Best Safari Countries in Africa
A decision framework for picking the best safari country for your budget, interests, and travel window.
Quick picks
- First-time safari: Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa
- Self-drive: Namibia, South Africa
- High wildlife density: Tanzania (Serengeti), Kenya (Mara), Botswana (Okavango)
- Value-focused: South Africa, parts of Kenya/Tanzania shoulder seasons
How to choose
Start with dates. If your window is fixed, seasonality can narrow options. Next, decide whether you want a single flagship park or a multi-park circuit. Finally, align budget: internal flights and exclusive concessions increase costs quickly.
Country-by-country notes
- Kenya: Great Migration access, strong conservancy model, excellent for shorter trips.
- Tanzania: Iconic circuits (Serengeti + Ngorongoro), wide range of camp styles.
- South Africa: strong infrastructure and value; Kruger is a classic.
- Namibia: landscapes + self-drive; wildlife is more spread out.
- Botswana: premium, low-density tourism model; exceptional wilderness.
Related reading
Last updated: Feb 2026. We review this page periodically for seasonality, pricing, and policy changes.
Sources & references
We link to primary sources where possible (tourism boards, park authorities, and health agencies).