Africa Safari Destinations

What makes East Africa so special?

East Africa is the best place to watch wildlife on Earth. It was here that the world first fell in love with the continent’s wildlife and wild places, with the magic of its landscapes, and with its people. Nothing captures that magic quite like lying awake in a safari tent and listening to a lion roaring not far away. Or a sunset framed by a flat-topped acacia tree and savannah grasslands that never seem to end. Or the face to face encounter with wild chimpanzees or gorillas in the forest. But the story of Africa didn’t begin with the safari. This is a continent with an incredibly rich human history.

It is the Maasai, the Swahili, Buganda and many other communities who bring these landscapes to life and it is they who must find ways to live alongside the wildlife. Their presence in this story is a sign of how much East Africa safaris have evolved, with fascinating conservation projects now very much a part of the experience. And therein lies the astonishing richness of going on safari: spending time among the people, the wildlife and the wild places that they share.

East African Countries

East Africa carries many meanings and no firm boundaries. But when it comes to safaris, it usually means four main countries. Safaris first began in the heart of East Africa — in southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. Today, you can go on safari all across both countries, and even in nearby Uganda and Rwanda.

Uganda

Tanzania

Rwanda

Kenya

Parks, Game Reserves, Cities, & Beaches

East African Destinations

Kigali

Entebbe

Arusha

Nairobi

Kenya Beaches

Southern Tanzania

Northern Tanzania

Ngorongoro Crater

Kibale Forest

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Murchison Falls

Masai Mara

Serengeti

Bwindi

Zanzibar

When should I visit East Africa?

May to October: This is the most popular time to visit East Africa. It’s cooler and mostly dry, which makes it perfect for safaris. The dry season usually starts in May or June and lasts until October. June to September is the busiest time, so expect more tourists, fully booked lodges, and higher prices. Days are mild, but nights can be chilly. By September and October, it gets warmer, and animals are easier to spot as they gather around the few remaining waterholes.

November to April: This is the warmer, wetter time of year. It’s not as busy, so you’ll find fewer crowds, better availability, and lower prices. The weather can be less predictable, but it’s still a great time to visit. The “short rains” usually fall in November and December, while heavier rains come from February to April. Most rain happens in short afternoon storms, leaving the rest of the day clear and bright. The landscape becomes lush and green, which is great for photos and birdwatching. Just keep in mind that some dirt roads can get muddy and hard to use after heavy rains, which might limit where you can go.