Our favourite African National Parks
National parks are considered to be one of the most diverse and beautiful areas in Africa. Protected for their ecological state and diversity, these parks contribute enormously to local and national economies and to the perception of the countries in which they reside.
In an increasingly busy modern world, sometimes it's hard to find the solitude and peace that can be found in these national parks and below we take a look at five of the best.
Volcanoes National Park, RwandaLocated next to Africa's oldest national park, the Virunga, Volcanoes National Park is one of the best mountain gorilla viewing destinations.
An experience like no other, hiking in search of volcanic gorillas is without a doubt one of the most humiliating experiences one can have. While permits don't come cheap, Rwanda prides itself on lavish accommodation and exceptional service, and neither does Singita's Kwitonda Lodge. As a couple, it's an almost guaranteed gorilla experience and it's no wonder people hold her in such high regard.
The trek can take anywhere from an hour to six hours, but once the gorilla family has been found you are entitled to a magical hour to photograph and immerse yourself with these great apes. Whether it's the huge silver back or a mom and baby, the experience will leave you mesmerized.
South Luangwa, ZambiaWhile southern Luangwa may not be your typical first-time safari destination, it is a place that harbors a beauty and serenity encapsulated by its fame for its leopard sightings. With a beautiful miombo forest, a Thornicroft giraffe, and exceptional big game, a trip to southern Luangwa should be on everyone's list.
Famous for its bushcamps and brilliant walking safaris, Zambia combines authenticity with exceptional service, hospitality and guidance. With a wide range of activities ranging from kayaking to walking or your regular vehicle safari, there is something for everyone.
For those who particularly enjoy photography, there are plenty of exclusive photographic skins available at camps like Kaingo that give you the best opportunity to get up to your subjects. From nesting crimson bee-eaters to raging hippos, the possibilities are endless.
Serengeti National Park, TanzaniaThe Serengeti is home to arguably the greatest wildlife spectacle on the planet. The great wildebeest migration sees millions of wildebeest and thousands of zebras follow the rain throughout Serengeti National Park.
In January, the herds gather in their greatest number on the plains of Ndutu and February sees the beginning of the calving season where there is a baby boom. In three weeks, hundreds of thousands of calves are born which brings great spectacle. Both predator and prey live in a land of plenty.
As the year progresses, the herds move steadily to the north of the park. Pass through the Seronera and Grumeti regions until they arrive in Kogatende around mid-July. It is in these northern sections that the major observations of river crossings occur. With the Mara River meandering through both the Serengeti and the Masai Mara, this river is renowned the world over for its huge crocodiles and incredible crossings.
Contrary to popular belief, the Mara River is not the border between Kenya and Tanzania and only about a quarter of the wildebeest enter the Masai Mara in Kenya. The Serengeti is a quieter, less crowded option of the two, and wildlife sightings are all the better for it. Even if you don't follow the migration the resident game in every part of the Serengeti is awesome, from an abundance of big cats, herds of elephants and the elusive serval and caracal, the Serengeti is a national park that will appeal to everyone!
If you follow the migration, traditional mobile camps can't be beat! With extreme sophistication and lavish interiors, Meru-style tents take glamping to a whole new level.
Kruger National Park, South AfricaSouth Africa's most prized national park sits on the country's northeast border. Unfenced with neighboring Mozambique and Zimbabwe, this cross-border park is larger than many small countries. It is arguably one of the most famous national parks on the continent and is loved by locals and international visitors alike.
When visiting Kruger, the biggest decision is where to stay. You can stay in the national park itself in small pockets of private concessions like Lion Sands, which have beautiful lodges like Tinga or Narina, or Singita which have Lebombo or Sweni. Alternatively, you can venture into the Great Kruger which includes many private unfenced reserves like the Sabi Sands, Manyeleti and Timbavati which exude luxury and sophistication.
No matter where you choose, South African lodges pride themselves on their big game experience, many of which are also ideal for families. There is an abundance of the usual Big Five, but there is so much more to see! Whether it's wild dogs, migrating woodland kingfisher or small critters, a Kruger Safari will provide an exceptional safari experience for the whole family.
Chobe National Park, BotswanaWhile Botswana's reputation as a top wildlife destination generally centers around the Okavango Delta, there's no denying that going on a Delta Safari is for those with deep pockets. Chobe, on the other hand, is a great alternative for those who don't wish to travel that far and are looking for a more family-friendly destination.
Located just a few hours from Victoria Falls, it is easy and relatively inexpensive to get there, making it the perfect complement to the safari if you are visiting the falls.
The park itself is renowned for its huge herds of elephants, particularly towards the end of the dry season, and it offers a nice mix of sunset boat cruises and captivating safari. The high season from July to October can get quite crowded with visitors, so if possible heading to other parts of the park pays dividends and if you can venture into the Savuti area even better!
Marc Harris is Managing Director of Africa Odyssey. Africa Oydssey is managed by a team of award-winning experts providing tailor-made Africa safari vacations. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to enhance your profile, please contact us.