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9 Best Places To Visit In Africa (2024)

Africa, the world’s second-largest continent, has magnificent places to visit.  With its amazing wildlife and expansive landscapes its best for safari lovers and photographers. There’s a lot to see and experience cultural, educational, etc. Choosing these places wasn’t an easy task since there are a lot of amazing places with unique features and beauty.

Here are 9 of the most amazing places and safest places to visit in Africa:

1. Serengeti National Park In Tanzania

Three Giraffe Under Gray Sky

3 giraffes in the serengeti national park

 

The Serengeti National Park is located in best countries to visit in Africa, Tanzania. One of the most famous national parks in Africa. It is home to the greatest wildlife spectacle in the world. 

The Serengeti National Park eco-system is the oldest on the planet and also is home to one of the world’s seven natural wonders. Serengeti is famous for the world’s largest movement of animals also known as the great wildebeest migration. 

The great wildebeest migration usually is when 1.5 million wildebeest and thousands of zebra and gazelle, move each year around the same time from southern Serengeti in Tanzania and loops in a clockwise direction towards the Masai Mara reserve in Kenya.

This migration is a natural phenomenon determined by the availability of grazing. During this migration about 250,000 wildebeest die during the journey from Serengeti (Tanzania) to the Maasai Mara ( Kenya). The cause of death is usually from thirst, hunger, and exhaustion.

three gray elephants on ground during daytime

Elephants in the Serengeti National Park

You can visit the park all year round. The best time to visit is during the dry season (from late June to September) this time you can get the best wildlife viewing, in general.

The timing of migration varies every year. The best chance of seeing it is during June and July. There’s a variety of accommodation available in Serengeti  Park from luxury lodges to mobile camps.

There are a lot of things to see and do in Serengeti National Park such as the Balloon Safari, the Retina Hippo pool, visiting Maasai Village, and many more. The park covers 5,700 sq miles, (14,763 sq km), it’s larger than Delaware and Rhode Island combined.

Also see where do hippos live

2. Victoria Falls- Zambia/Zimbabwe

Victoria Waterfalls Cascading Near Forest

The Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is a waterfall in the Zambezi River at the border between  Zambia and Zimbabwe. It’s one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, it’s neither the highest nor the widest waterfall in the world, it is classified as the largest, based on its width of 1,708 meters (5,604 ft) and height of 108 meters (354 ft), resulting in the world’s largest sheet of falling water. 

You can get onto Victoria Falls through  Victoria Falls National Park which is on the Zimbabwe side or the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park which is on the Zambia side, which means that for you to see the entire length of the largest waterfall in the world, you will need to have access of these two countries.

So if you choose to visit one country let’s say Zimbabwe you will only see some part of the waterfall and you are going to miss the other part which is on the Zambia side.

Most people will generally choose the entrance based on their port of entry, meaning the entrance will be based on the country they are staying in. The two entrance gates are close to the border and they are connected, with the Victoria Falls bridge. 

Victoria Falls Bridge is another attraction,  it crosses the Zambezi River just below Victoria Falls. It has a total length of  198 meters(650ft).

There are some guided tours focusing on the construction of the Bridge, which include a walking tour under the main deck. Also on the Zambian side, there is a small museum about the Bridge which is free to enter, and has a cafe selling refreshments. You can buy some souvenirs while you are there.

Also located on the bridge is the Shearwater 111 meter (364 ft) bungee jump including a bungee swing and zip-line. There is also a railway museum in the city of Livingstone which is in  Zambia. There are several old steam trains and this is a good source of information for railway enthusiasts.

The best time to visit the waterfalls depends on your preference.  You can choose a high water season that is around March-May.

During this season there are hot days and warm nights with thunderstorms. When it comes to activities is a little dangerous since the water level is too high.

Activities such as white water rafting or swimming at the Devil’s Pool are not recommended.  Another option you can choose is to go on low water season which is September-December.

The Low Water Season is a fantastic time to photograph Victoria Falls, as the cliff face is most exposed and this spectacular geographical formation is revealed for all to see. While the rainforest isn’t so rainy, the site itself is a lot less crowded, the skies are always clear, and the sun shines all day.

 

3. Spitzkoppe- Namibia

bald granite peaks of Spitzkoppe

Bald granite peaks of Spitzkoppe, Namibia

 

The Spitzkoppe is a group of bald granite peaks located between Usakos and Swakopmund in the Namib desert,  Namibia.

The Spitzkoppe has two separate mountains, the large Spitzkoppe which is 1728 meters high (5669 ft), and the small  Spitzkoppe which is 1584 meters high(5196 ft).

These are the most photographed mountains in Namibia. The area has a long history of habitation. Also, the caves and rocks have numerous well-preserved examples of bushmen rock art to view.

The  Spitzkoppe area is good for hikers’ and rock climbers’ and has a nice view from the top. For those visitors who are interested to learn about this place, there are organized guided walk tours that are available.

There are knowledgeable, friendly guides who will take you to view some of the numerous rock art sites, explaining the stories captured in the ancient drawings.

The area also has a restaurant and bar, on the foot of the sprawling granite formation, there is a wonderfully maintained campsite where you can pitch a tent and stay for the night.

The campsite also has some special barbeque places consisting of several secluded camping sites all of which have braai facilities. 

If you are an outdoor activities lover, by visiting Spitzkoppe you will enjoy hiking, rock climbing, magnificent views, and wonderful photographic opportunities.

 

4. Majorelle Garden In Morocco

The Majorelle Garden in Marrakech Morocco

Majorelle Garden also is known as the Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech, one of the most visited sites in  Marrakech, Morocco.

It was created and designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle, who took him almost forty years of passion and dedication to create this enchanting garden.

He started this in 1923 but was opened to the public in 1947. Jacques Majorelle resided in the garden until his divorce in the 1950s. In the 1980s  Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergè purchased the property, he owned the property until his death in 2008.

The garden covers nearly two and a half acres.  There are collections of cacti, exotic plants, and trees that are landscaped to emphasize each one’s unique beauty. 

Another attraction is a Cubist Villa which was designed by famous French architect Paul Sinoir. The villa is known as the Berber Museum which features the collection of Majorelle’s paintings.

There are also pools, streams, and fountains. While you are in the garden you can visit the Islamic Art Museum of Marrakech which used to be Majorelle’s workshop.

You can also visit the Yves Saint Laurent Memorial which was open to the public in 2017.

 

5. The Ngorongoro Crater In Tanzania

Five Zebra Grazing on Grass Field

Zebras in Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest inactive, unbroken, and unfilled volcanic caldera located in one of the most famous cities in Africa, Arusha. The caldera measures between 16 and 19 km (10 and 12 miles ) across and has an area of  264 square km(102 square miles).

Its heavily forested rim rises 610 meters (2,000 feet) above the caldera’s floor to an elevation of 2,286 meters (7,500 feet ). Ngorongoro crater was formed about 2.5 million years ago from a large active volcano.  Ngorongoro Crater is also one of the most visited African attractions. It’s located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania.

There are more than 20,000 large animals living in the crater, large animals such as black rhinos, African buffalo, Hippos, Grant’s Zebra, etc. The crater is also known for its densest population of lions. While you are in the area you can visit the Olduvai Gorge archaeological site,  the most important prehistoric site in the world.

It is at Olduvai where remains of Zinjanthropus, the world’s first humans, were discovered by Dr. Louis and Mary Leakey over 50 years ago.

6. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Black Gorilla Close-up Photo

Gorilla in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a national park in Uganda, which happens to be one of the cheap places to travel internationally.

It was created in 1991 and covers an area of 33.9 km2 (13.1 sq mi) which makes it Uganda’s smallest national park. The park is famous for its Nyakagezi gorilla family and is part of the larger Virunga Conservation area that spreads over three countries which are  Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

It also covers the northern slopes of the three northernmost Virunga Volcanoes: Mt. Muhavura, Mt. Gahinga, and Mt. Sabinyo. The Park is bordered to the south by the Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda and to the west by the  Virunga National Park of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

So while you are there you might get into two other countries but you have to follow immigration rules and be careful if you consider entering  Virunga National Park of the Democratic Republic of Congo because it has been threatened with political conflicts.

There are a lot of things to do and see at  Mgahinga National Park. While you are at the park you can see endangered mountain gorillas, Virunga volcanoes golden monkeys, Mount Sabyinyo, Mount  Gahinga, Mount Muhavura, etc.

Things that you can do are Gorilla tracking, volcano hacking, Golden monkey tracking, Batwa trail, bird watching, Garama cave exploration, and many more.

 

7. The Great Pyramid of Giza -Egypt

People Riding A Camel Near Pyramid of Giza Under Blue Sky

Pyramid of Giza, Egypt

The Great Pyramid of Giza is the last remaining wonder of the ancient world. It’s part of three large pyramids in the Giza Necropolis located in Cairo, Egypt.

According to history, The Great Pyramid of Giza also known as the Great Sphinx of Giza was built for the Fourth Dynasty Pharaoh Khufu or Cheops. The area also contains 3 small pyramids that are believed to have been built for Khufu’s wives. 

While you are there you will be able to see the three known chambers inside the Great Pyramid. First is the lowest chamber that has been cut into the bedrock where the pyramid was built and was unfinished.

There’s also a Queen’s Chamber and King’s Chamber which are higher up within the pyramid. Around the pyramid area of the Giza complex two mortuary temples in honor of Khufu. One is close to the pyramid and one is near the Nile River.  There is also a guided tour of the pyramids.  

A lot of things to see around Giza, Not only pyramids there are also some museums such as the Giza Museum, Solar Boat Museum, Egypt Papyrus Museum, Ramses Wissa Wassef Art Centre, Dr. Ragab’s Pharaonic Village, and many more.

 

8. Fish River Canyon In Namibia

brown and gray rock formation

Fish River Canyon, Namibia

The Fish River Canyon is the second largest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon in the U.S.,  and the largest canyon in Africa located in Namibia. It’s the second most visited tourist attraction in Namibia.

It features a gigantic ravine, in total about  160km (100 miles) long, up to 27 km (16.77 miles) wide, and in places almost 550 meters(1804 ft) deep. The Fish River is the longest interior river in Namibia.

It flows stronger early in the season and by September usually dries up to form a chain of stagnant pools. The river also flows into the Hardap Dam which is the largest water reservoir of Namibia.   Water is safe to drink, however, the use of water-purifying tablets is recommended.

The Canyon forms part of the state-run Ais-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park. The Canyon hike is closed during the summer season(in Namibia) that is November-April due to the heat.

The Fish River Hiking Trail can be done during the months of May- September and can be completed within 4 to 5 days, depending on how feet and fast you are.  Another important thing you will need a permit to hike in the Canyon.

9. Mount Kilimanjaro In Tanzania

mount kilimanjaro summit

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and the highest single free-standing mountain in the world, with its summit of 5,895 meters (19,341 ft) above sea level and about 4,900 meters (16,100 ft) high from its plateau base.

Kilimanjaro is also the fourth most topographically prominent peak on Earth. Mount Kilimanjaro is located in the Kilimanjaro region, of Tanzania. 

Mount Kilimanjaro has three volcanic cones, Mawenzi, Shira, and Kibo. Mawenzi and Shira are extinct but Kibo, the highest peak, is dormant and could erupt again. According to  WWF, the most recent activity was about 200 years ago; the last major eruption was 360,000 years ago.

There are a lot of things to do and see on Mount Kilimanjaro. You can hike alone or use hiking tours(this is recommended or the best option) that explore the lower levels of the mountain, around the Shira Plateau areas.

These are not one-day hikes, they are usually three days and require you to sleep in mountain camps. You have to be careful and prepared there’s a lot of steep trails and lots of climbing over rocks and tree roots, as these are not well-maintained smooth trails.

The good thing about hiking it will take you to see amazing craters, giant ferns, wildlife, and plenty of scenic views. Another thing you can visit around Mount Kilimanjaro Park is Chala Crater Lake.

Chala Crater Lake is one of the park’s most famous sights because of its incredible waters, which range in color from turquoise to emerald green depending on the time of the year.

A good place to take photos and create memories. Another thing to do is wildlife watching but this will require you to get an armed park ranger or a tour guide to take you on this trek because there are some dangerous animals such as leopards, buffalos, and other large animals.

A trek will also allow you to see baboons, bush pigs, mongooses, elephants and a number of other animals. Even though the trek is at ground level, you’ll still be higher than sea level, so you might have some trouble breathing and adjusting to the altitude. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Places to Visit in Africa

  1. What makes Africa a great destination for tourists?
    • Africa is known for its amazing wildlife, expansive landscapes, and rich cultural and educational experiences, making it a top destination for safari lovers and photographers.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

  1. Where is Serengeti National Park located?
    • Serengeti National Park is located in Tanzania.
  2. What is the Serengeti known for?
    • The park is famous for the great wildebeest migration, one of the world’s seven natural wonders.
  3. When is the best time to visit Serengeti National Park?
    • The best time to visit is during the dry season from late June to September for optimal wildlife viewing.

Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

  1. What is special about Victoria Falls?
    • Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and is the world’s largest sheet of falling water.
  2. Can I see Victoria Falls from both Zambia and Zimbabwe?
    • Yes, but to see the entire length of the waterfall, you will need to have access to both countries.

Spitzkoppe, Namibia

  1. What are the Spitzkoppe?
    • The Spitzkoppe are a group of bald granite peaks located in the Namib desert, Namibia.
  2. Is Spitzkoppe good for hiking?
    • Yes, the area is popular among hikers and rock climbers.

Majorelle Garden, Morocco

  1. What is Majorelle Garden?
    • Majorelle Garden, also known as Jardin Majorelle, is a garden in Marrakech, Morocco, designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle.

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

  1. What is the Ngorongoro Crater?
    • Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest inactive, unbroken, and unfilled volcanic caldera, located in Arusha, Tanzania.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

  1. What can you do in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park?
    • Activities include Gorilla tracking, volcano hiking, Golden monkey tracking, and many more.

Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt

  1. What is the significance of the Great Pyramid of Giza?
    • It’s the last remaining wonder of the ancient world, located in Cairo, Egypt.

Fish River Canyon, Namibia

  1. How big is Fish River Canyon?
    • It’s the second-largest canyon in the world and the largest in Africa, located in Namibia.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

  1. What is unique about Mount Kilimanjaro?
    • It’s the highest mountain in Africa and the highest single free-standing mountain in the world.
  2. Is Mount Kilimanjaro safe for hiking?
    • Yes, but it’s recommended to be with experienced hiking guides for a safer experience.
Africa, Culture, Lifestyle, Travel, Travel Adventures,

9 Best Beaches in Africa To Visit

Whether you’re taking a trip from Africa for some business,  safari tour,  a romantic honeymoon, or just a vacation the other best thing you can do is to have a  chilled beach relaxation on those of the magnificent beaches in the world.  

With clear turquoise water, so many stretches of white sand and different activities to choose from, it’s hard to choose the best beach in Africa.

Here is some guide to nine best beaches in Africa for swimming, kite diving, snorkeling, wakeboarding, sunbathing, and enjoying beautiful beach resorts. (in no particular order).

1. Nungwi Beach- Zanzibar, Tanzania

island

Nungwi Beach is located in the northernmost tip of Zanzibar and is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Zanzibar.

Nungwi has amazing white coral sand that seems to glow after nightfall. In 2014, Nungwi Beach was on  CNN’s list of 100 best beaches. Also in 2018, it made it to the list of Top 25 Beaches in the World in TripAdvisor’s Travellers Choice Awards. 

There are numerous beach resorts, hotels, restaurants, and bars that offer a variety of night-time entertainment. Nungwi’s extensive coastline is wide open for diving, swimming, and snorkeling in some of Africa’s most pristine, reef-rich waters.

It’s one of the rare beaches untroubled by severe undulations of high and low tides, making it perfect for all-day water activities. You can also see green turtles, dolphins, and whale sharks, and enjoy a sunset cruise on a traditional dhow sailing boat.

 

Best Place to Stay in Zanzibar  

Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar,  located on Nungwi Beach beautiful white sand and crystalline turquoise water that makes it a paradise. 

This place offers inclusive holidays/vacations with exclusive services of RIU Hotels and Resorts.   The rooms are very sophisticated and are notable for their designs and spaciousness. 

All rooms have air conditioning, satellite TV,  Minibar, and balcony/terrace. For those who prefer more privacy, there are villas with private pools.

Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel, main and theme restaurants. The hotel is  66km (41 miles ) from the airport. Also, there is a spa with a variety of treatments, beauty salons, and massages.

 

2. Anse Source D’Argent  -La Digue, Seychelles 

brown rocks near body of water

Anse Source d’Argent is one of the most photographed beaches in the world. Anse Source D’Argent is an Adventureland and is suitable for adults and children and is one of the most popular beaches of the 115-island archipelago in the western Indian Ocean.  

The beach is located on La Digue Island and is one of Seychelle’s most famous attractions. Famous for its reef-sheltered, crystal clear water and otherworldly granite boulders.

It’s also famous for having been used in several prominent commercial shoots and films, including movies such as  Castaway by Tom Hanks and the famous Bacardi Ad of the 1990s.  

The beach can only be accessed through privately-owned plantation L’Union Estate with an entrance fee of 100 rupees, ( US$7.40) that is valid all day. 

The beach is very popular so that it can get crowded with visitors.  It will be better to visit early in the morning and return in the late afternoon to avoid many of the island’s day visitors if you don’t like the crowd.

Best Place to Stay in Anse Source d’Argent, Seychelles 

La Digue Island Lodge, this is one of the most unique and vintage establishments of Seychelles – surrounded by a lush green environment and a private stretch of beach.

The hotel is a time-honored establishment with its iconic Yellow House that transcends the island’s traditions and way of life. The unique beachside setting boasts magnificent vistas of the neighboring islands and beautiful crystalline waters where colorful sunsets paint the skies daily.

The hotel offers a lot of activities and leisure such as Spa, excursions & sightseeing, walk & trails, and fishing. Also, there are five different restaurants to choose from.

3. Grand Baie, Mauritius

people by the beach during daytime

Grand Baie is a  large tourist beach located in the district of Rivière du Rempart at the north of Mauritius. This resort town is the most popular holiday/vacation destination in Mauritius.

Grand Baie offers facilities for safe swimming, sailing, windsurfing, and water skiing.  It is also the departure point for deep-sea fishing trips and boat excursions to the islands to the north of Mauritius. There is good accommodation, bars, and restaurants, 

Best Place to Stay Grand Baie, Mauritius

The Club Med La Pointe aux Canonniers Resort Its two idyllic beaches are protected from the wind and lined by former colonial houses with thatched roofs.

Glide across the turquoise lagoon on your waterskis, then enjoy some time for yourself in the Zen infinity pool. Embark in a family diving adventure among coral reefs and swordfishes.

Savor the delights of a tasting workshop led by one of France’s top wine sommeliers.

 

4. Nosy Be, Madagascar

two brown wooden armchairs on beach during daytime

 

Nosy Be Island is Madagascar’s number one beach destination.  It has turquoise water, soft white, and don’t forget the wonderful seafood.

Nosy Be is the best place for water activities such as diving which is a famous activity there.  Plenty of swimming, snorkeling, sailing, and fishing. There are also excursions to the surrounding islands. 

Best place to stay in Nosy Be Island

Anjiamarango Beach Resort Hotel, located near a small village of Befotaka 20 minutes from Fascene International Airport.

The hotel has 35 individual bungalows that are facing the sea which gives you a breathtaking view. 

There are a French & Malagasy cuisine restaurant and a lot of activities to do such as outing in the sea in kayaks, traditional fishing, scuba diving, and many more.

 

5. Saly Beach, Senegal

brown wooden shed surrounded body of water

Saly beach is located in the seaside town of Saly- Portudal,  50 miles from Dakar the capital of Senegal, and its 15 minutes away from Blaise Diagne International Airport.

The area has high-class luxurious hotels, casinos, and golf courses. This place attracts many tourists with its long arching beach, and palm-fronded hotel -restaurants. Saly beach has a lot of activities such as windsurfing, jet ski,  and sport fishing.

Best Place to Stay in Saly-Portudal

Lamantin Beach Resort & Spa, this is the largest seaside resort in West Africa. Built-in local style with a flowery garden and coconut trees around the area that is one of the things makes the resort popular.  The resort offers both land and water activities.

 

6. Camps Bay Beach, South Africa

brown mountain near body of water during daytime

 

Camp Bay beach is located in Cape Town, South Africa. It’s the campground for beachgoers. The beautiful Camp Bay beach is surrounded with its white-sand beaches,  hiking trails, and beachfront restaurants serving seafood and local wines, best enjoyed while watching a  colorful sunset. 

Don’t forget a lot of activities such as volleyball, beach bats, frisbees, etc.

Best Place to Stay in Cape Town

The Twelve Apostles dramatically located above the Atlantic Ocean, flanked by majestic Twelve  Apostles and   Table Mountain, our award-winning hotel offers luxurious rooms and exquisite dining experiences.

Savor seafood and fine dining at Azure Restaurant, enjoy delicious cocktails and breath-taking sunsets at The Leopard Bar, and luxuriate in our holistic spa with stunning outdoor gazebos

7. Bazaruto-Mozambique

green-leafed plant

Bazaruto Islands are located in Mozambique and are known for their unspoiled beauty and diverse ecologies. Its magnificent coral reefs are home to more than 2000 fish species as well as whales and dolphins.

There are a lot of activities to do in the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Such as the diving and snorkeling in the Bazaruto Marine National Park,  kayaking and parasailing.

For those visitors who would just like to get away from it, all will find Bazaruto just the place to relax, sip cocktails, and indulge in a delicious seafood beach dinner or perhaps sail away on a dhow for a castaway picnic.

Best Place to Stay in Anantara Bazaruto Island

Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort, seats on the Indian Ocean coastline is an aqua playground immersed in brilliant watercolor. Breathtaking views, rolling dunes melt into the ocean.

Here you can swim with dolphins and experience the annual migration of humpback whales from July to September. The resort offers several activities like world-class diving, sailing, snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, sunset dune boarding, sunset sail, and award-winning Anantara Spa.

 

8. Santa Maria, Sal – Cape Verde

people on beach during daytime

The fishing town of  Santa Maria is located in Cape Verde,  has beautiful beaches and lively evenings. It is a hot vacation destination. Santa Maria beach is a perfect place to admire the natural beauty.

You can soak up some sun in the afternoon in those golden sand and hit the bars and restaurants in the area. If you happen to visit in mid-September you will be able to enjoy their music festival.

 

Best Place to stay in Santa Maria, Cape Verde

Meliá Dunas Beach Resort & Spa is a luxury all-inclusive pool and beach resort. Located overlooking a coral reef with rich sea life. The tropical gardens make this place a paradise

The best place to watch the sunset, a good place to have fun with kids at the water park, relaxing at the Yhi Spa and enjoying exquisite cuisine in their fine restaurant.  The resort is a great destination for windsurfing, kitesurfing and scuba diving. 

 

9. Essaouira- Morocco

white concrete building near sea during daytime

The whitewashed and windswept coastal town of Essaouira is located in Morocco. This place has been a tourist attraction for so long.

There are long expanses of white sand backed by the dunes and a stretch of argan trees which gives a unique feeling. Its endless expanse of pristine Atlantic beach makes it a paradise for surfers, windsurfers and kite surfers.  

Best Place to Stay in Essaouira

Villa Quieta Essaouira, this former family place will take your breath away with its traditional architecture mixed with modern comfort.

While there you can enjoy its outdoor swimming pool located in a large garden. There are a lot of activities such as kitesurfing, windsurfing, etc.

 

Africa, Culture, Lifestyle, Safari,

Ultimate Guide On Planning Serengeti National Park Trip

Brown and White Leopard on Tree Roots

Where To Go And How To Get To Serengeti

Getting to Serengeti National Park can be tricky because people are confused about where Serengeti is located.  Serengeti National Park is located in Tanzania. So when you arrange or make your travel plans make sure your destination is Tanzania, not Kenya. Yes, you can get through Kenya but you will be paying more and you will need a visa for both Kenya and Tanzania, which have different laws and regulations and also different fees. If you are using a travel agency or any services make sure they are from Tanzania and also are professional and legit.

Depend on where you are coming from; make sure your port of entry in Tanzania is Kilimanjaro International Airport -Moshi/Arusha (KIA).  Kilimanjaro International Airport is close to Serengeti compared to Mwalimu Julius International Airport(Dar-es-Salaam) or any other airports.    You can arrange ground transportation(vehicle) from KIA to the park. Another option is taking a flight from KIA to Seronera Airstrip or Kirawira Airstrip, there are daily flights from KIA to the park.

If you decide to rent a car and drive by yourself a four-wheel drive, a land cruiser vehicle is recommended. The roads are not in good condition, the distance from Arusha to Serengeti is 325km(202 miles) and will take roughly 8hrs to get there, will be more hours from KIA.  But we will advise hiring a driver will be a good idea and will make things easier. Another option is to take a flight from KIA to one of several airstrips inside the park.

Accommodations

The most popular accommodations in Serengeti Park are various safari camps and lodges.  These accommodations come from luxury to basic ones. Some luxury camps or lodges usually come with a chef, flush toilet internet. Also there are some camps which come with a bathroom and kitchen but need to be shared with other people.  More info about accommodation is available here.       

Food and Drinks

There are a few restaurants near and between Serengeti National Park. The problem is they are a little bit far. But you don’t have to worry about that because most camps, lodges and safari operators are providing food and drinks for their guests.  For instance, Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge provides buffet-style meals with a traditional safari theme. It’s a great opportunity to experience Tanzanian foods. Also at the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti,   which has three dining venues. First, an outdoor patio with pizza and  Tanzanian-inspired tapas, then there’s a

buffet section with various African and international dishes.   Third, is Boma Grill restaurant. This has a nice set of guests sitting around an open-air fire pit as they are saving African dishes and watching the Masai perform a traditional dance. 

If you want to dine in different experiences many lodges around the park offer bush dining experiences, where diners can enjoy a private meal in the wild.

Serengeti Serena Safari and  Four Season Safari Lodge are expensive. It is something to do for an experience if you can.   There are other safari lodges operators that cover all meals and tours. Keep in mind that some of them charge an additional fee for soft drinks and alcoholic beverages. Another option for those travelers who on a budget, they can purchase food at one of the park’s convenience stores to prepare at a campsite. There is a variety of food available in these convenience stores such as raw meat for grilling, snacks, and drinks.

Green and Blue Peacock in Forest

Things to do In Serengeti

There are a lot of things to do  to in Serengeti National Park such as;

Balloon Safari

This can be an evocative and romantic way to experience safari especially for honeymooners.  These Balloon safaris regularly take off from designated sites that’s in the Seronera area where the disturbance to animals is kept to a minimum. The safari vehicle drops you off at the take-off site and picks you up from your landing site. Balloon safari begins around 6 am and lasts for  1-2hours,  you will be able to see the magnificent wildlife below over several square miles of the park. The Balloon safari will end with a champagne breakfast in the bush.

Camping Safaris- In the Serengeti  National Park there are different ways of camping;   Budgeting camping, Fly camping, Luxury camping, and Lightweight camping. 

 

Budget camping

It requires traveling with all your camping gear, this includes a guide and possibly a cook in your vehicle with you. Once you get to camp everyone helps cook and set up. This is  good for budget travellers and also fun. You are going to use extra time in organizing your camp or cooking your food. So when choosing this option make sure you plan your things well otherwise you will spend more time in your camp when you could be out on game drives. Budget camping  uses the less expensive shared or public campsites, but exclusive camps’, or campsites with shower and toilet facilities outside the parks, can also be booked and used. Beds are usually mattresses on the floor of a small tent.

Fly camping

It  requires setting up small, temporary camps for a night under the stars, where there’s no trees or bushes.  Fly camps are the ideal end to a day’s walking safari or game drive, with many unexpected comforts .You get  a canvas washbasin with hot water, fresh towels, hurricane lamps and delicious food cooked on the fire. At night, the sensation of sleeping in light or just under a mosquito net, as the moon shines down and the noises of the African night begin, is the highlight of any safari holiday.

Luxury camping

The name itself explains what to expect . This luxury camping  offer feather pillows, soft towels, gin and tonic on the rocks and four-course gourmet meals in a candlelit dining tent .  The tents are roomy and comfortable, with a veranda in front and a bathroom with hot-water shower, washbasin and toilet directly behind the tent. The luxury tents have a bedside table, gas or solar lamps, chairs and a wardrobe for your clothing. A deep freeze will supply your drinks with ice and keep specialty food items fresh. Laundry is done daily. A large staff will ensure that your meals are gourmet and all your needs in the camp are met. 

Lightweight Luxury camping

Like the luxury camps, tents will have metal or wood-frame beds, standing headroom, a veranda, and small in-suite toilets and hot showers. Unlike luxury camping the tents will be smaller and  the traditional ‘A’ shape with a central ridge pole. Full staff are available and meals will be three-course affairs served by a waiter in a lantern-lit mess tent, or on a table under the stars. There  is wine, beer, and soda on ice in camp. Lightweight camps like this can be moved overnight and offer an amazing degree of comfort while maintaining the flexibility of a lighter camp.

Wildlife Safaris

Zebras on Zebra

The most important wildlife safari in Serengeti National Park  is Game drive.There are several types of Game Drives which are able to choose the types and durations of the game drives you go on. For the  group safari, the types and durations are usually predefined and fixed. For safaris that make you fly to the game park or reserve, the game drives are normally set and controlled by the lodge or camp you are staying at.

Game drives can be long, hot, dusty and bumpy  on the side note ladies don’t forget your sports bra is very recommended, but it’s a very fun experience.  Below are types  of Game Drive are:

Early Morning Game Drive

The  Early Morning Game Drive starts around 6 am and normally finishes by 8:30 am. Before living around 5:30 am  camps or lodges they will provide some little light refreshment such as tea, coffee and cookies etc. available from around 5:30 am. The breakfast will be provided  after the game drive.

Morning Game Drive

A Morning Game Drive usually starts after breakfast at around 7:30 am and finishes in time for lunch at around 12:30.

Late Morning Game Drive

A Late Morning Game Drive usually starts between 10 and 11 am, returning for lunch at around 12:30.

Afternoon Game Drive

An Afternoon Game Drive usually starts around 4 pm, returning before dark between 6 pm and 6:30 pm.

En-Route Game Drive

An En-Route Game Drive usually takes place in the morning or late afternoon , like its name states ,it  performs en-route to a lodge or camp etc. The duration of the en-route game drive can vary depending upon the trip. It  can even be just a short drive from the lodge or camp to the park exit etc.

All Day Game Drive

An All Day Game Drive lasts all day like its name suggests.  Lunch is provided, this game drive normally starts after breakfast  around 7:30 am and returns before dark between 6 pm and 6:30 pm. They usually   cover large parts of the park and goes long distance