The Best Safari Locations in the World

On the top of many people’s bucket lists, is an adventurous African safari. It’s one of the best opportunities to immerse yourself in nature and one of the most memorable travel experiences anyone can possibly have. Of course, the appeal of exploring cities in Europe and laying on a beach in the Caribbean is understandable, but those who have experienced a safari say it can be one of life’s biggest thrills, particularly if you like animals.

Sadly, species like the African elephant, African lion, Cape buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros are endangered, with poachers mindlessly hunting these beautiful creatures and harming their respective populations in the process. If watching these amazing animals in documentaries brings you joy and or if you like venturing into the wilds of Africa with Safari King, rest assured there are a number of protected national parks and game reserves that house these magnificent animals.

While on safari, there is no guarantee that you’ll see each and every animal in the park, but the guides will certainly do their best to make sure that you do. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best safari locations in the world. 

Kruger National Park – South Africa

South Africa is the go-to option for many people embarking on a safari adventure. Located in northeastern South Africa, Kruger National Park is one of the world’s best safari locations. The oldest and most iconic park in South Africa, this destination covers a huge two million hectares of land and is home to some of the world’s most amazing wildlife, including lions, rhinos, impala, buffalo, zebra, as well as elephants.

While in South Africa, check out the Karongwe Game Reserve in Limpopo. Only 45 minutes from Kruger National Park, this reserve is 9,000 hectares of unspoiled wilderness and is one of the best places to see leopards.

Maasai Mara National Reserve – Kenya

Located in Kenya, just over the border of the Serengeti, the Maasai Mara National Reserve is easily one of the best and most desirable safari destinations on the planet. Not only is it one of the most famous safari locations, but it also plays a big role in wildlife conservation and research. At the reserve, you can make use of their viewing platforms, as well as venture out to spot crocodiles, hippos, giraffes, lions, elephants, and more.

Chobe National Park – Botswana

Chobe National Park in Botswana is the place to see a wide variety of elephants. The park has over 100,000 of them, most of which are Kalahari elephants. You can even enjoy the elephants and the savannah on a Chobe River cruise. In addition to elephants, this park contains many buffalo, lions, leopards, and a diverse population of birds. Come visit Chobe, one of the best safari locations, from August to October during the dry season for best views.

Etosha National Park – Namibia

The Etosha National Park in Namibia is another popular safari location. What makes this park unique is that it has a huge salt pan, large enough to see from space. This salt pan is a hollow depression in the ground that fills with water when it rains. After the water evaporates, what’s left in the depression are salt deposits. Wildlife in the park often gather around the waterholes. While here, keep an eye out for African bush elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, hyenas, and zebras.

Ngorongoro Crater – Tanzania

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. Located within this conservation area is the world’s largest inactive and most intact volcanic crater. This crater contains the world’s highest density of lions. Dazzling landscapes can be seen here, including highland plains, savannah, and forests. Over 25,000 animals live in the Ngorongoro Crater, and if you’re fortunate, you can see the endangered black rhinos. Also living here are hippos, flocks of flamingos, cheetahs, buffalo, zebras, wildebeests, gazelles, and spotted hyenas.

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If a safari is next on your travel agenda, there are plenty of options and locations to find the best one for you and your group. Hopefully, this guide to the best safari locations can help you plan your next epic outing!

Happy Travels!

Julie