The 5 Best Safaris in Africa: “Where the Wild Things Are”

There’s something undeniably soul searching about stepping into the African wilderness. A safari isn’t just a vacation; it’s an experience that rewires your sense of time, space, and wonder. It’s about locking eyes with a lion at dawn, hearing elephants trumpet through the trees, and watching the sun melt into the horizon against the sky.

Africa’s safari destinations each have their own heartbeat. Together, they form what I like to call the “Big Five of Safaris,” a nod to the iconic mammals they are known for: lion, Leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. Visiting these places feels a little like stepping into a storybook — a place where the wild things are — but instead of existing in your imagination, everything is real; it’s tangible; and it’s right in front of you.  These iconic sites offer far more than wildlife sightings. They offer connection, awe, and stories to become MEMORIES TO LAST A LIFETIME.

Let’s dive into five of Woldwide Quest’s very best safari tours.


1. The Serengeti, Tanzania – The Lion’s Kingdom

If Africa had a crown jewel, the Serengeti would be it. This vast expanse of golden savannah is home to the legendary Great Migration, where over a million wildebeest and zebras thunder across the plains in search of greener pastures. It’s raw, cinematic, and humbling.

Stay in a luxury tented camp, and wake to the sound of lions roaring in the distance; fall asleep under a sky so starry it feels unreal. Morning game drives take you to lion prides lounging in the early light, while evenings by the fire offer a chance to reflect on the sheer scale of nature’s drama. It’s easy to see why this place feels like the “king of all wild things.” 





2. Maasai Mara, Kenya – The Leopard’s Elegance

The northern tip of the Serengeti lies the Maasai Mara, a landscape of rolling grasslands and acacia trees that looks like a wildlife postcard come to life. A haven for big cats, especially Leopards and Cheetahs, Kenya is prime territory for some of the most intimate predator sightings in Africa.

But the Mara is more than just wildlife; it’s a cultural tapestry of traditions of the Maasai people. Spend time learning their stories, and gain a deeper appreciation for the land and its people. And don’t miss a sunset on the escarpment where giraffes roam in the distance, a drink in hand (Gin and Tonic — my favourite) and the sky ablaze with colour —  “A wild rumpus of colour, movement, and life.”

 

 

3. The Okavango Delta, Botswana – The Elephant’s Sanctuary

Imagine gliding silently through the channels by canoe, with elephants bathing just metres away.  The Okavango Delta is a wonderland that floods seasonally, creating a mosaic of lagoons and islands of rich terrain.

Botswana’s commitment to conservation means fewer crowds and a more exclusive experience. Whether you are tracking lions on foot or watching hippos from your room-deck pool, the Delta invites you to slow down and savour the moment. It’s safari at its most serene — the sort of place where the rare combination of adventure and peace crown you “king of the wild things,” if only for a moment.

 

 

4. Kruger & Private Reserves, South Africa – The Rhino’s Stronghold

Kruger National Park is a safari classic and for good reason. It’s accessable, diverse, and packed with abundant wildlife. By venturing into private reserves like Sabi Sands or Timbavati, the experience becomes something truly special.

Here, expert guides take you off roading in search of elusive rhinos; night drives reveal nocturnal wonders; and luxurious lodges serve up gourmet meals with a side of adventure. It’s the perfect blend of wild and refined, ideal for first-time travellers and seasoned safari goers alike. Here, “like Max returning from his journey, you realize you’ve been to a place both wild and welcoming.”

 

 

5. South Luangwa, Zambia – The Buffalo’s Wild Spirit

If you crave authenticity and a touch of the untamed, South Luangwa is your place. This is where the walking safari was born — a chance to explore the bush on foot, guided by trackers who read the land like a book.

Leopards are plentiful; the Luangwa River teems with hippos and crocs; and the whole experience feels refreshingly raw. It’s not polished, and that’s the point. South Luangwa strips away the gloss and gives you Africa in its purest form. It feels like you’ve been invited into the “wild rumpus” itself; only here, the story is yours.

 

  
Whether you are drawn to the grandeur of the Serengeti, the intimacy of the Okavango, or the wild pulse of South Luangwa, each destination promises a unique lens into Africa’s soul.

Like the Big Five mammals, these safaris complement each other, adding layers to your story.