Top Safari Destinations in Africa: Kenyan, Tanzanian, and Ugandan Parks Shine in 2024

Africa is home to some of the most amazing safari experiences on the planet, and every year, safari enthusiasts and experts from all over the world vote on their favorites. This year’s 2024 rankings by Safari Bookings, the largest online marketplace for African safaris, are in, and it’s no surprise that some of our most beloved parks in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda have made the list once again. These parks are where you can feel the heartbeat of Africa’s wildest places, and here's why we think they’re so special.

Kenya: The Heart of the Safari Experience

Photo: Maasai Mara Wildebeest Migration 

Kenya is where it all began – the birthplace of the safari. With it's iconic Masai Mara National Reserve at #8, Kenya has more parks in the Top 50 than any other African country, and we couldn’t be prouder. The Mara is famous for its part in the Great Migration, where wildebeest and zebras brave crocodile-infested rivers while lions and cheetahs hunt in the grasslands. But even when the migration isn’t in full swing, the Mara’s rolling savannahs and big skies make it a truly magical place to experience wildlife.

Photo: Elephant, Maasai Mara 

Samburu National Reserve (#14) offers a completely different vibe. Up north, you get a chance to see the unique “Special Five” species – think Grevy’s zebra and the reticulated giraffe – animals you won’t spot anywhere else. Then there’s Tsavo West (#19) and Tsavo East (#33), where vast landscapes and roaming elephants take centre stage. And let’s not forget Amboseli (#20), where elephants stroll against the backdrop of Mt. Kilimanjaro. That view never gets old!

Photo by Rio the Photographer: George and Astra, Ol Pejeta

We also love Ol Pejeta Conservancy (#29), which does incredible work in protecting endangered species like rhinos and chimpanzees. It’s not just about seeing the Big Five here – it’s about supporting meaningful conservation efforts.

Tanzania: The Untamed Beauty of the Serengeti and Beyond

Photo: Lions in Serengeti National Park

When it comes to iconic safaris, Serengeti National Park is as classic as it gets. It’s no wonder it’s been voted Africa’s best safari park for five years in a row! What makes the Serengeti such a standout? It’s the sheer vastness of the place – those endless savannahs where you can see lions, elephants and herds of wildebeest as far as the eye can see. And, of course, let’s not forget the Great Migration – one of the most awe-inspiring natural events on Earth. Watching thousands of animals thunder across the plains with predators lurking in the background is the kind of experience that stays with you forever.

Photo: Ngorongoro Crater

Beyond the Serengeti, Tanzania has some insane hidden gems too. Ruaha National Park (#4) is perfect if you’re looking for fewer crowds but just as much wildlife. Ruaha’s rugged landscape, dotted with baobab trees, is home to big cats and wild dogs, making it a must-visit for adventurers. And then there’s Ngorongoro Crater (#9), which feels like stepping into a natural amphitheatre teeming with wildlife. The Crater offers some of the most breathtaking safari views imaginable – all within a massive volcanic caldera.

Uganda: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

Photo: Murchison Falls Uganda

Uganda is often overlooked when people talk about safaris, but we think it’s one of East Africa’s best-kept secrets. Parks like Queen Elizabeth National Park (#21) and Murchison Falls National Park (#22) offer something truly special.  Watch elephants as you cruise down the Nile or see the spectacular Murchison Falls up close – it’s an adventure unlike any other. Uganda’s parks are rich in wildlife, but they also have this untouched feel, where you can explore without the crowds. That’s part of what makes it so appealing!

Smaller in comparison to its East African neighbors, Uganda punches above its weight with parks like Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (which is not part of this classic safari park ranking). Famous for gorilla trekking, Uganda’s traditional safari experiences are also growing in popularity. Its parks boast diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and the chance to see four of the Big Five—rhinos being the exception. However, rhinos can still be spotted at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, located just outside Murchison Falls National Park.

For the full analysis, including the ratings of the other parks, please visit: 
https://www.safaribookings.com/blog/top-10-best-african-safari-parks-and-destinations

Why These Parks Are Our Favourites

What makes these parks stand out for us is their variety of experiences. From the iconic Serengeti to the quieter beauty of Uganda’s parks, each one has its own unique magic. Whether it’s tracking the Great Migration, soaking in the views of Kilimanjaro, or cruising the Nile, these parks connect you to the true essence of African wildlife and landscapes. If you’re looking to immerse yourself in East Africa's wonders, you can’t go wrong with any of these top-rated safari parks.