Which to choose - Southern Africa Safari vs. East Africa Safari

Deciding where you should go on safari can sometimes be a difficult task. If it is your first time, you may want to go to a destination which is going to give you the best game viewing possible for your time there. If you have been on safari before you may want to go somewhere more 'off the beaten track' or perhaps tick off an iconic African bucket-list experience.

We've picked some of our top highlights for first timers and safari veterans which should help you to choose whether a Southern Africa safari or East Africa safari experience is best for you.

Southern Africa

Countries - South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana

There are a number of Southern African countries where safari is possible, including South Africa itself. Southern African countries are diverse in nature and the experiences they offer. It is one of the things we love most about these regions as safari destinations. From malaria-free, family friendly safaris in the Kruger, to the adrenaline junkie paradise of Victoria Falls and its surrounding rivers, Southern Africa has much to offer as a safari destination.

Activities for first time visitors

For first timer visitors to Southern Africa, we suggest spending some time in the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town or heading out to the Winelands to indulge in the region’s award-winning food and wine. If you’re heading to South Africa and Big 5 game viewing is on your list, look no further than the Kruger National Park. However, if your heart longs for a little more adventure, Zimbabwe is sure to satisfy that craving. Home to Victoria Falls, the world’s largest waterfall, opportunities for walking safaris and chances to view the Big 5, Zimbabwe is sure to get your heart racing. Whether it’s abseiling off Table Mountain or white water rafting in Zambia, there are no shortage of adrenaline rush experiences in Africa.

Bucket list activities

For travellers who are interested in something a little different, Namibia offers fly-in safaris to its further-flung regions which are as remote as they are beautiful, making them a photographers paradise. A stark contrast from Namibia’s arid landscape, the lifegiving waterways of the Okavango Delta allow travellers to experience exclusive water safaris by boat or traditional mokoro. Travellers can head to Zambia, the birthplace of the walking safari, taking a guided walk through the South Luangwa National Park, where the walking safari began. If you’re having trouble deciding between a Zimbabwe or Botswana safari, we’ve drawn up a detailed comparison that will help you choose which is the best safari location for you.

East Africa

Countries - Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania

Iconic wildlife sightings and culture is what East African countries are perhaps most famous for. From primate safaris to the natural phenomenon that is the Wildebeest Migration, East Africa safari experiences are a sight to behold.

Activities for first time visitors

First time visitors to East Africa won’t want to miss out on Big 5 game viewing in Kenya’s renowned Maasai Mara nor should they neglect to visit Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater which can be incorporated in a multi-stop safari experience. Consider planning your trip to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration which can be observed in both Kenya and Tanzania. Not only is East Africa great for group safari experiences but also an area which has many great lodges for a solo safari travel.

Bucket list activities

For many, the ultimate East African bucket list experience may be Gorilla Trekking in Uganda or Rwanda second only to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. However, these aren’t the only exciting adventures to be had in East Africa. Travellers can also look forward to chimp trekking in Rwanda or an off-the-grid safari experience in Tanzania's Southern Circuit, far from any crowds.

Choosing between Southern and East Africa largely hinges on the kind of experience you seek, but both regions provide incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. To explore further, discover some of our most iconic African bucket list journeys. If you're considering a Southern or East Africa safari or want more details about any of these experiences, get in touch with our Travel Experts.