Luxury East Africa safaris in Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Uganda & Rwanda & southern Africa
East Africa is renowned for its diverse and breathtaking safari destinations, each offering unique wildlife experiences and stunning landscapes. Here are some of the best safari destinations in East Africa:
These wildlife parks, reserves, wildlife conservancies and beach destinations offer exceptional opportunities for wildlife viewing and conservation efforts, making them must-visit destinations for any safari enthusiast visiting Kenya.
Located just outside the capital city, Nairobi National Park is a unique wilderness area where you can see wildlife against the backdrop of the city skyline. It is home to the endangered black rhino, as well as lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and diverse bird species.
Famous for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores cross from the Serengeti into the Mara in search of greener pastures. The Mara is home to the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, leopard) and offers fantastic game viewing year-round.
Known for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's tallest peak. Amboseli is famous for its large elephant herds, as well as other wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and various bird species.
Tsavo is one of the largest national parks in Kenya and is divided into two sections: Tsavo East and Tsavo West. Both parks offer diverse landscapes, including open savannah, acacia forests, and lava flows, as well as abundant wildlife such as elephants, lions, leopards, and buffaloes.
Located in Kenya's northern region, Samburu is known for its unique wildlife species not found in other parts of the country, including the reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra, Beisa oryx, and Somali ostrich. The Ewaso Nyiro River, which runs through the reserve, attracts a variety of wildlife, especially during the dry season.
Famous for its flamingo population, Lake Nakuru is a birdwatcher's paradise. The park is also home to rhinos, both black and white, as well as other wildlife such as lions, leopards, giraffes, and buffalo. The surrounding woodlands offer opportunities for hiking and nature walks.
This vast region in central Kenya is a haven for wildlife and offers a range of safari experiences, including game drives, walking safaris, and horseback safaris. Laikipia is known for its conservation efforts and is home to endangered species such as rhinos, Grevy's zebras, and wild dogs.
In addition to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, several private conservancies surrounding the reserve offer exclusive and more intimate safari experiences, with fewer crowds and a focus on conservation and community involvement. These conservancies provide opportunities for guided walks, night drives, and cultural interactions with the Maasai people.
Immortalized in the book and movie "Born Free," Meru National Park offers rugged wilderness and diverse habitats, including forests, rivers, and grasslands. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and rhinos, as well as over 400 bird species.
This private conservancy in Laikipia County is a leading rhino sanctuary and home to the last two remaining northern white rhinos in the world. Visitors can also see black rhinos, as well as other wildlife such as elephants, lions, giraffes, and chimpanzees.
Known for its successful conservation efforts, Lewa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stronghold for both black and white rhinos. The conservancy also supports a variety of other wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and Grevy's zebras.
This mountainous park offers diverse ecosystems ranging from montane forests to bamboo forests and moorlands. It is home to the endangered black rhino, as well as elephants, leopards, and other wildlife.
Located south of Mombasa, Diani Beach is renowned for its powdery white sands, clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. It's a popular destination for water sports such as snorkeling, diving, kite surfing, and jet skiing. Diani also offers beachfront resorts, restaurants, and nightlife.
Situated north of Mombasa, Watamu is known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and marine life. The Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve is a protected area with excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, as well as nesting sites for sea turtles.
Situated near Mombasa, Nyali Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The beach is lined with resorts, restaurants, and bars, making it a convenient option for visitors staying in Mombasa.
Part of the Lamu Archipelago, Lamu Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich Swahili culture, historic architecture, and tranquil beaches. Visitors can explore the narrow streets of Lamu Town, relax on the beaches, take dhow cruises, and indulge in Swahili cuisine.
Tanzania is renowned for its spectacular wildlife and diverse landscapes, making it a top destination for safari enthusiasts.
One of Africa's most famous safari destinations, the Serengeti is renowned for its vast savannah plains, annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras, and abundant predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards. It offers unparalleled wildlife viewing throughout the year.
Home to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's largest intact caldera. The crater's unique ecosystem supports a high density of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, leopard), as well as rare species such as the black rhino.
Famous for its tree-climbing lions, Lake Manyara is a compact park with diverse habitats including woodlands, grasslands, and alkaline lakes. Visitors can enjoy game drives, birdwatching, and cultural experiences with the local Maasai people.
Known for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees, Tarangire offers excellent game viewing opportunities, particularly during the dry season when animals congregate around the Tarangire River. The park is also home to lions, leopards, giraffes, and diverse birdlife.
One of Africa's largest protected areas, Selous is a wilderness gem with diverse habitats including grasslands, woodlands, rivers, and lakes. Visitors can enjoy boat safaris, walking safaris, and traditional game drives to see elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
Tanzania's largest national park, Ruaha is known for its rugged landscapes, remote wilderness, and rich biodiversity. It offers excellent opportunities to see predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs, as well as large herds of elephants and buffalo.
One of Tanzania's best-kept secrets, Katavi is a remote and pristine wilderness with vast floodplains, dense woodlands, and seasonal lakes. It offers superb game viewing opportunities, especially during the dry season when large herds of buffalo, elephants, and hippos gather around the remaining water sources.
Located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale Mountains is home to one of Africa's last remaining populations of wild chimpanzees. Visitors can trek through lush forests to observe these incredible primates in their natural habitat, as well as enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and swimming in the lake.
Mount Kilimanjaro: As the tallest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world, Mount Kilimanjaro is a bucket-list destination for many climbers and adventurers. Its snow-capped peak rises to an elevation of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. Kilimanjaro offers several trekking routes, each with its own unique scenery and challenges, making it accessible to climbers of varying skill levels.
Commonly known as "The Mountain of God" in the Maasai language, Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai is an active stratovolcano located in the eastern Rift Valley of Tanzania. Standing at 2,878 meters (9,442 feet) above sea level, it is Tanzania's third-highest peak. Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai is revered by the Maasai people and offers challenging trekking experiences for adventurous travelers.
Located in Arusha National Park, Mount Meru is the second-highest mountain in Tanzania, standing at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) above sea level. Often overshadowed by its larger neighbor, Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru offers stunning views, diverse ecosystems, and excellent trekking opportunities. The ascent to the summit involves passing through lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain.
Zanzibar is perhaps the most famous beach destination in Tanzania, known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore historic Stone Town, relax on the beaches of Nungwi and Kendwa, go snorkeling or diving in the coral reefs, and enjoy water sports such as kite surfing and sailing.
Zanzibar, an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Here are some top beach destinations in Zanzibar. These beach destinations in Zanzibar offer a mix of natural beauty, relaxation, and water sports activities, making them perfect for a tropical beach vacation in East Africa.
Located on the northern tip of Zanzibar, Nungwi Beach is famous for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as snorkeling and diving.
Adjacent to Nungwi Beach, Kendwa Beach offers similar stunning scenery but with a more laid-back and tranquil atmosphere. It's an excellent place to relax and enjoy the sunset with a refreshing drink in hand.
Situated on the southeast coast of Zanzibar, Paje Beach is known for its powdery white sands and shallow waters, making it ideal for kiteboarding and windsurfing. The beach also offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
Located on the northeast coast of Zanzibar, Matemwe Beach is renowned for its unspoiled beauty and peaceful ambiance. It's an excellent destination for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the nearby Mnemba Atoll Marine Park.
Found on the northeast coast of Zanzibar, Kiwengwa Beach stretches for miles along the coastline, offering soft white sands and clear blue waters. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
Situated on the southeast coast of Zanzibar, Bwejuu Beach is known for its wide stretch of powdery sands and calm waters. It's an ideal destination for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of Zanzibar.
Located on the southeast coast of Zanzibar, Michamvi Peninsula is home to several secluded beaches, including Pingwe Beach and Kae Beach. These beaches offer privacy and tranquility, perfect for romantic getaways or peaceful retreats.
Found on the eastern coast of Zanzibar, Uroa Beach is known for its shallow waters and sandy shores, making it suitable for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
Zanzibar, with its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, offers a variety of exciting excursions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some popular excursions in Zanzibar:
Explore the historic streets of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its labyrinthine alleyways, historic buildings, and bustling markets. Visit landmarks such as the Sultan's Palace, House of Wonders, and Old Fort.
Discover Zanzibar's spice heritage with a guided tour of spice farms located in the rural areas of the island. Learn about the cultivation and uses of spices such as cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg, and enjoy a traditional Swahili lunch.
Take a boat trip to Prison Island (also known as Changuu Island), located off the coast of Stone Town. Explore the island's historic prison ruins, relax on the beautiful beach, and visit the giant Aldabra tortoises that inhabit the island.
Explore the lush Jozani Forest, Zanzibar's only national park, and home to the endemic Red Colobus monkeys. Take a guided nature walk through the forest, spot other wildlife such as Sykes' monkeys and bush babies, and learn about the park's conservation efforts.
Discover the vibrant underwater world of Zanzibar with snorkeling and diving excursions to coral reefs teeming with marine life. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include Mnemba Atoll, Tumbatu Island, and the Menai Bay Conservation Area.
elax on a traditional dhow (sailing boat) and enjoy a scenic sunset cruise along the coast of Zanzibar. Sip on refreshing drinks, enjoy fresh seafood snacks, and take in breathtaking views of the sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Embark on a dolphin-watching excursion in Kizimkazi, located on the southern tip of Zanzibar. Spot bottlenose and humpback dolphins in their natural habitat and, if conditions permit, swim alongside these gentle creatures.
Learn to cook authentic Swahili dishes with a spice cooking class led by local chefs. Visit a local market to shop for fresh ingredients, then participate in hands-on cooking lessons to prepare traditional dishes such as pilau rice, coconut curry, and seafood delicacies.
Uganda is renowned for its exceptional gorilla tracking experiences, offering visitors the opportunity to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. These safari destinations in Uganda offer diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unique experiences, making them must-visit destinations for any safari enthusiast. Whether you’re seeking to encounter mountain gorillas, explore remote wilderness areas, or enjoy traditional game drives, Uganda has something to offer for every traveler.
Here are some of the best safari destinations in Uganda:
Renowned for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places in the world for gorilla trekking. Visitors can hike through dense forests to observe these incredible primates in their natural habitat.
This diverse park encompasses savannah plains, wetlands, forests, and lakes, including the famous Kazinga Channel, where visitors can take boat safaris to see hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Queen Elizabeth is also home to elephants, lions, leopards, and chimpanzees.
Named after the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge before plunging into a pool below. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy game drives, boat safaris, and hikes to the top of the falls.
Located in Uganda's remote northeastern corner, Kidepo Valley is one of Africa's most pristine wilderness areas. It offers spectacular scenery, diverse wildlife, and cultural experiences with the local Karamojong people. Visitors can see elephants, lions, cheetahs, and giraffes, among other species.
Known for its unique wildlife and birdlife, Semuliki is a biodiversity hotspot with lush tropical forests, hot springs, and swamp habitats. Visitors can see rare species such as the Semliki harrier and the shoebill stork, as well as enjoy nature walks, birdwatching, and cultural encounters with the local Batwa people.
Famous for its population of habituated chimpanzees, Kibale is one of the best places in Africa for chimpanzee trekking. The park is also home to 12 other primate species, including the red colobus monkey and the L'Hoest's monkey. Visitors can enjoy guided forest walks, birdwatching, and cultural experiences with the local communities.
Located in the heart of Uganda, Lake Mburo is known for its scenic landscapes, acacia woodlands, and wetlands. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, impalas, hippos, and crocodiles. Visitors can enjoy game drives, boat safaris, and horseback riding.
Situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, Entebbe is a picturesque city known for its colonial architecture, botanical gardens, and wildlife attractions. It is home to Uganda's main international airport, Entebbe International Airport, making it a common entry point for travelers. Entebbe is also famous for the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), where visitors can see a variety of rescued and rehabilitated animals.
Rwanda is renowned for its exceptional gorilla trekking experiences, offering visitors the opportunity to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
When planning a gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda, it’s essential to obtain a permit in advance, as permits are limited and often sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. Additionally, visitors should be prepared for a challenging trek through dense forest terrain and variable weather conditions, so it’s advisable to wear appropriate clothing and footwear and be in good physical condition.
Rwanda’s gorilla trekking experiences offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe these magnificent primates up close in their natural habitat, providing a memorable and enriching wildlife encounter for visitors.
Here are the main gorilla trekking destinations in Rwanda:
This iconic park is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, made famous by Dian Fossey's work and the film "Gorillas in the Mist." Visitors can trek through the dense bamboo forests to observe these majestic primates in their natural habitat. Volcanoes National Park also offers opportunities to trek golden monkeys and hike to the summits of several volcanoes.
One of the oldest and most biodiverse rainforests in Africa, Nyungwe is home to 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and mangabeys. Visitors can trek through the forest to track chimpanzees and other primates, as well as enjoy birdwatching, canopy walks, and cultural experiences with the local communities.
Located in eastern Rwanda, Akagera is the country's only savannah national park and offers a more traditional safari experience. Visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and predators such as lions, leopards, and hyenas. Boat safaris on Lake Ihema provide opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, and water birds.
This newly established national park is known for its lush forests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. It is home to chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and other primates, as well as numerous bird species. Gishwati-Mukura offers opportunities for primate trekking, birdwatching, and nature walks.
