There is no doubt that the continent of Africa offers some of the most breath-taking and unforgettable wildlife spotting experiences in the entire world and I would LOVE to take the kids. However once you have decided that a trip to Africa is on the agenda, the next big decision is which country do you visit.
This all depends on what kind of wildlife spotting experience you are looking for, with so many different countries offering unique and mesmerising factors. If you are looking for some ideas, here is a list of the five best places to spot wildlife in Africa.
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1. Botswana
Botswana is top of the list thanks to its diverse ecosystem. With a mix of river, salt pans and savannahs, you have the opportunity to see a wide range of African wildlife that you might not be able to see in other locations. The Chobe National Park is the perfect place to start, home to the largest herd of elephants in the entire world and boasting the Okavango Delta which is an amazing wetland area for something a little different from usual safari.
2. Tanzania
Tanzania is filled with unspoiled, untouched beauty. The Ngorongoro Crater is a spot where you can catch rhinos, lions, elephants and buffalos appearing through the mist at the break of dawn. It literally feels like a scene from the beginning of Disney’s The Lion King! Of course, the Serengeti National Park is not to be missed, with the wildebeest migration in particular being an unforgettable sight.
3. Namibia
Namibia is unique and known for its expansive desert land filled with red sand dunes and hidden environments. Resting along the Atlantic Coastline, some of the best places for spotting wildlife include Etosha National Park for giraffes, the Skeleton Coast for seals and the red dunes at Sossusvlei for gemsbok. Namibia was one of the most amazing holidays we had pre-kids!
4. Rwanda
Rwanda is definitely best known for the amazing gorilla trekking safaris that you can enjoy whilst visiting the country. Gorillas are without doubt the stars in this part of the continent, and the Volcanoes National Park is home to the biggest number of endangered mountain gorillas in the world. The rest of the country also has lots more to offer, including free roaming antelope to herds of elephants, buffalos, giraffes and zebras.
5. South Africa
South Africa is a good choice for wildlife spotting if you are looking for other aspects in your holiday too. With a more cosmopolitan culture than anywhere else, you can enjoy all of the diverse and expansive nature reserves whilst also being able to experience some of the more exciting cultural activities the Rainbow Nation has to offer.
So there you have it, five unique suggestions for wildlife spotting holidays on the beautiful African continent. All you need to do it book your ticket, find some cheap travel insurance, pack your suitcase, and fly away on what is sure to be the adventure of a lifetime!
Karen Beddow founded Mini Travellers in 2014 while doing what she loves most...going on holiday!
Mini Travellers is for parents looking for holiday ideas, destination reviews, days out and things to do with the kids. We also have family travel tips, activity ideas and all other things family holiday related. Take a look at some of our latest reviews for holidays and day trips in the UK.