East Africa Safari

Between August and November each year, Kenya’s world-famous Masai Mara reserve hosts the region’s magnificent wildebeest migration, but it also has one of the most diversified permanent animal populations.

The Amboseli and Samburu wildlife parks are two of Kenya’s most popular safari destinations. Kenya is a great place to visit if you want to see giraffes up close at Giraffe Manor, hot air balloon over the Masai Mara or just to see some of the best game reserves in the world.

Nairobi National Park has a diverse range of species, including lions, African leopards, elephants, cheetahs, eastern black rhinos, cape buffalo, coke’s hartebeest, hippo, giraffe, zebra, and baboons.

When it comes to a safari in East Africa, Rwanda is truly unique.  Fly into Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, and you’ll be in the verdant wonderland of the Volcanoes National Park, the rainforest home to numerous mountain gorilla families, a great area for gorilla trekking.

Volcanoes National Park has six active and three dead volcanoes, it’s breathtakingly gorgeous, and it’s home to the nearly extinct mountain gorilla. The latter is the park’s main draw, but this Rwandan part of the Virunga Massif, which crosses the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, offers many additional trekking routes to explore, even if you aren’t looking for gorillas. You could see indigenous golden monkeys, forest elephants, or buffalo if you look for them.

Nyungwe National Park is East Africa’s biggest expanse of tropical rainforest, covering over 1,000km2 and home to a massive population of chimps, as well as Ruwenzori colobus and L’Hoest’s monkeys. There are also 130 kilometres of hiking paths of various lengths. The Igishigishigi Trail is the shortest and goes to East Africa’s tallest canopy walk, while the Bigugu Trail climbs to the park’s namesake highest peak at 2,950m.

The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara, Tanzania’s most famous safari destinations, are all conveniently close to each other on the ‘Northern Safari Circuit,’ and, together with Tarangire, provide some of Africa’s greatest Big 5 game watching and wildebeest migration safaris.

Southern Tanzania is less well-known, although it has some of the best game reserves in the world, including Ruaha, Selous, and Katavi. The unique Mahale Mountains around Lake Tanganyika are intriguing for an off-the-beaten-path adventure into the bush, with woods full of chimpanzees and magnificent clouds of butterflies. Other places you can visit chimpanzees include Gombe Stream which also ranks among the finest places to track charismatic apes anywhere in Africa.

Mountain gorillas can be found in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Because of a new partnership between local people, national parks, and visitors trekking to see gorillas, the number of gorillas is increasing.

Gorilla trekking is one of Africa’s most unique and remarkable experiences: see wild gorillas in their native environment, with no fences or any human interference other than mild acclimatization to human presence in the jungle.

Uganda is also a well-known bird-watching location, having a diverse range of exotic migratory and resident species. It provides the greatest on-foot chimp interactions in Africa at Kibale Forest, as well as unusual combo safaris in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks with big game and big primates.

East Africa is a mosaic of spectacular landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. 

From the iconic savannahs of the Serengeti to the lush forests of Uganda and the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, this region offers an array of experiences that cater to every traveller’s desires. Here are the top destinations to explore in East Africa.

1. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The Serengeti is synonymous with safari and is one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife reserves, covering approximately 14,750 square kilometres. 

Famous for the Great Migration, the park’s endless plains are home to an incredible array of wildlife, including over 70 large mammal species and 500 bird species. Thrilling game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and the Serengeti Visitor Centre provide insights into the park’s ecology. The Kopjes, rocky outcrops, serve as vantage points for predators.

• Unique Facts: The Serengeti hosts the largest terrestrial mammal migration in the world, involving over 1.5 million wildebeest and 250,000 zebras.

2. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Adjoining the Serengeti, the Maasai Mara is renowned for its exceptional populations of lions, leopards, and cheetahs, and the annual migration of wildebeest and zebras. 

Spanning 1,510 square kilometres, the reserve also hosts over 95 species of mammals and 570 recorded bird species. Cultural tours with the Maasai people and luxury camping experiences add to its allure. The Mara River offers dramatic views of river crossings during the migration.

• Unique Facts: The Maasai Mara is named after the Maasai people and the Mara River, which traverses the reserve.

3. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera, spanning 260 square kilometres with a depth of 610 metres. This haven for wildlife offers spectacular scenery. The crater floor teems with hippos, elephants, and a variety of bird species, while the Olduvai Gorge reveals rich archaeological history.

• Unique Facts: The crater supports a dense population of wildlife, including a resident population of over 25,000 large animals.

4. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

This UNESCO World Heritage Site covers 321 square kilometres and is known for its gorilla trekking experiences, providing one of the most poignant wildlife encounters in Africa. Dense forests house mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and colobus monkeys, with Buhoma Village offering cultural insights. Bwindi also features over 200 species of butterflies and 350 bird species.

• Unique Facts: Bwindi is home to almost half of the world’s mountain gorillas and offers a sanctuary for many other species.

5. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, rises to 5,895 metres and is a bucket-list destination for trekkers and adventurers. The mountain’s slopes host unique flora and fauna, including the Kilimanjaro tree hyrax, and the trek to the summit passes through five distinct climate zones.

• Unique Facts: Kilimanjaro’s unique geography includes five distinct climate zones, from tropical rainforest to arctic summit.

6. Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large elephant herds characterise Amboseli, which spans 392 square kilometres. The park’s swamps attract a variety of birdlife, including pelicans and kingfishers, with Observation Hill offering panoramic vistas.

• Unique Facts: Amboseli is one of the best places in Africa to get close to free-ranging elephants.

7. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Renowned for its mountain gorilla population and cultural history linked to Dian Fossey, this park covers 160 square kilometres of lush, mountainous landscape hosting a variety of bird species and opportunities for golden monkey tracking and volcano hikes.

• Unique Facts: Volcanoes National Park is part of the Virunga Conservation Area, spanning three countries and housing a significant number of the world’s gorillas.

8. Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya

Known for its flamingo populations and diverse ecosystems, Lake Nakuru covers 188 square kilometres and is a paradise for birdwatchers. The park also shelters lions, leopards, Rothschild giraffes, and one of Kenya’s largest rhino sanctuaries.

• Unique Facts: The park is home to over 450 bird species, making it a premier birdwatching destination.

9. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar, an archipelago with stunning beaches and rich Swahili culture, offers both relaxation and adventure. Historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spans 2.32 square kilometres and is known for its unique blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences. The island’s spice plantations produce cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and pepper, contributing to its historical significance in the spice trade.

• Unique Facts: Zanzibar’s Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its unique blend of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences.

10. Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

This diverse park covers 1,978 square kilometres and features varied landscapes, from savannas to wetlands, and is home to tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector, chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge, and over 600 bird species along the Kazinga Channel.

• Unique Facts: Queen Elizabeth National Park boasts one of the highest biodiversity ratings of any game reserve in the world.

11. Tsavo National Park, Kenya

Famous for its red elephants and diverse landscapes, Tsavo is one of Kenya’s oldest and largest parks, covering 21,000 square kilometres. The park’s arid regions host unique species such as the gerenuk and the fringe-eared oryx.

• Unique Facts: Tsavo East and Tsavo West are divided by a railway and are known for their unique red-coloured elephants, which get their colour from the park’s red volcanic soil.

12. Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania

One of Africa’s largest game reserves, Selous spans 50,000 square kilometres and offers an exclusive safari experience with diverse habitats supporting a variety of wildlife, including African wild dogs, lions, and hippos.

• Unique Facts: The Selous is larger than Switzerland and is home to one of the largest populations of African wild dogs.

13. Akagera National Park, Rwanda

This park is a conservation success story, featuring savannas, wetlands, and lakes. Covering 1,122 square kilometres, Akagera’s varied landscapes provide habitats for elephants, lions, and hippos, with Lake Ihema showcasing abundant birdlife.

• Unique Facts: Akagera has seen the reintroduction of lions and rhinos, making it a Big Five park once again.

14. Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

Known for its large elephant herds and baobab trees, Tarangire covers 2,850 square kilometres and is a lesser-known gem in Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. The Tarangire River attracts a variety of wildlife, especially during the dry season.

• Unique Facts: Tarangire has the highest concentration of elephants in Tanzania and over 550 bird species.

15. Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania

Famous for its tree-climbing lions and diverse habitats, Lake Manyara covers 330 square kilometres and is a birdwatcher’s paradise with thousands of flamingos and other bird species thriving in its lush forests and alkaline soda lakes.

• Unique Facts: The park’s hot springs add a unique element to the diverse ecosystems found here.

16. Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda

Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, Murchison Falls, covers 3,840 square kilometres and is known for the powerful Murchison Falls where the Nile River surges through a narrow gorge. The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and the rare shoebill stork.

• Unique Facts: The falls are named after Sir Roderick Murchison, President of the Royal Geographical Society.

Each of these destinations offers unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable adventure in East Africa.

A fairly new activity, camelback riding is an incredible experience. Camelback safaris take place in northern Kenya’s Laikipia county. These gentle creatures have a soft nature as they quietly stroll through the arid landscape. This mode of transport was used by the Arab traders and has filtered down to northern Kenya’s Samburu and Turkana tribes. 

It’s the place where much of the world’s Java’s come from, and you can be part of it. East Africa is renowned for its high altitude and therefore good coffee-growing areas. Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda, specifically, have big coffee and tea plantations working to their full capacity. The growing of coffee is both intricate and interesting and it is the perfect activity to do on arrival and or departure. 

Any time of the year is a good time to explore the fascinating world that thrives below the surface of Africa’s lengthy and beautiful coastline. The coastline of Africa is very long and very interesting. These destinations hold an incredible number of water-based activities. Diving and snorkelling are just two of the many ways to explore and discover the fascinating and beautiful marine life and corals of these alluring waters.

Breath in the aromas of the bush and feel the breeze in your hair during an adventure on horseback. Horseback safaris are one of the best ways to get close to the bush without being on foot. The freedom of riding a horse across the plains is absolutely exhilarating. While the more adventurous can enjoy several days of safari on horseback, those that are strapped for time can take a quick, half-day ride in the vicinity of the camp or lodge. Because horses aren’t seen as a threat, antelope and even animals, like lions and elephant, get much closer than they would to a group during a safari on foot.

Follow the trail of the sultans, slaves and explorers in the winding streets of Stone Town. Learn all about the events that shaped Zanzibar, from the excellent guides that lead the tours of Stone Town. Walk-in between the buildings where history shaped the city and visit the former Slave Market, the Anglican Cathedral, the House of Wonders, the Sultans’ Palace Museum and the Old Arab Fort and Dispensary.

Because East Africa is one of the most popular safari destinations in the world, there is a wide range of options to suit most budgets. However, costs are often higher than in southern Africa due to two-tiered charging for tourists and locals within national parks. A safari in Kenya, on the other hand, provides excellent value for money budget safari possibilities.

Our luxury safaris allow you to see and enjoy the best national parks East Africa has to offer! Our East Africa trips are jam-packed with exciting activities, luxurious accommodations, and incredible wildlife. Spend your luxury safari tracking enormous herds of animals in the Masai Mara or visiting the Laikipia regions to see the snow-capped Mount Kenya. East Africa has a lot to offer, for all types of safari lovers.

Unfortunately, as you may already know, cheap safaris are hard to come by. This is where our affordable safari tours and packages come in handy. Discover Africa offers authentic and affordable safari itineraries in Kenya, Tanzania and much more. You won’t miss out on any of East Africa’s greatest experiences either, with destinations like the Ngorongoro Crater, Masai Mara and the Serengeti, included on our tours.

On this safari, you’ll look for big cats, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, servals, and, if you’re lucky, caracals. Expect to witness predator-prey interaction as well. The world’s two most significant big cat reserves, Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara, provide the highest concentration of big cats in Africa.

Everyone who goes on a safari in East Africa for the first time wants to see the oh-so-famous “Big Five”. Luckily, there are a lot of parks and reserves to choose from! Kenya’s Masai Mara, Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, South Africa’s Kruger National Park and Botswana’s Okavango Delta are just a few of the lot.

East Africa is home to some of the world’s most unique bird species, several of which are only found locally. Among Africa’s top four birding safari locations are Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, which have the largest number of bird species reported in the continent.

The ideal way to spend quality time with a loved one is in the wide outdoors of Africa’s huge open spaces, far from the crowds. These safari spots provide a romantic setting for a safari honeymoon in East Africa. Indulge in the ultimate African bush experience, whether you’re commemorating a milestone anniversary or savoring your first moments as husband and wife.

Great Migration safaris put you in the perfect position at the right time to follow the Great Wildebeest Migration’s journey through East Africa. For migration safaris, July to September are often the ideal months to visit. Seeing the legendary wildebeest river crossings and predator interactions that go along with this famous fast-paced trek are much more likely when traveling along both sides of the great Mara River on your Safari.

If you have an interest in East Africa’s primates, birds and culture, this journey is for you. See the endangered mountain gorilla in both Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi Forest, spend a full day with the chimpanzees at Kibale, track golden monkeys in Mgahinga, see plains game in Queen Elizabeth National Park and the tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha plains, go on a boat cruise on the Kazinga channel and experience the genocide memorial in Kigali.

When you go on safari in East Africa you may expect to see hills, massive rift valleys, and volcanoes. Mountain climbing and hiking are also popular activities in all three countries. These locations will show you the stunning Rwenzori Mountains, Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya, which are ideal for an adventure. Hiking up the volcanoes of East Africa is an unforgettable experience that should be experienced by all thrillseekers.

When it comes to discovering the African wilderness, nothing beats a walking safari in East Africa. Because many East African lodges are located in privately owned reserves and conservancies, visitors may enjoy naturalist-led short treks around camp. Aside from Tanzania’s Serengeti and Tarangire national parks, Kenya’s Masai Mara is also an excellent location for a walking safari.

Family safari tours in East Africa offer a variety of exciting activities in luxurious lodges that are ideal for family holidays. There are also several attractions to appeal to all ages, including children, parents, grandparents, and even teens. A safari is an excellent opportunity for families to bond and for children to learn about animals, ecology, and new cultures in a fun and safe environment.

Amboseli National Park, the Maasai Mara, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti Plains are ideal destinations for solo travelers looking for a classic safari experience. These unique environments are home to some of the world’s most spectacular animal spectacles. If you want to see the Big Five or the wildebeest migration, a solo safari in East Africa is the way to go.

East Africa is home to hundreds of languages. Swahili is the primary language spoken in Tanzania, Kenya, and to a lesser extent Uganda. In all but the most distant locations, however, English is commonly spoken. Kinyarwanda, French, and English are the three primary languages spoken in Rwanda.

Kenya: The currency used in Kenya is the Kenyan shilling.

Tanzania: The currency used in Kenya is the Tanzanian shilling.

Uganda: The currency used in Uganda is the Uganda shilling.

Rwanda: The currency used in Rwanda is the Rwandan franc.

World-class hotels or game lodges are found in safari destinations like Kenya and Tanzania. Whereas, upmarket accommodation in Uganda and Rwanda is a bit more limited. Budget travellers are also well catered for throughout East Africa. To do mobile camping in special remote campsites in the wilderness of East Africa is definitely one of the best experiences for all Africa enthusiasts.

East Africa is home to gorillas, Nile crocodiles, hippos, rhinos, zebras, wildebeests, and gazelles, and is known for its incredible diversity of wildlife crammed into stunning versatile landscapes. Don’t forget about the huge big cat variety, such as; lions, leopards, cheetahs and much more.

East Africa is a year-round destination, offering special encounters with gorillas in Rwanda, witnessing the annual Great Migration across Tanzania or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Kenya. 

This comprehensive guide will help you understand the region’s climate and seasonal pattern, giving you insight into the best times to visit East Africa, detailing high and low seasons, dry and wet seasons, and a month-by-month breakdown of what you can expect.

Here’s what you need to know to start planning your trip. 

High vs. Low Season

East Africa’s high season, from June to October, offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities, thanks to clear skies and minimal rainfall. 

During this period, animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. The Great Migration’s dramatic river crossings in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara occur during these months, drawing large numbers of tourists. 

The high season is ideal for safaris, but be prepared for higher prices and more crowded parks.

Conversely, the low season, from March to May, is marked by the long rains. While travel can be more challenging due to muddy roads and thicker vegetation, this period offers lush, green landscapes and fewer tourists. 

Birdwatching is exceptional, with migratory species arriving in droves. The low season also provides better value for money, with reduced rates on accommodations and tours.

Dry vs. Wet Season

The dry seasons, from January to February and June to October, are characterized by sunny days and cool nights, providing excellent conditions for wildlife viewing. 

Animals gather around dwindling water sources, making game drives particularly rewarding. The dry season is also ideal for activities such as gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, as trails are less slippery.

The wet seasons, from March to May (long rains) and November to December (short rains), transform the landscapes into vibrant green vistas. While wildlife may be more dispersed, the scenery is stunning, and birdwatching is at its peak. 

The rains bring new life, with many animals giving birth, leading to plenty of predator-prey interactions. Despite the occasional downpours, the wet seasons offer a more tranquil and immersive experience.

Month-to-Month Guide

January falls within the short dry season, making it an excellent time for wildlife viewing across East Africa. With average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C and minimal rainfall, it’s perfect for game drives in the Serengeti, Maasai Mara, and Ngorongoro Crater. The Great Migration starts in the Southern Serengeti, where wildebeest calving attracts numerous predators. Birdwatching in Lake Nakuru is also superb. This month offers clear skies and vibrant landscapes, providing ideal conditions for photography.

February sees the start of the short dry season, offering comfortable weather and excellent game viewing. Average temperatures hover between 20°C and 30°C with clear skies. This is an ideal time for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Volcanoes National Park. In the Serengeti, the calving season persists, providing thrilling predator sightings. February is also a good month for visiting Zanzibar for a beach holiday, combining wildlife with relaxation.

March marks the beginning of the long rains towards the latter part of the month. Early March remains favourable for safaris with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The Great Migration moves towards the western Serengeti. Cultural tours and visiting local communities offer enriching experiences during this time. Despite the rains, wildlife is still abundant, and birdwatching is exceptional as migratory birds arrive.

April is characterised by long rains, leading to lush landscapes and challenging travel conditions. Temperatures average between 20°C and 28°C. This is a great time for photography and birdwatching as migratory birds arrive. Wildlife viewing can be more challenging due to dispersed animals, but the vibrant scenery is rewarding. The rains also rejuvenate the landscape, making it a beautiful time to visit parks like Tarangire and Selous.

May brings the long rains, creating vibrant landscapes with fewer tourists. Average temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C. Birdwatching and exploring less crowded parks are recommended. The Serengeti and Tarangire National Park offer beautiful scenery and excellent photographic opportunities despite the rains. May is also a good time for visiting Uganda’s parks for a more serene experience.

June ushers in the long dry season with cooler temperatures and clear skies, ranging from 15°C to 26°C. This is the beginning of the Great Migration’s journey towards the Grumeti River in the Serengeti. Game drives, gorilla trekking, and exploring the Great Rift Valley are highly recommended. The dry season also makes it easier to spot wildlife as they gather around water sources.

July is part of the long dry season, providing prime conditions for safaris. Temperatures average between 15°C and 26°C. The Great Migration’s river crossings at the Grumeti and Mara Rivers are highlights. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda remains excellent, with abundant wildlife sightings in major parks. July is also a good time for visiting Amboseli for stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

August weather hits the peak of the dry season, offering abundant wildlife sightings. Temperatures range from 15°C to 26°C. This is the best time for game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and cultural tours. The Maasai Mara showcases spectacular river crossings, while elephants, lions, and leopards are prevalent across parks. August also provides clear skies and perfect conditions for photographers.

September sees pleasant weather and exceptional wildlife viewing continue. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 28°C. The Great Migration remains in the Maasai Mara. This is also a great time for birdwatching and gorilla trekking, with fewer crowds in the parks. The clear skies and pleasant temperatures make it an ideal month for exploring East Africa’s national parks.

October sees the start of the short rains towards the end of the month, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. Early October is excellent for game viewing, birdwatching, and exploring cultural sites. The Great Migration begins its journey back to the Serengeti, offering exciting wildlife sightings. October’s rains rejuvenate the landscape, making it a picturesque time for photography.

November is characterised by short rains, bringing lush landscapes and fewer tourists. Temperatures average between 18°C and 28°C. This month is perfect for photography, birdwatching, and enjoying the tranquil parks. The Serengeti and Lake Manyara offer vibrant scenery and excellent bird watching opportunities. The rains create a dramatic contrast in the landscape, ideal for those seeking solitude and beauty.

December marks the end of the short rains and the start of the short dry season. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. This is an ideal time for game drives, beach holidays in Zanzibar, and cultural tours. The wildebeest calving season begins in the Serengeti, attracting predators and offering thrilling wildlife encounters. The festive season also adds a special charm to East Africa’s destinations.

East Africa’s dry seasons from June to October and January to February are ideal for exceptional wildlife viewing, particularly the Great Migration and prime game drives,

During these months, animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot, and clear skies provide perfect conditions for photography.

For those who appreciate lush, green landscapes, vibrant birdlife, and fewer tourists, the wet seasons from March to May and November to December offer unique advantages, with stunning scenery and abundant bird-watching opportunities. The low season also means more tranquil parks and better value for money. 

Whenever you decide to visit, East Africa promises unforgettable adventures and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Start planning your East Africa bucket-list adventure today.