When it comes to planning a safari in Africa, choosing the right safari company is crucial. A reputable and experienced company can make all the difference in ensuring a successful and memorable safari experience. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which safari company to trust with your adventure. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of the best safari companies in Africa for 2023.
1. andBeyond: Known for their luxury safari experiences, andBeyond offers exceptional accommodations and personalized service in top wildlife destinations across Africa.
2. Abercrombie & Kent: A pioneer in luxury travel, Abercrombie & Kent provides tailor-made safaris with expert guides and a commitment to responsible tourism.
3. Wilderness Safaris: With a focus on conservation and sustainability, Wilderness Safaris offers high-quality safaris in some of Africa’s most remote and pristine wilderness areas.
4. Singita: Renowned for their exclusive lodges and private reserves, Singita offers exceptional game viewing experiences combined with luxurious accommodations.
5. Kwando Safaris: Specializing in remote and off-the-beaten-path destinations, Kwando Safaris provides unique and authentic safari experiences in Botswana and Namibia.
6. Great Plains Conservation: Committed to conservation and community empowerment, Great Plains Conservation offers luxury safaris in Kenya, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.
7. &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve: Located in South Africa, Phinda Private Game Reserve offers a diverse range of wildlife and luxurious lodges with a strong focus on conservation.
8. Cheli & Peacock: With over 30 years of experience, Cheli & Peacock offers tailor-made safaris in Kenya and Tanzania, focusing on wildlife, culture, and adventure.
9. Asilia Africa: Asilia Africa operates in some of East Africa’s most iconic destinations, providing exceptional wildlife encounters and eco-friendly accommodations.
10. Nomad Tanzania: Known for their intimate and authentic safari experiences, Nomad Tanzania offers exclusive camps in Tanzania’s most sought-after wildlife areas.
11. Natural High Safaris: Specializing in tailor-made safaris, Natural High Safaris creates unique itineraries that combine wildlife viewing with adventure activities such as trekking and cycling.
12. Gamewatchers Safaris: With a focus on sustainable tourism, Gamewatchers Safaris offers budget-friendly safaris in Kenya’s Maasai Mara and other wildlife-rich areas.
13. Go2Africa: As a leading online safari company, Go2Africa provides expert advice and personalized itineraries for safaris across Africa.
14. Expert Africa: With a team of knowledgeable experts, Expert Africa offers customized safaris and in-depth knowledge of the best wildlife destinations in Africa.
15. Ker & Downey Africa: Known for their attention to detail and personalized service, Ker & Downey Africa creates tailor-made safaris that cater to individual preferences.
16. Intrepid Travel: Intrepid Travel offers small group safaris with a focus on responsible travel and immersive cultural experiences.
17. African Bush Camps: African Bush Camps operates in prime wildlife areas in Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Zambia, offering authentic and intimate safari experiences.
18. Classic Portfolio: Classic Portfolio represents a collection of unique and eco-friendly safari lodges and camps in Africa’s top wildlife destinations.
19. Explore Gorilla Tours: If you’re looking for a gorilla trekking adventure, Explore Gorilla Tours specializes in gorilla safaris in Uganda and Rwanda.
These safari companies have been selected based on their reputation, customer reviews, and commitment to conservation and responsible tourism. Each company offers unique experiences and accommodations to suit different budgets and interests. Whether you’re seeking a luxury safari or a more budget-friendly option, these safari companies can help you create the perfect African safari experience in 2023.
Which Safari Is The Best?
Determining the best safari experience can be subjective, as it depends on individual preferences and interests. However, there are several safaris in Africa that are renowned for their exceptional wildlife sightings, stunning landscapes, and luxurious accommodations. Here are 19 of the best safaris in Africa for 2023:
1. Serengeti National Park: Known for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras migrate across vast plains.
2. Kruger National Park: South Africa’s flagship park, offering diverse wildlife, including the Big Five.
3. Etosha National Park: Famous for its large salt pan and abundant wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos.
4. Laikipia Plateau: Located in Kenya, it offers a unique safari experience with a focus on conservation and wildlife preservation.
5. Mana Pools National Park: Situated along the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe, it is renowned for its walking safaris and close encounters with wildlife.
6. Okavango Delta: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Botswana, known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and mokoro (dugout canoe) safaris.
7. Mala Mala Game Reserve: One of South Africa’s premier private game reserves, offering exclusive wildlife experiences and luxurious accommodations.
8. Masai Mara National Reserve: Located in Kenya, it is famous for its annual wildebeest migration and offers excellent predator sightings.
9. Ngorongoro Crater: A unique safari destination in Tanzania, with a high concentration of wildlife within the caldera of an extinct volcano.
10. South Luangwa National Park: In Zambia, it is known for its walking safaris, night drives, and abundant leopard sightings.
11. Hwange National Park: Zimbabwe’s largest national park, offering diverse wildlife and excellent opportunities for spotting elephants.
12. Sabi Sands Game Reserve: Adjacent to Kruger National Park, it provides exceptional game viewing and luxurious lodges.
13. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Located in Uganda, it is renowned for its gorilla trekking experiences and conservation efforts.
14. Chobe National Park: Botswana’s first national park, famous for its large elephant herds and scenic Chobe River.
15. Amboseli National Park: Situated at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro in Kenya, known for its iconic elephant herds and breathtaking views.
16. Madikwe Game Reserve: In South Africa, it offers a malaria-free safari experience with a focus on conservation and community involvement.
17. Tarangire National Park: In Tanzania, known for its large elephant population, baobab trees, and birdlife.
18. Selous Game Reserve: One of the largest game reserves in Africa, offering a remote and untouched safari experience in Tanzania.
19. Queen Elizabeth National Park: Located in Uganda, it offers diverse wildlife, including tree-climbing lions and a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and there are many other incredible safari destinations in Africa. It is advisable to research further and choose a safari that aligns with your specific interests and preferences.
Is Kenya Or Tanzania Better For Safari?
When it comes to deciding between Kenya and Tanzania for a safari, both countries offer exceptional wildlife experiences. However, there are a few factors to consider in order to determine which destination might be better suited to your preferences.
1. Wildlife Diversity: Both Kenya and Tanzania are renowned for their diverse wildlife populations, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino). However, Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is known for its massive wildebeest migration, which is considered one of the most breathtaking natural spectacles on the planet.
2. Size of National Parks: Tanzania boasts the vast Serengeti National Park, covering an area of approximately 14,763 square kilometers. This expansive park provides ample space for wildlife to roam freely. Additionally, Tanzania is home to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest unbroken volcanic caldera, which offers a unique safari experience.
3. Accessibility: Kenya has a more developed tourism infrastructure compared to Tanzania, making it easier to access and navigate its national parks and reserves. The Maasai Mara Reserve in Kenya is especially famous for its wildlife sightings, including the annual wildebeest migration.
4. Crowd Levels: Kenya’s popularity as a tourist destination means that some parks, such as Maasai Mara, can become crowded during peak tourist seasons. Tanzania, on the other hand, offers more secluded and remote areas for a quieter safari experience.
5. Cultural Experiences: Both Kenya and Tanzania are home to diverse and vibrant cultures, with opportunities to interact with local communities and learn about their traditions and way of life. Kenya, in particular, is known for its Maasai tribe, while Tanzania offers encounters with the Maasai as well as other ethnic groups such as the Hadzabe and Datoga.
While both Kenya and Tanzania offer incredible wildlife safaris, Tanzania’s larger national parks, the Serengeti’s wildebeest migration, and the Ngorongoro Crater give it a slight edge. However, Kenya’s more developed tourism infrastructure and cultural experiences may also appeal to certain travelers. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences and interests.
What Time Of Year Is Best To Go To Africa Safari?
The optimal time to embark on an African safari is during the dry season, which typically spans from June to October. This period offers several advantages for safari-goers, including more comfortable weather conditions compared to the hot and humid wet season.
Here are the key reasons why the dry season is the best time to go on an African safari:
1. Increased Wildlife Sightings: Animals tend to congregate around water sources during the dry season, as water becomes scarce in the arid landscapes. This makes it easier for visitors to spot a wide array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and more. The higher concentration of animals enhances the overall safari experience.
2. Cooler Weather: The dry season brings milder temperatures, making it more pleasant for travelers to explore the African wilderness. The scorching heat that characterizes the wet season is alleviated during these months, allowing for a more comfortable and enjoyable safari adventure.
3. Masai Mara Migration: The dry season coincides with the renowned Great Migration in the Masai Mara region of Kenya and Tanzania. This awe-inspiring spectacle involves millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrating in search of greener pastures. Witnessing this incredible event is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn’t be missed.
4. Better Accessibility: During the dry season, the roads and tracks in national parks and game reserves are drier and more accessible. This means that safari vehicles can navigate the terrain more easily, providing visitors with better opportunities to explore and discover the diverse wildlife and landscapes Africa has to offer.
While the dry season is generally considered the best time for an African safari, it’s essential to note that specific regions may have slight variations in climate and wildlife behavior. Therefore, it’s advisable to research and consult with local experts or tour operators to ensure the best possible safari experience.
The months between June and October offer optimal conditions for an African safari. The dry season provides cooler weather, increased wildlife sightings, the chance to witness the Great Migration, and better accessibility to national parks and game reserves.
How Much Does A 10 Day African Safari Cost?
A 10-day African safari can vary in cost depending on several factors such as the destination, accommodations, activities, and level of luxury. On average, the price range for a 10-day safari in Africa is between £6000-8000 (US$8,500-11,000) per person. This means that the average daily cost would be around $850-1100 per person.
Here are some key points to consider when determining the cost of a 10-day African safari:
1. Destination: The cost can vary depending on the country or region you choose to visit. Popular safari destinations in Africa include Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Namibia.
2. Accommodations: The type of accommodation you choose will greatly impact the cost. Options range from luxury lodges and tented camps to budget-friendly campsites. Prices can vary significantly based on the level of comfort and exclusivity.
3. Activities: Safaris offer a wide range of activities such as game drives, walking safaris, bird-watching, and cultural visits. The cost may vary depending on the activities included in your package.
4. Transport: The mode of transportation can affect the overall cost. Safaris typically involve flights within the country or region, as well as ground transportation between different wildlife reserves or national parks.
5. Season: Prices can fluctuate based on the time of year you choose to go on safari. High season, which usually coincides with the dry season and the best wildlife viewing, tends to be more expensive compared to the low or shoulder seasons.
It’s important to note that the mentioned price range is just an average and could vary based on the factors mentioned above. It’s recommended to work with a reputable safari operator or travel agent who can tailor a package to your preferences and budget.
Conclusion
When it comes to planning the best safari experience in Africa, choosing the right safari company is crucial. There are several exceptional safari companies that stand out for their expertise, professionalism, and commitment to providing unforgettable wildlife encounters.
One of the top safari companies is &Beyond, known for their luxury lodges and camps in various African countries. They offer tailor-made itineraries, exceptional guides, and a strong focus on conservation and community development.
Another renowned safari company is Wilderness Safaris, which operates in multiple African countries and is committed to sustainable tourism practices. They offer a range of safari experiences, from luxury lodges to mobile camping expeditions, all while prioritizing conservation and community empowerment.
For those seeking a more intimate and personalized safari experience, companies like Asilia Africa and Singita are excellent options. These boutique safari operators have exclusive lodges and camps in prime wildlife areas, ensuring a high level of privacy and attention to detail.
African Bush Camps is another standout safari company, offering authentic and immersive safari experiences in Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Zambia. They focus on creating meaningful connections with local communities and supporting wildlife conservation efforts.
For budget-conscious travelers, companies like Acacia Africa and Nomad Tanzania provide affordable yet still rewarding safari experiences. They offer a range of camping and lodge-based safaris, allowing travelers to explore Africa’s wilderness without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, the best safari company for you will depend on your specific preferences, budget, and desired destinations. It is important to research and read reviews, consider the company’s commitment to conservation and ethical practices, and ensure they align with your own values and expectations.
By choosing one of these reputable safari companies, you can be confident in receiving a well-organized, immersive, and unforgettable wildlife adventure in Africa. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on the safari of a lifetime!
