The Best Places to Go on Safari in 2026
Embarking on a safari in 2026 promises to be one of the most rewarding travel experiences, as Africa continues to refine its tourism offerings while preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage that make it so special. With conservation efforts at their peak and luxury lodges blending comfort with authentic wilderness experiences, safaris are more accessible and diverse than ever. Below are some of the best destinations to consider for your next great adventure.
1. Kenya – Maasai Mara & Beyond
The Maasai Mara remains one of the most iconic safari destinations in the world, particularly for its Great Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles move across the plains. By 2026, enhanced eco-friendly lodges and private conservancies are offering more intimate and sustainable safari experiences. Beyond the Mara, destinations like Amboseli National Park—with its breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large elephant herds—and Samburu National Reserve, known for its unique wildlife species such as the Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe, make Kenya a must-visit.
2. Tanzania – Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
If there’s one country that rivals Kenya’s safari fame, it’s Tanzania. The Serengeti National Park is home to vast savannahs that stretch endlessly, where predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards thrive. In 2026, luxury mobile camps are expected to offer immersive stays that follow the migration routes. The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another highlight—this massive volcanic caldera provides one of the highest densities of wildlife in Africa, including the elusive black rhino. The untouched beauty of Ruaha and Selous Game Reserves also appeals to travelers seeking quieter, off-the-beaten-path safaris.
3. Botswana – Okavango Delta & Chobe National Park
Botswana continues to shine as one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, renowned for exclusivity and untouched wilderness. The Okavango Delta, a lush wetland teeming with wildlife, is best explored by mokoro (traditional canoe), offering serene encounters with elephants, hippos, and birdlife. Chobe National Park boasts the largest elephant population in the world and provides spectacular boat safaris along the Chobe River. By 2026, Botswana’s emphasis on low-impact tourism ensures that visitors experience pristine wilderness with minimal crowds.
4. South Africa – Kruger National Park & Private Reserves
South Africa remains one of the most versatile safari destinations, perfect for both first-timers and seasoned adventurers. Kruger National Park offers an impressive mix of accessibility, affordability, and wildlife diversity, with excellent chances of spotting the Big Five. Adjacent private game reserves such as Sabi Sands and Timbavati provide luxury lodges, night drives, and walking safaris. Combining a Kruger safari with a trip to Cape Town, the Cape Winelands, and the Garden Route makes South Africa an all-rounder destination for 2026.
5. Namibia – Etosha National Park & Skeleton Coast
Namibia’s landscapes set it apart from any other safari destination. The Etosha National Park offers dramatic salt pans and floodlit waterholes where lions, elephants, and rhinos gather, creating some of the best photography opportunities in Africa. In 2026, Namibia’s Skeleton Coast and Damaraland are increasingly popular for travelers seeking stark beauty, desert-adapted wildlife, and cultural encounters with the Himba people.
6. Rwanda & Uganda – Gorilla and Primate Safaris
For a completely different safari experience, the rainforests of Rwanda and Uganda are unparalleled. Trekking into the misty mountains to encounter mountain gorillas is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that’s expected to remain one of the most sought-after wildlife experiences in 2026. Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park offers luxury lodges and conservation-focused tourism, while Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest provides a more rugged, adventurous approach. Both countries also offer encounters with chimpanzees and golden monkeys, making them ideal for primate enthusiasts.
7. Zambia & Zimbabwe – The Mighty Zambezi & Walking Safaris
For travelers seeking authentic and adventurous safaris, Zambia and Zimbabwe are outstanding choices. Zambia is famous for its walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park, where expert guides lead you through the bush for an up-close perspective of wildlife. Zimbabwe, with parks like Hwange and Mana Pools, offers remarkable elephant and predator sightings, plus breathtaking experiences along the Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
