This one week tour is 50% wildlife spotting and 50% long travel days. Wildlife is colourful, diverse and fairly easy to spot, but the experiences were hindered by unseasonably cool and wet conditions – unexpected, but nonetheless possible in February. Walks were often spent sheltering under the hood of my waterproof jacket and an appreciation of the Costa Rican landscapes was limited. Road journeys between hotels were longer than expected, often due to heavy traffic. The optional excursions were OK, but not great value for money. Unfortunately, Costa Rica’s high end tourist industry has become expensive and quite commercialised.
Africa Wildlife Safari Tours
Our Best Africa Wildlife Safari Tours
Top 5 African Wildlife Safari Tours
1. Classic Kenya 4WD Safari
Embark on a quintessential safari adventure through Kenya’s iconic Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara, where endless grasslands and acacia trees set the stage for unforgettable wildlife encounters. Experience the thrill of witnessing the Great Migration in the Mara and explore the diverse habitats of Lake Nakuru, all while enjoying four-star accommodations and expert-guided game drives. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Kenya’s prolific wildlife and rich cultural heritage for an unparalleled safari experience.
2. Wildlife & Wilderness of Botswana
Discover the wilds of Botswana as you glide along the Okavango Delta in traditional mokoro canoes, explore the silent beauty of the Makgadikgadi Pans, and encounter iconic African wildlife in the Savuti Marsh and Moremi Reserve. Cap off your adventure with a visit to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, all while contributing to crucial conservation efforts through our Citizen Science Departures.
3. Zambezi Canoe Safari
See Zambia’s spectacular wildlife and stunning scenery up close on an intimate canoe and hiking safari in the Zambezi Valley. Paddle along the mighty Zambezi, camp on secluded beaches and secluded islands, and explore diverse wildlife through game walks and drives in the Chiawa Game Management Area for a memorable adventure.
4. Gorillas & Masai Mara
Encounter Kenya’s fantastic wildlife and marvel at the endangered mountain gorillas of Bwindi. Enjoy game drives in the Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Queen Elizabeth National Parks, visit the breathtaking Murchison Falls, and experience the incredible thrill of trekking to see mountain gorillas up close in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
5. Kenya & Tanzania Adventure
Experience unparalleled game viewing and unbelievable scenery in Kenya and Tanzania, exploring national parks in the Great Rift Valley renowned for their prolific wildlife. Enjoy thrilling game drives in Lake Nakuru National Park, the Masai Mara, the Serengeti, and the Ngorongoro Crater, observing endangered rhinos and diverse animal species. Conclude your adventure on the exotic spice island of Zanzibar, relaxing on its pristine white-sand beaches and exploring the historic charm of Stone Town.
Ross Bishop Natural Highlights of Costa Rica
Judy Ustina Galapagos Escape – Solaris (Itinerary C)From beginning to end this was a fabulous holiday! The ship and its crew were amazing. Spotlessly clean and always attentive 5 days aboard this ship was a great pleasure. The food was 5* all the way, delicious and plentiful, with frequent snacks and creative juices at every break. The tour was well paced with loads of activities, hiking and snorkeling and informative talks. The naturalist guide, Carlos, was one of the best. Enthusiastic and extremely knowledgeable, he is passionate about the Galapagos and maintaining it pristine qualities. Wild life was abundant and snorkelling with fish, turtles and even penguins.. it was a trip of a life time. The chef was very attentive to my restrictive diet, being celiac. Did I mention the food??? First class all the way!
What wildlife will I see on a safari tour?
While every safari is unique and animal sightings will vary depending on your location and the season, on a safari tour in Africa, you can expect to spot a stunning array of wildlife. Animal encounters can include the iconic Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses, as well as other predators such as cheetahs, hyenas, and wild dogs, as well as a diverse range of herbivores like giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. Primates such as chimpanzees and various species of monkeys inhabit the forests, while bird enthusiasts will delight in the myriad colorful species that grace the skies. Reptiles, from crocodiles to pythons, also add to the rich variety of African wildlife. Each safari is a unique opportunity to witness these animals in their natural habitats, providing moments of awe and connection with the natural world.
Which countries are the best for safari tours?
There are many African countries that offer excellent opportunities for wildlife encounters and unforgettable safari experiences. Kenya is renowned for the Maasai Mara National Reserve, where the Great Migration unfolds amidst stunning landscapes, alongside opportunities to learn about Maasai culture. Tanzania offers the iconic Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, where visitors can witness the Great Migration and spot the Big Five. Botswana provides exclusive safari experiences in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park, while Zambia and Zimbabwe offer the majestic Victoria Falls and exceptional wildlife encounters in reserves like South Luangwa and Hwange National Park. South Africa boasts diverse landscapes and wildlife, with Kruger National Park being a highlight for Big Five sightings. Each of these countries promises thrilling wildlife encounters amidst Africa’s breathtaking landscapes.
FAQs on Wildlife Tours in Africa
What is a wildlife safari tour?
A wildlife safari tour is a trip focused on observing and experiencing wildlife in their natural habitats. The word “safari” originates from Swahili, meaning “journey” or “expedition”, and that’s exactly what each of our tours are designed to be: once-in-a-lifetime journeys that take you to the heart of nature.
Safaris can involve activities such as game drives, hiking safaris, or even boat safaris. The primary goal of each Exodus safari is to encounter and appreciate the rich diversity of wildlife, landscapes, and ecosystems found in Africa’s wilderness areas, often including iconic species like lions, elephants, giraffes, and rhinoceroses, while also providing opportunities to learn about local cultures and conservation efforts aimed at preserving these precious natural resources.
How many days should I spend in Africa?
Our Africa wildlife tours range in length from 7 to 15 days, offering a wide variety of options depending on your destination and travel preferences. Whether you’re looking to canoe the Zambezi valley, embark on a classic safari, or camp as you seek out primates, our travel specialists have designed the perfect itineraries to ensure that you have plenty of time to explore.
When is the best time to visit Africa on a safari?
The best time to visit Africa for a safari depends on the region and on your preferences. Generally, the dry season is favored for wildlife viewing due to sparse vegetation and concentrated animal activity around water sources. For East Africa, including countries like Kenya and Tanzania, the dry season typically falls between June and October, making it an ideal time for safaris and witnessing the Great Migration. However, the wet season from November to May offers lush landscapes, ideal for birdwatching and photography, albeit with the possibility of rain and dispersed wildlife. In Southern Africa, including countries like South Africa, Botswana, and Zambia, the dry winter months from May to September are prime for game viewing. However, for experiences like Victoria Falls, the best time is during the wet season when water levels are highest, typically from February to May.
If you are planning on hiking in Africa or biking in Africa, keep in mind that heat will likely be a factor, and be sure to check the trip notes for advice on how to pack and dress appropriately.
Is Africa safe for tourists?
Africa is a vast and diverse continent with a wide range of destinations, each with its own safety considerations. While many parts of Africa are perfectly safe for tourists, it’s essential to exercise caution and stay informed about the specific risks of the region you plan to visit. Generally, popular tourist destinations and safari parks have robust security measures in place to ensure the safety of visitors. However, it’s advisable to take precautions such as staying informed about local customs and laws, avoiding risky areas, and staying vigilant, especially in crowded or unfamiliar environments. Our expert local tour guides are also on hand to ensure your safety and comfort throughout your tour.
Can I travel to Africa alone?
Guided small group tours are perfect for solo travelers as well as for those traveling with partners, friends, or family members. Our tours let you travel solo but not alone, bringing you together with like-minded explorers to share in the experience. With our expert local guides leading the way, your mind will be at ease knowing that your safety is well taken care of. It’s the ideal way to travel to Africa by yourself without any of the risks, stress, or safety concerns that might come from taking on such a big trip solo.
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