Your Easy African Safari Guide

The Ultimate African Safari Guide

Africa is vast, wild and richly diverse – and when it comes to safari travel, no two journeys are alike. Whether you're tracking the Big 5 in Kenya, photographing desert elephants in Namibia, or searching for gorillas in Rwanda, this is your guide to planning an unforgettable African wildlife safari with World Expeditions.

Jump to section:

• Kenya: First-Timer Friendly
• Namibia: A Photographer’s Dream
• South Africa: Safari with the Family
• Tanzania: Unmatched Diversity

If you’re planning a long-awaited and highly worthwhile safari trip to Africa, you might have noticed there are almost as many locations and safari styles as there are breakfast cereals. With such a large continent made up of incredibly different landscapes, cultures and ecosystems, where you choose to go makes all the difference.

From regions rich in biodiversity, to places ideal for families or photographers, this guide highlights four of the best safari experiences across the continent — and why they’re so different.

Perfect for First-Timers: Kenya

Why? Kenya is ideal for first-time safari travellers, offering a high chance of seeing the Big 5 with well-established guided safari experiences and diverse wildlife-rich reserves.

How? Explore the renowned parks of Kenya, where responsible wildlife encounters are supported by expert local guides.

When? December–February and June–October are best for dry weather and migration viewing.

While you're there: Consider climbing Mount Kenya for an eco-conscious trekking experience.

Highlights: Big 5 sightings, black-maned lions, flamingos, wildebeest migration.

Next stop? Combine with Tanzania or South Africa.

 

Best for Photographers: Namibia

Why? Namibia offers stark desert beauty, surreal light and unique wildlife — it’s one of the world’s most photogenic safari destinations.

How? Visit renowned desert parks and vast open plains, home to some of Africa’s most unique wildlife and scenery.

When? July–October is best for wildlife photography and low humidity.

While you're there: Explore desert canyons and the wild Skeleton Coast.

Highlights: Black rhino, desert-adapted elephants, red dunes, shipwrecks, meerkats.

Next stop? Visit Madagascar or the gorillas of Rwanda.

Best for Families: South Africa

Why? With malaria-free zones, great infrastructure and family-friendly game reserves, South Africa is a great choice for first-time and multi-generational travellers.

How? Focus your trip around flagship reserves and add on city and coastal extensions to diversify the experience.

When? South Africa offers year-round safaris. Summer (Nov–Mar) is hot; winter is cooler and ideal for wildlife.

While you're there: Visit Cape Town, the Garden Route and Boulders Bay to add cultural depth and variety.

Highlights: Big 5, penguins, scenic drives, city and cultural experiences.

Next stop? Combine with Tanzania or Namibia.

Best for Diversity: Tanzania

Why? Tanzania’s Northern Circuit offers classic safari scenery, incredible wildlife variety, and iconic experiences like the Great Migration.

How? Visit national parks, crater regions and coastlines — offering everything from plains game to island retreats.

When? May–July and Oct–Nov for the migration. Dec–Feb and May–Oct for general safari experiences.

While you're there: Consider summiting Mount Kilimanjaro or relaxing on Zanzibar’s coast.

Highlights: 2 million migrating animals, Big 5, crater landscapes, endless savannah.

Next stop? Add Botswana or combine Kenya and Rwanda for an epic East African experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to go on safari in Africa?

Generally June to October for dry conditions and better wildlife sightings, though this varies by country.

What’s the best safari destination for first-timers?

Kenya offers high wildlife density, diverse reserves and great guides - ideal for a first safari.

Is it safe to travel with children?

Yes. Destinations like South Africa offer malaria-free parks and comfortable lodges for families.

Can I combine safari with beach time?

Absolutely. Zanzibar, Cape Town and Mozambique are great coastal extensions to safari travel.

View all wildlife adventures in Africa