African Safari Holidays & Travel Guide – Where to Go, What to See & How to Plan

Brief Guide about African Safari Holidays

Africa safaris offer many vacation opportunities for honeymooners, solo travelers, family tourists, students on educational tours, researchers, explorers, and group tourists, among others.

The available packages suit different travelers’ needs, making sure that everyone enjoys their trip.

African safari lodges and accommodation are found in the wilderness and are of high quality, making your stay comfortable.

When planning a trip to Africa, make sure you get a yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before you travel and carry the certificate with you.

It is also important to take malaria prevention medicine, especially when visiting most Sub-Saharan African countries.

Get the visas you need for your trip and carry enough pocket money for your expenses.

Remember to pack comfortable and suitable clothing for Africa’s climate.

It is good to carry both warm and light clothes because the weather changes depending on the destination and the park you visit.

In East Africa, every traveler finds a reason to enjoy their trip because there are many good places to visit.

Some of these places include Kenya, Rwanda (the land of a thousand hills), Tanzania, Uganda (the pearl of Africa), and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

These countries offer different experiences, such as seeing wild animals in national parks like Queen Elizabeth National Park, Serengeti National Park, and Masai Mara National Park.

Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Masai Mara National Park in Kenya are some of the main attractions, especially from June to September when you can see wildebeests and zebras migrate from Tanzania to Kenya in search of fresh grass.

This migration is an exciting experience, especially when the animals cross the Mara River, where crocodiles wait for them. Lions and other predators also wait nearby for a chance to hunt.

You can also see tree-climbing lions and big groups of elephants in Tarangire National Park, wildebeests crossing the Maasai Mara Triangle, cheetahs, and many more animals.

This experience leaves visitors with great memories.

Besides the migration, you can also enjoy birdwatching, nature walks, hiking, and canopy walks in Rwanda.

See the beautiful Virunga Ranges, which stretch across three countries.

Do not miss the chance to go gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in places like Virunga National Park, Bwindi National Park, Kahuzi-Biega National Park, and Volcanoes National Park.

Be one of the many people to visit the beautiful lands of Africa, which have so much to offer to all kinds of tourists.

Traveling to Africa is now easier with direct flights to Rwanda or Jomo Kenyatta Airport in Kenya, making your journey simple.

Africa is a safe place with some of the most welcoming people who offer great services.

Why Visit Africa?

When people think of Africa, they first think of a wildlife safari. That is the first thing that comes to mind when visiting the second largest continent on Earth.

Besides wildlife, Africa has beautiful landscapes, rich cultures, friendly people, amazing nature, important historical sites, powerful waterfalls, and wide deserts.

Here are some of the reasons to visit Africa:

Wildlife

Africa is well known for its famous wildlife, especially the African Big 5: lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino. These are some of the most popular animals to see.

You can find them on safaris in national parks and game reserves like Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Kruger National Park in South Africa.

Cultural Heritage

Each region or country in Africa has its own cultural practices, languages, art, dance, and music.

There are over 3,000 different tribes. A cultural tour during your safari can be a great experience.

Some of the famous tribes include the Maasai of Kenya and Tanzania, the San of the Kalahari, and the Zulu of South Africa.

Hospitality

People who have been to Africa often talk about how warm and welcoming the people are.

Africans love to share their local traditions, practices, and culture through storytelling, dance, songs, and crafts.

Beautiful Scenery

If you love mountains, lowlands, grasslands, deserts, or tropical coasts, Africa is the right place.

Some places to see include the Sahara Desert in North Africa, the wide Serengeti Plains of Tanzania, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Zambia, the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, and Table Mountain in South Africa.

Conservation Efforts

Some countries in Africa protect rare animals that are only found in their wild places. A good example is the mountain gorillas, which are found only in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

On your safari, you can learn how people are working hard to protect endangered animals and their homes.

Other endangered species include rhinos and chimpanzees.

Home to World Records

Africa has some of the biggest and longest natural wonders in the world, such as:

• The Nile, the world’s longest river
• Victoria Falls, the world’s most powerful waterfall
• Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest unbroken volcanic crater
• The Sahara Desert, the world’s biggest desert
• The Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta
• The Namib Desert, the world’s oldest desert
• The African savannah elephant, the world’s largest land mammal
• The Great Migration of the Serengeti, the world’s largest animal migration on land

Tropical Beaches

Africa has a long coastline with white sand beaches where you can relax after your safari.

Some of the best beaches are in Zanzibar, Seychelles, Cape Town in South Africa, and Cape Verde.

Mount Kilimanjaro

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and is part of the Seven Summits of the world.

It is located in northern Tanzania and is the easiest to climb among the Seven Summits.

Nearby in Kenya, Mount Kenya is the second highest peak in Africa and also worth a visit.

In Uganda, you can visit Rwenzori Mountain, the highest block mountain in Africa.

Historical Sites

Africa has a rich history, which you can see in its ancient rock art, ancient cities like the pyramids of Egypt and the ruins of Great Zimbabwe, and colonial history places like Stone Town in Zanzibar.

Camping in the wilderness, tasting tropical spices, trying local food, visiting lively cities, and many more adventure activities are also great reasons to visit Africa.

Africa is a great destination all year round because there is always something to see and do in every season.

African Safari Types

Below are some types of African holidays. You can choose a trip based on what you enjoy most:

• African Wildlife Safaris
• African Solo Safaris
• African Cultural Safaris
• African Group Safaris
• African Honeymoons
• Luxury African Tailor-Made Trips
• African Family Safaris
• African Chimpanzee Trekking
• African Ballooning Safaris
• African Beach Holidays
• African Birding Safaris
• African Budget Holidays
• African Flying Safaris
• African Hiking Safaris
• African Primates Safaris
• African Student Safaris
• African Camping Safaris

10 Facts About Africa

There are many things that make Africa special. From its rich culture and landscapes to its plants, animals, and natural beauty.

Here are 10 interesting facts about Africa:

Africa covers about 30.2 million square kilometers. It is the second largest continent after Asia and the second most populated, with over 1.3 billion people.

Africa has 54 countries. These include Algeria (the largest country in Africa), Nigeria (the most populated), Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, Egypt, and many more.

The longest river in the world, the Nile River, flows through several African countries including Uganda, South Sudan, Sudan, and Egypt, before entering the Mediterranean Sea.

Africa has over 2,000 different tribes and languages. Each region and ethnic group has its own cultural practices, traditions, dance, music, art, and beliefs.

The African Savannah elephant, the largest land mammal, lives in Africa’s national parks and game reserves. Poaching has reduced their numbers over the years, but conservation efforts are helping them recover.

The Sahara Desert in North Africa is the largest and hottest desert in the world. It is bigger than the United States of America.

Uhuru Peak on Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest point in Africa, at 5,895 meters above sea level. It is found in northern Tanzania.

Africa has the world’s longest freshwater lake, Lake Tanganyika, located mostly in Tanzania and shared with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Zambia.

Scientists believe that early humans first lived in Africa millions of years ago. Fossils of early humans have been found in places like Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania.

Arabic is the most spoken language in Africa, followed by English and Kiswahili.

These facts are just a small part of what Africa has to offer. Visit Africa to discover more about this great continent.

African Travel Tips

Traveling in Africa is a great experience. The continent has many cultures, landscapes, and wildlife.

Whether you are going on a safari, visiting historical sites, or meeting local communities, these travel tips will help you:

Research and Plan Ahead

Find out about the countries you plan to visit. Check visa requirements, health precautions, and local customs before your trip.

Plan your trip early so that you are well-prepared, but also be flexible in case things change.

Health Precautions

Talk to your doctor about the vaccines and medicines you need for the areas you plan to visit.

Carry a small first aid kit, your medicines, water purification tablets, hand sanitizer, and insect repellent.

Travel Insurance

Buy travel insurance when you set your Africa travel dates. It should cover medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellations, and lost belongings.

Keep your insurance details and emergency contacts with you.

Currency and Payments

US dollars are accepted in many tourist places in Africa.

Learn about the local currency of the country you are visiting and check exchange rates.

Carry some cash with you as not all places accept credit cards.

Personal Safety Precautions

Stay updated about the safety of the places you are visiting. Your safety should be your top concern.

Be careful with your valuables like jewelry, phones, and cameras when in public. Use your hotel or lodge safe to store passports and other documents.

Do not carry large amounts of money with you.

Local Customs and Etiquette

Learn about the local customs and traditions to show respect.

Dress modestly in conservative areas and follow local rules.

Do not take photos of people without asking for their permission.

Pack Appropriately

Pack neutral-colored clothes for wildlife safaris and light clothing for hot areas. Carry layered clothing for cold mornings and evenings.

Bring essentials like a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.

Communication

English is widely spoken in many African countries, but locals will appreciate it if you learn some basic phrases in their language, like greetings and thank you.

Internet connections are not always available when traveling, especially in remote parks. Buy a local SIM card for your phone to stay connected.

Safety During Wildlife Safaris

On a safari, follow the instructions of your guide and respect park rules.

Stay in your safari car during game drives and keep a safe distance from wild animals. Do not feed them.

Responsible Tourism

Respect the environment and the local communities. Take care not to leave waste behind and support tourism projects that help protect nature and wildlife.

After all this, get ready to enjoy your time in Africa.

Top African Safari Destinations

Africa has many attractions including famous mountains, landscapes, cultures, natural wonders, forests, beaches, and wildlife parks. The best places to visit will depend on your interests.

Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania

This is the highest mountain in Africa, with Uhuru Peak standing at 5,895 meters above sea level. It is also the world’s tallest free-standing mountain and part of the Seven Summits. Kilimanjaro attracts climbers and hikers from around the world. Anyone in good physical and mental health can try to reach the summit because it does not require special climbing skills. Shorter hikes are also available, passing through rainforests and waterfalls.

Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Zambia

Victoria Falls lies between Zimbabwe and Zambia on the Zambezi River. It is one of the world’s most famous waterfalls. During the wet season, the river is full and the falls create a huge cloud of mist. You may get wet when visiting at this time. For the best views, visit from the Zimbabwe side. On the Zambian side, brave visitors can swim in the Devil’s Pool at the top of the falls.

Pyramids of Giza in Egypt

The pyramids are famous symbols of Egypt’s ancient history and are the only remaining wonder of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Nearby, Cairo sits on the banks of the Nile River. While visiting the pyramids, you can also tour the city of Cairo during the day or at night.

Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Maasai Mara in Kenya

These two parks are famous for hosting the annual wildebeest migration. Every year, millions of wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, and antelopes move across the plains of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. The best time to see the Mara River crossing is from June to September. But the migration happens year-round, during events like the calving season, breeding season, and Grumeti River crossing.

Cape Town in South Africa

Cape Town is a coastal city at the southern tip of South Africa. It offers outdoor activities, history, and culture. Places to visit include Table Mountain, the Twelve Apostles, Lion’s Head, white sand beaches, museums, galleries, and Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.

Kruger National Park in South Africa

Kruger National Park is the most visited park in South Africa and is famous for sightings of the African Big 5. The best time to visit is from May to October, but this is also the busiest time. Book your safari and accommodation early.

Table Mountain in South Africa

While in Cape Town, don’t miss Table Mountain. You can hike to the top or take a cable car for beautiful views of the coastline and the city.

Marrakech in Morocco

Marrakech is a lively city full of energy day and night. Visit its colorful markets, explore the old medina, watch performers in Jemaa El Fna square, and see its beautiful palaces.

Zanzibar in Tanzania

Zanzibar is a group of islands off Tanzania’s coast. It is known for its white-sand beaches, clear blue waters, Stone Town, colonial sites, and spice farms. Activities include snorkeling, diving, sunset dhow cruises, and walking tours in Stone Town.

Mountain Gorillas of East and Central Africa

The only place to see wild mountain gorillas is in East and Central Africa. Visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo for gorilla trekking.

You can also see chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park (Uganda), Nyungwe Forest National Park (Rwanda), and Mahale Mountains and Gombe Streams National Parks (Tanzania).

Other attractions in Africa include the Sahara Dunes, Draa Valley, Namib Desert, Sossusvlei, Makgadikgadi Pans, Okavango Delta, Gorongosa National Park, Fish River Canyon, Cape Verde, Lalibela in Ethiopia, Seychelles, Madagascar, Mauritius, and more.

When to Go on African Safari Holidays

The best time to visit Africa depends on what you want to do, where you want to go, and the kind of experience you are looking for.

Africa is large, and each region has different weather patterns. You can visit Africa any time of the year.

Visiting East Africa (Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda)

The best time to visit East Africa is during the dry season from June to October. Wildlife is easier to see during this time because the vegetation is thin. The wildebeest migration peaks from June to September.

For gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, the dry season is the best because the trails are easier to hike, and the gorillas stay on the lower slopes.

This is also the peak tourist season, so book your accommodations, gorilla permits, and activities like hot air balloon safaris early.

The wet season has short rains from November to December and long rains from March to May. April and May are the rainiest months and may disrupt your travel plans. For bird watchers, the wet season is a good time because migratory birds arrive in the region.

Visiting Southern Africa (South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Malawi, Mozambique)

The dry winter months from May to September are the best time to visit Southern Africa. Wildlife is easy to see during this time, and the temperatures are cooler.

April, October, and November are the shoulder seasons with fewer crowds but still great wildlife viewing. October can be very hot.

For a coastal safari, visit from May to July to see the sardine run, which attracts seabirds, dolphins, and sharks.

The rainy season from November brings new animal births and green landscapes, and it is a good time for bird watching.

Visit Victoria Falls at full volume in March to May. The best time to see the Okavango Delta in Botswana is from July to October when the wildlife gathers around the water.

These are also peak seasons, so prices are higher.

Avoid visiting Malawi from December to March due to heavy rains. The best time is from late May to November. The same applies to Zambia.

Visiting North Africa (Egypt, Algeria, Morocco)

The best time to visit North Africa is from February to April and September to November. These months have cooler temperatures, making it a good time for desert safaris, exploring cities, cycling, and visiting historical sites like the pyramids. This is also the peak season, so prices are higher.

During the summer (June to August), avoid the deserts and visit the coastal areas where the temperatures are more comfortable.

Visiting West Africa (Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Benin, Togo)

The best time to visit West Africa is the dry season from November to March. This is a great time for wildlife safaris. If your visit matches with local festivals, you can enjoy cultural experiences.

The wet season is from June to October, with the heaviest rains in August, September, and October.

These are general travel guidelines. Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure on the world’s second-largest continent.