East Africa or Southern Africa?
Which is best for an African safari?
When planning an African safari, the first decision is where to go on your African safari. Africa is a large continent, and it is home to great species, but picking where to go is the first big decision. Both Southern Africa and East Africa have most national parks, wildlife reserves, and private wildlife reserves and concessions. So, which part of Africa should you visit?
When it comes to organising your African safari, we at African Safaris Ltd Safaris are frequently asked this question.
Your African safari destination will depend on what appeals to you and what is most practical. Most places in East Africa and Southern Africa cater to a wide range of interests and budgets. This makes both regions ideal destinations for solo travellers, honeymooners, five-star holiday connoisseurs, families or groups of friends planning a safari together.
However, important points such as international flight routes, your wish list, or the time of year you intend to travel may/will influence your decision. Both East Africa and Southern Africa are incredible, and there is no right or wrong answer, but to help you decide, we have put together a quick comparison of Southern Africa and East Africa.
Why choose an East African safari?
The Greatest Show on Earth. The annual wildebeest migration involves millions of wildebeest and zebras that follow the rains and great grazing opportunities, including a Kenya and Tanzania safari combination.
See classic picture-postcard African scenery of rolling savannahs and acacia trees
The views of, or the opportunity to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain.
Large numbers of wildlife on the open savannah plains.
The opportunity for cultural interaction with the locals, such as the Maasai who maintain a pastoral traditional way of life.
Many exciting new wildlife areas opening up in the more remote northern Kenya and southern. plus western Tanzania regions. These regions not only offer a more remote and exclusive safari experience but they also a wider variety of wilderness activities including chimpanzee trekking, horse-riding, walking and camelback safaris etc.
A pristine coastline makes the region ideal for an enjoyable bush and beach vacation experience.
Why choose a Southern African safari?
A wide range of scenery, from Namibia’s barren Namib Desert to Botswana’s Okavango Delta, which contains a plethora of waterways.
View and experience animals in new ways, including as from a mokoro (dug-out canoe) or while on a walking safari.
Private concession safaris that allow for ‘up close and personal’ wildlife drives and outdoor activities/experiences.
Open safari vehicles allow for easier wildlife tracking and game viewing.
Walking safaris are particularly popular in Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Seeing Victoria Falls, one of the world’s seven natural wonders.
Easily paired with a visit to Cape Town, one of the world’s most popular cities…or even a relaxing beach island extension in Mozambique.
