By Alfred Stallion
Safari travel experiences are no longer dangerous and impossible to reach. Ten, twenty years ago people had to struggle to get to Africa’s remote areas and admire its wilderness. Right now, some of the countries are incredibly accessible. They feature luxurious resorts, guided tours and even have rental cars available for people eager to venture into the wild by themselves. Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia are popular safari destinations where travelers are protected and the destinations are safe to explore. From sailboats to private helicopter tours in pristine marine reserves to adventurous nighttime game drives, Africa has something for everyone. Here’s are 5 go-to destinations for those hunting for memorable safari experiences.
1. Kenya – The Masai Mara National Reserve
Kenya’s famous Masai Mara National Reserve is a must-see. It is the country’s premier wildlife park, and it prides with an abundant wildlife that will leave travelers speechless. Located in the south-west side of Kenia, near the Tanzanian border, Masai Mara has several amazing destinations you cannot miss out on. The Serengeti Plains and Rift Valley must be included on your itinerary as well. There are lots of crocodiles and hippos onsite, as well as an annual wildebeest migration with thousands of zebras running around and populating the surrounding areas.
2. Botswana, Chobe National Park
Located on the North West side of Botswana, Chobe National Park is famous for its wide variety of elephants. There are many things you can do onsite, including swimming across the soothing Chobe River in the evening or just renting a car and heading towards the wilderness to admire the sunset. Chobe is also home to the big 5 category of animals – rhino, buffalo, elephant, leopard and lion. Furthermore, over 400 species of birds populate the park, as well as many wild dogs, crocodiles, and hippos. Chobe’s habitat is incredibly varied; everywhere you look you’ll see grasslands, fertile floodplains, forests, and woodlands. It is the perfect place for an exciting safari experience!
3. South Africa, Kruger National Park
The famous Kruger National Park is the oldest wildlife park in Africa. It dates back to the 19th century and it offers some pretty amazing safaris. Located up north from Johannesburg, the reserve packs a wide variety of animals; the landscapes and surrounding wildlife are incredibly enticing too. A lot of things have changed over the years. Right now, travelers can easily find accommodation. Kruger National Park boasts with a wealth of lodging places, luxurious resorts, cottages, chalets, camping sites and bungalow tents. Make your pick and see what it feels to live with the wild animals at least for a few days. There are lots of self-driving routes you can explore, as well as many archeological site tours, bush trails, backpacking trails, games drives and mountain bike rides.
4. Tanzania, Serengeti National Park
As opposite to South Africa and Kenya, Tanzania is less touristy. The territories are even wilder, thus making safari experience more fun and adventurous. The beauty of Serengeti lies in its grasslands. It is a perfect spot for admiring lions and watching the migration of zebras and wildebeest. The ideal time of the year to visit the natural reserve is between February and March, when travelers with kids can admire all the baby animals and the herds. In close proximity, there are other places you might want to include in your itinerary, such as Lake Manyara, Tarangire and Ngorongoro.
5. Namibia, Etosha National Park
One of the best wildlife destinations in Namibia is Etosha National Park. Home to the tallest elephants in Africa, Etosha hosts over 90 species of mammals. Throughout the dry season, photographers are everywhere because the scenery is truly breathtaking. There are lots of lions, rhinos, cheetahs, and leopards populating the area. Self-driving experiences are numerous, and all you have to do to enjoy the wilderness is rent a car and start driving. Onsite, you’ll come across all kinds of lodging facilities, starting from the most convenient camping sites all the way to the most upmarket resorts.
Are you ready to have the time of your life in Africa? Do you want to have fun, enjoy memorable safari experiences and see places you’ll never have the chance to again? Well then, you need to travel to Africa. Look for a trustworthy African safari company; make reservations in advance, and benefit from all the perks this beautiful continent has to offer.
Image credit:Â Flickr
Alfred Stallion
Author Alfred Stallion
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Author: Maralyn
Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.
