Safaris are excursions into Africa’s wilderness to explore and admire animals in their natural habitat. Although safaris have a historical relationship with hunting, increasing safaris cater to tourists who simply want to see the animals like never before. Today, safaris can be an exciting trip for families and tourists from all over the world. Safaris range in price and difficulty but they all result in an unforgettable experience. Here are just a few of the different safaris available for adventurous travelers.

Kilimanjaro Climb and Safari, Tanzania
Anyone up for the difficult journey is promised to get the experience of a lifetime. The famous Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest freestanding mountain in the world. At 19,340 feet tall, the views from Kilimanjaro are like none other. Once at the top, safari goers spend a night sleeping in the crater. The descent includes a hike through the rainforest. It also has opportunities to learn about its wildlife and ecosystems. Throughout the 15-day journey hikers are also expected to see monkeys, giraffes, lions, leopards and other fascinating animals.

© Ninara

Elephant Safari, Zimbabwe
Elephants are the biggest mammals to walk on land. They are also some of the most amazing animals to see up close. One of the most popular places to see these creatures is in Hwange National Park. Hwange is Zimbabwe’s biggest national park. This park has one of the largest elephant populations in the world as well as more than 100 other mammal species. The safari also stops in Matobo National Park and Mana Pools National Park, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Matobo includes a protection zone for rhinos. Mana Pools is home to the Zambezi River which has crocodiles, hippos and more than 350 species of exotic birds. In addition, tourists will likely find baboons, monkeys, leopards, hyenas, zebras and more. The safari includes a combination of driving, hiking and canoeing.

© Vaughan Leiberum

Family Expedition, Tanzania
Family safaris provide unique experiences for kids to see zebras, elephants, rhinos, lions and cheetahs without the cages of a zoo. This safari goes to one of Tanzania’s oldest national parks, Serengeti National Park. Serengeti National Park is also another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is a popular migration spot for zebras and wildebeests. It is also home to lions, crocodiles, and lizards. The safari then goes to Ngorongoro Crater and Conservation Area. Ngorongoro is a volcanic crater measuring over 115 square miles. It is also home to thousands of wild animals. On this safari families also have the opportunity to meet people from the Maasai village. The designated Maasai cultural sites have crafts and great educational and cultural experiences. This particular safari also matches kids up with local pen pals of similar ages.

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Cover photo © Benh LIEU SONG