The Best Safari parks in Africa

So many people ask me "How do you chose which safari park in Africa to go too?"

Africa has many different safari parks and it can be confusing for many as to which ones to pick. Due to the parks varying locations across the continent they have wildly different environments and thus different animals. So I've created this helpful guide to break down the specific parks I've been too and help you decide which safari park suits you best.

Lake Nakuru - Kenya

The algae growing in Lake Nakuru attracts huge flocks of Flamingos to the shoreline painting a perfect picture as the feed off the algae. This park has alot more trees and foliage than other parks so it feels very different to some of the more arid landscapes.

Further up from the lake you might be lucky enough to spot one of the Black Rhinos roaming the park. Best viewed from a distance Black Rhinos are solitary animals and one of the big five, an old list of dangerous animals to hunt in Africa.

The Black Rhinos more docile relative the White Rhino can also be found in Lake Nakuru. They have even worse eyesight than the Black Rhino but they are much less territorial towards both people and other Rhinos. They are sociable animals and will often move in a small herd.

One of the rarest members of the big five you can spot in this park is the leopard. Often hidden in the dense foliage of the forested area of the park, leopards like to climb trees to rest in or drag their prey up into. Although they are extremely rare you can occasionally spot one in the Nakuru park but you have a better chance to see them in one of the later parks coming up. We were lucky enough to see a single male just leisurely walking down the track infront of the safari truck.

Lions are often found lounging by the tracks in the grassy plains at the top of this park, and can be seen coming to the water hole in the afternoon to drink. If you're staying at Lake Nakuru lodge you might be lucky enough to see them come by the side of the lodge whilst you have your dinner. We didn't manage to see them at the water hole but they were a common occurrence on the side of the road.

Hyenas in lake Nakuru make a very distinct silhouette against the dead trees surrounding the lake if you want an atmospheric photo.

Cape Buffalo, another member of the Big Five can be seen grazing on the grass in the marsh like areas as they enjoy wallowing. On the backs of the buffaloes you can usually see ox pecker birds picking parasites off the skin.

Serengeti National Park

Moving on to the iconic Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, it's renowned for the Great Migration, a natural spectacle where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the vast plains in search of better grazing. This annual event attracts predators like lions and cheetahs, providing a thrilling wildlife experience.

The Seronera River in the heart of the Serengeti is a prime location for game viewing, with crocodiles and hippos inhabiting its waters. Acacia-dotted landscapes set the scene for encounters with elephants, giraffes, and various antelope species.

The park's extensive grasslands also host an abundance of birdlife, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Keep an eye out for Secretary birds which is one of my personal favorites, ostriches, and vibrant species like lilac-breasted rollers.

Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area

A unique safari destination, the Ngorongoro Crater within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania is a natural amphitheater teeming with diverse wildlife. The crater's floor supports a thriving ecosystem, offering a chance to spot the Big Five in a relatively confined space.

Apart from the classic safari animals, the Ngorongoro Crater is home to rare species like the endangered black rhinoceros. The lush surroundings provide an intimate setting to observe animal behaviors, and the Maasai people, who coexist with the wildlife, add cultural richness to the experience.

Maasai Mara National Reserve

One very relaxed Leopard

One of the best places to spot Leopards and cheetahs is in the large sweeping landscapes of the Maasai Mara national reserve. In every single one of these parks the guides are in constant communication with each other over

two way radios. I found that here in particular animals like leopards and cheetahs would often remain in the same place for long periods of time in the afternoon. The cheetah we saw was a mother who had recently had four cubs and was letting them play fight around a small tree. Secretary birds are also very common here and you can usually see them roaming in pairs.

One of the main reasons to go to the Maasai Mara is to view the great migration as the wilder beast cross the river from Tanzania to Kenya. But that is only for a very short period of time in the year so you have to plan your trip around it.

Amboseli National Park

For a breathtaking view of Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop to your safari, Amboseli National Park in Kenya is the ideal destination. The park is famous for its large herds of elephants, and you can witness these majestic creatures roaming against the stunning panorama of Africa's highest peak.

Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the park's varied avian population, including flamingoes, pelicans, and numerous birds of prey. Amboseli's diverse ecosystems, ranging from swamps to savannah, provide a habitat for a wide array of wildlife, making each game drive a unique exploration.

These are just a few highlights, and each safari park in Africa offers a distinct experience. Whichever parks you pick your African adventure will be amazing. Consider your preferences and the specific wildlife you hope to encounter when planning your safari adventure.