Nature Reserves and National Parks to visit in Africa

Posted on 17 November 2024 By Nomvelo Masango

When it comes to breathtaking natural beauty and impressive wildlife, the African continent is not found wanting.

There are plenty of destinations which deserve a spot on the bucket list of any wildlife enthusiast.
Indeed, many parts of the continent boast lush grasslands, amazing lakes and plenty of wildlife. 

If you are in search of the best game viewing opportunities in the world, Africa is undoubtedly a good place to look.

Here are just a few of Africa’s nature reserves and national parks to consider:

Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Three lioness resting together, heads aligned, on a mound in Masai Mara.

Located in southwest Kenya, the Masai Mara National Reserve is known and loved for its natural beauty. It boasts rolling savanna grasslands and plenty of wildlife.

African Elephants on the Masai Mara, Kenya, Africa

The Reserve is also where you can spot the popular Wildebeest Migration which takes place from July through to October. During this time, more than two million animals migrate from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to the greener pastures of the Masai Mara National Reserve.  

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Kruger national park

Picture: AnnaKate Auten/Unsplash

The Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s most popular safari destinations. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife and offers some of the best game viewing opportunities in the world.

Picture: Getaway Gallery

The Park is the largest game reserve in South Africa and is known for being home to the Big 5. You can choose between different game drives, as well as thrilling walking safaris.

ALSO READ: 14 inspirational women in conservation across Africa

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania 

Serengeti Migration Safari

Picture: sutirta budiman/Unsplash

The Serengeti National Park in northern Tanzania is a striking landscape that is home to incredible wildlife. As such, it welcomes large numbers of tourists each year.

It is a great place to watch animals as they hunt for prey and go about their daily lives in their natural habitat. The Park also provides the opportunity to view the Great Migration, as wildebeest herds stop to graze and give birth to their young at the south of the Park from November to February.

Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa

A small ellie walks into the bushveld at Madikwe Game Reserve.

Located near the Botswana border, the Madikwe Game Reserve is only a 3 and a half hour drive from Johannesburg. The 75 000-hectare sanctuary boasts impressive wildlife. It is home to the Big 5, as well as other charismatic animals. There are also over 300 species of birds. You can choose between day and night game drives, or simply immerse yourself in the rustling silence of bush walks.

Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

Photoblog, Let Sleeping Cats Lie

A sleepy kitty at the Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda.

The Queen Elizabeth National Park is in the southwest part of Uganda. It boasts lush forests, lakes and a diverse range of wildlife.

The Park is best known for its lions that have an unusual penchant for climbing trees. Additionally, it is an excellent place to spot different species of birds. You can choose between different types of safaris, including the unique African balloon safari adventure which gives you an aerial view of the Park.

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ALSO READ: Kenya launches high-tech rhino monitoring programme to boost conservation 




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