The Best Places to Go on Safari in 2026

Explore the best places to go on safari in 2026 with our month-by-month safari calendar & learn how we can create a bespoke safari experience.

Written by

Ker & Downey® Africa

Planning a safari adventure in 2026? With so many safari experiences and destinations, choosing where to go can be time-consuming.

From our headquarters in Cape Town, South Africa, we’ve been curating luxury safari experiences in Africa for decades. Our safari experts boast in-depth knowledge of the continent, including the finest destinations and most exclusive safari experiences for 2026.

All our luxury safari lodges, camps, and hotels are carefully handpicked and vetted by our safari specialists, ensuring an ultra-exclusive experience that leaves a positive legacy in Africa.

Here, our safari specialists share their top tips on the best places to go on safari in 2026, helping you plan your next unforgettable adventure.

Safari calendar 2026

January and February

Travel to Tanzania to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, where large herds of wildebeest gather on the vast plains to give birth to their young. This once-in-a-lifetime spectacle attracts large numbers of predators, including cheetahs, hyenas, and lions, creating thrilling displays of wildlife action. The Serengeti is teeming with life during these months, making it the perfect place for traditional game drives and bush walks.

Alternatively, head to Botswana’s Okavango Delta, which is in its green season. The seasonal rains at this time of year attract young animals, newborns, and migratory birds, offering exceptional viewing opportunities for bird enthusiasts. The Okavango Delta is home to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring animals, offering nature enthusiasts a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness Africa’s most majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

View our Trips for January and February

All Year Round

12 DAYS

Tanzania and Zanzibar Safari

This exclusive trip unites luxurious XO Private properties for the ultimate Tanzania and Zanzibar safari, seamlessly blending bush and beach.

All Year Round

12 DAYS

Tanzania & Zanzibar Honeymoon Safari

A romantic Tanzania & Zanzibar Honeymoon Safari getaway which perfectly balances an African Safari adventure with a barefoot luxury island experience.

All Year Round

10 DAYS

Luxury Tanzania Honeymoon LuxVenture®

This luxury Tanzania honeymoon takes couples into iconic parks, romantic safari lodges and includes unique activities and surprises on the way.

March and April

March and April mark the green season in Zambia and Zimbabwe, with incredibly lush landscapes in the South Luangwa National Park and Hwange National Park providing incredible opportunities for stunning wildlife photography.

Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park, located in the country’s eastern river valley, is known as one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. It boasts 60 different animal species and more than 400 bird species, including the grey crowned crane, saddle-billed stork, and the African fish eagle.

In Namibia, March and April are ideal months to see black rhinos in Damaraland, which is home to the largest population in Africa. Beyond its rugged landscapes and fascinating wildlife, including desert-adapted elephants, Damarland is also known for its rock paintings and engravings, considered to be some of the best preserved rock etchings in Africa.

View our Trips for March and April

April-October

10 DAYS

Best of Botswana Safari

This Best of Botswana LuxVenture® takes you to new heights, revealing extraordinary experiences in the world’s most remote corners.

All year round

9 DAYS

Beaches of Seychelles Vacation

Explore Seychelles’ most breathtaking shores on this 9‑day luxury escape across Mahé and Praslin’s iconic white‑sand beaches.

All Year Round

8 DAYS

Luxury Kenya Safari

The birthplace of wilderness safaris, Kenya is renowned for its abundant wildlife, colorful culture, and pristine natural beauty.

May and June

If you want to witness the Big Five, plan an adventure in May and June to the Kruger National Park in South Africa. During southern Africa’s winter months, the weather is cooler and drier making for a more comfortable safari experience. The vegetation is also sparse at this time of year, making wildlife easier to spot as they gather around watering holes and river banks. Experience thrilling safari adventures, including game drives, hot-air balloon safaris, bush walks, and horseback riding safaris.

Alternatively, head to the Okavango Delta in Botswana, where the riverways are at their peak. May and June are ideal for exploring the region on a traditional mokoro, which provides an alternative perspective on Africa’s stunning landscapes and wildlife.

View our Trips for May and June

All Year Round

11 DAYS

Luxury Egypt Experience

Discover ancient wonders, endless desert landscapes, the winding Nile River and glittering Red Sea on this 11 day Luxury Egypt Experience.

All Year Round

7 DAYS

Luxury Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda

This thrilling gorilla trekking safari takes you deep into the mountainous slopes of Rwanda to witness gorillas and other primates like never before.

June-October

7 DAYS

African Wild Dog Safari

Our exclusive 7-day African wild dog safari in the Kenya is filled with adventure, thrilling wildlife sightings, and rich Kenyan culture.

July and August

During the months of July and August, vast herds of wildebeest make the dramatic Mara River crossing in Kenya’s Masai Mara as part of the Great Migration – a must-see event for your 2026 safari calendar. The Mara River crossing is considered one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth and the climax of the Great Migration, with many animals succumbing to fast-moving currents or falling prey to predators like crocodiles.

July and August are also ideal months for a gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda and Uganda. The drier months make tracking these incredible animals in the Volcanoes or Bwindi Impenetrable Forest far more accessible as the paths are less slippery, and the gorillas tend to favor lower altitudes at this time of year, shortening trekking times.

View our Trips for July and August

All Year Round

9 DAYS

‘Out of Africa’ Safari in Kenya

Inspired by the 1985 Hollywood film ‘Out of Africa’, this itinerary transports guests through Kenya’s wilderness to relive the movie’s famous scenes.

May to October

8 DAYS

Mad Max Safari Adventure

Follow in the footsteps of Mad Max across Namibia’s surreal landscapes on this 8-night luxury safari, blending desert adventure, cinematic scenery, and exclusive lodges.

Year Round

8 DAYS

African Wild Dog Safari in Zimbabwe

Designed for travelers with an interest in conservation, our wild dog safari puts you in the heart of the action, inviting you to leave a positive legacy in Africa.

September and October

September and October are prime months for guided bush walks in the South Luangwa National Park in eastern Zambia. This spectacular park is renowned for being the birthplace of the walking safari, offering dramatic topography, unspoiled vegetation, lush valleys, and sweeping landscapes best explored on foot. The wildlife here is diverse and abundant, including lions, elephants, buffalo, hippos, zebras, and 14 different species of antelope.

Alternatively, mark your safari 2026 calendar for an adventure in Botswana’s Kalahari Desert. During the months of September and October, the Kalahari begins to bloom, offering scenic landscapes and plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities.

View our Trips for September and October

All year round

12 DAYS

Luxury Family Safari: South Africa & Victoria Falls

This epic 12-day family safari combines Cape Town, the Winelands, Sabi Sands and Victoria Falls for the ultimate travel adventure together with your loved ones.

All Year Round

16 DAYS

Ultimate East Africa Safari

Soar above the plains on Tanzania on a hot air balloon, walk wild trails on foot, and encounter Rwanda’s mountain gorillas face-to-face.

Year Round

10 DAYS

Natural East Africa Wonders Safari

Visit 3 regions on this luxury safari which combines the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, a scenic flight over Kilimanjaro, and the Great Migration in the Serengeti.

November and December

November and December are a wonderful time to visit South Africa and enjoy a city break in Cape Town, coupled with exploring the famed Garden Route. During these months, the weather is at its best. In Cape Town, you can enjoy a host of refined experiences, including gourmet dining, designer shopping, and thrilling shark cage diving experiences. November and December are also ideal for a whale watching safari, providing visitors with the opportunity to witness migratory southern right whales and humpback whales breaching the ocean waters. Beyond the city, adventures on Table Mountain, the Winelands, and along the Garden Route await.

For those seeking an idyllic beach escape, head to Mauritius for an ultra-luxurious getaway in one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. Located off the eastern coast of Africa, Mauritius boasts beautiful beaches, azure waters, and lush mountainous interiors, best enjoyed during the winter months. Summit the peak of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Le Morne Brabant, sink below the waves and explore colorful marine life, or swim below a cascading waterfall.

View our Trips for November and December

All Year Round

12 DAYS

South Africa Art, Wine & Wilderness Safari

Experience an enriching Art Safari through South Africa, from Cape Town’s galleries to the Winelands and wild beauty of Kruger National Park.

All Year Round

10 DAYS

Cairo + Luxury Nile Cruise

Explore the wonders of ancient Egypt on this 10 day Cairo + Luxury Nile Cruise with exclusive access to famous archeological sites, museums and beguiling temples.

All Year Round

9 DAYS

Luxury Adventure through Namibia

A 9-day trip to Namibia is the perfect way to experience the country’s absolute beauty while staying at superb lodges along the way.

How can we help you discover the best places to go on safari in 2026?

We are an award winning luxury travel company that has been pioneering luxury African travel experiences for decades. Our knowledge of Africa, including the best safari destinations and the most exclusive luxury lodges, tented camps, and hotels, is unmatched. We excel at curating bespoke itineraries tailored to each traveler’s unique needs. If you need assistance planning your 2026 safari calendar, our luxury travel experts are here to help. Contact us today and let us create a bespoke safari experience to add to your safari calendar 2026.

Curated Packages

Signature journeys across Africa

Our expert team crafts journeys that transcend luxury. Each itinerary is shaped by the spirit of the land and the wisdom of its people — opening doors to experiences few can imagine, and even fewer will ever access.

All Year Round

9 DAYS

Luxury Adventure through Namibia

A 9-day trip to Namibia is the perfect way to experience the country’s absolute beauty while staying at superb lodges along the way.

All Year Round

9 DAYS

Botswana Okavango Honeymoon LuxVenture®

This luxury Botswana honeymoon allows you to indulge in a pristine wilderness getaway while reveling in unapologetically romantic lodges.

All Year Round

8 DAYS

Best of Egypt LuxVenture®

Discover the best of Egypt on this premium private itinerary that combines famous archeological sites with a cruise down the River Nile.

All Year Round

7 DAYS

Luxury Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda

This thrilling gorilla trekking safari takes you deep into the mountainous slopes of Rwanda to witness gorillas and other primates like never before.

May to October

8 DAYS

Mad Max Safari Adventure

Follow in the footsteps of Mad Max across Namibia’s surreal landscapes on this 8-night luxury safari, blending desert adventure, cinematic scenery, and exclusive lodges.

All Year Round

Day Trip to Antarctica LuxVenture®

Fly from South Africa to Antarctica in a single day. Stand at the edge of the world, where ice, wind, and vast white horizons redefine adventure.

All Year Round

10 DAYS

Africa Safari: Uganda & Zambia’s Great Waterways

May to October | November to April

11 DAYS

Spirit of Zambia Safari

Experience Zambia on this 10-night luxury safari featuring river cruises at Victoria Falls, walking safaris in South Luangwa, and wildlife photography in Lower Zambezi.

All Year Round

14 DAYS

Luxury South Africa and Mozambique Honeymoon

Experience the ultimate South Africa and Mozambique honeymoon, where bush and beach escapes come together in one unforgettable 8-day journey.

June-August

12 DAYS

Rovos Rail and Zambezi River Escape

Sit back and allow this luxurious adventure to unfold on the ultimate slow travel safari on the Rovos Rail and the Zambezi Queen houseboat.

All Year Round

10 DAYS

Luxury Tanzania Honeymoon LuxVenture®

This luxury Tanzania honeymoon takes couples into iconic parks, romantic safari lodges and includes unique activities and surprises on the way.

All Year Round

10 DAYS

Cairo + Luxury Nile Cruise

Explore the wonders of ancient Egypt on this 10 day Cairo + Luxury Nile Cruise with exclusive access to famous archeological sites, museums and beguiling temples.

All Year Round

7 DAYS

Chobe River Cruise & Okavango Delta Safari

Explore the famous Chobe National Park by luxury cruise down the Chobe River on the world famous Zambezi Queen.

All Year Round

12 DAYS

Culinary Journey to Morocco

Embark on a culinary odyssey through Morocco, where every dish tells a story and every spice unlocks a new adventure.

All Year Round

12 DAYS

South Africa Art, Wine & Wilderness Safari

Experience an enriching Art Safari through South Africa, from Cape Town’s galleries to the Winelands and wild beauty of Kruger National Park.

June-February

13 DAYS

A Cultural Safari Tanzania Zanzibar

Journey through Tanzania and Zanzibar on a cultural safari showcasing the best of East Africa’s culture, people and wildlife.

15 June - 15 November

7 DAYS

Luxury Tented Safari in Tanzania

Soar above the savanna on a hot air balloon, track the Big Five, and enjoy mobile safaris, all paired with luxurious stays at iconic camps.

All year round

12 DAYS

Luxury Family Safari: South Africa & Victoria Falls

This epic 12-day family safari combines Cape Town, the Winelands, Sabi Sands and Victoria Falls for the ultimate travel adventure together with your loved ones.

June-October

10 DAYS

Electric Vehicle Safari in Kenya

Explore three groundbreaking conservation areas on this exclusive eco-conscious 10-day Electric Vehicle Safari in Kenya.

All Year Round

9 DAYS

Luxury Safari in Kruger National Park & Cape Town

Experience a luxury safari in Kruger National Park’s Sabi Sands as well as Cape Town & the Cape Winelands on this exciting bush and beach trip.

All Year Round

10 DAYS

Tanzania & Zanzibar Family Holiday

Crafted for families, this 10-day trip invites you to combine a stellar African safari experience with an idyllic island escape on the shores of Zanzibar.

All Year Round

14 DAYS

Southern Africa’s Finest: SA, Victoria Falls & Botswana

Experience the very best of a Southern Africa safari as you visit some of the most iconic locations in South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana in one trip.

Feb – May, Sep – Dec

10 DAYS

Luxury Journey Through Morocco

Uncover Morocco’s rich history, from winding medina alleys and Sahara desert camps to sunrise hot air balloon flights over Marrakech.

Jan, Feb, Jun – Sept

5 DAYS

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Track Silverback mountain gorillas and encounter the rare golden monkey troop of the Volcanoes National Park on this Rwanda adventure.

All Year Round

13 DAYS

Elements of Southern Africa: A Curated Safari

A curated Southern Africa safari blending Cape Town design, Sabi Sand wilderness, and Mozambique’s Indian Ocean into one seamless, elevated journey.

June-October

9 DAYS

Sub Saharan Kenya Safari Experience

Over your nine days on our Sub Saharan Kenya Safari Experience exploring this wildlife mecca you will visit four of the best game-viewing regions in Kenya.

July-September

6 DAYS

Horseback Safari in Kenya

Travel through the wild for 3 days on this exciting horseback safari in Kenya, exploring Samburu in a nomadic camping style

All Year Round

11 DAYS

Luxury Egypt Experience

Discover ancient wonders, endless desert landscapes, the winding Nile River and glittering Red Sea on this 11 day Luxury Egypt Experience.

All Year Round

17 DAYS

Luxury Mauritius & South Africa Experience

Experience an exclusive South African safari followed by luxury Mauritius island living on this 17-day safari and beach experience.

Jan, Feb, Jun – Sept

13 DAYS

Gorilla Trekking, Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti

A luxury bucket list safari showcasing 4 iconic wildlife destinations in East Africa visiting Tanzania, Serengeti and Rwanda.

June-October

8 DAYS

Tanzania Northern Circuit Safari

Our Tanzania Northern Circuit Safari takes you through four of the top safari regions & countless thrilling experiences including the Great Migration.

All Year Round

11 DAYS

Luxury Safari in Zambia

Explore Zambia’s wild heart through game drives, walking safaris, cultural encounters, and Zambezi river adventures.

All Year Round

11 DAYS

Cape Town Safari & Whale Coast Adventure

Take the road less traveled and discover 3 unique landscapes on this safari which takes you from Cape Town to the Whale Coast and the Little Karoo.

May - October

10 DAYS

South Luangwa Walking Safari

Journey through 3 distinct areas of South Luangwa National Park on this walking safari in Zambia before exploring the adventure capital of Africa: Victoria Falls.

Year Round

11 DAYS

Luxury Seychelles Honeymoon and Couples Vacation

Experience barefoot luxury and island romance on an 11-day Seychelles honeymoon across Desroches and Félicité.

April-October

10 DAYS

Best of Botswana Safari

This Best of Botswana LuxVenture® takes you to new heights, revealing extraordinary experiences in the world’s most remote corners.

May-October

8 DAYS

Luxury Treehouse Safari to Botswana LuxVenture®

This luxury safari to Botswana takes you to 3 iconic wildlife hotspots and includes a night in a treehouse as well as a stay at one of the newest camps in the Okavango Delta.

All year round

9 DAYS

Beaches of Seychelles Vacation

Explore Seychelles’ most breathtaking shores on this 9‑day luxury escape across Mahé and Praslin’s iconic white‑sand beaches.

All Year Round

10 DAYS

Botswana & Victoria Falls Adventure

This Botswana & Victoria Falls Adventure experience offers an African sightseeing and safari in the heart of Southern Africa.

June-October

9 DAYS

The Great Wildebeest Migration Safari in Tanzania

This Great Migration Safari will take you to four scenic regions to witness millions of wildebeest cross the Serengeti into the Masai Mara National Reserve.

March-December

10 DAYS

Luxury Private Safari in Zambia

This Luxury Private Safari invites you to escape the crowds and discover a slice of privacy in Zambia’s untamed wilderness, just for you.

June-October

7 DAYS

African Wild Dog Safari

Our exclusive 7-day African wild dog safari in the Kenya is filled with adventure, thrilling wildlife sightings, and rich Kenyan culture.

All Year Round

13 DAYS

Amboseli, Lewa and Masai Mara Safari

Discover Kenya’s wild beauty across Amboseli, Lewa, and the Masai Mara – from elephant-dotted plains to thrilling big cat encounters.

All Year Round

17 DAYS

Southern Africa: Framed and Untamed

Discover Namibia, South Africa and Mozambique’s iconic backdrops on a 17-day photographic safari to Sossusvlei, Cape Town, Kruger and Benguerra Island.

Year Round

18 DAYS

Southern Africa Luxury Bush & Beach Escape

Discover the best of Southern Africa on this 17-night luxury journey – from Cape Town to the Winelands, Big Five safaris, and Mozambique’s beaches.

Year Round

10 DAYS

Natural East Africa Wonders Safari

Visit 3 regions on this luxury safari which combines the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, a scenic flight over Kilimanjaro, and the Great Migration in the Serengeti.

All Year Round

8 DAYS

Luxury Namibia Safari

This 8-day fly-in luxury Namibia safari invites you to marvel at the country’s vast, otherworldly beauty from the sky and beyond.

June - Sept

15 DAYS

Gorillas & Big Five Safari Adventure

Encounter gorillas, chimpanzees, and the Big Five on this 15-night luxury safari through Uganda and Kenya, combining primate trekking with the Great Migration.

All Year Round

13 DAYS

Elephant Safari in South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana

This 13-day Elephant Safari takes you through South Africa, Victoria Falls and Botswana to connect with Africa’s iconic gentle giants.

All Year Round

12 DAYS

Tanzania and Zanzibar Safari

This exclusive trip unites luxurious XO Private properties for the ultimate Tanzania and Zanzibar safari, seamlessly blending bush and beach.

March to June

10 DAYS

Zimbabwe Victoria Falls & Safari LuxVenture®

This Zimbabwe Victoria Falls itinerary combines a safari in Mana Pools and Hwange with one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World, the mighty Victoria Falls

Dec – Mar

7 DAYS

Wildebeest Calving Season Safari

Witness one of the seven wonders of the natural world as millions of wildebeest migrate through the Serengeti during calving season.

All Year Round

16 DAYS

Ultimate East Africa Safari

Soar above the plains on Tanzania on a hot air balloon, walk wild trails on foot, and encounter Rwanda’s mountain gorillas face-to-face.

All Year Round

12 DAYS

Stargazing Desert Safari in Namibia

This carefully crafted itinerary combines thrilling wildlife encounters and desert adventure with remote luxury lodges that are sure to maximize your celestial safari.

All Year Round

12 DAYS

Tanzania & Zanzibar Honeymoon Safari

A romantic Tanzania & Zanzibar Honeymoon Safari getaway which perfectly balances an African Safari adventure with a barefoot luxury island experience.

Year Round

8 DAYS

African Wild Dog Safari in Zimbabwe

Designed for travelers with an interest in conservation, our wild dog safari puts you in the heart of the action, inviting you to leave a positive legacy in Africa.

Year Round

11 DAYS

Adventure and Exploration in the Seychelles

Disconnect and recharge on this 10-night luxury Seychelles escape, blending island adventure, yoga, ocean experiences, and barefoot wellness.

June - Sept

8 DAYS

Rivers & Rainforests: A Ugandan Safari

Discover Uganda’s Nile River and trek gorillas in Bwindi on this 7-night luxury safari, with boat safaris, waterfalls, and rainforest encounters.

Year Round

15 DAYS

The Ultimate Southern Africa Bush & Beach

Experience the wild and the serene on a luxury bush and beach safari through Southern Africa, crafted for romance, wellness, and adventure.

June – October

18 DAYS

Tanzania and Seychelles Luxury Safari

Experience the wild and the tranquil on this 17-night luxury safari through Tanzania and Seychelles, where the Great Migration meets island serenity.

All Year Round

6 DAYS

Luxury Morocco Vacation

Trek through the Ourika Valley and fly over the palm groves of Marrakech in a hot air balloon on this luxury Morocco adventure.

All Year Round

10 DAYS

The Active Africa Circuit – A Luxury Sport Safari

All Year Round

8 DAYS

Luxury Kenya Safari

The birthplace of wilderness safaris, Kenya is renowned for its abundant wildlife, colorful culture, and pristine natural beauty.

All Year Round

9 DAYS

‘Out of Africa’ Safari in Kenya

Inspired by the 1985 Hollywood film ‘Out of Africa’, this itinerary transports guests through Kenya’s wilderness to relive the movie’s famous scenes.

All year round

9 DAYS

9-day Victoria Falls to Botswana Luxury Safari

Embark on a luxury safari from Victoria Falls to Botswana and experience the ultimate combination of breathtaking scenery and epic wildlife.

June - Sept

11 DAYS

Uganda Done Right

Track gorillas, chimpanzees, and big game on this 10-night luxury Uganda safari, staying in refined lodges across Bwindi, Kyambura, and Kyaninga.