WHERE’S THE BEST PLACE TO GO ON SAFARI?
When it comes to memorable travel, a South African safari consistently ranks as one of the top bucket-list destinations in the world.
As such, it’s a must-do travel experience for any intrepid traveller, or anyone with an inner wanderlust that needs to be quenched! However, in order to get the best out of your safari holiday, it takes careful planning and some insider knowledge – better still if you can go with a local guide.
Whether it’s your first or fifth time on safari, this feature covers all the essentials to help you make the right choice on where to go.
Africa – Home of the Wild
It’s universally agreed, that Africa is the best safari destination in the world. Home to a diverse ecosystem and exotic wildlife (including the big five animals), vast stretches of savanna, and glorious sunshine – it’s a year-round destination enjoyed by 30 million tourists annually.
However, with so much choice, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Therefore, we’ve highlighted four of the best safari holidays, that are all-round crowd pleasers. From the call of Kenya, to the crib of Kruger, your ‘out of Africa’ experience awaits you!
With an abundance of wildlife, breathtaking backdrops and scenery guaranteed to make sure you fall in love with the country, you won’t be disappointed with whatever destination you choose to visit.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
When you think of classic safari holidays, Kruger National Park is what comes to mind. This truly magical setting is home to more species of large mammal than any other African game reserve. For photographs, for selfies, for just marvelling at the beauty of the world and the animals that inhabit it – Kruger has it all.
At 2 million hectares, it’s also one of the largest national parks on the planet. Nonetheless, it remains very welcoming to visitors, well equipped with a host of lodgings for every kind of guest. As such, it’s ideal for first-timers and well-travelled explorers alike.
Due to its popularity, authentic experiences can be hard to come by in Kruger – one exception, however, is The Wild Insight Safari Company.
Offering a non-prescriptive Greater Kruger national park tour, local guide and man of the bush, Graham Cooke, takes you on a unique journey, determined by the ‘signs of the wild’; meaning that no-two experiences are the same.
There’s nothing quite like Kruger game, so expect to rub tusks with the Big 5, as well lions and leopards, elephants and buffalos in this sprawling other-worldly land. It’s an assault on all the senses, offering a memorable and highly sensory experience that you can make your own.
If you want to really explore the depths of Kruger National Park; from its Crocodile Rivers to the great outback, then the eight-day Rondavel Camp trek is not to be missed. Or for a more intimate experience, the Wilderness Camp option provides luxurious trappings within authentic settings. If you always wanted to stay in Meru-style tents and be at one with nature this is the best way to immerse yourself in bush life.
When to visit:
Although this is a year-round destination, Kruger National Park weather can be rainy between November and March, so it’s best to avoid these months.
Sabi Sands, South Africa
Bordering Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands is made for those who want luxurious safari without the crowds. Staying in high-end lodgings, you’ll enjoy all the trappings of five-star living within very rural confines. That said, since there’s no border between here and Kruger Park, the wild animals frequently roam from site to site, so expect to see plenty of distractions on your visit!
Conservation is high on the agenda here, with the chance for extraordinary close encounters with the big five animals and great African wildlife roaming free and protected. As such, this South African safari adventure is especially popular with wildlife enthusiasts, bird watchers and photographers, all vying to capture a moment in time.
The Sabi Sands is also noted for one animal in particular; the leopard. If you’re a fan of the giant cat, there are dedicated tours where you can get up close and personal with four-footed friends of all types; from lions to hyenas, leopards to cheetahs.
If you’re looking for the best safari in the world within comforting settings, Sabi Sands is for you.
When to visit:
As with Kruger National Park, the best time to visit is between April and October.
The Maasai Mara, Kenya
You’ve seen it on television and film, and read about it in books. The northern stretch of Tanzania’s Serengeti is one of the most captivating destinations for the big five and much more. Expect to see every wild animal, from hippos to buffalo, elephants to zebras, and of course the resident big cat’s native to this region. It’s one of the most popular Kenya safari holidays for good reason.
You may also have the opportunity to meet the local Maasai people, many of the local tribes host tours of their villages for a small fee. This is a great way to learn more about their fascinating culture and lifestyle, bordering the breathtaking backdrop of African safari.
When to visit:
The most popular time to visit is between June and October, you will also get the chance to see the spectacular wildebeest migration during these months too. However, be prepared that it gets extremely busy with tourists during peak season.
Moremi and Khwai, Botswana
Safari in Botswana is as original as it comes. This is the place to visit for an unforgettable trip of a lifetime. But, it’s not for the faint of heart, and therefore best reserved for those that enjoy getting off the beaten track. Here you will experience nature face-to-face, quite typically on a 4X4 self-drive.
For that reason, it’s best to take a well-organised trip with an experienced team. Camping out under the stars is not to be missed. The gentle sounds of the big five whipping past, serve to remind you of the privileged setting you find yourself in.
During the day, tours cover the many spots to explore. This ranges from the tropical Mopane woodland, to great game areas such as Black Pools – popular with bird watchers. At Third Bridge, you’ll co-exist with lions and baboons, before heading up to Xakanaxa – an original bush camp in the heart of Moremi Game reserve. It’s also voted as one of the best spots for wildlife viewing in the region.
Experience Africa as it was meant – raw and unfiltered, with a trip to Botswana.
When to visit:
The best time to come is between May and September.
Your Safari Adventure Awaits
There are so many good reasons to book a safari holiday. The opportunity to see wild animals in their natural habitat, the unique experience of sleeping under the stars – or in remote lodgings, and the chance to get back to nature in the most beautiful surroundings. The sights, smells and sounds, all come to life before your eyes, making a South African safari one of the most memorable trips you’ll ever take.
From the diversity of wild animals in Kruger National Park tours, to the rugged terrain and close encounters of Botswana, to the charm and culture of the Masaai Mara. These are just some of the best safari holidays, suitable for every kind of traveller.