A quick guide to the most important African game parks

The Serengeti and the Masai Mara are essentially one huge game park. There is a political border between the two which, of course,  the animals completely ignore!

As the northern extension of the Serengeti, the Maasai Mara is Kenya’s premier game reserve and it is basically known for its dense predator population, particularly lions and cheetahs, the park is a prime location to witness the dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration. The reserve is also home to the Maasai people, whose rich culture adds an extra layer of fascination to any visit.

Probably the most famous of Africa’s parks and arguably the most well-maintained park on the continent. Located in northeastern South Africa, it boasts all of the Big Five -along with an impressive variety of birds and smaller mammals. Its well-developed infrastructure makes it a great option for both guided and self-drive safaris.

This is the smallest park on this list and I’m cheating a little because it is actually a private reserve rather than a national park. But it’s because it is one of my personal favourites.

Madikwe is a hidden gem in South Africa, located near the Botswana border. Known for its thriving populations of wild dogs, black and white rhinos, and the Big Five, this malaria-free reserve is a fantastic choice for families and luxury safari seekers alike. Its exclusive lodges and fewer crowds make it a more private, off-the-beaten-path safari experience especially as it is easily reached from the (garish) Sun City or by quick light aircraft flight from Jo’burg.

Chobe is best known for having one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, with herds numbering in the thousands. Situated in northern Botswana along the Chobe River, the park also supports large numbers of hippos, crocodiles, and big cats making boat safaris a unique way to experience the wildlife. The lush riverbanks attract an array of birds, wonderful for birdwatchers.

Chobe is easily accessible from Victoria Falls which in my opinion makes it an obvious side trip to pretty much all visitors to the falls especially as it involves a river cruise for wildlife viewing.

Etosha’s stark yet beautiful salt pan landscape sets it apart from other African game parks. Most first time visitors won’t get to Etosha as it is located in northern Namibia. But if you can add it into your travel plans it is very much worthwhile.

The park is famous for its abundant wildlife, including black and white rhinos, giraffes, and large lion prides. The park’s waterholes (located near park campsites) act as a magnet for animals, providing some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities, especially in the dry season.

For those seeking a more intimate wildlife experience, Bwindi is the ultimate destination for gorilla trekking. Nestled in southwestern Uganda, this dense, misty rainforest is home to roughly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Trekking through the jungle to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat is one of the most moving wildlife encounters imaginable.

Regarded as one of the best places in Africa for walking safaris, South Luangwa offers a raw and immersive wilderness experience. Located in eastern Zambia, the park is home to large numbers of leopards, elephants, and hippos, with the Luangwa River attracting a variety of wildlife. It’s a prime destination for those looking to escape the crowds and experience safari in its most authentic form.

A unique safari destination, the Okavango Delta is a lush oasis in the heart of the Kalahari Desert. This UNESCO-listed wetland, located in northern Botswana, is best explored by traditional mokoro (dugout canoe), offering close encounters with elephants, hippos, and an array of birdlife. The seasonal floods create an ever-changing landscape, making every visit a unique experience. 

The need to use light aircraft to access the Delta plus the all inclusive nature of its lodges does make this destination quite pricey but it’s a unique destination.

This is a natural wonder in its own right; the Ngorongoro Crater is an ancient volcanic caldera that harbors an incredible density of wildlife. Located in northern Tanzania, the crater floor is home to the Big Five, including one of the highest concentrations of lions in Africa. 

But the crater is probably best known as a haven for the rare black rhino. Apparently each of these impressive creatures is guarded by two (armed) park rangers constantly. 

Accessing the park involves driving down to the crater floor. That in itself is an experience. The dramatic scenery, with towering crater walls enclosing vast grasslands and lakes, makes for some of the most spectacular safari photography.

Known as “The Land of Giants,” Amboseli is famous for its herds of free-roaming elephants set against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. So the classic photo for you to get is an elephant shot with the mountain (highest in Africa of course) in the background. Located in southern Kenya, the park also supports cheetahs, lions, giraffes, and numerous bird species. Its open plains and swampy marshes create diverse habitats, offering excellent wildlife viewing year-round.

Famed for its flocks of flamingos, Lake Nakuru is a scenic park located in central Kenya’s Rift Valley. The alkaline lake attracts thousands of pink flamingos, creating a stunning spectacle. You know that of course because the pink flamingos of Nakuru feature in almost every Africa brochure!

In addition to birdlife, the park is home to rhinos, leopards, and tree-climbing lions, making it a fantastic safari destination with a mix of landscapes, from woodlands to waterfalls.

While best known for the breathtaking Victoria Falls, this park also offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. Located on the Zimbabwean side of the Zambezi River, the park is home to elephants, buffalos, hippos, and crocodiles, with numerous bird species soaring through the mist of the falls. Sunset cruises on the Zambezi provide a magical way to experience both the park’s beauty and its wildlife.

Now to be honest this is not one of Africa’s best parks. But it wins the prize for most conveniently located!