We at JENMAN African Safaris recently had a group of passionate safari industry professionals complete a survey about the best safari countries in Africa. Their insights are as varied as the various terrains across this beautiful continent and we cannot wait to share them with you! So, strap in, keep those binoculars handy and let’s venture the safari industry pros’ favourite spots!
The Best Safari Countries in Africa
Drawing from the insights of seasoned voyagers and safari aficionados, the Best African Safari Countries Survey reveals destinations designed for the quintessential pursuit of wildlife wonderment. Topping the charts, with their unique appeal, are Zambia and Botswana, each basking in glory with a 22% share of affections.
1. Botswana & Zambia
Zambia, often regarded as a hidden jewel within Africa’s vast treasure chest, throws open the doors to its natural vault, the likes of which include the Kasanka National Park. Here, one can witness nature’s grand spectacle: the largest mammal migration on Earth, as millions of fruit bats adorn the skies in a display that defies imagination. Botswana, sharing the spotlight, is no stranger to leaving visitors spellbound with its natural magnificence. The country unfurls its plains and waterways as a haven for some of the most intimate and undisturbed wildlife encounters on the planet.
Will Lane from Jenman African Safaris shared, “For me, Zambia is the rawest of all safari destinations and perhaps the one country where it really does feel like you are stepping back in time. Wildlife presides over humans in most regions, and combined with stunning scenery, high quality accommodation in remote areas that fits seamlessly into surrounding landscapes and the sheer abundance of animals, it is simply an awesome destination to visit.“
Kirsty Alexander from Phumulani Escapes shared, “The Namibian bank of the Chobe River is hugely undersold by agents” and she feels that maybe it is not as well known as the Botswana side. She says, “Each time we have had clients stay on the Namibian bank, they have come back singing the destination’s praises!“.
Markus Daniel Schreiner from Zamsato found Zambia to be a “hidden gem, with friendly people and stunning wildlife experiences“. He says it’s “Visa free for travelers from 114 countries, with very peaceful, friendly people and the largest mammal migration in Kasanka National Park, the second largest Wildebeest migration in Liuwa Plain National Park, South Luangwa, and the “Valley of the Leopards” which is one of Africa’s best wildlife viewing areas.”
2. Tanzania & Namibia
Not far behind, Tanzania claims 17% of the survey’s vote, a testament to its legendary wildlife havens. The iconic Serengeti National Park is the site of the Great Migration, where each year, millions of hooves carve their journey across the plains. This eternal chase of predator and prey plays out in a theatre of the natural world that never ceases to inspire those who witness it. Namibia, with its beauty and dramatic terrains, captivates 17% of safari-goers. Etosha National Park, a salt pan surrounded by grasslands and woodlands, offers a stage for wildlife to gather in numbers that defy belief. As the dry season beckons, animals congregate around waterholes, setting the scene for some of the most striking wildlife observations.
4. South Africa
South Africa, synonymous with the renowned Kruger National Park, shares the same illustration of preference with 11% of survey participants. Kruger is a haven where the Big Five roam, and each glance through the savannah grasses or thicket might yield an encounter to etch into memory forever.
The Best Country to Spot the Big 5
South Africa reigns supreme with a 38% of votes as the best country to spot the Big 5, while Botswana received 17% of the votes, securing its place as a haven for those eager to see these legendary animals.
Clichay Kellerman from Jenman African Safaris shared, “Kruger is the prime destination for seeing Africa’s Big Five!”.
The Most Unique Safari Experience
Botswana has emerged, with 17% of votes, as the winner for those seeking a safari trip marked by unique encounters, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.
Kirsty Alexander from Phumulani Escapes shared, “The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans in Botswana have long held a fascination for us, expanses of flat pan create an incredibly unique experience“.
The Most over-populated Safari Destination
South Africa has been voted as the safari destination most visited by travellers, a testament to its popularity. The Kruger National Park welcomes a sizable number of 1.8 million visitors annually, and with its popularity on an upward trend at a rate of 6% increase, the number of annual visitors could potentially rise to 3.65 million by 2029.
Marietjie Thomas from Jenman African Safaris shared, “South Africa caters to mass tourism, with places like the Kruger Park and Cape Town bustling with energy, especially during the local school holidays“.
The recommendations of our travelers light the way for others in search of their own stories. Let this be a call to those who seek not just to see but to truly experience Africa, in all its raw beauty and vibrant cultures. There is a horizon that beckons, vast and filled with stories yet untold, waiting for you.
Experience the pulse of Africa through our safari tours, where every moment becomes a precious thread woven into the fabric of an adventurer’s soul.
