Most people who visit Africa have only one thing in mind: safari! Seeing animals in their natural habitat and hunting in the wild, as they have been doing for thousands of years, is an important African experience that everyone should have at least once in their life. If you spend time and travel around Africa, you will soon realize that there are literally hundreds of ways to see wildlife. In almost every country there are national parks where you can discover “the Big 5”, which is actually an old hunting term that refers to the 5 most peril animals – leopard, lion, rhino, elephant and buffalo.
This term is now applied to safari, where these are some of the best animals to discover. Of course, there are much more than animals in Africa, but they certainly play a big role in the joy of traveling here, and when visiting this wonderful continent, you need to get in a jeep and explore the vast meadows of parks such as Kruger, Serengeti and the Masai Mara. This is a photo safari through these parks and some of the lesser-known parks in southern and eastern Africa. Have fun!
African Animal Safari-Photos Photo Report:
Where Are The Best Places For Safaris In Africa?
1. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
The Serengeti is perhaps Africa’s most famous safari destination. It is famous for the Great Migration, during which millions of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles migrate across the plains in search of fresh pastures. The scale of the wildlife here is breathtaking, with opportunities to see the big five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. The wide open landscapes and breathtaking sunsets make every moment unforgettable.
2. Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Adjacent to the Serengeti, the Masai Mara offers another prime place to observe the Great Migration. The reserve is also known for its large populations of big cats, including lions, cheetahs and leopards. The Masai Mara is smaller than the Serengeti, which often means that wildlife sightings are more concentrated and accessible.
3. Kruger National Park, South Africa
Kruger is one of the largest and most diverse national parks in Africa. It is incredibly well run, with a wide range of accommodation, from basic campsites to luxury lodges. Kruger is home to a rich wildlife, including the Big Five, and offers excellent opportunities for car safari.
4. Okavango Delta, Botswana
The Okavango delta is a unique safari destination that offers water safaris in addition to traditional game drives. The labyrinth of rivers and islands of the delta is a haven for a variety of wildlife, including elephants, hippos and a number of species of birds. Okavango’s lush, water-rich surroundings contrast with the arid landscapes usually associated with African safaris.
5. Etosha National Park, Namibia
Etosha is known for its extensive salt meadow, which is visible from space. The landscape of the park is strict and striking, offering unique photographic opportunities. The wildlife gathers around the waterholes so that elephants, lions, giraffes and more can be observed easily and frequently. The dry, open terrain also makes it easier to spot animals from a distance.
6. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
The Ngorongoro Crater is the largest inactive volcanic caldera in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its closed ecosystem is home to a dense population of wildlife, including the Big Five. The unique geography of the crater ensures that the wildlife is concentrated and easier to spot, making it one of the best places for a full-day safari.
