Should I go on safari in Tanzania or South Africa? Or how about a Kenya vs South Africa safari, or even an Uganda vs Kenya safari? These are among the most frequently asked questions we receive when travellers are considering an East African vs Southern African safari. Both regions boast a variety of unique safari destinations, many of which are celebrated as some of the best places to go on safari.
Since 2025, we have tailored exceptional East African safari experiences for travellers from across the globe. Our expertise is based on first-hand experience – we travel the length and breadth of every destination we recommend – to make sure that every part of our travellers’ itineraries is tried and tested.
So which is better, an East or Southern Africa safari? Well, that depends entirely on what you want to see and experience. We’ve broken down the key differences between the two regions to help you decide which is best for your travel wishes…
Quick Overview: East vs Southern Africa Safari
| East Africa | Southern Africa | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safari Countries | Kenya Tanzania Rwanda Uganda | Botswana South Africa Namibia Zimbabwe Zambia | |||
| Top National Parks & Game Reserves | Masai Mara Samburu Serengeti Ngorongoro Crater Volcanoes National Park Bwindi Impenetrable Forest | Okavango Delta Chobe National Park Kruger National Park Etosha National Park Victoria Falls Hwange National Park Mana Pools South Luangwa Lower Zambezi | |||
| Dry Seasons | Jan–Mar Jun–Oct | May–Oct Oct–Apr (Cape Town) | |||
| Wet / Green Seasons | Nov–Dec Apr–May | Nov–Apr May–Aug (Cape Town) | |||
| Highlights | Wildebeest Migration Cultural interactions. Mount Kilimanjaro Gorilla trekking. Year-round game viewing. Natural beauty and wide-open spaces. Easily add a tropical island to a safari itinerary. | Big 5 game viewing. Cape Town Whale watching. Victoria Falls Aquatic safaris in Botswana. Walking safaris in Zambia. Stargazing and desert safaris in Namibia. World-class service and amenities in South Africa. |
