If you’re looking for wildlife, there’s nothing like Africa.
Africa has an incredible range of wildlife experiences. From the vast savannahs teeming with big cats to dense jungles – home to rare primates.
There are 54 countries in Africa - so how do you know which are the best to visit for its wildlife?
We’ve written down our list of only seven African countries. Let´s look at them!
1. Botswana
Botswana’s commitment to conservation makes it one of the best places for wildlife in Africa.
The Okavango Delta is a unique inland delta where you can see elephants, hippos and big cats in a stunning wetland setting.
It’s visited mostly during the dry season (May–October) when wildlife congregates around the waterways.
Chobe National Park boasts one of the highest concentrations of elephants in Africa, while the Central Kalahari Game Reserve is home to desert-adapted species like oryx and black-maned lions.
Beyond safaris, you’ll find places like Makgadikgadi Pans, where you can see meerkats and experience the vast salt flats. The Tsodilo Hills are home to ancient rock art, while the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park has spectacular desert scenery.
2. Tanzania
Home to the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania is famous for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles move across the plains in search of fresh grazing.
The best time for the Great Migration in Serengeti is June–September, but if you want fewer crowds, you can visit this place during the green season (November–March).
Ngorongoro Crater has one of the densest populations of lions in Africa!
Tanzania has more to offer beyond wildlife, from the beaches of Zanzibar to the volcanic peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro.
The historic part of Stone Town shows Swahili culture, while Lake Victoria is a great off-the-beaten-path destination.
3. South Africa
For accessibility and variety, South Africa is unbeatable!
Kruger National Park is home to the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo). Addo Elephant National Park offers some of the best elephant viewing.
Madikwe Game Reserve is one of the best places to see African wild dogs, and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park has dramatic desert landscapes with black-maned lions and cheetahs.
Beyond safaris, South Africa offers Cape Town, the Winelands and the Garden Route. Unlike the majority of Africa, most areas are characteristic for its Mediterranean climate. Drakensberg Mountains are perfect for hiking, and in Hermanus the country offers some of the best whale watching.
Kruger is accessible year-round, but from May to October is the best for game viewing. Self-drive safaris are popular and budget-friendly.
4. Namibia
Namibia’s Etosha National Park is an excellent safari destination, where wildlife gathers around salt pans and waterholes.
The Skeleton Coast and Damaraland are home to desert-adapted elephants and rhinos, while Bwabwata National Park is home to a mix of water and land-based game viewing.
Namibia is also one of the best places to see cheetahs in the wild.
Namibia is known for its surreal landscapes, including the Sossusvlei dunes, Fish River Canyon, and the Skeleton Coast. It’s also one of the best places for stargazing.
The dry season (June – October) is best for safaris, but this time visiting outside means fewer tourists at major sites like Etosha. A 4x4 is essential for getting around.
5. Uganda
Uganda is one of the top countries for primates, particularly mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and chimpanzees in Kibale National Park.
Queen Elizabeth National Park has tree-climbing lions, and Murchison Falls National Park features classic savannah game alongside the dramatic waterfall on the Nile.
Beyond gorilla trekking, Uganda offers the stunning Rwenzori Mountains, the adventure hub of Jinja (where the Nile begins), and scenic boat trips on Lake Bunyonyi.
Gorilla permits sell out months in advance - book early and be prepared for a tough but rewarding trek!
6. Kenya
Kenya is another prime safari destination, with the Maasai Mara hosting the Great Migration alongside Tanzania’s Serengeti.
At Amboseli National Park, you’ll be treated with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, often with herds of elephants in the foreground.
Laikipia Plateau and Samburu National Reserve offer unique species like Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes, and African wild dogs.
As well as Kenya being one of the most popular wildlife countries in Africa, it also has fantastic beaches and glitzy cities - it’s even known as one of the best African countries for casinos - including in person and casino websites.
7. Zambia
Zambia is a top destination for walking safaris, particularly in South Luangwa National Park, where you can get incredibly close to wildlife on foot.
The Lower Zambezi National Park offers boat safaris with elephants and hippos in the water, while Kafue National Park is an underrated gem for cheetahs and leopards.
Final Thoughts
Each of these countries has unique ecosystems and offers a slightly different wildlife experience - and they’re all worth checking out!
Africa is a vast, diverse continent and if you’re a wildlife watcher, a trip here should be top of your bucket list.
