The Very Best African Bush & Safari Holiday Destinations 

British conservationist and the man whose pioneering conservation work is the subject of several award-winning movies and documentaries about the African wildlife and wildlife rehabilitation once said “There is no place like Africa. There is something about the spirit of the people, the beauty of the land, and the diversity of the wildlife that touches the soul”. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and world-class game, nature-reserve and safari experiences, from the golden plains of the Serengeti to the lush waterways of the Okavango Delta, the continent offers an unparalleled wilderness adventure. Here are some of the best African bush and safari holiday destinations that will allow you to create an unforgettable experiences for you and your family. 

1. Kruger National Park, South Africa 

The Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest and most well-maintained national parks. As one of the world’s most premier game-viewing destinations, it boasts not only the big five, but so much more. With an extensive road network and a park stretching nearly 2 million hectares, visitors can choose between self-drive safaris and guided tours. The park also boasts luxurious lodges and budget-friendly campsites making it accessible to all types of travellers 

2. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania 

The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is another one of Africa’s most famous safari destinations, known for its vast savannahs and the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains. Visitors can experience incredible game drives, witness predator-prey interactions, and stay in luxurious lodges or tented camps or discover more fascinating information about this UNESCO World Heritage site, 

3. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya  

A counterpart to Tanzania’s Serengeti, the Masai Mara National Reserve and the Serengeti National Park are adjacent to one another and are separated only by the border between Tanzania and Kenya. The Maasai Mara is home to the Big Five and also hosts part of the Great Migration. The reserve offers thrilling game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and up-close and personal cultural encounters with the Maasai people. 

4. Okavango Delta and Chobe Botswana 

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta is a unique wetland ecosystem teeming with wildlife. Unlike traditional safaris, visitors explore this paradise via mokoro (a modern version of a dugout canoe) and boat safaris, encountering hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species. Many of the Delta’s lodges offer a truly immersive bush experience, making a trip well worth it. Another option for an amazing bush and safari holiday destination, is Chobe. Famous for having one of the highest concentrations of elephants in Africa, the Chobe River provides breathtaking boat safaris, allowing close encounters with elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. The park also offers traditional game drives and luxurious lodges overlooking the river making it a bird-watchers dream destination. 

5. Etosha National Park, Namibia 

Etosha’s salt pans create a stunning backdrop for game viewing, attracting large herds of elephants, zebras, and antelopes. The park’s waterholes make for fantastic wildlife spotting, especially during the dry season. Visitors to the Etosha National Park are able to enjoy both guided safaris and self-drive adventures, allowing you to set a pace that is right for you and your family. 

6. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia 

If you are looking for a more off-the-beaten-path bush and safari holiday destination, South Luangwa is a top choice for you. Often known as the birthplace of walking safaris, this park offers visitors a chance to explore the wilderness on foot with expert guides. It’s an excellent spot for seeing leopards, wild dogs, and large elephant herds. If a more active walking safari is what you are looking for, this could be the best holiday destination in Africa for you 

7. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe 

Hwange is Zimbabwe’s largest national park and a haven for elephants and predators like lions and cheetahs.  With over 100 mammal and 400 bird species, this national park protects populations of all of Zimbabwe’s endangered species. The park offers a mix of self-drive and guided safaris, along with excellent photographic opportunities at its famous waterholes, allowing you to capture some of the best African bush and safari holiday destinations at which to make memories. 

8. Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique 

A rising star in African conservation, Gorongosa combines breathtaking scenery with diverse wildlife, including lions, elephants, and many rare antelope species. Conservation efforts have made it a prime destination for eco-tourism and nature lovers. 

9. Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda 

For a different kind of safari, the Volcanoes National Park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas of Zambia. A hike through misty forests to encounter these magnificent creatures is a life-changing experience. The park also offers golden monkey tracking and various other scenic hikes. 

Whether you’re seeking the classic Big Five experience, a walking safari adventure, or a boat safari along pristine rivers, Africa’s bush destinations cater to all wildlife enthusiasts. These incredible parks and reserves provide unforgettable encounters with nature, making them bucket-list destinations for any safari lover. Pack your binoculars and camera and get ready to explore the very best African bush and safari holiday destinations. 

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