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If you’re considering your first safari, the options across the African continent can be overwhelming.
There are many factors to weigh when deciding to take this long-haul trip to far-flung, yet thrilling wildlife destinations like Botswana, South Africa or Tanzania – from reliable flight connectivity to levels of tourism infrastructure coupled with efficient safety and security measures.
Luckily, Discover Africa’s seasoned travel advisors know a thing or two about the top safari destinations ideal for first-timers. These Africa-based travel consultants have over 60 years of collective experience and specialise in crafting personalised safari experiences –with 24/7 support.
Here, they share their expert recommendations of where to go for your first trip to Africa – from locations offering exceptional wildlife experiences, unexpected depth of cultural richness, and spectacular landscapes that leave unforgettable memories to last a lifetime.
READ: Africa’s Top National Parks, as Rated by Safari Travellers
Your Best Introduction to Africa
Antoinette van Heerden considers “South Africa the ideal destination for first-time travellers. It offers a variety of world-class experiences, from renowned safaris to vibrant beaches and city escapes, all at excellent value due to the favourable exchange rate.”
“You couldn’t ask for a better introduction to Africa,” adds Antoinette.
See it as an “ease into” the African safari experience type of destination, adds Susan Veldman, ” Where high-end yet affordable safari lodges offer a high level of comfort and amenities. Even the four-star lodges offer superb accommodation, activities, and game viewing.”
Devryn Panaino agrees, stating,” South Africa is well developed for tourism. Additionally, there are so many options to choose from. It’s not as rushed a safari destination as some other countries. Our private reserves have been set up to allow safari goers to get up close and personal with a wide variety of wildlife.”
“The wildlife viewing is also some of the best in the world. You’ll have a high chance of ticking off most of, if not all of the wildlife they want to see,” adds Panaino.
For Matthys Van Aswagen, witnessing the Great Migration in Kenya tops the list for travellers new to the safari scene: “Check off a bucket-list experience if it’s your first time. The Great Migration in Kenya is well-established for solo and group travellers.”
For Adelle Bell, the elephant herds in the Manyoni Game Reserve and dramatic Mara River crossings in Tanzania are unforgettable moments any first-time safari-goer can appreciate.
“Consider booking your safari during the green season,” adds Bell. “Not only are prices more affordable, but you’ll also witness the calving season, when many animals give birth. This offers a unique opportunity to see baby animals and predators in action.”
READ: Safari Calendar: Choose the Best Time to Go
Diana Du Plessis adds a more off-the-beaten-path recommendation: “Having recently returned from Zimbabwe, I believe destinations like Mana Pools and Hwange are ideal for first-time visitors.”
“This Southern African safari standout might be less well-known, but it offers truly wild and authentic safari experiences.”
Another lesser-explored destination that could work for first-time safari travellers looking for something a bit different is Namibia, according to Megan Warrington.
“I’ve travelled to several top safari destinations and understood that you don’t need to be in the more popular parks. Wildlife moves freely between the protected reserves and concession areas. Rather visit the parks that do not allow as many day visitors and enjoy the freedom of spending time at a sighting and going off-road,” says Megan.
“Southern Africa offers excellent destinations for first-time travellers to Africa, adds Vihann van Wyk. “The private concessions in this region offer a high chance of seeing the Big Five and a more exclusive and personalised safari experience.”
Based on these travel experts’ insights, here’s what you need to know the top five safari destinations, highly recommend for first-time safari travellers:
1. South Africa: Kruger National Park
Why It’s Perfect for First-Timers: South Africa’s Kruger National Park is perhaps the best-known safari destination globally.
It combines modern infrastructure with outstanding wildlife sightings. Antoinette further explains that the variety of experiences, from affordable lodges to luxury camps, makes South Africa especially appealing to newcomers.
What Makes it Unique: Kruger offers the chance to see the Big Five in an easy-to-navigate environment.
A visit to Kruger can easily be combined with a city escape in Cape Town or a scenic trip along the Garden Route.
What to Expect: Excellent chances of seeing lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalo. Walking safaris and cultural excursions provide further enrichment.
2. Kenya: Maasai Mara
Why It’s Perfect for First-Timers: If seeing the Great Migration is on your bucket list, Kenya’s Maasai Mara should be your first stop. Kenya is the ultimate destination for this once-in-a-lifetime experience, adds Matthys.
What Makes it Unique: The annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles across the Mara River is an iconic African safari event. Beyond the migration, Kenya offers a blend of rich wildlife, including lions and cheetahs, and rich cultural encounters with the Maasai people.
What to Expect: Thrilling game drives during the migration season, visits to Maasai villages, and even hot air balloon rides over the Mara River.
3. Tanzania: Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater
Why It’s Perfect for First-Timers: Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater are a natural extension for travellers interested in migration or exploring East Africa’s natural landscapes. These parks provide some of the most varied wildlife experiences on the continent, making them perfect for first-timers.
What Makes it Unique: The Serengeti is famous for its endless plains and impressive diversity of animals, while the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to dense wildlife populations in a relatively small area.
What to Expect: Jaw-dropping views of the Great Migration, year-round Big Five game drives, and opportunities to combine a safari with a beach break on the exotic islands of Zanzibar.
4. Botswana: Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park
Why It’s Perfect for First-Timers: Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park provide some of Africa’s most exclusive and intimate safari experiences. Matthys emphasises that Botswana is a haven for those seeking quieter, more luxurious wildlife encounters.
What Makes it Unique: The Okavango Delta offers water-based safaris, where you can explore the wetlands by canoe or boat. Chobe National Park is famous for its large elephant herds and incredible biodiversity.
What to Expect: A blend of land and water safaris, privacy, and exceptional views of Africa’s wildlife in some of its most unspoiled environments.
5. Zimbabwe: Hwange and Mana Pools
Why It’s Perfect for First-Timers: Zimbabwe is often overlooked, but according to Diana, it offers some of the most authentic and untamed safari experiences. Hwange National Park and Mana Pools are less crowded and provide a more intimate, adventurous safari.
What Makes it Unique: Hwange is home to large elephant herds and offers incredible game viewing, while Mana Pools is known for its walking safaris along the Zambezi River. Together, these destinations provide diverse landscapes and immersive wildlife encounters.
What to Expect: Fewer tourists, opportunities for walking safaris, and pristine views of wildlife from the banks of the Zambezi.
Need some added insights before your make your final decision? Reach out to our expert team and they can help tailor your safari expectations into a world-class experience.
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Author: Alice Lombard
Published: 21 October 2024
Last Update: 22 October 2024