The information provided in this article about the best national parks in Africa is subjective and based on publicly available sources. We sourced data from travel blogs like Safari Bookings and Trip Advisor. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the details may change over time. All major national parks in Africa Africa is home to over 300 national parks. These parks span diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to arid deserts, offering incredible opportunities for wildlife conservation and tourism across the continent. Here is a list of some of the best national parks in Africa and their locations: National Park/Game Reserve Location Serengeti National Park Tanzania Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve South Africa South Luangwa National Park Zambia Ruaha National Park Tanzania Okavango Delta Botswana Chobe National Park Botswana Maasai Mara National Reserve Kenya Etosha National Park Namibia Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda Hwange National Park Zimbabwe READ ALSO 15 best things to do in Rwanda: Activities and places to visit 1. Serengeti National Park Wildebeest during the Great Migration in Northern Serengeti in Tanzania, Africa. Photo: Avatarmin (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: Tanzania Area (km²): 14,763 Established: 1940 What is the leading national park in Africa? According to the World Travel Awards (WTA), the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is the best national park in Africa. The park is famous for the wildebeest migration. 2. Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve Location: South Africa Area (km²): 650 Established: 1898 Which is the best game reserve in Africa? Sabi Sand is among the best animal reserves in Africa. It is renowned for excellent “big 5” game (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino) wildlife viewing in a private reserve setting. 3. South Luangwa National Park Southern carmine bee-eaters birds (L) and elephant herd crossing Luangwa river (R), South Luangwa National Park, Zambia. Photo: Mint Images/ Art Wolfe, Dmussman (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: Zambia Area (km²): 9,050 Established: 1972 South Luangwa National Park is in eastern Zambia, the southernmost of three national parks in the valley of the Luangwa River. It is famous for walking safaris and diverse wildlife, including giraffes and four of the Big Five (excluding rhinos). READ ALSO When is the best time to visit Kenya and Tanzania? A quick guide 4. Ruaha National Park Location: Tanzania Area (km²): 20,226 Established: 1964 Ruaha is Tanzania’s largest national park, featuring lions, leopards, wild dogs, cheetahs, and hyenas in a rugged landscape. 5. Okavango Delta An aerial view of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Photo: Kelly Cheng Travel Photography (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: Botswana Area (km²): 6,000–15,000 Established: 1971 A vast and virtually untouched freshwater wetland at the heart of Botswana, the Okavango Delta supports wildlife in a stunning setting. 6. Chobe National Park Location: Botswana Area (km²): 11,700 Established: 1967 Chobe is known as the elephant capital of Africa, boasting over 50,000 elephants visible from land and the river. 7. Moremi Game Reserve An aerial view of a group of African elephants in Khwai river (L).Three male Cheetahs around a dead tree at Moremi Game Reserve, Okavango Delta, Botswana (R). Photo: Guenterguni (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: Botswana Area (km²): 5,000 Established: 1963 Moremi is among the best game reserves in Africa. It offers stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, including the Big Five (rhinos are very rare). 8. Maasai Mara National Reserve Location: Kenya Area (km²): 1,510 Established: 1961 READ ALSO List of the best stadiums in Kenya in 2025 (with photos) Maasai Mara is one of the most famous national parks in Africa. It is home to abundant wildlife, including the Big Five, and is known for the thrilling wildebeest migration. You can visit the Maasai Mara through numerous tours and travel companies. 9. Ngorongoro Conservation Area Location: Tanzania Area (km²): 8,292 Established: 1959 The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with abundant wildlife, including the Big Five. 10. Katavi National Park Herd of African elephants walking in the green plains of the remote Katavi National park in Tanzania. Photo: Guenterguni (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: Tanzania Area (km²): 4,471 Established: 1974 Katavi offers classic and walking safaris, showcasing four of the ‘Big Five’ and many hippos during the dry season. 11. Mana Pools National Park Location: Zimbabwe Area (km²): 2,196 Established: 1963 Mana Pools is a premier safari destination in the dry season, where animals gather to drink, offering exceptional wildlife viewing. 12. Kruger National Park An elephant in the bush (L). A herd of elephants fording a river (R) at Kruger National Park, South Africa. Photo: Martin Barraud, Martin Harvey (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: South Africa Area (km²): 19,485 Established: 1926 READ ALSO 12 biggest celebrities that live in Utah and where you’re likely to spot them Kruger, South Africa’s first national park, features big-game species and is a popular destination for classic safaris. 13. Hwange National Park Location: Zimbabwe Area (km²): 14,651 Established: 1928 Hwange offers classic safaris with an abundance of all major safari animals, including the Big Five. 14. Samburu National Reserve Location: Kenya Area (km²): 165 Established: 1985 Samburu is known for its classic dry-country safaris. It adjoins Buffalo Springs National Reserve. 15. Lower Zambezi National Park A female lion sits by the river at the Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia. Photo: Rick Collins (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: Zambia Area (km²): 4,092 Established: 1983 The Lower Zambezi National Park lies on the north bank of the Zambezi River in southeastern Zambia. It offers canoe, boat, walking, and classic safaris. It has four of the “big 5” animals but no giraffes. 16. Central Kalahari Game Reserve Location: Botswana Area (km²): 52,800 Established: 1961 The Central Kalahari features stirring desert scenery, excellent dry-country safaris, and the presence of all big cats. READ ALSO 15 famous celebrities who live in Miami and their neighbourhoods 17. Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park A giraffe (L) and tourist ride two African elephants (R) at the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia. Photo: Ignacio Palacios, Michele Westmorland (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: Zambia Area (km²): 66 Established: 1972 Mosi-oa-Tunya is home to Victoria Falls, the largest waterfall in the world, and white rhinos, elephants, and giraffes. 18. Akagera National Park Location: Rwanda Area (km²): 1,122 Established: 1934 Akagera offers Big Five sightings, beautiful scenery, top birding, night drives, and boat trips. 19. Tsavo West National Park Location: Kenya Area (km²): 9,065 Established: 1948 Tsavo West is known for its abundant wildlife and classic safaris. It adjoins Tsavo East National Park. 20. Amboseli National Park Elephants in a line during sunrise in front of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park, Kenya. Photo: Diana Robinson Photography (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: Kenya Area (km²): 392 Established: 1974 Amboseli provides the best view of Mount Kilimanjaro and excellent wildlife encounters, including great elephant viewing. The park is under the KWS (Kenya Wildlife Service). 21. Queen Elizabeth National Park Location: Uganda Area (km²): 1,978 Established: 1952 READ ALSO Historic built environments in Kenya: 20 famous sites and monuments Queen Elizabeth is Uganda’s most popular tourist destination, home to the famous tree-climbing lions. 22. Murchison Falls National Park Location: Uganda Area (km²): 3,893 Established: 1952 Murchison Falls showcases one of Africa’s most powerful waterfalls and offers boat and classic safaris. 23. Timbavati Private Nature Reserve Location: South Africa Area (km²): 533.9 Established: 1956 Timbavati is a private reserve known for classic safaris and the presence of the Big Five. 24. Balule Private Nature Reserve Location: South Africa Area (km²): 400 Established: 1993 Balule Nature Reserve is a protected area in Limpopo Province, South Africa. It is part of the Greater Kruger National Park. 25. Madikwe Game Reserve A herd of elephants at a waterhole in the Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa. Photo: Moelyn Photos (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: South Africa Area (km²): 750 Established: 1994 Madikwe Game Reserve is a protected area in South Africa named after the Madikwe or Marico River, on whose basin it is located. Madikwe is known for its classic safaris and the presence of the Big Five. READ ALSO Top 20 celebrities who live in Hawaii in 2025: Stars who own homes in The Aloha State 26. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park Location: South Africa/Botswana Area (km²): 37,991 Established: 2000 Kgalagadi offers classic safaris in a transfrontier park shared between South Africa and Botswana. It features all big cats. 27. Nyerere National Park A group of Hippopotamus at Lake Manze, Nyerere National Park in Tanzania. Photo: Guenterguni, Sherly348 / 500px (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: Tanzania Area (km²): 30,893 Established: 2019 Nyerere is one of Africa’s largest national parks. It offers classic, walking, and boat safaris. The park houses four of the ‘Big Five’ and wild dogs. 28. Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve Location: South Africa Area (km²): 650 Established: 1979 Sabi Sand Game Reserve is adjacent to the Kruger National Park in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga, South Africa. 29. Ol Pejeta Conservancy Location: Kenya Area (km²): 360 Established: 1988 Ol Pejeta is known for classic safaris, the Big Five, and its chimpanzee sanctuary. It is situated on the equator west of Nanyuki, between the foothills of the Aberdares and Mount Kenya. READ ALSO 20 best restaurants in Kilimani, Nairobi to visit in 2022 30. Etosha National Park Giraffes during sunset at the Etosha National Park in Namibia. Photo: Angelo Cavalli (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: Namibia Area (km²): 22,270 Established: 1907 Etosha National Park features the Etosha Pan, a vast expanse of salt with lone salt springs. Animals use the Etosha Pan as salt licks. 31. Kafue National Park Location: Zambia Area (km²): 22,400 Established: 1950 Kafue offers walking, boat, and classic safaris, with cheetahs and four of the Big Five (no rhino). 32. Addo Elephant National Park Elephants (L) and the muddy cape Buffalos (R) at a watering home, Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa. Photo: Maria Korneeva, Lynn Garcia (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: South Africa Area (km²): 1,640 Established: 1931 Addo is home to over 600 elephants, 400 buffaloes, and many other African safari species. 33. Tsavo East National Park Location: Kenya Area (km²): 13,747 Established: 1948 Tsavo East is one of Kenya’s most coveted wildlife viewing places and a top nature destination. 34. Tarangire National Park Location: Tanzania Area (km²): 2,850 Established: 1970 Tarangire attracts the Serengeti migration herd and showcases Kenya’s stunning wildlife. READ ALSO 20 largest zoos in the world by area and their locations in 2022 35. Makgadikgadi Pans National Park A pride of lions rest under a tree at the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park in Botswana. Photo: Janetteasche (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: Botswana Area (km²): 3,900 Established: 1992 The Makgadikgadi Pans are the largest salt pans in the world. It has one of Africa’s biggest zebra populations. 36. Zambezi National Park Location: Zimbabwe Area (km²): 560 Established: 1979 Zambezi National Park is a national park in Zimbabwe located upstream of Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River. 37. Arusha National Park Location: Tanzania Area (km²): 137 Established: 1960 Arusha is known for its scenic beauty and hiking opportunities, featuring the second-tallest mountain in Tanzania. 38. Lake Nakuru National Park Location: Kenya Area (km²): 188 Established: 1961 Lake Nakuru is a birdwatcher’s paradise with rich wildlife, including black and white rhinos, lions, and leopards. 39. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy Location: Kenya Area (km²): 250 Established: 1995 Lewa is a private conservancy offering classic safaris, home to the Big Five and a chimpanzee sanctuary. READ ALSO The 17 most beautiful female weather forecasters in 2024 40. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve A White Rhino and a calf at the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve. Photo: Steve Woods Photography (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: South Africa Area (km²): 960 Established: 1895 Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is famous for its rhino population and offers classic safaris with the Big Five present. 41. Nairobi National Park Location: Kenya Area (km²): 117 Established: 1946 Nairobi National Park is a wildlife haven nestled next to the bustling city of Nairobi. It features an array of wildlife species. 42. Pilanesberg Game Reserve Location: South Africa Area (km²): 572 Established: 1979 Pilanesberg is home to the Big 5, along with an abundance of flora and fauna. It is located north of Rustenburg in the North West Province of South Africa. 43. Aberdare National Park Location: Kenya Area (km²): 767 Established: 1950 Aberdare is a wildlife haven in Kenya featuring the Big Five and more for a splendid safari experience. 44. Lake Mburo National Park Location: Uganda Area (km²): 260 Established: 1983 READ ALSO Kenya Wildlife Service Park fees for all National parks in 2021 Lake Mburo National Park is a national park in Nyabushozi County, Kiruhura District in Uganda. 45. Hell’s Gate National Park A man walks in a canyon at the Hell’s Gate National Park in Naivasha, Kenya. Photo: Wilpunt (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: Kenya Area (km²): 68.25 Established: 1984 Hell’s Gate features stunning red-walled cliffs ideal for cycling, walking, and climbing. The park features mainly buffalo and antelope species. 46. Mikumi National Park Location: Tanzania Area (km²): 3,230 Established: 1964 Mikumi offers walking and classic safaris. It also features four of the Big Five (no rhino). 47. Shimba Hills National Reserve Location: Kenya Area (km²): 300 Established: 1968 Shimba Hills National Reserve offers classic safaris with abundant elephant populations. 48. Lake Manyara National Park Location: Tanzania Area (km²): 325 Established: 1960 Lake Manyara features a shallow alkaline lake attracting over a million flamingoes as a Tanzanian nature attraction. 49. Nxai Pan National Park Location: Botswana Area (km²): 2,578 Established: 1970 READ ALSO Emmanuel Korir bio: family, training, olympics, net worth, career Nxai Pan offers dry-country safaris with salt pan and baobab scenery. The park is the habitat of the Big Five species and more. 50. Matobo National Park A rock formation with the tomb of Cecil Rhodes at the Matobo National Park. Photo: Westend61 (modified by author) Source: Getty Images Location: Zimbabwe Area (km²): 424 Established: 1926 Matobo is known for its exceptional granite landscapes and prehistoric rock art. The park has limited wildlife, including rhinos. Interview with a tours and travel consultant In an exclusive interview with TUKO.co.ke, Johnstone Gitonga, a senior tours and travel consultant at Bonfire Adventures, explained what makes one national park different from another and how professional tour operators enhance the overall travel experience. Q: In your experience as a tours and travel consultant, what key features or experiences make a national park stand out from the rest? What makes a national park stand out from the rest comes down to a mix of natural uniqueness, biodiversity, cultural or historical significance, and the experience it offers visitors. Unique natural features like iconic landscapes and geological wonders e.g. volcanoes, glaciers, caves, canyons, and rare rock formations give a park visual distinction. READ ALSO Nahreel biography: wife, parents, net worth, songs, facts Rare ecosystems, biodiversity & wildlife and endemic or rare Species are also some of the features that make a park stand out. The ecosystem diversity, scenic beauty & visual impact are also other factors. Some places just look otherworldly. From turquoise lakes and vast tundras to coral reefs and red-rock deserts, photogenic parks leave lasting impressions. Accessibility in anothe major factor. Some parks stand out for being easily accessible and well-suited for exploration, while others appeal due to their remoteness and raw natural beauty. If we take Kenya as a case study, visitors with limited time will consider Nairobi National Park since it’s located next to the city, thus offering easy accessibility while those looking for remoteness and raw nature will go for Masai Mara and the rest of the parks in the outskirts of Nairobi. Facilities & interpretation i.e good signage, guides, or educational centres enhance understanding and enjoyment, cultural & historical significance and global recognition can also make a national park stand out. For example Maasai Mara (Kenya) is recognised for its iconic wildlife migrations. READ ALSO 15 best national girl schools in Kenya 2025/2026 ranked by performance Q: How do you think national parks contribute to the overall travel experience for visitors seeking nature, wildlife, and adventure in Africa? National parks in Africa play a central role in enhancing the travel experience for visitors who are drawn to nature, wildlife, and adventure. Here’s how they contribute: Unmatched wildlife viewing like Big Five sightings: Many parks (e.g., Kruger in South Africa, Serengeti in Tanzania, Maasai Mara in Kenya) are home to the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino — attracting wildlife enthusiasts from around the world. Rare & Endemic Species: Parks protect unique species, like mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) or Ethiopian wolves in Bale Mountains National Park. Immersive Natural Landscapes: Africa’s national parks showcase diverse ecosystems like savannahs in Serengeti and Maasai Mara.These dramatic settings offer breathtaking scenery and opportunities for photography, hiking, and exploration. Adventure Tourism: National parks are hubs for outdoor adventure, offering game drives & safaris (traditional or self-drive), walking safaris for close-up experiences, gorilla & chimpanzee trekking (in Uganda, Rwanda, DRC), hot air balloon rides (in Serengeti, Maasai Mara) and climbing expeditions (e.g., Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya). READ ALSO Waaris full story, cast real names with photos, episodes Cultural Interactions: Many parks are near indigenous communities (e.g., Maasai, Himba, San), allowing visitors to learn about traditional lifestyles, crafts, and conservation efforts. Conservation & Sustainability: Visiting national parks supports wildlife conservation (through entrance fees and permits), anti-poaching efforts and community-based tourism, where local people benefit from tourism revenue. This adds a purpose-driven dimension to the travel experience — helping travellers feel they’re contributing to environmental protection. Accessibility & Infrastructure: Well-known parks often have well-developed lodges, tented camps, and eco-resorts. They also have guided tours, experienced rangers, airstrips and safari circuits to facilitate travel between parks. This infrastructure helps create a safe and comfortable experience even in remote locations. National parks in Africa offer much more than just a place to see animals. They are immersive, multi-sensory experiences that connect visitors deeply with the natural world, local cultures, and the thrill of the wild — making them an essential part of any African travel adventure. READ ALSO Maseno School KCSE performances, fees structure, contacts Q: How do professional tour operators such as Bonfire Adventures enhance the experience of visiting national parks for first-time and seasoned travellers alike? Professional tour operators play a crucial role in enriching the national park experience for both first-time and seasoned travellers, especially in Africa, where logistics, safety, and local knowledge significantly impact the quality of a trip. Here’s how they add value: Expert Planning & Logistical Support For first-time travellers, it simplifies complex travel. Africa’s national parks often involve remote locations, limited infrastructure, permits, and entry rules. Tour operators streamline this. it also provides seamless itineraries: They coordinate transport, lodging, park entry, and internal flights, eliminating stress for newcomers. For seasoned travellers, it provides tailored and off-the-beaten-path experiences. Professionals can design custom safaris for those who’ve “seen the basics” — like remote walking safaris in Zambia or private mobile camps in Botswana. Safety & Peace of Mind Trained guides and rangers who Knowledgeable in wildlife behavior, safety protocols, and first aid are provided by travel agencies. They can also provide support in emergencies, Operators have contingency plans for medical situations, vehicle issues, or sudden park closures. READ ALSO Jamhuri High School – Fees structure, KCSE performance, location, contacts Access to Hidden Gems & Exclusive Experiences Many operators have access to areas not open to the general public, offering uncrowded game viewing and better wildlife encounters. they allso have specialized tours like birding safaris, photography safaris, and conservation-focused experiences (e.g., collaring wildlife, anti-poaching activities). In-Depth Knowledge & Interpretation Guides are often wildlife experts, trackers, or local naturalists who provide context on animal behavior, insight into ecology, conservation, and culture and Sstories that deepen emotional and intellectual engagement. For seasoned travellers, this elevates what might otherwise be a repeat experience. Q: What is your advice for a first-time traveller seeking to have an unforgettable experience in a national park? Great question and a smart step toward making your first trip truly unforgettable. Visiting a national park in Africa for the first time can be awe-inspiring, but also overwhelming if you’re unprepared. Here’s my practical, experience-based advice for a first-time traveller: READ ALSO Inside view of Rwanda’s stunning Kigali Arena that has left Kenyans in awe Choose the Right Park for Your Goals Different parks offer different types of experiences. Ask yourself, do you want to see the Big Five? Then try Kruger (South Africa), Maasai Mara (Kenya), Serengeti (Tanzania). Tip: Start with a well-established park if you’re new to African travel — the logistics, safety, and comfort will be more beginner-friendly. Travel with a Trusted Tour Operator Don’t try to DIY your first safari unless you’re very experienced in remote travel. Go with a reputable, licensed operator with great reviews. Choose one that prioritizes sustainability, local guides, and small group sizes. Consider private or semi-private safaris if budget allows — they allow more flexibility and personalized attention. Pack Smart (and Light) African safaris don’t need fancy clothes — they need functional gear. Neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors or camouflage). Layers for cold mornings and hot afternoons. Binoculars – game changer for spotting wildlife. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good hat. Soft luggage – some small planes don’t allow hard suitcases READ ALSO Haller Park Mombasa entrance fees, opening hours, contacts Learn the Basics Before You Go You’ll appreciate your experience so much more if you understand what you’re seeing. Learn a bit about the park’s ecosystems and major species, animal behavior and tracking signs, local cultures and conservation issues. Be Patient & Stay Present Wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed — it’s not a zoo. But the thrill is in the unpredictability. Enjoy the quiet moments — a bird call, a sunrise, a distant roar. Stay alert during drives — many great sightings come when you least expect them. Meanwhile, I can say that there’s no single “best” national park in Africa — only the best one for you. Your budget, travel style, timing, and interests (wildlife vs. scenery vs. culture) will shape the perfect choice.
By Simon Ayub, Clinton Nyabuto
