Safari. Just the word evokes images of breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and unforgettable adventures. At African Overland Tours .com , we’ve had the immense privilege of helping countless adventurers like you realize their African dreams over the past year.
We’ve crunched the numbers, poured over your feedback, and are thrilled to reveal the most popular and beloved African safari tours booked in the last 365 days. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or planning your very first expedition, this list is your ultimate guide to planning an extraordinary journey.
Why Choose an African Safari? The Call of the Wild.
Before we dive into the top tours, let’s address the fundamental question: Why Africa?
Unparalleled Wildlife Encounters
Nowhere else on Earth can you witness the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) in their natural habitat, alongside giraffes, zebras, hippos, and an astonishing array of birdlife.
Diverse Landscapes
From the dramatic dunes of Namibia to the lush deltas of Botswana, and the iconic plains of the Serengeti, Africa’s scenery is as varied as it is stunning.
Rich Cultural Experiences
Engage with local communities, learn about ancient traditions, and connect with the vibrant spirit of the continent.
Adventure for Every Style
Whether you prefer comfortable lodges, authentic camping, or active explorations, there’s a safari tailored to your preferences.
When is the Best Time to Go? Timing Your African Adventure.
While Africa offers incredible experiences year-round, the “best” time often depends on your priorities and the region you wish to visit.
Dry Season (May to October)
Generally considered prime safari season. Animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. Vegetation is sparser, improving visibility. This is an excellent time for game viewing in places like Botswana’s Okavango Delta, South Africa’s Kruger, and Namibia.
Green Season (November to April)
Offers lush landscapes, newborn animals, and fewer crowds. While game viewing can be more challenging due to thicker vegetation, it’s fantastic for birdwatching and photography, and often comes with lower prices.
Specific Events
Consider the Great Migration in Tanzania/Kenya (often July-October for river crossings), or the best time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda/Uganda (generally dry seasons, June-Sept and Dec-Feb).
How to Choose Your Safari? Tailoring Your Journey
Our most popular tours showcase the incredible diversity of African safaris. Consider these factors when making your choice:
Duration
From quick escapes to epic expeditions, determine how much time you can dedicate.
Comfort Level
Do you prefer the rustic charm of camping, the comfort of well-appointed lodges, or something in between?
Destination
Each country offers a unique flavor. Do you dream of Botswana’s waterways, Namibia’s deserts, or South Africa’s diverse offerings?
Inclusions
Are you looking for an all-inclusive experience, or do you prefer more flexibility?
Immersive Camping Adventures
For the intrepid traveler who loves to be close to nature, hear the sounds of the wild, and experience Africa authentically under canvas.
42 Day Cape Town to Nairobi Tour (Most Popular) (Camping)
Why it’s popular: The adventurous camping version of the epic Cape Town to Nairobi journey, perfect for budget-conscious long-term explorers.
Where: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya (and possibly others).
How: Extensive camping overland travel.
Best for: Adventurous long-term travelers looking for an immersive and budget-friendly trans-African experience.
20 Day Cape Town to Victoria Falls Tour (Camping)
Why it’s popular: This epic journey connects two of Southern Africa’s most iconic destinations. Travelers get to experience the beauty of Cape Town, the vastness of Botswana, and the majestic Victoria Falls. This is the adventurous camping version.
Where: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe.
How: Overland travel, blending city exploration with extensive safari experiences, primarily camping.
Best for: Ambitious travelers looking for a grand, multi-country Southern African adventure on a camping budget.
14 Day Botswana Wilderness Safari (Camping)
Why it’s popular: A deeper dive into Botswana’s incredible wilderness areas, offering an extensive camping safari for true nature lovers.
Where: Botswana.
How: Extended camping safari, exploring multiple wilderness regions.
Best for: Dedicated safari enthusiasts who want an extended, authentic camping experience in Botswana’s top wildlife areas.
12 Day Namibian Explorer North Overland (Camping)
Why it’s popular: The adventurous camping version, offering a more immersive connection with nature in northern Namibia.
Where: Namibia.
How: Camping overland travel.
Best for: Adventurous travelers keen on northern Namibia’s landscapes and wildlife, with a budget-friendly camping style.
12 Day Namibia and Botswana Safari (Camping)
Why it’s popular: The camping version of the Namibia & Delta Safari, offering an immersive and often more budget-friendly way to explore these two fantastic countries.
Where: Namibia, Botswana.
How: Camping overland safari.
Best for: Adventurous travelers seeking a diverse safari experience across Namibia and Botswana with a camping focus.
10 Day Okavango Experience (Camping)
Why it’s popular: An immersive journey into one of Africa’s most iconic wildernesses. This camping safari offers an authentic, close-to-nature experience in the Okavango Delta, known for its incredible wetlands and abundant wildlife.
Where: Botswana.
How: Mobile tented camps, mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions, game drives.
Best for: Adventurous travelers seeking an authentic and wild Botswana experience.
24 Day Cape Town To Victoria Falls & Johannesburg Tour Camping (Inclusive)
Why it’s popular: Extends the classic route to include the vibrant city of Johannesburg, offering a more complete South African and Southern African experience.
Where: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe.
How: Inclusive overland travel covering key cities and safari destinations.
Best for: Travelers wanting to see the major highlights of Southern Africa, including an urban experience in Johannesburg.
Comfortable Accommodated Journeys
For those who prefer the comforts of lodges, guesthouses, and inclusive packages while still experiencing the thrill of Africa’s wildlife and landscapes.
57 Day Cape Town to Kenya Tour (Most Popular) (Accommodated)
Why it’s popular: This is the ultimate African odyssey! An even more extensive version of the multi-country journey, allowing an in-depth exploration of a vast portion of the continent, offering incredible diversity in landscapes, cultures, and wildlife.
Where: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya (and potentially more depending on the exact route).
How: Extensive accommodated overland travel, combining various forms of accommodation.
Best for: True adventurers with ample time, seeking a life-changing, comprehensive African journey with comfort.
42 Day Cape Town to Nairobi Tour (Most Popular) (Accommodated)
Why it’s popular: A truly epic overland journey, traversing much of Eastern and Southern Africa, offering an incredible breadth of experiences. “Most Popular” indicates its appeal for extended adventures.
Where: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya (and possibly others).
How: Extensive accommodated overland travel.
Best for: Long-term travelers seeking a grand, multi-country African expedition with comfort.
24 Day Cape Town, Victoria Falls to Joburg (Accommodated)
Why it’s popular: The accommodated version of the extended Southern African journey.
Where: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe.
How: Accommodated overland travel.
Best for: Those desiring a comfortable and comprehensive tour of Southern Africa’s major attractions.
20 Day Cape Town to Victoria Falls Ultimate Tour (Comfort)
Why it’s popular: An upgraded version of the popular route, focusing on higher comfort levels and perhaps more exclusive experiences.
Where: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe.
How: Overland travel with enhanced comfort and accommodation.
Best for: Travelers seeking the Cape Town to Vic Falls journey with a focus on luxury and comfort.
18 Day South African Adventure: Inclusive (Accommodated)
Why it’s popular: South Africa is a ‘world in one country’. This comprehensive tour covers major highlights, from vibrant cities to spectacular wildlife reserves, offering a truly diverse experience. The “inclusive” nature means less to worry about!
Where: South Africa.
How: Varied accommodated stays, covering major attractions and game parks.
Best for: First-time visitors to Africa or those wanting a broad, hassle-free exploration of South Africa.
17 Day South Africa African Rainbow Nation Tour (Accommodated)
Why it’s popular: A comprehensive tour of South Africa, delving into its diverse cultural tapestry, history, and natural beauty.
Where: South Africa.
How: Accommodated tour covering multiple regions and attractions.
Best for: Travelers seeking a deep dive into South Africa’s history, culture, and iconic landscapes.
16 Day Zimbabwe and Botswana Safari Wildlife Explorer (Accommodated)
Why it’s popular: Combines the majesty of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe with the incredible wildlife of Botswana’s premier parks.
Where: Zimbabwe, Botswana.
How: Accommodated safari with game drives and activity at Victoria Falls.
Best for: Travelers seeking a blend of iconic natural wonders and top-tier safari.
12 Day Namibia Overland Tour (Accommodated)
Why it’s popular: Namibia’s stark beauty is unlike anywhere else. This tour offers a comfortable way to explore its dramatic landscapes, from the towering dunes of Sossusvlei to the wildlife-rich Etosha National Park.
Where: Namibia.
How: Comfortable lodge accommodations, overland vehicle travel, desert explorations, game drives.
Best for: Those who want to experience Namibia’s unique geology and wildlife with a good level of comfort.
12 Day Namibian Explorer North Overland (Accommodated)
Why it’s popular: Focuses on the northern highlights of Namibia, often including Etosha National Park and cultural experiences.
Where: Namibia.
How: Accommodated overland travel.
Best for: Those looking to explore Namibia’s northern regions with comfort.
12 Day Namibia & Delta Safari Tour (Accommodated)
Why it’s popular: Combines the unique desert landscapes of Namibia with the lush waterways and abundant wildlife of Botswana’s Okavango Delta.
Where: Namibia, Botswana.
How: Accommodated safari exploring two distinct ecosystems.
Best for: Travelers wanting to experience the contrast between Namibia’s desert and Botswana’s water-based safari.
9 Day Okavango Delta and Chobe North Tour (Accommodated)
Why it’s popular: A focused tour on Botswana’s most famous and wildlife-rich areas, offering an exceptional safari experience in comfort.
Where: Botswana.
How: Accommodated safari, often involving game drives, mokoro trips, and boat cruises.
Best for: Travelers prioritizing top-tier wildlife viewing in Botswana with comfortable stays.
7 Day Best of Namibia Highlights Safari (Accommodated)
Why it’s popular: A focused tour hitting Namibia’s key attractions for those with a week to spare.
Where: Namibia.
How: Accommodated travel to key highlights.
Best for: Travelers seeking a well-rounded, yet concise, Namibian experience.
7 Day Namibia North & South Lodge Safari (Accommodated)
Why it’s popular: Explores the diverse northern and southern regions of Namibia, offering a broad perspective of its landscapes and wildlife in a comfortable lodge setting.
Where: Namibia.
How: Lodge-based safari covering both northern and southern highlights.
Best for: Travelers wanting to see a significant portion of Namibia in comfort within a week.
6 Day Namibia Dunes & Wildlife Safari (Accommodated)
Why it’s popular: A perfect blend of Namibia’s two most famous assets: its awe-inspiring desert landscapes and its unique desert-adapted wildlife. This shorter tour makes it accessible for many.
Where: Namibia.
How: Comfortable accommodated stays, focused on specific regions.
Best for: Travelers keen on experiencing Namibia’s distinct beauty in a concise itinerary.
5 Day Kruger Safari (Inclusive)
Why it’s popular: A focused, shorter safari experience in the world-renowned Kruger National Park, ideal for those with limited time. “Inclusive” ensures a hassle-free trip.
Where: South Africa.
How: Game drives in open safari vehicles, comfortable lodge/camp stays.
Best for: Dedicated wildlife enthusiasts seeking a classic safari experience in one of Africa’s best parks, in a compact timeframe.
Small Group Experiences
For travelers who prefer a more personalized and intimate journey, typically with fewer participants, often combining comfort with shared adventure.
21 Day Cape Town to Victoria Falls Small Group – Comfort
Why it’s popular: Combining the small group intimacy with enhanced comfort on this popular route.
Where: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe.
How: Small group, comfortable overland travel.
Best for: Those who desire both the intimacy of a small group and the comfort of upgraded accommodations on this classic route.
20 Day Cape Town to Victoria Falls Tour (Small Group)
Why it’s popular: The classic Cape Town to Victoria Falls route, offered as a more intimate small group experience.
Where: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe.
How: Small group overland travel, likely accommodated.
Best for: Those wanting the iconic journey with the benefits of a smaller tour size.
19 Day South Africa Tour (Small Group)
Why it’s popular: A more intimate way to explore the diverse wonders of South Africa, from its coastlines to its wildlife.
Where: South Africa.
How: Small group touring with accommodated stays.
Best for: Travelers who prefer a more personalized experience with a smaller group.
Ready to Begin Your African Journey?
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