For many, going on safari is one of life’s most powerful experiences. Watching lions in the wild, listening to the roar of an elephant a few meters away or watching a sunset over the African savannah is like nothing else. Here are the 15 best safaris in the world, unique destinations where wildlife is shown in all its splendor.
1. Serengeti National Park – Tanzania.
Famous for the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra, it is home to the “Big Five”: lion, elephant, leopard, rhino and buffalo. Its endless plains offer some of the best photographic safaris on the planet.
2. Masai Mara Reserve – Kenya.
It continues the Serengeti ecosystem and allows you to see spectacular hunting scenes during migration. In addition, you can visit authentic Maasai communities.
3. Kruger National Park – South Africa.
The most famous park in southern Africa. It offers excellent self-drive roads, luxurious lodges and a very high density of wildlife.
4. Okavango Delta – Botswana.
An oasis of life in the middle of the Kalahari Desert. You can go on safaris in mokoro (traditional canoes) and observe elephants, hippos and predators in a unique aquatic environment.
5. Etosha National Park – Namibia.
With its white salt flats, Etosha is a surreal setting where animals congregate in waterholes. Ideal to see black rhinos and lions.
6. Sabi Sand Reserve – South Africa.
Adjacent to Kruger, it is famous for nearby leopard sightings. It offers luxury safari experiences and expert guides.
7. Chobe National Park – Botswana.
Renowned for having one of the largest concentrations of elephants in the world. The boat safari on the Chobe River is an unforgettable experience.
8. Ngorongoro Reserve – Tanzania.
A volcanic crater converted into a closed ecosystem where thousands of animals live. Here it is possible to see the Big Five in a single day.
9. Ranthambore National Park – India.
One of the best places in the world to see Bengal tigers in the wild, surrounded by ancient temples and dry jungle landscapes.
10. Bandhavgarh Reserve – India
Small but with a high density of tigers. It is a little exploited gem, perfect for those looking for a more exclusive experience.
11. Zambezi Reserve – Zimbabwe.
Ideal to combine with Victoria Falls. It offers 4×4, walking and canoe safaris, with good populations of elephants, hippos and crocodiles.
12. Pantanal Reserve – Brazil.
The largest wetland in the world. Here the king is not the lion, but the jaguar. You can also see caimans, anacondas, capybaras and exotic birds.
13. Kafue Reserve – Zambia.
Remote and less touristy, it is the perfect place for those seeking authenticity. You can see cheetahs, lions, leopards and African wild dogs.
14. Manuel Antonio National Park – Costa Rica.
Although it is not an African safari, it offers walks among monkeys, sloths, birds and reptiles in a jungle environment by the sea.
15. Galapagos Islands – Ecuador.
A marine and land safari. Swim with sea lions, observe iguanas, giant tortoises and unique birds that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
🦁 What should you consider when choosing a safari?
- Season: The dry season (June to October) is usually ideal to see animals.
- Type of lodging: From basic camps to luxury lodges.
- Safari style: 4×4, on foot, by canoe or hot air balloon.
- Certified guides: Key to learning and having a safe and enriching experience.
Whether in the African savannah, the Asian jungle or the wetlands of South America, safaris connect us with the wildest essence of the planet.
