, playful dolphins, and crashing Atlantic rollers. And all around, you can walk the wilderness trails of the Table Mountain National Park. We’ll even pack you a picnic. And yet this luxury 5-star boutique hotel is just a few minutes from worldly, cosmopolitan Cape Town.

• 6. Madagascar

A destination not often on everyone’s list when thinking of traveling to Africa. As the biggest island in the Indian Ocean, Madagascar is famous for its unique wildlife and biodiversity. With breath-taking views of nature, white sand beaches, stunning rainforest and delicious local food, this spot offers an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. This is an incredible landscape filled with towering boababs, stunning orchids, pirate graves, colourful chameleons, lemurs, aye aye’s and other curious creatures, Madagascar is home to some of the world’s most unique flora and fauna.

Image by Anjajavy Le Lodge

September to October is the best time to travel to Madagascar as the weather is a little warmer and the lemurs are more active.

• Isalo Rock Lodge  – Isalo Rock Lodge is a modern and stunning 60 Room Retreat, positioned high in the Sandstone Mountains, overlooking the Isalo National Park in south western Madagascar. The views from the lodge are breathtaking. Whilst luxury abounds in the hotel with all modern amenities, Isalo is home to many species of flora and fauna, including, the Giant Chameleon and the renowned Lemurs.
• Miavana  – Located on a secluded private island off the North East point of Madagascar, Miavana is an ultra-luxurious beach resort. Offering the sublime luxury – spacious villas, private butler service, exquisite food & wine experiences – against an extraordinary natural setting, Miavana is an earthly paradise.
• Anjajavy Le Lodge   – Located on an enchanting peninsula on Madagascar’s northwest coast, Anjajavy le lodge has not finished surprising you. Surrounded by a turquoise sea, a vibrant natural reserve, and fine sandy beaches, Anjajavy embodies this country’s incredible beauty and genuine hospitality.

The Victoria Falls is a perfect starting point, but the game parks of South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi are wild and remote, appealing to those wanting an intimate safari experience in a pristine environment. Known for superb walking safaris, these parks are some of the best wildlife sanctuaries in the world. Also worth exploring is the Liuwa Plains, for wild dog sightings and it is home the second largest wildebeest migration in Africa – but without the crowds -so you can enjoy this spectacle in an intimate and jaw-dropping setting.

Image by Puku Ridge Camp

The best time for watching wildlife in South Luangwa National Park is during the dry season, which takes place from July to October, but be warned, October can be very hot. Best time for Liuwa Plains is between January to July and October-December.

• Time + Tide Lewanika  – In the heart of a vast grassland where the skies are endless and wildlife roams free, lies Time + Tide King Lewanika an exclusive lodge with panoramic views and an effortless flow between inside and outside, every luxury villa immerses you into the land.
• Puku Ridge Camp  – Puku Ridge is wilderness, refined – from the elegant architectural lines to the thoughtfully outfitted game viewing vehicles and the perfectly-positioned photographic hide in front of the camp’s private watering hole.
• Chiawa Camp   – Zambia’s premier luxury safari camp, Chiawa is a gentle and unhurried experience for both wildlife and guests, while still offering up a diverse range of activities. From game drives to heart-stopping game walks as well as canoeing, boating and angling – all in the company of Africa’s finest guides.
• Old Mondoro Camp   – An intimate camp of only 5 chalets, the concept of this camp is simple – to provide guests with an authentic and unedited Zambian safari, providing a “back to the bush” atmosphere that centralizes on the wildlife and wilderness experience. That disconnects you from the internet and reconnects you with nature, yourself, and your loved ones.

Image by Chiawa Camp

• 8. Zimbabwe

Bungee jumping, white water rafting, flight of Angels over Victoria Falls, these are some of the adventure filled activities that Zimbabwe is known for. However, Zimbabwe’s conservation areas such as the enormous Hwange National Park and the lake-and-river destinations of Matusadona or Mana Pools offer exceptional game viewing in environments largely devoid of other visitors. Hwange is home to the densest concentrations of elephant after Botswana’s Chobe National Park and is an excellent destination for Africa’s big predators. Mana Pools is best explored on drives, guided walks and canoe expeditions and a perfect place to go to see the best of Zimbabwe’s big game viewing.

Image by African Bush Camps Somalisa Camp

With mild temperatures, virtually no rain and a low malaria risk, the dry May to October winter season is generally the best time to visit Zimbabwe for game-viewing, although September and October are extremely hot and dry months.

• Somalisa Camp   – Somalisa provides guests with breathtaking views of the golden savannah plains of Hwange. A place where, one moment you are sipping on your gin and tonic listening to the distant baritone roar of a lion coalition on the hunt and the next, you are gazing over at a congregation of elephants mere meters away, peacefully sharing a sundowner with you.
• Ruckomechi Camp   – Elephants are frequent visitors at Ruckomechi, tempted by the nutritious albida trees that shade the camp. Make yourself at home, as they do, between the en-suite rooms, the main area and the swimming pool. End the day the way days have ended in Africa for centuries; around a camp fire, under the stars, listening to nature’s soundtrack of frogs, crickets and jackals.

Gorilla and chimp trekking is of course a bucket-list for Rwanda, but apart from the incredible wildlife and culture, you can also get in some excellent safaris in the Akagera National Park. Located in the country’s north-east, Akagera was devastated by the 1994 genocide and its aftermath, with a rise in poaching and returnees settling with their cattle on park land. Over the last ten years, the park has been significantly rehabilitated and today offers one of the most thrilling safari experiences in Africa. This is an ideal opportunity to combine an extraordinary gorilla experience with a spectacular savannah safari, viewing East African bird- and wildlife specials from expertly guided game drives, guided nature walks and boating trips.

Image of gorilla in Rwanda

The best time for visitors to visit Akagera National Park is during the dry season, which is between June to September. The climate in the park does not change much throughout the year, but visitors will experience warmer temperatures during the long dry season.

• Magashi   – Everything about Magashi is a thrilling quest. Watch elephants, near camp, submerge in the lake’s silvery blue waters. Drive across miles of open savannah tracking rhinos, giraffes and lions. Try your hand at catch-and-release fishing, watched by a shy sitatunga.

Image by Wilderness Magashi

• 10. Mozambique Benguerra Island

Have you ever considered tropical beach island getaway to your safari holiday? There are a few Islands to consider, but we love the Robinson Crusoe toes in the sand luxury of Benguerra Island. Warm waters, pristine coral reefs teeming with marine life, idyllic beaches, inland freshwater lakes and towering sand dunes have shaped this adventure haven. The second largest island of Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago remains a low-key idyllic drop in the Indian Ocean – the island sits within a national marine reserve. When not simply relaxing with cocktail in hand, explore Benguerra Island’s beaches and pristine coral reefs, where dugongs, manta rays and tiger sharks’ dwell, with minimal human interaction.

Image by andBeyond Benguerra Island Lodge

Mozambique has a tropical climate, with year-round warm temperatures. The best time to visit the Bazaruto Archipelago is during the dry season – which runs from May to November. These are also the cooler winter months. The islands are quite hot during December and January and from February to March, be prepared for occasional showers of rain.

• Kisawa Sanctuary  – Kisawa is a happy pairing of innovation and tradition. They believe in inclusive design and have worked with skilled artisans from Benguerra Island as well as patented 3D printing technology (the world’s first 3D printed lodge) . Decisions have been careful to protect the environment and we have ensured a light footprint on the natural landscape where possible. Their vision has been to blend rather than interrupt.
• andBeyond Benguerra Island Lodge  – Benguerra Island is where the magic of the Indian Ocean comes alive. Swim with horses, enjoy authentic sunset dhow cruises and live it up island style! Luxury Tree House Suites.
• Azura Benguerra  – Imagine an unspoilt island within a Marine National Park, deserted beaches of pure white sand that extend for miles, sparkling turquoise seas criss-crossed by local dhows plying their trade, sunny days and star-studded nights. Azura Benguerra, the first eco-friendly resort in Mozambique, was hand-built by the local community and is operated in partnership with it.

“So, take a walk on the wild side, take the roads less travelled and let us weave together a trip as unique as you are.”

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14-day Kruger to the Delta, Chobe & Victoria Falls (Accommodated)

6 days kenya budget tours (with free night at nairobi hotel), serengeti, ngorongoro, tarangire (with materuni waterfalls, coffee tour) - 6 days, botswana wild parks, 13- day uganda expedition: experience moments with gorillas, wildlife and cultural experiences ( private tour), 16 days of intensive adventurous safari through magical uganda and rwanda ( private tour), masai mara & gorilla adventure, 12-day victoria falls, chobe, kruger np & cape town (south africa), 11 day combined kenya & tanzania wildlife safari, 16 days best of kenya & tanzania luxury safari.

• Christmas & New Year
• Matobo National Park, Open Vehicle Game Drive with Resident Guide
• Kruger National Park, Open Vehicle Game Drive with Resident Guide
• Blyde River Canyon

“There are some incredible game drives and fun places to say. It was 100% worth it though.”

• Experience the thrill of photographing the Big Five.
• Witness the circle of life in action on the African plains.
• Experience the natural thrill of wildlife encounters.

“From start to finish, the trip was flawlessly organized, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable adventure.”

“The guide was very friendly and knowledgeable, and the chef was also excellent. We saw many of the iconic African animals.”

“the experiences were wonderful. Well done Sunway you have 2 amazing and absolute gentlemen working for you.”

• Wildlife Trekking
• Gorilla Trekking

“We felt that we were immersed in nature and apart from our usual crazy busy life.”

“Everything was well organized, food was amazing and the accomodations great. Booking with Mukisa safaris was definitely the right decision.”

• Explore the Masai Mara National Reserve, view diverse wildlife in search of the "big five", spend two nights in a safari camp, admire a family of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, trek to see chimpanzees in Uganda, keep your eyes peeled for the plentiful elephant and hippo populations in Queen Elizabeth National Park

“The vastness and grandness of the places toured and the unbound joyful spirit of the people.”

“Victoria Falls was beautiful. We saw so many animals at a close distance.”

“It was a great and unforgettable stay. Very well organised.”

“From the moment we arrived in Nairobi to the final farewell, every day was filled with awe-inspiring moments and unforgettable experiences.”

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Our Top African Safari Tours for 2023

Destinations , Experiences , Top Lists

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What are you expecting to see and do on next year's holiday menu? With our delectable servings of  safari tours for 2023 , you'll easily escape a mundane routine and dive straight into your very own David Attenborough documentary. Whether you're looking for exciting Big 5 sightings, waves of wildebeest, graceful mokoro rides, rare gorilla encounters or tropical island barefoot bliss – tell us what's on your wish list, and we'll tailor-make your dream vacation! Here are our top African safari tours to get you inspired.

Meet Africa's majestic wildlife with us, the World's Best Safari Company

1. Highlights of Southern Africa

The first delightful dish on our 2023 safari tour list features all of  Southern Africa's most famous destinations . We begin in vibrant  Cape Town ,  South Africa , to take in all the sights and sounds of one of the best cities in the world. Filled with breathtaking scenery, pristine beaches and colourful city vibes, the Mother City is the ideal intro for a memorable trip to Africa. 

A playground of leisure-lovers, adventurers and jetsetters alike

After a few nights at the foot of Table Mountain, continue to the land of fiery sunsets and ruby-red dunes,  Tswalu Kalahari Reserve . Enjoy this wondrous world of desert-adapted wildlife and curious creatures. The reserve provides fantastic opportunities for viewing black rhinos, black-maned lions, cheetahs, meerkats, aardvarks, and even pangolins.

Tswalu has an entirely distinctive ecosystem with unique and diverse wildlife

From this arid terrain, we head toward the lush leopard lands of the  Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve  in the  Greater Kruger National Park . Live in the lap of luxury of some of the country's swankiest lodges – all while enjoying Big 5 safari sightings for days. With a high calibre game viewing and an even higher standard of hospitality, Sabi Sand has established a legendary reputation in the world of safari.

Sabi Sand is famed for its luxurious safari lodges, Image Credit: Londolozi Game Reserve

The final leg of your journey takes you north to gawk at the Victoria Falls grandeur. Although we're often at a loss for words to describe Victoria Falls, the Kololo moniker "Mosi-oa-Tunya," which means "The Smoke That Thunders," is certainly the most fitting one. Its epic proportions and the sheer amount of water plummeting over its crags every minute makes this UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site arguably the greatest waterfall in the world.

Victoria Falls in all its glory

2. Luxury Botswana Safari

Providing a generous portion of  Botswana's  magical wilderness and second on our African safari tours for 2023 list is the  Luxury Botswana Safari . From colossal elephant herds to a vast array of bird species, there's no shortage of animals on this trip! Start your journey at  Chobe National Park , famed for having the highest concentration of elephants in the world. Chobe's dynamic landscape lends itself to a variety of fauna and flora, with superb lodges to choose from.

Chobe is the land of gentle giants

Your next stop offers an entirely contrasting ecosystem within the Savuti Marsh. The marsh – once sourced by an inland lake until tectonic movements cut off the water supply – has since been filled by the Savuti Channel. This sprawling wetland attracts thousands of animals to the region and is known for its high concentrations of lions and hyenas.

Wildlife-abundant Savuti Channel, Image Credit: Savuti Camp

Conclude your African adventure on a high note in one of the most iconic safari destinations. Look forward to a varied and fascinating terrain in the  Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve . What's more, the regions boast an enclave of biodiversity that is home to a variety of wildlife and offers a watery web bursting with remarkable wildlife opportunities.

Sunset mokoro ride over the Okavango Delta

3. Unforgettable East Africa Safari

One of our top African safari tours for 2023 features the greatest wildlife show on earth, the  Great Wildebeest Migration . This  Unforgettable East Africa Safari  begins in  Nairobi  – the gateway to Kenya . Next, branching out of the capital, you'll venture to the country's most notable and revered reserve, the  Maasai Mara . It's here where the Great Migration begins each year. Watch as millions of wildebeest, zebras and antelopes traverse vast plains, formidable rivers and terrain in search of greener pastures.

Great Migration top African safari tours for 2023

Before crossing the border into  Tanzania , you'll stop at  Lake Nakuru  and travel across the huge plains of the Great Rift Valley. Lake Nakuru, one of the Rift Valley soda lakes, is frequently painted pink as tens of thousands of flamingos flock to its shallow waters, making it a real sight to behold.

Rhinos plod along the lake shoreline

From here, we cross over into Tanzania under the watchful eye of Mount Kilimanjaro. You'll spend a night near the shores of bustling  Lake Manyara  before venturing to the ever-so-famous  Serengeti National Park . Along with the Great Migration, the Serengeti is also home to the Big 5, a wealth of other wildlife, as well as ultra-luxurious lodges. There's always something to see here, often near the rivers and watering holes where the herbivores congregate, and predators wait.

Zebras at a watering hole, Image Credit: Singita

This East Africa extravaganza ends with a natural beauty bang in the  Ngorongoro Crater  and  Tarangire National Park . Ngorongoro, known for its leopard sightings, is surrounded by a variety of vegetation, including woodland on one slope and grassland on the other. Again, animals, including lions, black rhinos and elephants, come in abundance in both regions. 

Stunning lodges on the crater edge, Image Credit: Sanctuary Retreats

4. Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Something to tick off (or definitely add to) your travel bucket list is spending time with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Number four on our top African safari tours for 2023 is our  Gorilla Trekking Adventure . This tour does not only give you the opportunity to track these magnificent mountain primates but also allows you to explore other  Uganda  and  Rwanda  gems. As a starter, you can look forward to laid-back living on Lake Victoria in  Entebbe  – before the real adventure begins!

Lake Victoria's expansive waters

Enjoy the lavish Eden that is Uganda's largest wildlife reserve.  Murchison Falls National Park  covers an astonishing 350,000 acres and promises a plethora of wildlife as well as striking water vistas from whichever vantage point. Following this, you'll move on to  Kibale Forest National Park , one of Uganda's few regions with lowland and montane forest. While the national park's plethora of primates is undoubtedly its main drawcard, Kibale is also home to other (more elusive) animals such as leopard, buffalo, duiker, and bush pig.

Hippos in Murchison Falls National Park

Raw African wilderness, sublime scenery and the chance to see the tree-climbing lions await in  Queen Elizabeth National Park . After a couple of comfortable nights surrounded by acacia woodland, savannah, and swamps dotted by crater lakes, you'll head to the headlines of this trip,  Bwindi Impenetrable Forest  and  Volcanoes National Park .

See Uganda's famous tree-climbing lions

Explore dense leafy canopies and uncover Biwindi's and Volcanoes' wildlife mysteries. The verdant forest paths frequently have patches of mist drifting through – creating a magical ambience straight out of a storybook. Here, in this jungle wonderland, you will find critically-endangered mountain gorillas. Spend hours exploring and spending time with these precious primates.

See gorillas in their natural habitat

5. Safari and Beach Dream Holiday

With Cape Town, the Kruger's Sabi Sand, and Victoria Falls, Southern Africa's most beloved destinations once again take centre stage on this tour – but with an added beach bonus! In addition to vibrant city living, Big 5 safari luxury and spectacular natural wonders help yourself to a big helping of tropical island bliss in marvellous  Mauritius .

Sign us up for long, lazy days on this beach, Image Credit: The Oberoi Mauritius

Mauritius is a heavenly location all year round and will make your dreams of crystal blue sea lapping up on infinite stretches of white-sandy beaches come true. And the picture is completed by coral reefs, tropical forests, and exquisite hotels. The island's extreme diversity can be perplexing. The northern and western coastlines hum with activity and provide a variety of stores and eateries. On the other hand, the southern coast continues to be an unspoilt hideaway of rugged and rocky beaches, untamed forests, and towering cliffs. And then there's the eastern coast, that's more tranquil and home to some of the island's most opulent resorts.

Palm-fringed oasis of beautiful bleached sands

Your Dream African Adventure Awaits!

When it comes to best bucket-list experiences in Africa, these African safari tours for 2023 are certainly all-encompassing. Whether it's your first trip to Africa or you're returning for more, our best-sellers are sure to leave you wanting more.

We like to think of ourselves as dream sculptors and strive to create a travel story that goes above and beyond. So, without further ado, get in touch with our  Travel Experts  and let's begin tailor-making your ideal trip to Africa!

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About the author 

Michelle Welvering

Growing up, Michelle always wanted to become a world-renowned artist, a kickboxing-champion and an eccentric explorer – aka a Kickboxing Exploring Artist! After pursuing an education in Fine Arts and opening her own Kickboxing gym in Pretoria, an unexpected twist led her to a six-year stint as a travel consultant in South African tourism. She believes that all things happen for a reason and, driven by adventure, she was eager to find a more “wild” and cultural space to call home. This led her to wander the Western Cape coastline, fall in love with the city of Cape Town and, of course, her workplace, Rhino Africa.

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Where to go on safari in January?

January is a great time for a safari , which costs between $200 and $350 per person per day, as many wildlife destinations are in their prime season. In January, East Africa is a prime destination for safari enthusiasts. Going on a safari in January is an amazing experience, as it's summer in many safari destinations and you can witness a lot of wildlife activity.

From $200 pp per day

Do you need a satisfied Tanzania safari tours in January? Get a free, best price-guaranteed holiday trip in Tanzania quote and a quick response from us in 2023 and 2024. Call +255 747 989 416 on WhatsApp or email us at [email protected] to get a free quote. We are available 24/7 and we are happy to help you.

The best African safari destinations to consider for January safari:

1. Serengeti National Park (Tanzania) The Serengeti is a top choice in January due to the Great Migration. Thousands of wildebeest and zebras gather in the southern Serengeti for calving season, attracting predators like lions and cheetahs. It's a dramatic spectacle of nature.

2. Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Tanzania) Ngorongoro Crater is a unique and beautiful destination known for its high-density wildlife population. The crater's floor is home to the Big Five, and you can also spot flamingos in the alkaline Lake Magadi.

3. Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya) The Masai Mara is an extension of the Serengeti ecosystem, and January is a good time to witness the wildebeest migration's southern movement. You'll have the chance to see predators in action as they hunt the migrating herds.

4. Lake Manyara National Park (Tanzania) Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife. In January, the park is lush and green, offering a unique safari experience.

5. Tarangire National Park (Tanzania) Tarangire is known for its large herds of elephants and diverse wildlife. In January, the park's vegetation is lush, and animals gather around the Tarangire River, providing excellent game viewing.

6. Amboseli National Park (Kenya) Amboseli is famous for its large population of elephants and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. January is a great time to visit, as the clear skies often provide fantastic photo opportunities of the mountain.

7. Uganda (Queen Elizabeth National Park) While Uganda is best known for its gorilla trekking, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers savannah safaris with the chance to see the Big Five and numerous bird species. January is a good time for wildlife viewing here.

8. Botswana (Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park) January is the green season in Botswana, characterized by lush vegetation and abundant birdlife. While some areas may be challenging to access due to flooding, it's a great time for birdwatching and enjoying the vibrant landscapes.

9. Zambia (South Luangwa National Park) South Luangwa is known for its walking safaris, and January is a good time for birdwatching and experiencing a quieter safari season with fewer tourists.

10. Namibia (Etosha National Park) Namibia's Etosha National Park is a unique desert safari destination. January is part of the wet season, and wildlife tends to congregate around waterholes, providing excellent opportunities for game viewing.

Is January a good time to see the Great Migration in East Africa?

Yes, January is a great time to see the Great Migration in East Africa! During this time, the wildebeest herds are typically in the southern Serengeti in Tanzania, where they give birth to their young. This is a unique and exciting time to witness the circle of life in the animal kingdom. Additionally, the weather is usually dry and sunny, making it a great time for safari activities. Some popular parks to visit during this time include Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on a safari in January?

January is a great time to go on a safari in many African countries, as it is during the dry season, which means wildlife is easier to spot as they gather around water sources.

Some of the wildlife you can expect to see on a safari in January includes elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffalo, and various antelope species. Additionally, you may have the opportunity to see migratory birds that visit the region during this time of year.

Are there any special events or festivals that take place during January safaris?

Yes, there are some special events and festivals that take place during January safaris in certain destinations. Here are the best four events from the January safari: 1. Tanzania's Serengeti National Park hosts the wildebeest calving season in January, which is a unique wildlife spectacle. 2. The Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya offers an opportunity to witness the annual wildebeest migration, which typically takes place between December and January. 3. The Chobe National Park in Botswana is known for its large herds of elephants, which can be seen year-round. However, January is a particularly good time to visit as it is the start of the rainy season and the landscape is lush and green. 4. In South Africa, Kruger National Park is a popular destination for safari-goers in January. The park offers a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo).

Do you need a satisfied Tanzanian safari in January? Get a free, best price-guaranteed Tanzanian safari in Tanzania quote and a quick response from us in 2023 and 2024. Call +255 747 989 416 on WhatsApp or email us at [email protected] to get a free quote. We are available 24/7 and we are happy to help you.

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Plan Your African Safari By Month: Where To Go When

• January 16, 2023

It’s the start of a new year, and for those with an itch for untamed places and unique experiences, it’s time to begin plotting where your travels will take you in 2023. 

Let us guide you through the best destinations to visit in Africa each month, based on over 20 years of exploring this wild and wonderful continent. Keep in mind, though, that Africa has a reputation for being a year-round destination for good reason. Most regions boast wildlife, birds, and magnificent scenery regardless of the season. Reach out to us if you have a specific destination and time frame in mind, and our expert team will advise you on how best to embark on your safari adventure in Africa.

Kickstart Your Year With The African Summer

January The first month of the year is a great time to explore Uganda . The dry season creates ideal conditions for both gorilla and chimpanzee trekking .

February Head to the Southern Serengeti in Tanzania to feast your eyes on the calving season of the Great Migration. During this time, pregnant wildebeest give birth and by February some 8,000 wildebeest are being born every day which leads to an abundance of predator action!

Autumn in Africa: From City to Natural Wonder

March & April South Africa ’s Mother City, Cape Town, welcomes the autumn months with clear skies and temperate weather. Stay in the heart of the city to enjoy all the activities, world-class cuisines, and cultural events on offer in this cosmopolitan hub.

May To see Victoria Falls at the height of its power, visit in April or May. Expect to come away in awe of this natural wonder of the world that divides two countries and is home to several unique species of plants and animals.

A Warm Winter in Africa

June The ‘shoulder season’ in travel refers to the time between peak and off-season when travellers can get the best of both worlds: lower rates and fewer crowds without compromising on weather, sightings or experiences. June is a great time to visit both Kenya and Tanzania before the rates — and crowds — increase in July.

July & August This is peak season in Africa and arguably one of the very best times to visit South Africa , Botswana , Kenya and Tanzania for great weather and bucket-list experiences. Expect safaris to be the busiest, and likely the most expensive, during this time.

Spring blooms in Africa

September Welcome the change of seasons in Zambia or Namibia. This is a superb time to be on safari in Zambia as temperatures in the high 20°Cs make the days pleasant, perfect for spotting animals congregating by nearby rivers and waterholes. In Namibia , too, September is considered the best time to travel as it isn’t yet too hot and the humidity is still low.

October Visit Mozambique in October when weather on the stunning coast — a drawcard for most visitors — is sunny, dry and hot.

November Pack your bags for Tanzania to see the iconic species of Mafia Island: the local whale sharks. During November and December, whale sharks can easily be sighted near shore. Lucky travellers may also spot sea turtles exploring the island’s vibrant coral reefs.

December Escape the northern hemisphere chill and enjoy an African summer with a visit to King Lewanika Camp on the Liuwa Plain in Zambia. Where better to salute the year gone by and dream up adventures for the coming year than in the heart of a vast grassland where the skies are endless and wildlife roams free?

Inspired? 

Reach out to our expert team to plan your 2023 African adventure now .

• Posted in Botswana , Kenya , Tanzania , Zambia

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Africa Safaris

Our African safari tours consist of compelling adventures that include legendary game reserves and extraordinary game drives throughout this region with opportunities to view the "Big Five".

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Welcome to Safaris with Tauck

Africa's "Big Five" are among the wildlife that can be spotted on our classic safaris evoking expeditions of yesteryear... but with modern day touches such as night vision goggles that make wildlife viewing on night safari drives something special. Discover a time when the Great Rift Valley held the secrets of the origins of mankind... a place where the Serengeti and the Masai Mara harbor umbrella-like acacia tree and rocky outcrops known as "kopje"... and the circle of life unfolds around you.

Safaris at a glance, which safari is right for you.

Each Tauck safari is unique, with its own spectacular destinations and experiences. Whether this is your first time or you're a seasoned pro, it can be difficult to pick the right one with so many to choose from. So, we created a helpful guide highlighting the important details and differences between our safari options to make your decision as easy as possible.

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Namibia: Epic Safari

Starlit skies, desert dunes, game reserves and wildlife safaris.

Embark on an epic 11-day journey to Namibia, home to desert landscapes alive with oryx, bat-eared foxes, zebras, lizards and more. Explore the red-tinted dunes of Sossusvlei. Star gaze in one of the naturally darkest places on earth. Enjoy a hands-on personal encounter with baby baboons. A truly unforgettable adventure in every way.

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On safari in Kenya

Experiencing the magic of the african wilderness firsthand... on safari in kenya with tauck....

Rumbling across the savannah aboard a specially built safari vehicle in search of wildlife on a game drive in Amboseli National Park… watching and interacting with baby elephants at feeding time at an elephant orphanage in a suburb of Nairobi… immersing yourself in the otherworldly light of a classic African sunset… this is Kenya, on a Tauck safari...

On safari in Tanzania

Stories almost as old as the earth itself await you... on safari in tanzania with tauck.

Gliding in a hot air balloon high above the vast plains of the Serengeti, observing the "circle of life" below… a game drive and a picnic lunch in the wildlife treasure-trove that is Ngorongoro Crater, a volcanic caldera that some believe may have been the "Garden of Eden"… a visit to Oldupai Gorge, home to some of the earliest evidence of humans on Earth… Tauck experiences revealing the essence of Tanzania…

On safari in Botswana

An african adventure all its own... on safari in botswana with tauck.

Tracking wildlife on a game drive through Moremi Game Reserve… embarking on safaris through and above the waterways of the Okavango Delta by motorboat, dugout canoe and helicopter… joining Zu/'hoasi San Bushmen for a safari on foot… meeting the Xaxaba people in their traditional village… venturing out across the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans on the edge of the Kalahari Desert aboard an ATV… hanging out with (and perhaps under) a family of meerkats… just another day in Botswana…

Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda

A once-in-a-lifetime encounter with endangered mountain gorillas... on safari in rwanda with tauck.

On two safaris in wildlife-rich game reserves in Tanzania and Kenya, you'll spend the last three nights of your journey in Rwanda – home to the last remaining mountain gorillas on Earth. After gaining insights on gorilla behavior at private lectures and a visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Museum, you'll be ready to begin your gorilla trek. Imagine hiking into the wilderness with a private porter and an expert guide for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with mountain gorillas in the wild… watching them interact with each other – and, if they so choose, perhaps with you!

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Safari Journeys of a Lifetime created by Tauck with BBC Earth

When you love Africa as we do, you have to share that passion as we have been doing for 20+ years in Kenya, Tanzania and Botswana... where lions, elephants, water buffalo, leopards and rhinos roam. And in Rwanda, home to the last remaining mountain gorillas on Earth. Our passion for these beautiful creatures runs deep... we delight in helping you understand them – and the efforts underway to conserve their habitats and those animals that are endangered.

Kenya & tanzania: a classic safari, botswana, south africa & zambia, mountain gorilla safari: kenya, tanzania & rwanda, tanzania: a grand family safari, traveling with tauck, never settle for ordinary.

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Africa Safaris, Tours & Cruises

10 best african safaris & tours for 2024-2025, tanzania trails, classic egypt tour, south africa snapshot, mt kilimanjaro lemosho climb, botswana family safari, nile river explorer, namibia adventure, highlights of malawi and zambia, highlights of namibia, diverse namibia, top-ranked luxury african safari tours & river cruises, best african safari small ship cruises, africa's top safari & cruise destinations, seychelles islands.

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• Tanzania's Serengeti National Park  - The most famous of Africa's safari destinations, the Serengeti is complemented by Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire game areas where you have the prospect of seeing "Africa’s Big 5": Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Cape Buffalo, and Rhinoceros.
• South Africa's Kruger National Park  - View lions, zebra, and impala as you explore the park by vehicle, on foot, or even by hot air balloon by day, and by night, relax in a comfortable Safari Lodge  by night.
• Botswana's Chobe National Park & the  Okavango Delta  - Surrounding game reserves & concessions are home to  luxurious safari camps & lodges  where you'll search for elephant, buffalo, giraffe, hippo, zebra, impala, and white rhino on a cruise or traditional driving safari.
• Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park  - Experience game drives with giant elephant herds, local village visits, hikes, and a comfortable place to sleep every night at exceptional safari lodges and camps
• Zambia's Kafue National Park   - Africa's second largest national park and home to a variety of wildlife, particularly antelope, red lechwe, and puku, Kafue is known for its bush camps and safari lodges  in addition to the Busanga Plains, a seasonal floodplain and well-known watering site for wildlife.
• Madagascar's Isalo National Park - Natural lakes and Jurassic landscapes are abundant in this area because of its many gorges, steep bluffs, and protruding rock formations. Many rare and endangered animals call Isalo National Park home, including the endemic Madagascar fossa.

What to Expect on a South Africa Safari: A How-To Guide to Help you Prepare for Your Trip

• Tanzania safari  cost.  A 7-day small-group classic Tanzania safari ranges from $2,856 for a mid-range trip to $7,348 for a luxury tour. Visit Lake Manyara , the Serengeti , Ngorongoro Crater , and Tarangire to see the Big 5. This journey covers the Northern Circuit's highlights and maximizes adventure and wildlife watching. Every night, return to your luxury safari resort, such as Arusha Coffee Lodge, Escarpment Lodge, Lemala Ewanjan Tented Camp, or Lemala Ngorongoro Camp.
• Kenya safari  cost  ranges in price from $3,998 for an 11-day tour of the country's attractions to $10,820 for a 10-day luxury trip. Visit Amboseli national park , Samburu national reserve, Lake Nakuru national park, and iconic  Maasai Mara to search for wildlife. 
• South Africa safari costs  range from $3,481 for a 9-day mid-range tour to $10,591 for a luxury tour that includes both the vibrant metropolitan Cape Town and game drives in Kruger National Park .
• Botswana safari cost.  A family safari in Botswana ranges in price from $4,752 for a seven-day excursion to $16,574 for a twelve-day luxury tour that visits the Okavango Delta , Moremi Game Reserve , and Chobe National Park while staying in the finest lodgings in Botswana. Optional safari activities include private C208 aircraft adventures, 4x4 drives, and treks.

Geography of Zimbabwe

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• Expect the unexpected! No two safaris are the same, and that’s part of the adventure. Your guides are experts at tracking the animals in every area, but which animals you see, when, and what they’re up to is as wild as the savanna itself. You might come across lions enjoying a zebra carcass or antelope galloping across the plains. It’s even possible that your best shot at seeing these animals is right around your camp or lodge.   
• What’s a game drive? A safari game drive is when you go out in a vehicle in search of the animals in their most natural habitat. The vehicles are often 4x4 drive open-air vehicles and get as close as safely possible to the animals so that you can see them in all their wild majesty.  
• Game drives are not off-roading adventures – In order to preserve the habitats, the game drives stick to the established trails and routes rather than just crossing the plains at random, but these trails were established by the experts to maximize the opportunities to see wildlife on your game drive. These drives tend to be leisurely, allowing the best chance to take in the surrounding environment and hopefully spot some amazing wildlife.  
• Game drives generally take place in the cool morning or late afternoon – remember, the best way to see the animals of the safari in action is to follow their behavior, and they tend to be most active when the sun isn’t as high in the sky.   
• The length of a game drive is generally around 3 or 4 hours , but this varies based on what your guide feels is the best way to track the animals.  
• Alternatives to game drives on a safari vacation might include an aerial tour in a hot air balloon, mountain biking and horseback riding, hikes, a river cruise to see the animals via the water, or a nighttime game drive that shows off the nocturnal wildlife of Africa.   
• The atmosphere of a safari vacation is relaxed but immersive . Imagine being literally inside your favorite Animal Planet documentary. Your itinerary won’t be jam-packed with things to do, but the marvels of simply looking out your window to a giraffe grazing in a nearby tree or seeing an elephant passing casually by the lodge is an unforgettable experience.   
• The safari experience changes based on the season – in each region, the dry and wet seasons bring with them different wildlife behaviors and habits and even migrations, so if there is an animal you know you want to see, let us know so we can recommend the best time to travel.  
• Safari vacations usually combine multiple wildlife reserves , from national parks to private game concessions. Getting from one camp to the next might include a long drive through the plains or a scenic flight on an 8-passenger propeller plane. 

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• While you are in major cities, you will likely have access to ATMs that work with most major international credit cards (local bank cards will probably not work). You should expect a marginal international transaction fee.  
• Cash can be used for anything you’ll need while on the safari itself, especially in the bush.  
• You can exchange your money most easily at the international airports upon arrival or at a bank with presentation of your passport if necessary.
• Avoid paying with travelers checks. These are not accepted in most places, so it’s safer to just stick with your card.

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• Scenic USA. A   constant recipient of national and worldwide recognition from industry partners for its outstanding product and operations. Sanctuary Sun Boat III  represents the ultimate luxury and relaxation on the Nile , modeled after the opulent era of the 20s and 30s.
• Variety Cruises   allows one to explore the true identity of a destination while enjoying the comforts and excellent benefits of its state-of-the-art SOLAS-certified yachts. The twin-hulled  Pegasos  can moor at small, picturesque islands that are not accessible by land, ideal for  Seychelles sailings.
• Ponant . Embodies the French way of life through exceptional service, a multilingual team, and expertise.  Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury, even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions like Seychelles. 
• Emerald Waterways  an award-winning travel operator specializing in deluxe river cruises and luxury yacht cruising. Each of their custom-built starships has a range of stylish innovations. The newly built vessel,  Emerald Azzurra , a modern superyacht, can access ports of call not typically visited by cruise ships in the Adriatic, along the coast of Northern Africa, the Red Sea, and around the islands of Greece.
• AMA Waterways  has constantly been redefining the river cruise experience by building one-of-a-kind ships with added comforts and conveniences. Its price range is considered "mid-tier" among river cruises. The beautiful  Zambezi Queen  was specifically designed for safari river cruising on the Chobe River and offers a sophisticated design to maximize animal sightings.
• CroisiEurope   has developed an affordable cruising concept offering the best value in river cruises at great prices and appealing to every traveler. Designed to explore Southern Africa, the  African Dream  provides an intimate look at nature and animals along the most beautiful bends of the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers.

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Kenya safari tours

Go beyond the city limits and out into the African wilderness – safari style

There are so many reasons to visit  Kenya  ( delicious food , rich culture and friendly people are just a few), but embarking on a safari has to be at the top of the list. Whether you’re itching to head out on a game drive, cruise along Lake Naivasha or learn about the daily life of the  Maasai warriors  during a village visit, a safari in Kenya will steal your heart (and refuse to give it back).

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While the park’s stunning Lake Nakuru isn’t a sight to scoff at, it’s Africa’s endangered rhino population that avid safari-goers long to see. If you’re lucky, you might spot one or two white rhinos stopping to drink at the water’s edge after a morning spent walking the arid landscape. But if you’re really lucky, you might spot an elusive black rhino – an animal that’s been critically endangered since 1996.

The Maasai Mara Game Reserve promises a whole heap of unforgettable wildlife sightings, from a herd of elephants wandering across the landscape to gazelles staying wary of a predator’s watchful gaze. But the chance to catch sight of a black-maned lion as it basks in the African sun or see the spots of a cheetah as it prowls through the brush makes all of those early wake-up calls and late nights worth it. 

Your local leader’s not just there to keep you safe from the wild animals you see on your game drives but also to teach you about their mating rituals, eating patterns and migration habits. As you cross the Great Rift Valley, learn about the spectacular wildebeest migration where one million wildebeest move towards greener pastures in the Maasai Mara region. 

Take your wildlife adventure off land and onto water with a boat trip on Lake Naivasha, the highest lake in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. Cruise the lake’s surface in search of thirsty, thirsty hippos in need of rehydration at the water’s edge and get your camera out to take photos of the magnificent birdlife in this part of the world – think African fish eagles, saddle-billed storks and lesser flamingoes. 

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Kenya Wildlife Safari

When is the best time to go on a safari in Kenya?

Generally speaking, January, February and June to October are the best times to go on safari in Africa. This is the dry season, so animals tend to come out into more open spaces in search of water, making them easier to spot. However, you’ll be able to spot animals year-round and enjoy fewer crowds if you travel outside peak season.

Read more about the best time to go on safari .

Am I guaranteed to see animals?

We can’t guarantee you’ll spot the Big 5, but you’d have to be seriously unlucky to see no animals at all. On our safaris, you’ll explore some of the best game parks and national reserves in the world. These protected areas are filled with a huge variety of species and your expert driver and local leader will be on hand to point you in the right direction (literally).

What are the "Big Five"?

The “Big 5” used to refer to the five big game animals that were the most difficult to hunt. Now that most shooting is done on a camera, the Big 5 are the most exciting animals to spot while on safari: the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo.

What should I pack for a safari in Kenya?

Loose, light layers in neutral colors are the best attire for a safari (dark colors will get hot in the sun and can attract the Tsetse fly). You’ll also want a sun hat, some good walking shoes, a camera, sunscreen and bug spray. For more details, check out our  ultimate Africa packing guide . 

What type of food will be served on a safari in Kenya?

It depends on the trip style you've chosen. On our Basix trips, you’ll have a cook travelling with you who'll whip up various local and Western-style dishes.

Along your route, your cook will stop to purchase fresh, locally sourced food for your meals. For breakfast, expect fruit, eggs, toast and cereal; lunch is often sandwiches and salads; and dinner is a hearty meal like pasta, curry or a BBQ.

On our Original and Comfort trips there'll be more meals at camps and lodges. One thing's for sure: you won't be hungry on safari!

What are the toilets and showers like on safari?

Most permanent tented camps have private bathrooms with flushing toilets and warm showers.

Many campsites we stay at have communal facilities with flushing toilets and warm showers; however, in some of the more remote areas, there may only be basic facilities (toilets and cold running water).

Will I be able to use my mobile phone on safari?

Some of our hotels and campsites will have wi-fi, however, internet and phone access may be limited in more remote areas.

But you won’t think twice about emails and social media when you’re watching a pride of lions prowl through long grass or enjoying a drink around the campfire with your group.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

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The best new African safari camps

An African safari is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that every traveller should have. To be among some of the world's most captivating  wildlife  and untouched landscapes  on the planet, just a few feet away from leopards lounging on trees or gazelles gallivanting across the Lower Zambezi, is a feeling far unmatched by a cityscape. And with a host of new African safari camps, there isn't a better time to venture into the wilderness than now…

Wilderness Usawa Serengeti

Given its presence across Africa, safari brand Wilderness has taken its time to arrive in the Serengeti, but last summer it made its move, partnering with local walking-safari pioneer and TV regular Jean Du Plessis. Solar-powered mobile camp Usawa is designed to leave no trace. It was joined late last year by a second camp and, in July, will become part of a trio, all three easy to disassemble and use at any of the nine walking zones scattered across 5,700 square miles of park. The concept? Seamless private on-foot access to the Great Migration, Africa’s 1,200-mile odyssey of life, death and rebirth. Days at Usawa are a timeless tapestry of wild species amid endless vistas – from lions, giraffes, elephants and hippos to the mega-herds of wildebeests, zebras and elands; and the crocodiles and hyenas who lie in wait. Du Plessis’s knowledge of the terrain curates a Serengeti seemingly devoid of other humans. The six tents were designed by glamping pioneer Luxury Frontiers (Camp Sarika by Amangiri, Nayara Tented Camp) and cater for 12 around a central tent where campfire dining unfurls below sprawling, star-strewn skies. From the tents to the acacia-thorn light fittings, handblown glassware and ebony furniture, everything has been commissioned locally. While the animal kingdom runs through the barks and shrieks of its nightly playlist, guests enjoy a prime selection of mainly South African wines paired with international and regional treats, including the moreish Zanzibari urojo, a coconut- and dhal-rich spiced stew. Andrew Harris

Website: wildernessdestinations.com Price: from about £750 per person

North Island Okavango

If the name sounds familiar, that’s intentional. Similar to its Seychellois namesake, this retreat occupies its own island, is surrounded by wildlife and has all the starry qualities set to make it a dazzling success. Some of the team who worked on the lauded Indian Ocean launch more than two decades ago have since founded Natural Selection, the management company overseeing this, Botswana’s sexiest new lodge. Set in a community-owned concession on the edge of the Okavango Delta’s panhandle shared with only one other camp, North Island enjoys a degree of exclusivity – although game drives often meander into the neighbouring concession, where Natural Selection also manages Duke’s and Duke’s East. Wild dogs are among the top animal draws here, with several known active dens attracting the likes of BBC Studios’ Natural History Unit, which filmed a sequence for Planet Earth III in the delta area. Spearheading a new trend for micro-camps, the lodge has three suites (with a fourth to follow in March) that horseshoe around a lagoon, fanning from an open-front dining area and marble-topped help-yourself bar – an ideal gathering spot for multigenerational buyouts. Especially glorious at dusk, a decking area snakes into the lagoon, negating the need to head anywhere else for a sundowner, and there’s a well-equipped outdoor gym and hot tub. Shaded by ebony and jackalberry trees, the villas sit on elevated wooden platforms tickled by reeds, with plunge pools, outdoor showers and wraparound verandas perfect for watching elephants munch on fallen fruit. Sarah Marshall

True Travel offers three nights at North Island Okavango from £7,700 per person all-inclusive, with regional flights and transfers.

Onduli Ridge

If the Flintstones were transported to Namibia , this is where they’d live: among the giant boulders of Damaraland in one of the least populated areas of the second-least populated country on earth. The landscape – part dry desert grasslands, part Mars-like miles of stone – is spectacular: scattered with rocks of all morphologies and colours, from black basalt to shards of glittering granite, and dotted with huge boulders and stunted, hardy trees. Ultimate Safaris’ Onduli Ridge sits on a neck between two inselbergs, with views from the rooms at dawn and dusk over wide, flat plains and, in the distance, the purply peaks of the Brandberg, Namibia’s highest mountain range. Every room is spacious and set high up on a deck among the rocks. In some, the showerhead juts from a hunk of granite; in all, bathrooms are partly open to the hills and sky, and the bed can be wheeled onto the deck for stargazing. Ultimate Safaris is renowned for upskilling local workforces, and the cooks, trained from the community, turn out inventive and fresh food, from tapas lunches served on multilayered wooden platters to wood-fired pizzas cooked by the pool under the stars. Local attractions include the  Unesco-protected Twyfelfontein rock-art sites, the Doros Crater, created by a meteorite, a petrified forest and strange geological formations such as the Organ Pipes and Burnt Mountain. Plus, if you’re very lucky, desert-adapted elephants and wild-roaming rhinos. Lisa Grainger

Website: ultimatesafaris.na Price: doubles from about £825 all-inclusive

Angama Amboseli

In a land where everything is big, the only option is to be bold. Africa’s tallest mountain and some of the continent’s last big tuskers set the scale for Angama’s new camp, close to Amboseli, one of Kenya’s prime national parks. Here, 10 canvas-roofed suites arc around the base of Kilimanjaro, with bedside views of the semi-dormant volcano rising from a magical fever tree forest. Taking up exclusive residence in the community-owned Kimana Sanctuary, the camp is set on an ancient elephant migratory route, protecting an area increasingly under threat from agriculture. Built in partnership with NGO Big Life Foundation, which leases the land from Maasai communities, Angama’s first project outside the Mara has its biggest conservation focus to date, and the best place to get a grip on the story is the mushroom-shaped observation tower. Sink into a rocking chair with a sundowner and watch elephant herds parade across swamps while lights twinkle below Kili – a reminder of the challenges cohabiting humans and wildlife face. Every design detail of the camp pays homage to the elephants who regularly pass through: exterior walls are made from dung and concrete, curved surfaces resemble their physical form and textured table mats mimic their coarse skin. A proposed new road will make Amboseli National Park accessible within 30 minutes, although there’s enough wilderness and wonder inside the sanctuary. Along with game drives and elephant tracking on foot, this is a place to rest and relax; a safe haven for four- and two-legged guests. Sarah Marshall

Africa Travel can arrange a three-night stay at Angama Amboseli from £5,490 per person all-inclusive, with international flights and transfers.

Muzimu Lodge

For years, Gorongosa National Park offered basic rondavels and tents with the bare necessities, and a campground for the more intrepid. Those who visited the park – which has undergone a two-decade restoration – weren’t seeking private plunge pools; rather, the extraordinary nature and wildlife. Set at the southern tip of the Rift Valley, Gorongosa has a rich and varied landscape, its dense jungles and infinite savannah roamed by lions and wild dogs. But 2023 ushered in a new era of smarter hospitality with the opening of Muzimu, an intimate tented lodge connected via wooden walkways on the banks of a river bed. The property’s six canvas tents are simple and restrained, with locally made wooden headboards and desks, as well as pendant lights and lounge chairs in colourful printed fabrics. Their wooden decks overlook a thick tangle of palms and acacia trees. In the main spaces, extraordinary salads and home-baked breads created by local chef Vália Dimitri (who did a stint at The Pot Luck Club in Cape Town) are served at dining tables scattered across the deck. There’s also a giant fire pit for late-night stargazing and a tempting pool fringed with sunbeds for a post-drive dip. The traditional daily game drives seem almost mundane compared with the other excursions on offer: you’ll be up mountains; visiting local research labs and coffee plantations; on epic bike rides; and exploring deep limestone gorges and waterfalls. Mary Holland

Website: gorongosa.org Price: from about £770 per person

Fothergill Island

Lake Kariba is like an inland sea in Zimbabwe: a 1.38-million-acre man-made lake bordering Zambia, fed by the Zambezi river and surrounded by spectacular conservation areas. Two wildlife lovers took over Fothergill Island, within the remote Matusadona National Park, in 2019, and transformed it into the lake’s smartest camp, reopening it in 2021. The five one-bedroom canvas-walled suites, two two-bedroom suites and one three-bedroom private retreat are more like mini villas than rooms, most with an outdoor sala, plunge pool, ponds and pretty gardens protected by electrified elephant-proof fences. A practised team of staff serve modern multicultural cuisine, serious international wines and sundowners around a starlit boma and in upscale safari-style living and dining tents, with views over the pool and lake. The real treats, though, are the activities on land and water: game drives with sunny, well-read guides to track lions, elephants and buffaloes; bush breakfasts on sandy river beds over which gem-coloured sunbirds flit; sunset trips into river gorges teeming with hippos and giant crocodiles; and catch-and-release fishing excursions to try to snag the lake’s famously ferocious tigerfish. For the restless there’s a gym, yoga deck and running track; for children, archery, swimming and wildlife excursions with guides who ooze enthusiasm for this special wild spot. Fothergill has a landing strip for charters, and smart speedboats for whizzing to Kariba airport. Lisa Grainger

Website: fothergill.travel Price: from about £590 per person

Khwai Lediba

Striking the balance between creature comforts and adventure isn’t always easy. But African Bush Camps (ABC), helmed by Zimbabwean former guide Beks Ndlovu, has mastered the art of delivering smart, Champagne-popping safaris without compromising on the thrill of waking up in the wild. Its latest project, Khwai Lediba, in the Okavango Delta, is a prime example, bridging a gap between the company’s portfolio of high-end and expedition-style camps. Hidden in a quieter corner of Botswana’s community-owned Khwai concession – now booming with camps – it neighbours slightly more upmarket sister property Khwai Leadwood, opened by ABC in 2020. Both are a decent distance from the mobile campsites used by self-drivers and Khwai’s main airstrip, though a helicopter can provide faster transfers for an additional fee. Much closer is the Khwai River crossing into the Moremi Game Reserve, where most game drives happen, clocking up sightings of lions, leopards and wild dogs. When four-wheel fatigue sets in, walking safaris and breezy late- afternoon mokoro rides unfold in the concession. Elephants frequently pass quietly through, leaving telltale footprints on sandy paths leading to seven wooden-framed canvas tents, including one honeymoon suite and a family room, both with bathtubs. In the main sitting room, bright murals and thatch-woven lampshades foreground local artists. And shared dinners are the place for the local staff’s storytelling skills to shine. Sarah Marshall

Abercrombie & Kent offers three nights at Khwai Lediba from £4,250 per person all-inclusive, with international flights and transfers.

Loapi Tented Camp

South Africa

Loapi is the newest and smartest addition to Tswalu, South Africa’s largest privately owned reserve, in the arid Kalahari. The reserve has been a 25-year passion project for the South African Oppenheimer family, involving three high-end properties, as well as land restoration and conservation initiatives focusing on animals such as rhinos, pangolins and meerkats. Loapi is the most ambitious arrival yet: a collection of six sustainable standalone homes with private house managers, chefs, guides and trackers. Gapp Architects’ striking glass, steel and canvas houses, spaced at least 165 feet apart, are self-sufficient and can be dismantled and moved, leaving the land untouched. Inside, interiors by Cape Town’s Gregory Mellor are flecked with mohair tapestries, clay sculptures, carved wooden panels and textured umber and cream sofas. But it’s all just backdrop for the main view of golden grassy plains and rust earth that bleeds into distant mountains and a cloudless, electric-blue sky. Tswalu is not for the first-time safarigoer who wants to see the Big Five all in one day. But those searching for rare pangolins or aardvarks, black and white rhinos, wild dogs and cheetahs, may be rewarded. At night, guests eat alfresco – a private chef prepares bright butternut salads, droëwors and biltong, tapas treats or cauliflower soup next to a roaring fireplace – so as to stay in nature. It’s big and bold, and, without another soul to be seen, invites introspection. Mary Holland

Red Savannah offers six nights in South Africa from £7,962 per person all-inclusive, with four nights at Loapi Tented Camp, including international flights and transfers.

Duke’s Camp

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Thirty year ago, Jack’s Camp blazed on to the  safari scene , pioneering the under-canvas luxury safari in Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Pans. Three decades later, sister camp Duke’s has opened in the northern Okavango Delta. It is named in honour of 80-year-old Sarefo “Duke” Sarefo, the official custodian of the land. The camp is set in the Moremi Game Reserve, home to hundreds-strong elephant herds, wild dogs, lions and leopards that occasionally lounge in trees. On the gin-clear water of the delta, which wiggles its way through the camp, sapphire-backed malachite kingfishers pose next to water lilies. They can be spotted from the camp’s mokoro dug-out canoes; from the sun-drenched deck and plunge pool; from the eight eccentrically styled tents (four more are in planning), with large decks for delta-watching. Inside the tents, wooden four-poster beds with scalloped canopies are topped with cosy feather-filled duvets and pinstripe linen. Paisley fabric is draped from the ceiling and vibrant floral cushions are scattered on armchairs. Bathrooms hark back to the 1920s, with brass fittings and mahogany dresser tables. There’s a theatrical vibe in the communal Bedouin-style dining area, where velvet sofas, Persian rugs and silky pouffes circle a low table often topped with silver tea pots and muffins. Sunlight floods in during the day; by evening it is transformed into a cosy lantern-lit dining area and bar.  Hannah Summers

Website:   naturalselection.travel/dukes-camp Price: From about £645 per person per night full board

Tembo Plains Camp

Mana Pools, Zimbabwe

It wasn’t always so easy to sit and watch a relaxed bull elephant tug grass from the ground at the edge of the Zambezi before gently shaking it off in the river. But Tembo Plains Camp, in the Sapi Reserve east of Mana Pools, is the result of a remarkable relocation project by conservationists Dereck and Beverly Joubert and their Great Plains Foundation. Having seen the wildlife overpopulation in the Savé Valley Conservancy in Southern Zimbabwe, the Jouberts began Project Rewild Zambezi, an ongoing plan to relocate more than 3,000 animals 600 miles north to the under-populated Sapi Reserve, including 400 elephants, painted dogs, lions, buffaloes, impalas and more. Tembo Plains, tucked into a forest by a hippo-friendly stretch of the Zambezi, is a classically styled camp, with canopied beds and wildlife-friendly cameras provided in each of the four suites, as well as wooden decks and private pools looking over the river. The staff are some of the warmest in southern Africa, including charismatic manager Lloyd Mushure, who serves G&Ts and stories while angling for tiger fish or on canoe trips spotting hippos and crocodiles. In camp, the steady flow of the river provides a hypnotic backdrop to massages, fireside drinks and Zimbabwean dishes such as Lake Harvest bream curry.  Hannah Summers

Website: greatplainsconservation.com/tembo-plains-camp Price:  From about £860 per person per night full board

Sanctuary Tambarare

Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya

In a corner of the 90,000-acre Ol Pejeta Conservancy, two females have achieved superstar status. Najin and her daughter Fatu are the last remaining northern white rhinos in the world. Their eggs are safely preserved in a hi-tech lab in Italy in the hope of continuing the species via IVF. For now, a new tented camp – Sanctuary Tambarare – offers a welcome base from which to visit these wildlife sensations, whose diets are lovingly and obsessively monitored and who are protected 24/7 by armed guards. Tambarare’s 10 luxury tents, each different but embracing a simple, golden-age-of-safari look, with billowing white curtains, are ensconced in fever trees under the shadow of Mount Kenya. Their deep-blue walls are dotted with Masai-inspired artwork, and there are private verandas with epic grassland views. Reports indicate that Africa’s rhino population dropped by a staggering 97 per cent in less than 30 years. In 1993, only 2,300 wild rhinos remained. Today that number has more than doubled, and Ol Pejeta is home to nearly 150 critically endangered black rhinos – the largest sanctuary for the animals in East and Central Africa. Here, you can ride horses alongside the rhinos and zebras, cycle across the Laikipia plains; walk past the hippos wallowing in the Ewaso Nyiro River or night-ride past polecats, bat-eared foxes and aardvark (a privilege banned in most Kenyan national parks and reserves). Tambarare can sign you up to meet the local anti-poaching canine unit (the bloodhounds are friendlier than you might imagine) and the park’s rapid-response team, who deal with everything from first aid to chasing bandits.  Divia Thani

Website:   abercrombiekent.co.uk/sanctuary-tambarare Price:  Abercrombie & Kent offers four nights all-inclusive at Sanctuary Tambarare and one night at Hemingways Nairobi from £3,995 per person

Sungani And Kulandila

South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

When the Davy family decided to create their own safari camp (having run Anabezi, on the Zambezi, for relatives), the far south-western part of Zambia’s game-rich South Luangwa National Park was fairly untouched. But it had access to nearly 70,000 acres of wilderness and only one other camp nearby. In 2019 they took up the challenge, moving into a couple of tents and designing and building eight-bedroom Sungani, as well as the nearby private-use safari camp Kulandila. Both feel like elegant, welcoming family bush homes, efficiently run by mother and father Lynne and Paul. Their son Michael expertly oversees the walks, canoe trips, boat rides and game drives, while moreish meals are masterminded by former Singita chef Quinton Spocter – from French-patisserie-standard tea spreads to evening feasts that might include delicate Malay-spiced fish or fire-cooked beef. Each of Sungani’s spacious villa-style, canvas-walled rooms is linked by wooden platforms, below which animals can roam – by day warthogs and, at night, hippos waddling from their lily-covered oxbow lagoon. With netted beds, airy living rooms, big baths and outdoor showers, the classic tents are soothing spaces from which to birdwatch or lounge by a plunge pool before heading into the wild to enjoy prolific game: leopards, lions and wild dogs, and almost 500 species of birds. The delivery of a plane and the new Luangwa airstrip means the bumpy if interesting three-hour road trip from Mfuwe is now optional.  Lisa Grainger

Website:   sungani.com Price:  Doubles from about £1,965 all-inclusive

Mila Tented Camp 

Western Serengeti, Tanzania

It’s easy to become blasé about the herds of eland, topi, Thomson’s gazelle, zebra, giraffe and wildebeest grazing around this explorer-style camp in the western Serengeti’s Nyasirori area. Very close to the Grumeti River, where hippos jostle and giant crocodiles bask, it’s free of crowds even at the height of the migration. Brilliant year-round wildlife viewing is the reason Mila went from being a seasonal camp to a permanent one, debuting this May with five tents and a two-bedroom family option in the tawny grasslands. The interiors are romantic yet restrained, and natural fibres rule, from deep khaki Italian-cotton bedsheets to linen throws, slip-covered sofas and handwoven jute underfoot. Reclining leather chairs and bean bags are perfectly positioned to spot jackals and hyenas slinking across the open plains. Multiple mess tents mean not having to share space, so private dining is the norm, and everyone gets a private vehicle. Chefs rotate between Legendary Safaris’ camps, keeping standards high in the humble tented kitchens. An authentic Swahili feast wows as much as chilled pea soup with a swirl of chilli oil followed by seared beef or gnocchi, butternut churros and masala chai. When the morning safari is too good to miss, breakfast is delivered wherever you are – fresh fruit, croissants with pineapple jam, East African-style omelettes and strong Tanzanian coffee. This is the way to safari, with a real sense of intimacy with the wild, vast landscape.  Jane Broughton

Website: cartologytravel.com Price:  Cartology Travel offers seven nights from about £7,210 per person, including transfers

Camp Sossus

Sossusvlei, Namibia

It’s no surprise that the deserts of  Namibia are regularly used as backdrops for sci-fi movies; few places look as unearthly. On a 60,000-acre private concession bordering the World Heritage Site of the Namib Sand Sea, Ultimate Safaris’ founder Tristan Cowley has created an eco desert camp that makes this Mars-like environment not only habitable but comfortable. Every detail has been designed so visitors can connect with nature: the six newly redesigned canvas-and-mesh-walled rooms, clad with protective, rust-coloured “skins” made from recycled oil drums, now have open-air bathrooms with star beds so guests can shower and sleep under the clearest skies on the planet. Private outside areas have shaded day-beds sited to trap cooling westerly breezes for afternoon naps, and a deck has been expanded for sunset yoga, sundowners and lamp-lit dinners. Unlike at most other desert camps, here guests have the  family-friendly private reserve to themselves: to walk or mountain bike, to watch zebras and oryx graze on shimmering grasslands, to swim in spring-filled bush pools, to dine on summits with views of the rippling Tsaris Mountains and the mammoth dunes of nearby Sossusvlei. Best of all, Cowley is one of Namibia’s leading guides, and for Sossus, as with the camp he launched on Onduli Ridge in Damaraland last year, he has created immersive experiences from children’s botany walks and family cycle rides to astronomy lessons by the fire. The camp can be taken privately, as can Namibia’s most inventively designed home, The Nest, tucked up in the hills like a giant thatched bird’s nest.  Lisa Grainger

Website:   ultimatesafaris.na/camp-sossus Price:  doubles from about £435 full board

Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The site of the greatest migration on Earth, Serengeti National Park has become increasingly busy – with more than 40 vehicles at some river crossings. But because andBeyond’s Grumeti Serengeti property is in the far north-west, with few other camps around, wildlife spotting here is relatively private. That is, if you can tear yourself away from the rebuilt designer lodge. Strung above the Grumeti River, in which pods of hippos harrumph and baboons screech, 10 teak-clad modernist villas lie either side of an open-fronted living area, with decks dropping towards the water. As with the company’s other star project,  Lolebezi in Zambia , designers Fox Browne have made this Tanzanian outpost a showcase for contemporary pan-African design: kitenge-covered pouffes alongside hand-woven sisal tables; wooden bamileke tables from West Africa, beaded Namji dolls and a collection of artefacts. For those who don’t want to go on the twice-daily game drives (on which lions are pretty much guaranteed year-round, alongside hundreds of thousands of migrating wildebeest in June and July), there is a circular pool to laze beside, plus morning walks, in-room massages and yoga sessions. In the evening guests converge around a central domed bar lit by orbs of locally blown glass, before migrating to a boma dinner, cigars around a star-lit fire pit and late-night whiskies beside their private plunge pool.  Lisa Grainger

Website:   andbeyond.com/grumeti-serengeti-river-lodge Price:  from about £1,875 per person per night full board

Waterside At Royal Malewane

Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa

Along with enviable locations and pitch-perfect service, lived-in opulence has become a trademark of the Royal Portfolio’s South African hotel collection. Not too far from where it all began at Royal Malewane 22 years ago, this latest addition to Thornybush – a private game reserve that forms part of the Greater Kruger conservation area – feels more like a private home than a hotel. Owner Liz Biden has gone all out to create lavishly layered spaces where jewel-bright colours enliven everything from rugs to walls, antiques to repurposed junkyard salvages. This is a theatrical, transportive experience that amplifies rather than detracts from the vibrancy of the surrounding bush, which crackles with life deep into the night. Even the luminous fever trees, towering above the thatched lodge on the water’s edge, look like they’ve been touched up. There are seven suites with one or two bedrooms, as well as a four-bedroom villa – all with solar-heated pools and air-conditioning that runs on solar power and recycled water. A buzzing open-air bar serves cocktails made with local spirits, and a sommelier picks bottles from the wine cellar to enjoy with seasonal menus. There are many reasons to stay in camp, including a library, lap pool, gym, yoga studio and spa, plus a games room geared to children of all ages – but there are also 34,600 acres waiting to be explored by vehicle or on foot. From birding to epic sightings of lion prides and wild dogs, every outing is amplified in the company of experienced guides and trackers who, collectively, have the highest professional qualifications in the business.  Jane Broughton

Website:   theroyalportfolio.com/royal-malewane Price: from about £1,035 per person per night full board

Mara Plains Camp

Masai Mara, Kenya

This small, remote camp combines a splash of Indiana Jones with a great dollop of luxury in the middle of  Kenya’s Masai Mara . Tents are spaced apart amid a cluster of acacia trees, where the only sound at night is the occasional snort of a buffalo. The place has the air of a Thirties film set, with wooden campaign furniture and Eastern-inspired carpets. But channelling wilderness camping on a seven-star level is the new Mara Plains Jahazi Suite, a spacious two-bedroom tented pavilion set on raised railway-sleeper decking (past which a steady stream of wildlife parades). An indoor dining area leads to a private outdoor veranda and copper baths to melt into. By night, Mara Plains is an enchanting place: candles glitter in lanterns as chefs prepare dishes of tender grilled lamb, potato fritters, passion-fruit roulades and cheese platters with homemade chutney. Breakfast is a treat of orange-zest-flavoured pancakes and fresh coffee served on canvas chairs outside. Game drives reveal a pride of lions sprawled on a rocky escarpment, a breathtaking sight as cubs frolic and snooze in the pampas grass. Other wildlife surprises include kudus, fork-tailed drongoes, hippos mating in the river and mongoose hurtling across rutted tracks. This is the African safari dream, remote and restful, skies with fleeting Daliesque cumulus cloud formations in a landscape untouched for millennia.  Geordie Greig

Website: africatravel.com/mara-plains-camp Price:  Africa Travel offers stays from £1,190 per person per night full board, including game-viewing activities, park fees, flights and transfers (minimum two nights)

Xigera Safari Lodge

Sitting in the richly biodiverse Okavango Delta, Xigera has lions, leopards and semi-aquatic red lechwes on its doorstep. What’s maybe more surprising about this opening from global operators Red Carnation Hotels is that it’s home to one of the world’s largest collections of South African art and design, curated in collaboration with Cape Town’s forward-thinking Southern Guild gallery. This commitment to art shines in everything guests see and touch, from handmade black clay coffee cups by Cape Town ceramicist Chuma Maweni to the dining tables with warped fairy-tale legs by Kenya-born artist Stanislaw Trzebinski. The food is a few notches above most safari fare: a team of five bake the lightest, flakiest pastries for morning game drives and six-course chef’s-table meals, with each chef given free rein to follow obsessions (one menu has a dish dedicated to the much-overlooked onion). Food waste is composted and given to local farmers for free, with vegetables purchased back from them. Herbs are bought from a female-run collective in Maun, the closest city. The 12 suites, reached by a series of raised light-impact wooden walkways, are so large that the super-king beds look modest. Each is different, but all have statement lamps, colourful patterned sofas and indoor and outdoor rain showers stocked with all-natural tulip- and yuzu-scented toiletries. A remote three-storey steel baobab tree with a roof deck can be booked to sleep out in the bush itself. Hannah Summers

Website: xigera.com Price:  Doubles from about £2,355 full board

Usangu Expedition Camp

Ruaha National Park, Tanzania

Ruaha is one of those wildernesses that safari lovers keep to themselves. Unlike the busy Serengeti, Tanzania’s second biggest park has just 12 camps, and no one had ventured to this particular corner for decades until this summer, when Asilia constructed a light-footprint camp in the Usangu Wetlands in the far south. Poachers roamed freely and unchecked rice farms on the park’s perimeter drained the Ruaha River. Conservationists hope the opening of an expedition camp here will halt this destruction with the help of visitors. When not relaxing in the four solar-powered, mesh-fronted rooms overlooking the plains, guests help guides with research on game drives. Each of the camp’s recycled ethanol-powered four-wheel-drives is fitted with technology to feed information back to the Eco-Research Centre: telemetry systems to track collared cats, GPS radios to pinpoint sightings and thermal night cameras to spot nocturnal creatures. Half of the 16 Tanzanian staff are young villagers who are relishing Asilia’s training – from guide Anderson Pakomyus Mesilla, who three years ago didn’t speak English and now reels off Latin tree names, to Aly Mang’unda, the 22-year-old chef, who creates delicious dishes using just a fire. Beside each room is a square-netted star tent, so guests can sleep with the Milky Way above and the sounds of lions and hyenas roaring and whooping around. Treats on game drives include huge herds of topis, alongside sables, roans and cheetahs.  Lisa Grainger

Website:   asiliaafrica.com/usangu-expedition-camp Price:  Doubles from about £1,290 full board

Luxury Safari Holidays

There is no question too small. Start planning your dream trip by talking to our Destination Specialists

Top Safari Itineraries

Here’s a selection of popular safari itineraries to give you an idea of what’s available. Call us now, and we’ll create an amazing holiday just for you.

Highlights Of Kenya

• from £4,599 PP

Kenya Safari Tour

• from £3,699 PP

Holidays To Hemingways Kenya

• from £5,999 PP

Highlights of Northern Tanzania

• from £3,499 PP

Northern Tanzania Safari

• from £5,299 PP

Southern Tanzania Safari

• from £7,199 PP

East Africa Safari Tour

• from £6,599 PP

Victoria Falls Tours Zimbabwe

• from £4,699 PP

Grand Tour Zimbabwe

• from £5,899 PP

Victoria Falls To Chobe National Park

• from £3,399 PP

Luxury Botswana Safari Tour

• from £7,499 PP

Botswana Victoria Falls Adventure Tour

• from £8,899 PP

South Africa: Garden Route & Eastern Cape Safari

Family Safaris

Thinking about taking the children on a safari? View our range of family safaris suitable for all ages.

Why choose Hayes & Jarvis for Safari Holidays?

Our safari holidays offer a wide range of unique experiences, so your trip to Africa can include everything on your wish list. We select the best accommodation and transport to ensure your safety and comfort come first. Our destination consultants are well-travelled experts who will be able to advise you on all the top spots and help you pick what suits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can you go on a safari in africa.

Some of the most popular national parks for safaris include Kruger in South Africa , Masai Mara in Kenya , and the Serengeti in Tanzania . However, there are so many other incredible parks to visit in Africa. We can help you decide the right parks for you depending on what you’re looking for. For example, Madikwe and the Eastern Cape in South Africa are great for families. The Sabi Sands Conservancy in Greater Kruger National Park is ideal for those seeking ultra-luxury. Kenya and Tanzania offer an abundance of wildlife roaming across the African plains. Zimbabwe , Zambia and Botswana are also remarkable safari destinations, with Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River as additional highlights. Rwanda , Uganda , and Namibia will all provide different safari experiences, perfect for return travellers to Africa.

Is Kenya or South Africa better for safaris?

Both destinations offer different experiences, wildlife, and types of safaris. South Africa is recommended for families due to its malaria-free game reserves and exceptional food. You can also combine your safari with a visit to a beach, city and wineries. You’re likely to see more wildlife in Kenya. In Kenya, you’ll probably visit more than one national park and see a greater variety of landscapes and animals. Plus, you can combine your safari with a beach stay in Mombasa, Lamu, or Watamu.

Which African country has the best safaris?

This is an impossible question to answer! Each and every safari is completely unique. What you see also depends on your own personal experience and luck. We can guarantee that once you’ve been on a safari, it will remain one of your best holidays. Call our destination experts to discuss which country best suits your holiday dreams.

How many days do you need for a safari?

Anything from 2 nights to 14 nights or longer. We suggest a minimum of 2 nights, as this means you have one full day at the lodge. This allows you at least two safaris (morning and afternoon), the chance to have a spa treatment, relax by the pool, go on a walking safari, and admire the natural surroundings of the African bush. If you’re a wildlife aficionado or an eager photographer, the longer, the better.

Where can I see the Big Five on safari?

For a chance to track the Big Five on a safari, head to South Africa , Kenya , Tanzania , Botswana or Namibia . You can see all five animals — the lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros — in each of these destinations, although they may be spread across several parks.

Can I take my family on safari?

A family safari is an unforgettable adventure, and we highly recommend it. That said, certain game lodges have age restrictions for children, and some safaris set a minimum age for safety reasons. Talk to our Destination Specialists to find the best family safari for you.

Are African safaris dangerous?

There is an element of danger in any safari as you are in wild terrain surrounded by wildlife. However, the lodges we select and the partners we work with ensure safety is at the forefront of their day-to-day duties, so you should not be concerned.

How do I book a safari holiday with Hayes & Jarvis?

You can book your safari holidays for 2023-2024 with Hayes & Jarvis by: 

• Calling us at 020 8106 2403
• Scheduling a callback
• Or by writing to us

How much does an African safari holiday cost?

Our expert-curated African safari holidays start at £2,499 per person.

Which is the best month to go on an Africa safari holiday?

The dry months from June to October and January to March are normally the best and most recommended months to go on African safari holidays. However, there might be variations depending on the wildlife parks you pick and the experiences you are looking to have. It is best to speak to our Africa experts for more destination-specific information.

How many days are enough for a safari holiday?

You will need at least two nights to experience the main highlights of your safari holidays. This is so that you can head out on at least two safari drives and have a good chance of spotting Africa’s Big Five and other wildlife. This also gives you enough time to sign up for guided nature walks, spa sessions, and other activities.

What equipment or clothing should I pack for a safari holiday?

While on a safari drive, long-sleeved shirts, T-shirts, and full-length cargo pants in muted or camouflage colours work best. Early mornings and evenings can get quite chilly during winter, so wear a warm jacket. Sun hats, sunglasses, and sunblock are essential for your time in the sun. Depending on your interests, we also recommend carrying binoculars and photography gear.

Which destination in Africa offers the best safari experience?

No two African destinations are alike, and each offers something special and unique:

• South Africa

Is Masai Mara better than the Serengeti?

The Masai Mara and the Serengeti are both extraordinary African safari holiday destinations. Kenya is a more well-established safari destination with a wider choice of hotels and easier access to game parks. As a result, it is the more popular pick. The Masai Mara is a smaller area with higher wildlife density, so it’s easier to spot animals.  

The Serengeti is much larger than the Mara, and the wildlife is spread out over a larger geographical region. While you can witness the Great Migration at both destinations, you can experience it across a much longer window in the Serengeti.

On a luxury safari holiday, wake up to the sights and sounds of the wilderness. The trumpeting of an elephant, leopards on trees, hippos cooling off in muddy ponds, or a dazzle of zebras grazing in the vast savannah. Our African safari holidays are full of awe-inspiring landscapes, unforgettable animal sightings, and opportunities to soak in the raw beauty of the wild.

What can you expect on our luxury safari holidays?

Our luxury safari holidays are curated by travel experts with insider knowledge of the best destinations, the ideal time to visit, and how to get the best experiences. Get front-row seats to the “Great Migration” in the Serengeti, book sunrise and sunset safaris, and witness the sun cast its golden glow on some of the most spectacular natural settings. Beyond the Jeep safaris, sign up for a bushwalk, fly over the savannah in a hot air balloon, or spot animals as you glide down a river on a traditional canoe. 

Choose from personalised safari holiday packages in Kenya , Tanzania , Botswana , and South Africa , each with varied geography and adventures. Whether this is your first safari holiday or you are returning to explore more of the region, our tailor-made itineraries will ensure an unforgettable holiday filled with amazing animal sightings.

Combine a safari holiday with a visit to a modern city. For instance, spend time in fabulous Cape Town and take excursions into the wild on our South African safari holidays . The country is also known for some of the best family safari holidays . Watch your little one go wide-eyed with excitement when you have close, personal interactions with animals.

Balance your exhilarating safari holiday in Tanzania or Kenya with a relaxing beach trip to gorgeous Zanzibar . Stay at some of the best safari lodges and boutique accommodations that harmoniously blend in with the surroundings. 

Africa has so much to offer. Here are our top picks :

• Spot the Big Five and many of the region’s famed residents at Tsavo East National Park, Kenya.
• Visit Lake Nakuru to see pink flamingoes and endangered rhinos.
• Take a walking safari or cycling tour through Hells Gate National Park, Kenya.
• Be inspired by Mount Kilimanjaro’s majesty and spot amazing avifauna at Amboseli National Park, Kenya.
• Encounter tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania.
• Memorable cultural experiences with the Maasai await you on your safari through Tanzania .
• Experience the rich diversity of wildlife of the Ngorongoro Crater region, Tanzania.
• Get off the popular tourist circuit and visit hidden gems like Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park in Tanzania.
• Experience Africa’s vibrant cities – Nairobi, Cape Town , Johannesburg , Stone Town, and more.
• Take in the grandeur of Victoria Falls on a cruise or from a helicopter.
• Relax and spot animals on a mokoro ride in the Okavango Delta, Botswana.

For many of our guests, our personalised safari holidays through Africa are the most unforgettable adventures of their life. Contact our Destination Specialists to find out how you can embark on one of these life-changing journeys.

Our African safari holidays start from £3,499 per person.

Get in touch with us today:

• Call us at 020 8106 2403
• Schedule a call back (or)
• Write to us.

Enjoy wildlife and spectacular landscapes on your luxury safari holidays in Africa .

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Fly direct from London Heathrow with Virgin Atlantic during our seasonal service.

From 27th October 2024, Virgin Atlantic will operate daily flights to the Maldives.

Book your holiday today!

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Our seasonal direct service will recommence on the 28th October 2024.

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Our Virgin Atlantic service operates on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays until 29th March 2024. From the 2nd April, this service will reduce to Tuesdays and Saturdays.

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A thrill-seeker's paradise and an amazing place of contrasts

Prices from  £980pp.

From road and flying safaris across East Africa's national parks or luxurious private game reserve stays in South Africa, to stylish city stays in Cape town or scenic flydrives along the famous Garden Route.

Latest Africa travel advice »

We fly to johannesburg daily and cape town 3x a week seasonal.

You can also fly from regional UK airports on one of our partner airlines.

Where to stay in Africa

Holidays in South Africa

Hotels in africa, highlights of africa.

A land of dramatic scenery, unique ecosystems and a diverse population, a life-changing journey awaits in Africa. Here are its best attractions.

• Stay at the luxurious  Royal Livingstone Hotel  in  Zambia , right on the banks of the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls, the world’s largest waterfall. 
• Experience luxury tented accommodation at Governor’s Camp on the Mara River or Richard Branson’s  Mahali Mzuri . During your stay, enjoy champagne picnics and private dining.
• Discover Arab architecture in the exotic Old Town of Mombasa.
• Take a guided tour of a Kenyan village and learn about Maasai tribe traditions.
• See the Dhow building industry, street bazaars and spice farms of  Zanzibar .
• Take the family to  Kenya , a major safari destination for seeing the Big Five and spot pink flamingoes on Lake Nakaru. 
• Go on spectacular game drives in  Tanzania  across the Serengeti plains.
• See hyena, wild dogs, lions and herds of buffalo in  Botswana .
• Sail in a mokoro along Botswana’s Okavango Delta, a river that never reaches the sea, and see 400+ species of bird and the endangered rhino in the Moremi Game Reserve.

Seeing as Africa is the world's second largest and second most-populous continent, I am sure you can imagine just how many beautiful places there are to see within it. Take a look at some of our most treasured locations that will be sure to offer you the holidays of a lifetime in Africa .

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