“Few places on earth tell this story without interruption; East Africa is one of them; from golden grasslands teeming with wildlife to misty mountain forests concealing rare primates, every journey becomes a memory that will forever stay with you.
Suppose you are observing the first rays of sunlight as you are in an endless plain, and you see a herd of elephants slowly walking towards a watering hole. Far away, a lion roars, and hundreds of zebra and wildebeest run across the horizon. Don’t just imagine that this is a scene in a nature documentary – it’s a true morning in East Africa on safari.
Whether or not you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the Big Five, you want to see the Great Migration or meet the mountain gorillas in their home, this East Africa Safari Guide will assist you plan the adventure of a lifetime. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family or setting off on a solo adventure, East Africa offers unforgettable wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes and warm local hospitality.
This Ultimate African Safari Holidays Guide also provides a look at the continent’s best safari destinations and travel tips if you are still contemplating where to start your safari.
Why Choose East Africa for a Safari?
The origins of the African safari are in East Africa. It contains some of the world’s renowned national parks and spectacular animals and scenery that vary from one nation to another.
Each safari in this part is unique, unlike many trips. Some day you might travel through open savannahs looking for lions, the next day you may be hiking through ancient forests in search of endangered mountain gorillas. For those interested in primate adventures, you can also explore our Uganda Safari Guide to have unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences.
The great thing about East Africa is the vibrant diversity of experiences.
You’ll discover:
- Vast open plains filled with wildlife
- A mountain with snow on its peak, standing over the savannah.
- Ancient volcanic craters
- Freshwater lakes covered with flamingos
- High population of primates in dense rainforests.
- Traditional communities with centuries of culture being preserved.
Each place has a story to tell and this alone makes East Africa ideal for those looking for adventure and meaningful experiences. To be inspired further across the continent, be sure to check our Ultimate African Safari Holidays Guide.
Where is East Africa?
East Africa primarily consists of:
- Kenya
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Rwanda (especially for gorilla trekking)
Every country has its own distinct appeal, but all have an incredible heritage of wildlife.
Kenya is known for its traditional safari and the magnificent Masai Mara. Read on about Kenya Safari in our Kenya Safari Guide.
The Serengeti and the amazing Ngorongoro Crater are just a few of the wilderness areas Tanzania has to offer. Both of these destinations can be read in more depth in our Tanzania Safari Guide.
Uganda is famous for gorilla trekking and an incredible biodiversity. These places make up one of the largest wildlife region in the world.
Best Time to Visit East Africa
The great thing about visiting East Africa is that you can see the animals year round. There are however some seasons that provide even better safari experiences.
June to October – The Best Safari Season
This period is generally considered the best time to visit.
Generally cooler and drier weather, making games drive more comfortable. Animals congregate around water and rivers and they are easier to see.
It is also one of the best times for one to experience one of the great migration in Kenya’s Masai Mara as described in our Masai Mara Safari Guide.
January to March – Great wildlife viewing.
Warm weather with sunny days in this season.
You will be able to see newborn animals during these months, as many give birth at this time. Predators are highly active during this time, following the abundant prey and their vulnerable newborns.
Colourful migratory birds will also be arriving and colourful birds of paradise will be in evidence.
April and May – The Green Season
Although this is the rainy season, it has its own charm.
It’s so green, many safari lodges have great prices and the numbers of human visitors are reduced.
This season is popular among photography enthusiasts due to the picturesque hues of the natural world and the dramatic skies.
The amazing wildlife that will be encountered
East Africa is among the most wildlife abundant areas in the world.
Each game drive offers exciting adventure surprises, as no two safaris will ever be the same.
Common wildlife sightings include:
- Lions resting under acacia trees
- An elusive leopard cub hidden in the branches
- Elephants in groups of families
- Grazing buffaloes on the open plains
- Black and white rhinos
- Cheetahs chasing prey
- Giraffes quietly feeding on tall trees
- Hippos sunning themselves on river banks
- Crocodiles lurking along the river banks
- Zebras, wildebeests and an array of antelope species
East Africa is also a haven for bird lovers, with over 1,000 species of birds that make their home here.
All safaris are guaranteed to be memorable experiences, both for the professional wildlife photographer and the nature lover.
Experience the Great Migration here!
There are not many wildlife events like the Great Migration.
Each year over 2 million wildebeest, zebra and gazelle embark on an amazing journey across Tanzania and Kenya in search of fresh pasture.
On the way they encounter perilous river crossings of giant crocodiles and lions, cheetahs and hyenas lurking nearby. The sight of thousands of animals moving together across the land is one of the world’s wonders.
If you want to witness this amazing event, you can find information and advice on the Masai Mara Safari Guide on where and when to go.
For those who will be travelling to experience Tanzania’s migration, the Serengeti Safari Guide tells you the best places to do it all year round.
Kenya – Classic Safari Adventures
Kenya has been a favourite safari destination in Africa for long and it is understandable why.
It has beautiful national parks, a warm people and superb safari experience facilities making it highly suitable for first time tourists.
Kenya has a vast diversity of landscapes within short distances, from the wide open grasslands to mountain forests.
It is particularly renowned for its abundance of wildlife and memorable safaris.
If you are looking to book a complete package tour, our Kenya Safari Guide provides a deeper look which gives greater in-depth information about the best safari destinations in Kenya.
Masai Mara National Reserve
The Masai Mara is certainly Kenya’s most renowned wildlife area.
Large prides of lions, graceful cheetahs, elephants, giraffes and all the grazing mammals are scattered across the endless golden plains here.
In July–October, the reserve is one of the most thrilling safari hotspots in the world, with the Great Migration at its peak.
Game drives typically set out at dawn and dusk to catch the animals at their most active and can be enjoyed in the evenings for the wonderful golden light, which is perfect for photographers. Read our Masai Mara Safari Guide for more information on this iconic reserve.
Nairobi National Park
One of the world’s most bizarre wildlife parks is just a short drive from Kenya’s capital city.
The Nairobi National Park Guide welcomes you to the magnificent Nairobi National Park and its inhabitants, including the lions, rhinos, zebras and others.
It is a great option for travellers who don’t have much time left to spend or are starting their East African tour.
Tsavo National Park
Tsavo is one of the oldest and largest parks in Kenya, and covers a vast expanse of land.
The Tsavo National Park Guide highlights its famous red elephants, dramatic volcanic scenery, lava fields and impressive biodiversity. To plan your park entry fees and permits before you arrive, visit the official Kenya Wildlife Service website.
The park is less visited than some of the other parks, so it’s a less busy and more calm safari experience.
Tanzania, the boundless nature and limitless magnificence.
Tanzania is home to some of Africa’s most stunning landscapes.
The vast and protected expanse enables animal inhabitants to wander around a seemingly endless plain, creating one of the most genuine safari experiences in the world.
Tanzania is a country of stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife, from the iconic Serengeti to the amazing Ngorongoro Crater. From the Great Migration to exploring the untouched wilderness, Tanzania offers unforgettable adventures.
If you are making a longer trip, you should also check out our Tanzania Safari Guide which includes a lot of information about travelling in Tanzania, seasonal highlights and suggestions about areas to visit.
Uganda – The Pearl of Africa’s Diverse Wonders
Uganda is one of the most exciting safari destinations in East Africa, where the traditional savannah safaris meet the old rainforest. Each location offers a unique experience such as gorilla trekking, river cruises or climbing the tree lions.
There is an opportunity to observe this in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Bwindi is home to almost 50% of the remaining mountain gorillas, and is a place of unmissable gorilla trekking in the misty rainforest. Find out all you need to know about your Uganda Safari with our Uganda Safari Guide.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
This park is famous for its varied topography, the Kazinga Channel, and its sightings of tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos and leopards.
Murchison Falls National Park
See the majestic Nile running through a narrow gorge, then take a boat trip or game drive to see hippos, crocodiles, elephants and Rothschild’s giraffes.
Rwanda – Land of a Thousand Hills and Luxury Treks
Rwanda is known for its stunning mountain scenery, superb conservation and luxury safari experiences with wildlife. One of the top places in Africa for luxury gorilla trekking and eco-tourism.
Volcanoes National Park
Famous for its mountain gorillas, the park boasts a legacy of Dian Fossey and, above all, luxury lodges and volcanic scenery that are perfect for gorilla trekking.
Akagera National Park
Today, Rwanda’s sole savannah park has evolved into a successful Big 5 safari destination boasting rolling hills, lakes and superb wildlife viewing.
Nyungwe Forest National Park
Nicknamed “Africa’s oldest rainforest”, Nyungwe is renowned for its chimpanzee trekking, rare birdlife and the fantastic canopy walkway above the forest.
Finale: Your East Africa Safari Adventure Awaits
An East African safari is more than a holiday; it’s a trip to some of the most extraordinary landscapes in the world. Watching lions roam the golden plains of Kenya, and seeing the Great Migration in Tanzania or in Uganda, looking for mountain gorillas in the misty forests is an experience that will stay with you forever. No two places will have the same wildlife, scenery or culture, and you will have an unforgettable day every day of your adventure.
This East Africa Safari Guide is perfect for both your first safari trip and your second, it is a great place to start exploring the incredible wilderness of Africa. Do not rush, select your destinations and experiences based on your travel style and you’re sure to have something to remember for years to come. For even more inspiration and travel tips from experts, check out our African Safari Holidays Guide, which offers even more incredible travel inspiration and expert tips.
FAQ
The dry season from June to October is best. Animals surround water holes, making them easy to see.
Yes, travellers must apply for a visa. The East Africa Tourist Visa allows for travel to Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda on a single visa.
Yes. Safaris are very safe when travelling with a registered guide and observing safety precautions in national parks.
Bring lightweight, neutral coloured clothing (khaki or green), a warm jacket when driving in the morning, a sun hat, insect repellent, and good binoculars.
Moderate fitness level is required. When you trek in Uganda and Rwanda, you will be trekking through steep hills, muddy paths and through thick forest to locate the gorillas.
Source
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useful links:
- https://www.worldholidayvibes.com/destinations/africa
- https://www.worldholidayvibes.com/destinations/africa/madagascar
- https://www.worldholidayvibes.com/holiday-deals/madagascar-northern-highlights-madagascar-whv2308
- https://www.worldholidayvibes.com/holiday-deals/escape-to-madagascar-your-wild-paradise-madagascar-whv3198
