Are you on the hunt for an unforgettable trip? The charms of Africa have been romanced in movies, series, and even music throughout the whole world. If you have ever dreamed about adventuring like Tarzan, nowadays, you have many opportunities to do it. Africa is full of amazing national parks and game reserves, which are home to incredible wildlife.
Lions, leopards, rhinoceros – nothing prepares you for the moment when you stumble upon one of these majestic animals. Only then can you realize that we humans are just tiny dots in the world of wonders. For those searching for adventure travel options, African safaris will prove to be an excellent choice. In this article, we take a deeper look into the best places to go for wildlife sightings.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
The first on our list is the iconic, UNESCO-listed Serengeti National Park, which might be the most famous safari destination in the world. Here you have the unique opportunity to spot the big five and other fascinating animals like hyenas, zebra, giraffes, and, if you are lucky, even the African wild dog.
The national park, set in Tanzania's northern part, is known for having one of the oldest ecosystems on the planet. Interestingly, it hasn't changed much over the past million years.
Did you know the Serengeti is where you can see 'The Greatest Show on Earth?' That's right. We aren't talking about a new Netflix rom-com. Each year, millions of zebras, wildebeest, gazelle, and impala cross the Mara River with the goal of finding greener pastures. The Great Migration usually begins in July, when the heard journeys to Masai Mara in Kenya. Then, in autumn – October, and November – they head back to beautiful Tanzania.
The Great Migration is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, and it really is unlike anything you will ever experience in other places of the globe. If you wish to be a part of this magical occurrence, make sure to plan your custom adventure trip as early as possible because hotels and resorts fill out quickly. For this reason, a personal adventure tour planner can be of great advantage.
Okavango Delta, Botswana
Most adventurers decide to visit Tanzania or Kenya for safari adventures, which is why Botswana is often undeservedly left in the dust. Thankfully, that means fewer crowds for those who are wise enough to travel to the wonderful country.
In northern Botswana, you will find the Okavango Delta, which is famed for being among the world's largest inland river deltas. In the grassy plains, you will hear the roars of magnificent lions, cries of hungry hyenas, and the growls of majestic rhinos and giraffes. As you move into wetter pastures, you may catch a glimpse of crocodiles, hippos, and elephants.
There is a reason Botswana is considered one of the continent's most epic safari destinations. It is still quite unspoiled, and the diversity of wildlife is unmatched. Those who crave a unique experience will be intrigued to discover that in the Okavango Delta, it is possible to explore the area on a horse or elephant. This way, you get access to places that are difficult to reach by jeep.
Ranthambore Park, India
When you think of a safari, the first place that probably pops into your mind is Africa. But the truth is, you can find great places for admiring wildlife elsewhere in the world. For a different experience, head to Ranthambore Park in India. Here you won't stumble upon the famed big five. Instead, your main focus will be the tiger. The local guides seem to sniff out the glorious animal that's even miles away, so you are guaranteed to have an exotic adventure!
With the help of an adventure travel agent, you can book exclusive safari lodges that are excellent travel destinations themselves. Who said you couldn't explore safari in style?
Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda
Rwanda certainly is the hidden gem of Africa. With its stunning scenery, warm people, and extraordinary biodiversity, it offers some of the best adventure tours on the market. Have you ever trekked through a thick jungle looking out for gorillas? In Rwanda, you'll get to do it! But once you get tired of monkeying around, there are plenty of other options for wildlife sightings.
The country is also home to Akagera National Park, where you will stumble upon giraffes, elephants, hippos, and other fascinating animals. Our tip is to use a custom safari trip planner, so you can customize your adventure to your specific wishes.
Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
To understand the scale of Hwange National Park, you must take a look at the numbers. The largest nature reserve in Zimbabwe measures around 14,600 square kilometers. That's huge! Located in the northwest of the country, Hwange National Park allows you to get up close and personal to 100 mammal and 400 bird species.
If you are a fan of elephants, you will be pleased to know this national park has an exceptionally high number of these lovely animals, mainly thanks to successful breeding programs. Likewise, adventure travel enthusiasts will admire the fact there are dozens of camp areas available for all budgets.
Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
The list of the best safaris in the world wouldn't be imaginable without Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. Set in the southwest of the country, it has everything you might expect from a safari. After all – it's home to more than 98 species of mammals and 570 species of colorful birds. Maasai Mara National Reserve is a classic choice for those who hope to see the big five.
The best time to visit the reserve is between July and October. That is when the migration of wildebeest begins. Those adventurers who are more fond of big cats should consider heading to Kenya between December and February. Then you'll have a bigger chance of spotting them.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
It comes as no surprise South Africa is a favorite destination for many adventurers. The country can pride itself on with large diversity of landscapes, gorgeous beaches, and plenty of opportunities for having fun. It also has one of the continent's largest game reserves.
Kruger National Park is nestled in northeast South Africa. As you journey through its huge territory, you will spot more than 500 species of birds, 336 species of trees, 147 species of mammals, and so much more. Once you arrive, you will feel like you are in scenes of the Lion King. The fantastic mountain, tropical forest, and plain scenery make it even more special.
A personal adventure tour planner can help you figure out the best itinerary. Unlike other safaris, Kruger National Park is also great for self-guided tours. Therefore it will be an excellent pick for those who prefer independent adventure travel.
In today's world, we don't get many opportunities to slow down and get in touch with the earth. Heading on safari tours is one of the rare chances to experience true wilderness. Whether you decide to get up close to wildlife in Africa or India, there is no doubt you will make memories for the rest of your life.
With so many great safari destinations to choose from, making a decision for your next vacation can be confusing. So let the best adventure travel planner help you! With jess.travel, you'll get a custom adventure trip of your dreams! Contact her here.