Are These African Safaris Safe?

The best African safaris listed here are very safe. Injuries are almost unheard of, let alone deaths. These national parks are well guarded and while poaching is a problem all over Africa, where big game is concerned tourists are well protected and not at risk. Risks posed by the animals themselves (elephants, big cats, black rhino, hippos, etc) are just as low, with expert guides understanding animal behaviour well, and knowing how to handle encounters. Straying off into the parks by yourself is incredibly dangerous, but stick to your lodges and safari tours and you’ll come back with nothing but fantastic memories. Walking safaris are also quite safe, although have a slightly higher element of risk. Walking safaris for game viewing should not be taken without experienced guides who can keep you safe. It doesn't matter if you are first timers or safari vets, don't head out looking for the big 5 on your own.

I Want to Go Gorilla Trekking But I Don't See It On Your List?

Gorilla trekking is a very popular activity in Africa but it's also very different to a big 5 safari. You won't find gorilla trekking at the locations we've outlined for the best safari's in Africa, so where else should you look? Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda are both great places to investigate. If you're a fan of primates, Uganda's Kibale National Park is home to amazing chimpanzee trekking.

Are There Any Other Safari Locations I Should Consider?

We've listed our best safaris in Africa based on a number of factors, but that does not mean they're the only safaris worth visiting. There are plenty of other incredible national parks other there. Of particular note is Zambia, which is home to South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park and Kafue National Park. Neighbouring Zimbabwe also has some great safari locations to visit, such as Mana Pools National Park and Hwange National Park. Mana Pools National Park in particular should be highlighted, for its high population of large animals that can easily be spotted near watering holes and along rivers, making it a prime destination for kayak/canoe safaris. Although Hwange National Park is also not to be scoffed at, which large herds of elephants and often-elusive packs of wild dogs.

Both countries also share custody of the famous Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls is one of Africa's best loved icons, and one of the biggest waterfalls in the world. Victoria Falls is actually known to have the largest sheet of falling water in the world. While not the technically the tallest or the widest, Victoria Falls is classified as the largest waterfall on Earth based on the volume of water that runs through it.

How Much Will The Best African Safaris Cost?

There are no set prices for even the best safaris in Africa, but be prepared to spend over $5000 USD per person for a week-long trip, including accommodation and excursions. People come from around the world to the game drives, which puts them in high demand.

Will There Be Wifi Available on Safari?

Yes. You’ll enjoy all the modern amenities you’d expect of a quality travel experience while on your safari holiday. Just don’t expect wifi while out on actual safari, but you won't be on your phone anyway, you'll be scouting for the big 5.

Are These Best African Safaris Suitable for Families?

Whatever age you are, the prospect of seeing the big 5 promises pure excitement. Families with children will need to make sure parental/guardian supervision is available at all times, but there is no reason families cannot be brought on your trip. As already covered, the best African safaris are very safe. 

What Happens if I Go on Safari Out of Season?

Animals (including the big 5) are present here year-round, but in the offseason they’re more spread out, harder to spot and may migrate to other regions of Africa - or at least other nearby national parks. Travelling in the offseason doesn’t mean you’ll see nothing, but with some parks closed and lodges shut down until peak season, you risk a disappointing experience. The dry season is often the best time to go on a safari, whether in Southern Africa or East Africa. If your dream is to encounter the big 5, or the other 5 to make your top 10, then picking the right dates helps secure your chances.

What Are My Chances of Seeing Big Wild Animals?

First timers might be concerned about their chances of actually seeing the big 5 and other animals, like rare big cats and black rhino. If you travel in the peak season, you’re pretty much guaranteed to see almost all, if not all, of the top 10 most sought after African animals list earlier. These destinations have made it onto this list of the best safaris in Africa for a reason: there is an abundance of wildlife here. 

What Vaccinations Will I Need?

You’ll want to take anti-malaria medication no matter which country you visit, but this is not required. You will have to have a yellow fever vaccination in order to enter Africa and go on safari. These are not optional for game viewing and are required for entry to stop the spread.

Will I Need a VISA for Travel?

This depends on the country. Tourists visiting for less than 90 days do not need a VISA for Botswana or South Africa, but you must acquire one for travel to Tanzania. 

What Food Will Be Available While on African Safari?

Safari lodges are well known to travellers for their excellent meals and buffet-style options. You’ll be treated to all sorts of local cuisine, including game such as warthog and impala. Vegetarians and vegans needn’t fear though, as there are plenty of plant-based choices available, although it’s often a good idea to notify lodges and guides ahead of time. Rates of veganism and vegetarianism are low in local populations, so it’s not often anticipated that visitors will have these kinds of diets. It won’t be a problem, but it’s good practice to keep hosts informed. 

Do I Need to Learn the Language? 

No. Simple phrases are always appreciated as a token gesture, but this is more for cultural connectivity than anything. These locations are famed for being the best African safari destinations on the continent and attract many thousands of tourists annually. The trade here is tourism, which means that businesses are tailored to foreign hospitality. In short, anyone working in the tourism industry is going to speak English well. 

Should I Pack Light?

Lodges have ample space for your clothes and possessions, but be aware that if you fly into the parks via light aircraft that you’ll have luggage restrictions of around 10-15kg per person, much smaller than the usual 30kg suitcase.