Top destinations for Africa tours & safaris in Southern Africa
Botswana – the ultimate luxury safari destination
Botswana is one of the most exclusive safari destinations in Africa, known for its pristine wilderness and high-end safari experiences. With vast private concessions, fewer tourists, and incredible wildlife encounters, it’s a dream destination for those seeking seclusion and adventure.
Must-visit safari areas in Botswana:
- Okavango Delta – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for mokoro (canoe) safaris, big game, and birdwatching.
- Chobe National Park – Home to Africa’s largest elephant population, offering river cruises and thrilling game drives.
- Linyanti and Selinda – Remote, predator-rich concessions ideal for spotting lions, wild dogs, and leopards.
Best time to visit: May to October (dry season and peak wildlife viewing).
South Africa – Big Five safaris and luxury private reserves
South Africa is one of the best destinations for first-time safari travellers, offering a mix of Big Five safaris, cultural experiences, and world-class luxury lodges.
Top safari areas in South Africa:
- Kruger National Park and private reserves – The best place to see the Big Five, with legendary lodges in Sabi Sand, Timbavati, and Manyeleti.
- Madikwe Game Reserve – A malaria-free, Big Five reserve known for wild dog sightings.
- Phinda Private Game Reserve – A diverse landscape offering safari, wetlands, and beach experiences.
Best time to visit: May to September for wildlife; year-round for luxury lodge experiences.
Namibia – desert safaris and unique landscapes
Namibia offers a completely different Africa tours & safaris experience, where vast deserts meet extraordinary wildlife and remote luxury lodges.
Unmissable safari destinations in Namibia:
- Etosha National Park – Incredible waterhole-based game viewing in a semi-arid setting.
- Sossusvlei – Towering red dunes and surreal desert landscapes, ideal for photography.
- Skeleton Coast and Damaraland – Home to desert-adapted lions, elephants, and black rhinos.
Best time to visit: June to October for game viewing; April to May for stunning desert scenery.
Zambia – the home of walking safaris
Zambia is known as the birthplace of the walking safari, offering an authentic and adventurous safari experience in some of Africa’s most wildlife-rich areas.
Best safari areas in Zambia:
- South Luangwa National Park – The ultimate destination for walking safaris, leopard sightings, and night drives.
- Lower Zambezi National Park – A mix of boat safaris, canoeing, and game drives along the Zambezi River.
- Kafue National Park – A vast wilderness with diverse wildlife and fewer tourists.
Best time to visit: July to October for peak wildlife viewing.
Zimbabwe – unspoilt wilderness and iconic landmarks
Zimbabwe is home to some of Africa’s best-kept safari secrets, with top-tier guiding, diverse landscapes, and fewer crowds.
Top safari destinations in Zimbabwe:
- Hwange National Park – A Big Five stronghold with one of Africa’s largest elephant populations.
- Mana Pools National Park – A UNESCO-listed wilderness famous for canoe safaris and walking safaris.
- Victoria Falls and Zambezi National Park – The perfect combination of safari and adventure travel.
Best time to visit: May to October for game viewing; February to May for peak Victoria Falls flow.
Choosing the right safari for you
When planning your Africa tour and safari, consider these key factors:
Type of safari
- Game drive safaris – Best in Kruger, Chobe, and Etosha for spotting the Big Five.
- Walking safaris – Ideal in Zambia, Zimbabwe, and private concessions.
- Water safaris – Best in Okavango Delta and Lower Zambezi.
- Desert safaris – Namibia offers awe-inspiring landscapes and unique wildlife.
Level of luxury
- Ultra-luxury: Botswana’s private concessions, Singita lodges in South Africa, and high-end tented camps in Zambia.
- Luxury: Exclusive lodges in Kruger, Hwange, and Namibia’s private reserves.
- Mid-range: South Africa’s national parks and private lodges in Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Best time to go
- May to October: Best for Big Five game viewing and water-based safaris.
- November to April: Ideal for green season safaris, birdwatching, and photography.
Experience the best Africa tours & safaris in Southern Africa
Southern Africa is home to some of the world’s most exclusive and breathtaking safari experiences, from the flooded plains of the Okavango Delta to the vast landscapes of Namibia and the predator-rich reserves of South Africa. Whether you’re looking for a luxury fly-in safari, a remote walking adventure, or a classic Big Five game drive, Southern Africa offers a safari for every traveller.
