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If you’re considering going on your first safari, the options across the African continent can be overwhelming.
There are many factors to consider when deciding to take this long-haul trip to far-flung yet thrilling wildlife destinations like Botswana, South Africa, or Tanzania — from 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!
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South Africa is the ideal destination for first-time travellers as 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.
“See it as an ‘ease into’ the African safari experience type of destination…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.” – Susan Veldman, Discover Africa Safari Expert
South Africa is well developed for tourism, as it has many options to choose from. South Africa’s private reserves allow you to get up close and personal with a variety of wildlife, with some of the best game viewing in the world. You’ll have a high chance of ticking off most, if not all, of the wildlife you want to see!
For Safari Expert Adelle Bell, the dramatic Mara River crossings in Tanzania are unforgettable moments any first-time safari-goer can appreciate. For a more affordable trip, Bell recommends booking during the green season. This is prime time for witnessing the births of thousands of baby wildebeest during calving season, offering a unique opportunity to see adorable baby animals and predators in action.
Diane 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.”
Based on our travel experts’ insights, here’s what you need to know about the top five safari destinations recommended 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. It offers a wide variety of experiences, from affordable lodges to luxury camps, making it especially appealing for a first-time safari.
What Makes it Unique: Kruger National Park offers the chance to see the Big Five in an easy-to-navigate environment. A visit to Kruger National Park can easily be combined with a city escape in Cape Town or a scenic trip along the Garden Route.
What to Expect: You’ll have excellent chances of seeing lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. Walking safaris and cultural excursions provide further enrichment.
2. Kenya: Masai Mara
Why It’s Perfect for First-Timers: If seeing the Great Migration is on your bucket list, Kenya’s Masai Mara should be your first stop. Kenya is the ultimate destination for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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 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, where you can witness wildebeest make their dramtic river crossing into crocodile-infested waters.
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 the Great 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. Botswana is a haven for those seeking quieter, more exclusive 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 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. 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, excellent opportunities for walking safaris, and pristine views of wildlife from the banks of the Zambezi.
Do you need some added insights before you 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: 4 March 2025