Djibouti National Reserves & Parks

Although Djibouti is located in the dry Horn of Africa, there are a few National parks and protected areas to visit on any safari tour to Djibouti. There are more than 820 species of plants including olive trees and boxwood, 40 reptiles, 455 species of fish, 360 different birds and more than 60 species of mammals.

Birding in Djibouti

There are more than 360 birds in Djibouti with some of them listed as critically endangered species and others residents in the different eco-regions of Djibouti such as the Day forest national park, Djibouti National park and on the forested hill slopes of Goda and Marbla mountains

The Djibouti Francolin is the only endemic species in the country found in Goda Mountains and in Day forest National Park. Other birds in Djibouti include raptors: steppe Buzzards and steppe eagles, endangered species like Egyptian vulture, Saker Falcon, Atlantic Petrel, Pallid Harrier, red footed Falcon, Lesser flamingo, sooty falcon, European roller, Euroasian curlew and corn cake among others.

Day forest National Park

Day Forest National Park is located along the Al Sabieh road to Djibouti city in northern part of the country. It is one of the lush region of a largely dry country covering an estimated 3.5sq km on a high altitude zone with scenic rocks like Mt Goda (1783m) .

Some of the attractions in this park include several species of exotic plants like Euphrobia, ficus tress and ziziphus. They are the relics of an ancient era, when the Sahara was covered in flowers and gramineaes. The Bankoualé waterfall, half way between Randa and the Day Forest, is home to a beautiful palm tree forest. Some of the endemic birds in Day Forest National Park include the Djibouti francolin while mammals include grevy’s zebra, baboon, hunter’s antelope, gazelle, warthog and many others.

Other national parks and reserves in Djibouti include Djibouti National park and Yoboki National Park.

Ivory Coast National Parks

Although rarely visited, there are several National parks and reserves. Some of the most popular reserves in Banco National Park, Comoe NationalPark, Tai National Park  and Marahoue National park. Other national parks in Ivory Coast include;

Banco National Park

Banco National park is located in the district of Attecoube in the capital Abidjan along the highway to northern Cite d’ivorie.  The park covers more than 30sq km of a primary rainforest, savannah grasslands and rare woodland species like Mahogany and avodires among others.

Assangny National Park

Assangny National Park is found along the coast of Cote d’ivoire near the city of Grand Lahoue. This coastal park occupies an estimated 19400 square kilometers and was gazetted as national park in January 1981

Mont Peko National Park

This national park is found in western part of Ivory Coast and is particularly identified with several species of primates. The park is home to a large population of chimpanzees living in the forest on the banks of river Sassandra. More than 400 chimps were recorded in the park

Mont Sangbe National Park

This park is one of the oldest in western Arica gazetted as a national park in 1975. It is located on the slopes of Mont du Toura stretching to the western end of Sassandra river.  A total of 950 square klilometres is occupied by this Cote d’ivoire national park

There are an estimated 260 chimpanzees living in the forest habitat along the banks of Sassandra. The forest is a good place to find the best of Ivory Coast’s birds such as kingfisher, flycatcher and others.  the best time to visit the park of the different birds is during  the rainy season of July to August.

Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve

This nature reserve is often referred to as one of Cote d’ivoire’s national parks and reserves. The UNESCO World Heritage site stretches to the borders of Guinea and covers 69 square kilometers . Some of the animals in the park include duikers, civets, leopard, chimpanzees, dwarf African otter shrew and others.

 Mount Sangb National Park: Found in the north of Man in the west of Sassandra River, 9.500 acres with 14 summits more than 1 000m above the sea. It’s especially dense and covered by wonderful fauna,.

Eotis Islands National park: This Côte d’Ivoire park ocupies 500 acres right in the Abi steppe in the west of Assinie, an area of great historical and archaeological value.

Malawi Wildlife Safaris

The natural features in Malawi make up the largest tourist destinations in the country and some of them are the numerous National parks and game reserves that act as habitats for the many wild life that is found in the country.  For all the nature lovers, Malawi has got you covered and it has now become the best destination for the big five safaris. There are specifically three categories of places that have been reserved for the protection of animals and these include wild life sanctuaries, National parks and game reserves. There are tour guides who are available and these can take you to any Park that you want to visit while in Malawi.

The Kasungu National park

Kasungu National park is the second largest National Park in Malawi and is located right next to the Zambian border. The best time to visit the Kasungu National Park is during the dry season because during the rainy season, some routes leading the park are cut off by floods including the trek routes that are found within the Park. Some of the wildlife that is found in the Kasungu National Park includes the Roan antelope, zebras, Impalas, the Kudu, hyenas, buffalos, elephants and lions.

Kasungu National Park has about 350 bird species that are habitate within the park and these include the purple crested Turaco, the African fish skimmer, the lesser Jacana and many more others. As you head down to the Kasungu National Park be aware of the Tsetse flies that normally infect the animals but besides all that, it still is the perfect place for one to see all the animals that Malawi has to offer.

The Majete wild life Reserve

The Majete wild life Reserve is located in the Shire Valley in the country and it is a top place for tourists who want see the big five and this is due to the fact that the government keeps on reintroducing animals in the Reserve. The animals had been depleted before due to the constant poaching by the locals and other poachers but at the moment you can walk around the park and get to see animals like the leopards, elephants, baboons, monkeys, lions, hippos, antelopes, bush bucks and many more others.

Majete wild life reserve has over 300 bird species habituating in the park and some of the bird species that can be seen when one goes to the Majete Reserve are the African fish eagle, the white backed vulture, the bee-eater, the racket tailed roller, the bat hawk and many more other unique bird species.

The Kapichira Falls are another attraction that you will find in the Majete wildlife Reserve and it acts as a resting point for all those that come to the Park for trekking. It is also a good backdrop for the photographs especially in the way the rocks were formed. And when it comes to accommodation, there are several campsites near the Reserve that you can use.

The Vwaza Marsh Game Reserve

The Vwaza Marsh Game Reserve is not commonly visited by tourists but it has a lot to offer when it comes to animals and some of those that you get to see include elephants, buffalos, hippos, repties and you not only get to see the animals but also get to hike through the Rreserve and explore the Lake Kazuni where you can relax from after a long day. It is a quiet place when it comes to it and for all those that really want to relax, this is the best tplace to be  due to its location. There are also accommodation facilities where you can rest after a long day in the Reserve.

Nyika National Park

The Nyika National Park is located in the Northern part of the country in the famous Nyika plateau. Nyika park is not only the oldest park in Malawi but it is also the largest park in Malawi which means that it has more to offer when it comes to wild. The landscape that is found both within and around the Park makes it easy for tourists to enjoy their game drives as they explore the park.

Some of the wild life that habitate in the Nyika National Park include the Buffalos, Giraffes, elephants, hippos, zebras, the African pied wagtail, Secretary bird, wattled crane, long crested eagle, hyenas, owls, the African fish skimmer and many more others. The other activities that you can carry out while in Nyika are hiking through the Nyika plateau, trek through the Park as you admire all it has to offer and you also get to visit the locals who live around the Park.

The best time to visit the Nyika National Park is during the dry season because then the roads will be easily accessible but if you try to access it during the rainy season then you will need  4by4 car so that you do not get stuck along the way. You will be require to pay entrance fee so that you are able to access the park with ease and you will need a tour guide who will take you through the park.

Lilondwe National Park

Found in a remote area in the southern part of Malawi, the Lilondwe National Park is the best place to go for tourists o go and relax when they decide to go for a safari to Malawi. There are several actvities that can be carried out when you visit the National park that is trekking, animal viewing, birding and learning about the vegetation types that can be found in the Park.

Some of the bird species that are found in the Lilondwe National Park include the Bohm bee-eater, the African open bill, the pied kingfisher, the black heron, the long toed lapwing, antelopes, buffalos, elephants, hippos, kudu, the Impala, baboons, water bucks and antelopes. All these can be seen when you drive through the Park and this can be done best during the dry season and if you want to do birding, it is best done during the wet season and especially in the morning. You will aslo need a tour guide to take you around the Park and explain all that you will be seeing and do not forget to carry drining water.

It is extremely hard to gain access to the Park and sme accommodation facilities that are found near the park due to the constant flooding but some tourists brave the rain and ened up using boats to get to the accommodaton facilities and the Park.

Lake Malawi National Park

The Lake Malawi National Park was declared a UNESCO heritage site and minus the wild life that habitates in the Park, this has made it the best destination for all tourists. The Lake Malawi National Park is located at the shores of the Lake Malawi where tourists get to do a lot of things like boat riding, snorkeling, fishing, visiting the bay and enjoy the Islands that surround the Lake.

The various wild life that can be seen in the National Park include the African king fisher, the Egret, the African fish eagles, the hornbill, the Kestrel, the Nightjars, the bee-eater, lions, elephants, baboons, monkeys and many more others.

Nkhotakota Game Reserve

When we talk about game reserves, the Nkhotakota Game reserve is the largest in Malawi and it is located in the central part of the country. The reserve might not be having a lot of wild life but efforts are being made so that some of the animals that had been poached are transported to this reserve so that they are preserved.

The Nkhotakota Reserve covers about 1900 square meters and it is a home to elephants, lions, buffalos, zebras, waterbucks, sable and bushbucks. The reserve is also good for hikes especially for those who love adrenaline high activities due to the hilly nature of the landscape where the Reserve is located. There are also some accommodation facilities that can be found near the Reserve and there are tour guides who are willing to take you through the Reserve so that you enjoy your stay in Ethiopia.

Lengwe National Park

The Lengwe National Park is located in the Southern Part of Malawi and it is one of the few places where you get to see the many herds of animals all in one place. As you travel to the Park, you will be able to see the surrounding beautiful scenery that is filled with sugarcanes and other vegetation types and the animals that you will see when you are there include hyenas, different bird species, leopards, baboons, monkeys, reptiles and many more interesting wild life. When it comes to accommodation, there is only one place for all to stay and it is the Nyala safari lodge which means you need to book early especially during the peak season but you can also enjoy the outside camping which will give you a feel of the wild in Malawi.

Game viewing

Liwonde National Park in southern Malawi is one of the popular national parks offering unbeatable game viewing. You will find the black rhinos; a species almost wiped out in Africa’s parks and reserves, to the open grasslands and near shire river banks are the African elephants and crocodiles that measure up to 6m in length.

Nyika National Park is situated on the abundant plateau called Nyika that stretches from the borders of Tanzania into northern Malawi. The lush grasslands and woodland forests cover the rolling hills are a good habitat for warthog, reedbuck, monkeys, zebras, leopards and reedbuck among others. The roan and sable antelopes are also found in Nyika park as well. Vwasa National park is located in the northern Nyika plateau region although it is under private administration

Majete Wildlife Reserve is focused on conservation efforts in the lower Shire Valley region together with Lengwe Park and Mwabyi Wildlife reserve. Common sights in the Shire Valley parks and reserves are the Crocdiles, hippos, rhinos and elephants

Kasungu National Park and Nkhotakota wildlife reserve are found in central Malawi particularly significant for the lion and other big cats. Other animals found in Malawi include Hyenas, genet, jackals,serval, cheetahs and civet among other predators.

The lakes and rivers in Malawi are recorded with 700 different species of fish. In Lake Malawi are cichlids, lake salmon and brightly colored Mbuna, sungwa, Mlamba, Matemba, Kampango, Usipa, Mcheni and tiger fish are species from Shire river. Other species in Malawi include Cat fish and cyprinid species

Morocco National Parks and Reserves

Talking about Morocco, every body thinks of vast desert sand dunes and the sun all year long. Morocco National parks will surprise you with some interesting species of wild animals, birds and plants. Mother Nature has blessed Morocco with magnificence and beautiful mountains from the High Atlas Mountains to Casablanca on the coast!

 Toubkal National Park is the most famous park in Morocco located near Marrakech. It is a great hiking and trekking destination in Morocco stretching on the Jbel Toubal Mountain to the foot hills of the High Atlas Mountains. The park boasts a wide range of diversity in flora, wild animals and birds.

The villages near the parka re traditionally attached to the mountain and the park. it is a good place to discover traditional morocco culture and people

The Arganeraie Biosphere Reserve is an important ecological system in south west Morocco that has been designated as a UNESCO World heritage Site. The Argan tree is the main tree species in the area and also in the nearby Souss Massa National Park. This tree species is endemic to Morocco-particularly endemic to the desert conditions and used to drain oil for cosmetic, medicine and wood for furniture among other uses. The tree makes a natural buffer for the Sahara desert extension into other parts of Morocco

Sous Masa National Park is located near the Atlantic Ocean cost on Morocco. Much of the park is sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, Arganian forests and wildlife. The park is home to the Northern bad ibis colony and other birds such as marbled ducks, Audouin’s Gull, thick billed lark and others. Some of the animals in the park include Algerian Hedgehog, Jackals, reptiles, weasels and Red Fox among others

Mediterranean Intercontinental Biosphere Reserve of Morocco and Spain is one of the preserved bio-spheres stretching from one continent to another and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was established in 2006 and the two countries join efforts to protect the area against human exploitation, disaster and marine life. The bio-sphere in Morocco covers Talassemtane National Park, Jbel Bouhachem, Lagune de Smir, Jbel Moussa and Koudiet Taifour.

 Tazekka National Park lies lost in the Middle Atlas Mountain. It is highly conserved to protect the endemic species of oak, cedar and the peak at Jbel Tazekka. The park is a complex of dramatic features such as rocky cliffs, caves, canyons and the mountain. Some of the wildlife in this Moroccan park includes red fox, reptiles, genets, Barbary boars and several species of endemic birds. In December the peaks is covered in snow and the summer fills the crater with melted glaciers and clear waters!

Oasis Du Sud Marocain Biosphere Reserve is a conservation project aimed at creating a buffer zone for the desert area and preserving the oases in the Sahara. Since many people have their livelihood attached to the different oases, it is important that research and education is given to the communities on how to preserve the oases for agricultures and other needs.

El Hoceima National Park located on the Mediterranean Sea coast in the town of Al Hoceima in northern Morocco. Together with the bay, the area boasts unique marine habitat and a colony of osprey-one of the few surviving colonies on the sea.

Oued Massa Nature Reserve can be described as the best place to go birding in Morocco. The park is located near the town of Agadir and its main features is the lagoon and fringing red beds that attract birds in the winter (Feburuary to April and September to November) such as flamingos, osprey, night squacco, purple heron,crane,avocet and endangered bald ibis among others.

Ifrane National Park is found in the Moyen (middle) Atlas Mountains and is home to the largest forest of cedar trees in Morocco. The forest is thus a habitat for Barbary ape an endangered species living in the Mediterranean

Merdja Zerga Biological Reserve includes the tidal lagoon near the Moullay Bousselham on the coast. The lagoon attracts several birds including ducks, waders, African Marsh owl and other Paleartic birds that visit during the European winter

Talassemtane National Park is another excellent birding destination.  The park is a stretch of Moroccan fir forests that provide home to more than 40 different species of birds such as black kite, ring necked duck, booted eagle, grey wag tail, Atlas Pied Flycatcher and the European Serin among others

Tunisia National Parks and Nature Reserves

Tunisia has a total of 8 national parks featuring some of the rarest plant species and animals that are almost not seen anywhere else in the world. There are some located in the desert and other near water logged region in central Tunisia.

Although there are not many animals to watch, Tunisia’s national parks are rich in a variety of migratory birds, endemic to the northern part of Africa. You can actually have a Tunisia safari tour of all Tunisia National and nature parks in a single day tour

Lake Ichkeul National Nature Park

Nature park of Lake Ichkeul is the most famous park in Tunisia. As a world heritage site since 1980, the park is home to nearly 200 species of birds-particularly, geese, storks, flamingos and ducks among other that visit the lake to feed and nest. The nature park eco-system comprises of Lake Ichkeul, swamp, seasonal rivers and a mountain.

Chaambi  National Park

Chambi park was gazetted as a biosphere nature park under UNESCO since 1977. It is found on the border with Algeria and stretches a total of 6,700 hectares in Jebel Chambi region. The park has more than 260 different species of plants, 24 species of mammals such as Barbary sheep, deer, gazelle and birds like Bonelli eagles, European hawk, Egyptian vulture and the patridge among others

Bou Hedma National Park

This park is located in the southern region of Tunisia and is one of the largest parks in Tunisia. It covers an area of 16 400ha with many plants and animals. Some of the park’s wildlife includes dorcas gazelles, acacia totillis, ostrich, addax antelope and Barbary sheep

Boukornine National Nature Park

Also found in Northern Tunisia, Boukornine Nature Park occupies some 1,900 ha in the outskirts of Hammam Lif town. Some of the wildlife in the park includes wild cats, jackal, wild boar, porcupine, raptors, reptiles like chameleons, ocellated lizards, snakes, tortoise and many others

El Feija National Park

Located about 200km west of Tunis the capital, El Feija Park was designated as a preserve for the Barbary deer. The 417 hac park is home to a variety of mammals such as jackal, weasel, fox, wild boars, hedgehog, wild cats, porcupine,hare , bat, mongoose and many other small mammals. More than 70 different species of birds are found in the park and these include levaillant pic, cuckoo, wood pigeon, squire, owl, raven, hawk, booted eagle, warbele, canary and the blackbird to mention a few

Jbil and the Oasia of Douz

This nature park introduces you to the lush part of the Sahara of Tunisia. Jbil Park is an important bird conservation region in Tunisia that was gazzetted as a park in 1994. Some of the animals in this park include gazelles, fennecs, reptiles and birds too.

Mauritius Wildlife Tours

Mauritius is easily the most desired holiday destination within the world. Mauritius is actually a group  of islands situated within the Indian Ocean numbering to nearly 100 islets.The majority of the travel agents  and tour operators in Mauritius provide all necessary particulars exactly what the tourist and travelers are searching for regarding Hotels of Mauritius, holiday and tours. Additionally they offer lots of discount and special deals in Holidays in Mauritius packages. With many tourist attractions to view in Mauritius you have get the best planner-travel agent to make your holiday adventure worth. Here is a guide to some of the best places to visit in Mauritius particularly for the nature lovers.

Black River Gorges National Park
This nature reserve covers 6574 hectares and it is the greatest nature reserve in Mauritius considerably taking up 3.5% from the island’s terrain. The adventurous Mauritisu Holiday tourist is going to be attracted to the Piton de la Petite Rivière Noire,  the highest mountain in Mauritius skyline standing at 828m above sea level. You will find about 50km of trails which lead with the jungle-like nature with rivers and waterfalls. The climb to the mountain ranges peak normally takes up to 2 hours, of course if you are determined. You will find trails for easy walkways and for tiring trekking tours with height variations as high as 400m. You will however be rewarded with sights of the Alexandra Falls, an impressive waterfall within the park. On your trail are rare sights of monkeys, insects, butterflies and wild birds, an ultimate destiantion for all nature lovers.

Le Val Nature Park
The Le Val Nature Park is really a popular destination among both local and international tourists on weekend holidays. You’ll find a number of families and peoples enjoying boating trips on the narrow streams or on the lake. You can also do some fishing for your dinner at home that same evening or go horse riding with your kids in the park. Other interesting Mauritius attractions here include giant tortoises, deers and colourful wild birds among others. It is the ideal destination for Mauritius family vacations.

La Vanille Crocodile Park and Nature Reserve
This reserve is located close to the river Rivier des Anguilles creating a natural Eden like atmosphere that many Mauritius tourists have appreciated over the years. The vast land of a former Vanilla farm has been converted into a Crocodile Farm with habituated crocodile imported from Madagascar. Get an opportunity to feed the hungry predators when you visit. Other animals in the park include chameleons, snakes, giant tortoises, boars and apes. The park restaurant serves crocodile meat for your dinners.

Casela Nature & Leisure Park
The Casela Bird Park is popular for the pink pigeons a critically endangered species for many years. The bird park covers an area of nearly 20 acres, a home for more than 120 other bird species. Other sights in the bird park are  tigers, monkeys, butterflies, insects and many others.  Quad biking and nature walks lead you to the narrow stream from the mountains where many of the park’s birds are found.

Botanic Garden of Pamplemousses
The Botanic Garden of Pamplemousses is among important and most visited tourist attractions in Mauritius. The garden has its own origin around 1736, once the French governor Mahé de Labourdonnais settled here. Around 1988 the botanical garden was handed the title Seewosagur Ramgoolam Botanic Garden Pamplemousses in memory from the “Father of Independence”, the very first Mauritian prime minister. His tomb is also called within the park.

The park measures nearly 37 hectare and around 600 plant species are a beautiful sight in the park. The well tended palm tree walk ways lead to the fishponds, a bawn with giant tortoises along with a deer park. The favourite place from the park is the lake with giant water lilies whose leaves are meant to have the ability to carry the load of the infant. Another interesting sight in the park may be the talipot palmtree that blossom at rare intervals.

Tanzania National Parks

Tanzania has around 14 national parks and more than 10 game reserves occupying more than 45% of the land in Tanzania. Tanzania is the largest country on East African safari and has more vast game parks and than are significantly the largest in east Africa. Besides the large game park area, each of Tanzania national parks is gifted with several herds of wild animals, Big five being the commonest in the Tanzania game parks.

Arusha National Park is a small beautiful Tanzania safari Game park just 29km form Arusha town. The park marks the start to Tanzania wildlife safaris introducing you to most of Tanzania’s wildlife before you proceed on to other Tanzania game parks like Serengeti and Lake Manyara in the neighborhood.

The Serengeti National Park hosts the annual wildebeest migration and is ranked as Tanzania’s most famous national park. It receives more than 50,000 tourists each year, most of them hoping to find the migrant wildebeest herds and others expecting to find large prides of the Serengeti lions that feature in many wildlife documentaries across the world. Game drives are a popular way to experience the vast plains of Serengeti while luxury hot air Serengeti balloon safari are another way to view much of its abundant areas. There are several luxury safari lodges in Serengeti, tented camps and bush camps just in case you want a night in the wild.

The Ngorongoro Crater Game Park is one of the most densely crowded wildlife areas in the world and is home to an estimated 30,000 animals living in an un flooded crater 2566m above sea level. The crater is also a good birding site hosting several flocks of pink flamingoes to Lake Magadi and many other water birds.

The Lake Manyara National Park is from the western escarpment, beyond Arusha town and is famous for its tree climbing lions and water birds that visit the lake-Manyara that occupies a third of the park’s area.  June to September and later in January- February is the long dry season that makes the best time to tour Lake Manyara National park, particularly for game viewing while the wet season of October to December is good for birding safaris in the park

Tarangire National Park is another outstanding Tanzania National park named after Tarangire River that crosses and drains its waters through the park’s savannah and woodlands. The outstanding herds of elephants that roam Tarangire Park are its emblem for Tanzania Africa safari. In the dry season, the river is the sole place to find water in the park making a spectacular outpost for several of Tarangire wild animals.

Mount Kilimanjaro National park is found on the slopes of Africa’s tallest free standing mountain-Kilimanjaro. Most of the visitors to this area come with Kilimanjaro mountain climbing intentions other than visiting the park. The park is a charm that Mount Kilimanjaro climbers/hikers can not escape!

Sadaani National park form the Indian Ocean coast can not go without mention. It is part of Africa’s few game parks on the beach coast. This park is engraved in tropical rain forest, mangrove swamp and lush Wamu River delta.  The beach is a unique breeding ground for green turtles, Humpack whales (Nyangumi) and dolphins (pompoo) from the nearby ocean waters.

 

Other Tanzania National parks and reserves receive fewer visitors and are found in the remote south central part of Tanzania. They include Ruaha National park, Udzungwa Mountains, Mkomazi, Mahale Mountains National park , Gombe Stream National Park and Mikumi National park. From northern Tanzania, Rubondo Island National park from Lake Victoria is a charm that is toured by those that can venture last the cold breeze of the lake.

Game Reserves in Tanzania

Mention of Game reserves in Tanzania and Selous Game reserve will be top of the list. Selous in found in south east Tanzania and is actually the most visited Tanzania game reserve compared to others. Sangita game reserve is on the northern safari circuit near Grumeti River and is actually part of the migrant route of animals on the annual wildebeest migrations.

Other small game reserves are found in southern Tanzania include Maswa Game reserve neat Serengeti, Lukwika-Lumesule on the birder with Mozambique, Kigosi game reserve, Moduli mountains game reserve neat Arusha Park and many others. Many of these game reserve share birders with major Tanzania national parks and often facilitated free movement of wild animals in the same area.

National Parks in South Africa

South Africa is gifted as one of the most wildlife abundant countries in South African with more than 20 national parks managed by South African National PAKS (SANParks). More than 37,000sq km i.e. 3% of South African land is covered by wilderness protected areas that make National parks and game reserves.

The most visited South Africa national parks include Kruger Park and Table Mountain receiving more than 2,000 South African tourists every year. However you are not to be disappointed by any of the South African parks or game reserves you will visit on South African safari holidays. Each of the South Africa national parks has something special with wild animals especially the Big Five.

Addo Elephant National Park is South Africa’s largest game park gazetted in 1931. It is a very incredible game park set to conserve the rich bio-diversity in northern South Africa area of Karoo around Darlington Dam near Port Elizabeth to the rugged mountains of Zuurberg. It occupies around 180sq km of an elephant protected area. There are now more than 550 elephants, buffalos, rhinos, lion, spotted hyenas, leopard, zebras, antelopes, red hartebeests and jackals among other wild animals that make up the rich habitat.

Agulhas National park is actually one of the first sights of African wilderness set eyes ion by the early European explorers on Cape Agulhas. The coast is a sight of wrecked ships from the mysterious storms that rocked the coast and the different archaeological remains of early man. The park was gazetted to protect the coastal marine life that include African Black oysters, Damara tern and Cape Plantana besides other attractions left by the early explorers on the beach coast.

Augrabies Falls National Park is a great place on South African Safari. The park was called Aukoerebis by the Khoi-Khoi people that settled here which translates for…The Place of Great Noise. The Orange River creates a beautiful water fall that runs over a narrow gorge forming the scenic Augrabies Falls. The park has several interesting sights that include Moon rock, Swart Ramte hills and a range of wild game that are rock hyrax, springbok, black rhino, Klipspringer, flat lizards and several birds like African fish eagles and Verreaux Eagle.

A world Heritage site from a diverse botanical spectacle is Bontebok National Park.  The park is renowned for its Bontebok antelopes that numbered 30 by the time it was gazetted in 1931. There are also several unique plants species that grow in the park and not found anywhere else in the world. Although Bontebook is ranked the smallest national park in South Africa, you can enjoy distinct sights of cape zebras, hartebeest, rhebok as part of the park’s wild animals. Other interesting site in this park includes Montangu Hot springs and Breede river.

Camdeboo National Park lies in the scenic landscape of Karoo lying more than 700 -1800m above sea level on Sneeuberg hills. The park is only visited by visitors on 4X4 vehicles as martial eagles fly over the predominantly eroded rocks. The Valley of Deception is a major attraction within the park that was formed called Karoo Nature reserve. Nqweba Dam over more than 1,000ha of the park in the rainy season and is another tourist attraction within Camdeboo. Some of the wildlife in Cambedoo includes Cape mountain zebras, rodents, springbok, blesbok, wildebeest, steenbok, Cape buffalo, red hartebeest and gemsbok. The most common birds in the game viewing area are: Pale Chanting Goshawk, Rock Kestrel, Namaqua Dove and Speckled Mousebird.

Golden Gate Highlands National Park occupies around 116sq km on the hill slopes of Maluti Mountains in north eastern Free State province. Some of the game in this park includes wildebeest, eland, springbook, burchell’s zebra, oribi and blesbok while the birds include Lammergeyer’s vultures and bald ibis and many others. Other interesting sights in the park include Van Reenen grave, Brandwag buttress rock and hikes to its peaks where you have undeniably beautiful views of the Drakensburg, Generaalskop and Zuluhoek.

Garden Route National Park is another of the South Africa’s largest Game parks stretching to include Kysna lake, Tsitsikamma and Wilderness game reserves in the southern cape area. The park is predominantly made up of forested slopes, rugged coastal scenery and ranks as third in most visited South African National Parks. In Wilderness Nature reserve is home to the brightly colored Knysna lourie, and runs from Touw River delta to Swartvlei estuary where it joins with the Goukamma Nature Reserve.

Karoo National Park is home to the largest and richest eco-system in South Africa called the Great Karoo. The park only makes a small area of the entire Karoo landscape on the rolling plains of Nuweveld Mountains. The park is home to the cape mountain zebra, buffalo, black rhino, black eagle and many other animals. Much of the park’s wildlife was under great extinction threats but there are conservation drives to restore wildlife in this park.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a vast Southern Africa wilderness region that extends from Botswana Gemsbok National Park to the borders on Namibia and South Africa. The rolling red dunes, camel thorn trees, Black-Mane lion, leopards, gemsbok, springbok, eland and blue wildebeest among many other sights mark the park’s scenery.

Kruger National Park is the most famed South African National park on the border with Mozambique. As one of the oldest game parks in south Africa, Kruger park extends to include some private game reserves such as Sabi Sands, Timbavati and thornybush to create one vast wild habitat for animals like lions, zebras, giraffe, buffalo, elephants, plus 500 different birds among other interesting features.

Table Mountain National Park is another famous South African National park from the every western tip of Africa covering the scenic Table Mountains and across the Cape Point Reserve to the beaches of the Cape Peninsula. The park is a rich, diverse and unique fauna and flora, truly remarkable and, historical site for South Africa. The reserve is a beautiful coastal attraction inscribed in white sand beaches, beautiful aquatic plants and with very historical attractions of Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point that date back several years before the colonial era.

Mountain Zebra National Park was gazetted as a national park in 1937 to basically protect the endangered cape mountain zebras that are unique to South Africa. Other animals within the park include black rhino, grey rhebok, mountain reedbuck, gemsbok, red hartebeest, eland and the cheetah among others. Some of its habitat birds include Denham’s bustard and the blue crane.

Mapungubwe National Park is found on the border of South Africa with Botswana and Zimbabwe in the hills of Mapungubwe. The major attraction within this park is the confluence of the river Limpopo and Shashe that make a source of life within the park. Some of the animals living in this South African National park include elephants, giraffe, eland, gemsbok, lions, leopards, hyena, white rhino and birds like fishing owl, kori bustard and the tropical boubou among others.

Namaqua National Park is a splendor as you drive through the beautiful valleys of Namaqualand, the spring flowers and more than 3,000 different plants and wildlife. The park is home to porcupine, baboons, Namaqua Speckled Padloper, klipspringer, scorpions and many other smaller mammals.

Mokala National Park is the latest of South Africa national parks from Kimberley west of Cape Town. The rolling hills of Mokala Koppieveld and the vast open plains are what make up the park’s scenery. Most of the park’s plains are dotted with Camel Thorn trees from which the park derives is name Mokala (Setswana dialect). The wildlife in the park include black rhino, tsessebe, roan antelope, wildebeest and the white rhino among others

Marakele National Park is found in the valleys of Waterberg Mountains of eastern south Africa. The area is clad in grassy hills, rare yellow wood and cedar trees, ferns and several other palnts. Elephants, rhino, vultures, kudu, reedbuck, eland among other animals are part of the scenery at Marakele South African National park

Takwa Karoo National park is found in the Northern Cape border within the boundaries of Roggeveld Escarpment and mountains. The succulent Karoo Biome marks the area’s scenery besides the rich birdlife and sheer cliffs from the mountain.

Richtersveld Transfrontier Park is situated in the north on the bend of the Orange River as it flows in the rugged mountain deserts of the Nama land occupying around 160sq km. The park has a wide variety of plant life, some species occurring nowhere else, such as gnarled quiver trees, tall aloes and the quaint ‘halfmensboom’ (half person tree) keeping vigil over this inscrutable landscape. You will also find a remarkable range of small reptiles, birds and mammals like rock hyrax, Hartmann’s mountain zebras and Jackal Buzzards.

West Coast National Park is a secluded wilderness on Saldanha Bayand near Langebaan lagoon to the west. The park was gazetted as a south Africa national park in 1985to protect the endemic  bio-doversity if Geelbek, seeburg and Abrahamskraal birds. Other birds in the park include flamingos, waders, black harriers and many others. The summer in the park bring a boom of blossom of wild flowers that are inviting to nature lovers who are forced to explore the park by cycling, of on mountain bikes. The beach is a popular site for kayaking, kite boarding and jet skiing among other water adventure. The whale visit Saldanha bay around August to November in Tsaarsbak.

Serengeti Wildlife Safari

Serengeti National Park ranks as Tanzania’s number one wildlife safari destination thanks to its diverse habitat of vast open savannah grasslands, acacia thickets, forests, woodlands, rocky outcrops, and rivers that make a rich habitat fro several game, insects, birds and small mammals.

Even with the annual Serengeti Migrations of animals to the neighboring Masaai Mara in Kenya, the park still remains with several wild animals to view on game drives. Some of the game in Serengeti includes buffalos, zebras, giraffe, hippos, crocodiles, warthog, gazelles and antelopes like the bushbucks, dik dik, elands, elephants, reedbuck, waterbuck and impalas. Predators are also a regular sight with many spotted hyenas, leopards, cheetahs, African wild hunting dog, serval, jackals and prides of lions.

Serengeti Wildlife safari

There are several ways to experience Serengeti’s wildlife but the most prominent is safari game drives and the luxury Serengeti Hot Air Balloon safari. Other styles will include birding walks, guided walking safaris and helicopter flights.

Wildlife Safari routes in Serengeti

Serengeti is found on the northern Tanzania safari circuit that includes other parks like Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater Park.  Serengeti however is the most visited safari game park occupying more than 15,000sq km.  The vast safari game park is thus divided into a number of safari routes that are popular spots for game viewing.

There are savannah plains and rocky outcrops called Kopjes in the south, the Seronera river area from the south central part, northern corridor that links to Masai Mara game reserve in Kenya and the western corridor that stretches from Grumeti River to the shore of Lake Victoria. Covering all these safari routes on Serengeti Tanzania safaris is not an easy adventure-it normally takes 2-3 days safari to conclude all the safari routes.

The rolling grassland plains of Serengeti are seemingly endless but occasional outcrops and trees are part of the scenery in the southern part of the park. More than 3 million years ago, Ngorongoro volcanic mountain erupted created the renowned Ngorongoro crater and also spilling volcanic ash over the low lying plains on the foot hills. The molten lava soon dried to form hard coat that doesn’t allow deep rooted vegetation. The grass that grows on the Serengeti are short root but very rich in minerals. The short rains in October up to November usher in new grazing pastures for the calving season in January and February when lactating animals enjoy the nutrient grass.

Seronera River and Valley is a very game rich area in the southern part of the park. The river drains the dry savannah attracting several animals for the dry season as they search for drinking water. There are many Tanzania safari lodges and camp built near the river for excellent game views of animals like buffalos, hippos, predators and crocodiles live near the muddy riverbanks.

Game drives are a popular way of experiencing the wildlife in the area. Seronera river circuit and Kopjes circuit have been ranked as the best game viewing areas in Serengeti.

Lake Ndutu Basin has very good game viewing opportunities from December to May every year as animals congregate here before they begin the annual Serengeti migrations. Many wildebeests and gazelles calve from these rich grasslands before the great migration start. Predators like lions, hyenas and cheetahs are seen roaming around on the hunt for hesitant calves. Lake Ndutu is a seasonal lake surrounded by beautiful acacia woodlands that feed giraffes and birds are too abundant in this area.

Simba Kopjes are named after the lions ( Simba –in Maasai language), which frequently lie and bask on the rocks as they take sight of their potential prey.  Also in the area are baboons, different birds and giraffes among other Serengeti wild animals.

Western Corridor is a spectacular 50km wide strip west of River Seronera. The corridor runs along Grumeti River, through valleys, forests, swamps and stretches all the way to Lake Victoria some 8km from the park. Grumeti River is a popular game viewing spot in the park that attract several herds of animals in due course of the annual migration in May/June. Hungry predators like the lions and crocodiles are often part of the game seen along the river banks. This is the ultimate time to experience the Serengeti migrations before animals cross to the Mara in July.  Other animals that live in the woodlands that fringe Grumeti River include giraffes, eland, impalas, hartebeest, colobus monkeys and huge hippos. There is plenty of accommodation on the river bank such as Grumeti River camp.

Lobo Area from northern Serengeti is another scenic section of the park marked with rolling Lobo hills, rocky outcrops, acacia thickets and woodlands and doted grasslands. The annual migrations cross through Lobo hills before meeting the gush of Mara river further in the north. Lobo kopjes are excellent area for viewing animals on the migration. There are several lodges that offer accommodation for Serengeti tourists in the area with wide balconies from where visitor take sight of the migrant herds.

The Moru Kopjes in the far north are traditional game viewing area for big cats like lions, hyenas and leopards on the hunt for animals on the migration route. The area is also famous with Masai herdsmen because of its nutrient grass pastures. There are paintings on some of the rocks done several years ago by masaai herdsmen who were though to use the rock for shelter as they grazed their cattle herds.

Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari

This is surely a luxurious way to go on Serengeti wildlife safari. Departures are often early in the morning for the gratifying 6-hour flight that often ends with a sumptuous breakfast and a toast to the memorable safari experience. Take a good camera to record your journey as you glide silently over the vast plains, the same way it is done in Masai Mara Game Reserve. The pilot often lowers the balloon by reducing the air in balloon often reaching tree top level-there is no better time to take pictures as this!

bostwana wildlife safari

Botswana Wildlife Safari

Botswana’s vast landscape and the many national parks that are located within has made it a top destination for game viewing in Africa. Unlike other countries in Africa where the game parks are located on mostly unused land, Botswana has put aside almost 80% of its land to cater for the National parks and game reserves so that the wild life in the country is preserved and protected from poaching. Game viewing within the different National Parks in the country can be done either by driving through them or walking through the Parks with an experienced tour guide. When you get to Botswana for the game viewing experience, below are some of the few things that you should expect for the fun filled experience.

  • If you have never seen any wild animals up close this is your chance to see a wide range of wild species that habitate within the different National Parks within the country.
  • Game viewing in Botswana is all about experiencing the wild and it is an experience that you do not want to miss out on and there are open roof vehicles that are used to take you through the National Parks with a tour guide so dress appropriately and get ready to take on the Botswana wild.

Game viewing in the different tourist destinations in Botswana normally depends on the weather patterns that are experienced in the individual parks although in most cases the best time for game viewing in most National Parks and game reserves is during the dry season because many animals can be seen moving up and down in search of food and water due to the droughts and scarce water during this time. Although this might not be the case for every game viewing destination and that is why you should first consult and find out the best time for game viewing in the specific National park.

 

Game viewing in the Moremi Game reserve

Considered to be the largest game reserve on the African continent, the Moremi Game reserve is a good destination for all those that love game viewing. It was set up by the local community as a bid to save the almost extinct black rhino that had been poached down by the locals and it was named after the chief Moremi III. Game viewing within the Moremi can be done throughout the year that is the birding is done during the wet season which runs from the months of December to April and animals can easily be viewed during the dry season which runs from the months of May to November. The wildlife that is found within the Moremi include elephants the African Jackal, Impalas, cheetahs, leopards, lions, the red Lechwe, black rhinos, buffalos, hippos, giraffes, Goliath herons, slaty egret, the gray herons, white pelicans, the greater painted snipes, the lesser Jacana and marabou storks.

Game viewing in the Nxai National Park

The Nxai National Pan National Park is located in Eastern Botswana and it is a home to some of the largest salt pans in the country. The best time for game viewing in the Nxai pans is during the dry season which runs between the months of November to March because this is when the animals gather around the water holes. The wild life that will be seen when it gets to game viewing in Nxai include Kudus, elephants, spotted hyenas, cheetahs, gemsbok, the brown hyenas, Zebras, springbok, elephants, African Jackal, antelopes, the bat eared fox, lions, the Kori bustard, saddle billed stork, ostriches, pin tailed whydah and egrets.

Game viewing through the Chobe National park

The chobe National park was named after the Chobe River and is one of the most sought after National parks when it comes to game viewing. Game viewing through the chobe National Park is done all year round that is the dry season as many animals during this time flock around the Chobe River and the views that you will be rewarded with include antelopes, elephants, zebras, the long toed lapwing, the African fish eagle, the African fish skimmer, lions hippos, the winged nightjar, the African finfoot, zebras, warthogs and wild dogs.

Game viewing in the Central Kalahari Game reserve

The best time for game viewing in the central Kalahari game reserve is between the months of November and May which serves as the rainy season in the reserve. During your game drive through the reserve, you will be rewarded with sights of zebras, elephants, lions, buffalos, spotted hyenas, buffalos, bat eared fox, the red Lechwe, cape wild dogs, ostriches, red billed francolin, the blue wildebeest, the red billed spurfowl, leopards, cape fox and the honey badger.

Game viewing in the Okavango Delta

The Okavango delta is a home to quite a large number of animals that can be seen while you drive through. The dry season is always the best time for one to go for game viewing as many animals species will be seen roaming the delta in search of food and water although the birds frequent the delta during the wet season making it an all year round destination for tourists who visit Botswana for game viewing. The game in Okavango include the red billed hornbill, zebras, elephants, lions, bush pigs, cheetahs, bush pigs, Topi, buffalos, Lechwe, blue wildebeest, warthogs, crocodiles and both the brown and spotted hyenas.

Game viewing in the Savuti Nature reserve

The Savuti Nature reserve is located between the Chobe National park and the Okavango delta and is one of the hidden treasures of Botswana. It is a privately owned reserve and it is mostly open to only tourists who rest from the camps that are found in Savuti and only if they have pre-booked for the game drives. It is also best visited during the dry season and some of the best games that will make your stay enjoyable include secretary birds, Queleas, kudus, elephants, impalas, giraffes, wild dogs the Kori bustard the spotted genet, bush bay, pangolins, aardwolf and the spring hares.

 

bostwana wildlife safari

Game viewing in the Northern Tuli block

The Tuli block is located in the eastern part of Botswana and is famously known for the large number of bird species that can mostly be seen during the wet season. Some of the animals that can be seen in the Northern Tuli block include elephants, wildebeests, leopards, zebras, Kudu, Impalas, lions, giraffes, cheetahs, boulder chats, cormorants, steenbok, the African kingfisher, shrikes and hyenas.

Game viewing in the Mokolodi reserve

The Mokolodi reserve was set up so that the black rhinos that were being hunted down to extinction by poachers were saved. It is an NGO based reserve which was opened up in the year 1994 and the best time for one to visit the reserve between the months of May and October during the dry season and some of the treasures that you will see while in the Mokodoli include the antelopes, spring hares, impalas, gemsbok, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, elephants, reed bucks, waterbucks, leopards, impalas, kudus, porcupines and many more other species.

Game viewing in Linyanti game reserve

The Linyanti game reserve is located next to Savuti and is also one of the tourist destinations where you can go for game viewing in Botswana. It is an all year round place for all those that want to visit and some of the wild life species that can be viewed here include racket tailed roller, the wattled crane, red billed hornbill and red billed oxpecker, African fish skimmer, the African darter, squacco heron, crocodiles, the long toed lapwing, the African finfoot, hippos, lions, the white backed night heron, leopards, the pennant winged nightjar, kudus, elephants, zebras and antelopes.

Game viewing in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier National park

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park is shared between two countries that is Botswana and South Africa. Game viewing in this Park is also mostly done during the dry season because during this time there is limited water and pasture to feed the animals and some of the wild life that can be seen include lions, zebras, hyenas, crocodiles, elephants, Kudus, zebras, antelopes and very many bird species which include the golden tailed woodpecker, the glossy starling, pied barbet, southern grey headed sparrow and the swallow tailed bee-eater.

Game viewing in the Makgadikgadi National Park

Makgadikgadi National Park is located in the North eastern part of Botswana and it is a home to the largest salt pans in the world which are shared with the Nxai pans National Park. The park is mostly filled with different animals during the wet season because during this time the pans are flooded and animals surround the water holes in order to get some water so that especially during the dry season and some of the wild life that you can see when you visit the Makgadikgadi include the baboons, hyenas, lions, giraffes, warthogs, jackals, elephants, springboks, bushbucks, the hartebeest, bush pigs, meerkats, ostriches, the great white pelican, the pink lesser flamingo and the white browed coucal.

 

If you think you have exhausted African safaris without visiting Botswana on wildlife safari holidays, think twice! Botswana is once of the favored African wildlife safari destinations with exhaustive wildlife habitats stretching from lush dense forests to the vast desert plains of Kalahari. You will definitely want to return for another Botswana wildlife tour…surely why not? For a country as big and diverse as Botswana, you can enjoy so much;

Botswana Wildlife Game Parks

Okavango delta is the prime tourist attraction in Botswana. It occupies more than 5,000 sq miles of palm fringed rivers, swamps, lagoons, and is a spring of life for a variety of birds and animals. Chobe National Park shelters one of the largest concentrations of African elephants, buffalos, leopards, lions, sitatunga, zebras, giraffes and other animals in Serondella river area.

Moremi Game reserve, not far from Chobe provides refuge for migrant animal herds from Chobe. Selinda nad Kwando private reserve make the wildlife safaris more complete and fulfilling. Another option is Mokolodi Nature Reserve, which has a broader range of wildlife including giraffes, elephants, hippos and more, and you can even pet a cheetah here!

Kalahari Desert is not as plain as you may think… the open grasslands of Kalahari are home to some few black manned lions, meerkats, gemsbok, springbok, hyenas and so much more. The Makgadikagadi salt pans are an extension of the Kalahari with herds of game visited the salt pans after the long rains and birds such as flamingos and pelicans enjoy the algae growing on the pans during the flooding seasons.

Linyanti wildlife reserve are lush wetland region and swamp with habitats for water loving animals such the sitatunga, amphibians, more than 300 different birds, buffalos, crocodiles, lions and others gathering on the banks of Savuti channel after the long rains subdue.

When to visit

Wildlife safaris in Botswana are possible all through the year. The best time for Botswana safari holidays comes around June to November if you are looking forward to good game viewing.  It is the period of dry months, migrant herds congregate around water pools, predators too patrol the scene for a day’s kill, vultures and other raptors are part of the scenery.

Botswana safari lodges and Accommodation

On a Botswana wildlife safari, you don’t need to worry about where to stay, spend the night or have your evening meal. There are plenty of luxurious, standard and budget safaris and game lodges within the parks and near the park gates

Top luxury accommodation is ready and available on booking with Botswana safari ant tour operators. Some of the best game and safari lodges are Delta camp, Chobe game lodge, Thakaduu camp, Mashatu lodge and others from each game park you’ll visit.

Mali National Parks and Reserves

Boucle du Baoule National Park

This Mali National park is located near the town of Bamako in the western region of Mali.  The park is largely covered in West African savanna although the vegetation is divided into two bio-geographic regions of Sudan Guinea in the south and Sahelian zone for the north. Other parts of the park are combretum shrub, savannah woodlands and a dense rain forest on the banks of Baoule river.

The park occupies an area of 25, 330sq km established in 1982 and is an acknowledges UNESCO World Heritage Site since September 1999

Wildlife

Some of the animals in the park include Saheran gazelles, giant eland, sheep, goats and many other mammals.

The park is increasingly affected by human land pressure for agriculture, livestock keeping and human settelment. In 1981, the livestock population was estimated to 13,500 zebus and 59,500 sheep and goats.

Various ethnic groups live in the area: sedentary Kakolo, Sarkolés, Malinké and Bambara (farmers), the transhumant Peuhls and Maures and the Bozos (fishers). Depending on the season, between 78,300 and 150,000 people live in the biosphere reserve (1998). The land tends to be used for pastoralism in the north during the dry season and for agriculture throughout the area depending on the local rainfall conditions.

Other National parks in Mali include;

Bafing National Park- found in southern Mali and is famous for chimpanzee trekking adventures.

Wongo National Park

Kouroufing National Park

Namibia National Parks and Reserves

Namibia National Parks

Namibia’s unique landscape filled with a natural beauty that you can hardly find in any other country has enabled it to have some of the best National Parks on the African continent. Your safari to the country will not be considered as one if you do not take time and visit some of the best National Parks in Namibia where you get a chance to carry out some activities like trekking, birding, game drives and many more others. Namibia has a lot of National Parks but some of the best National Parks in the country include:

The Etosha National Park

Know to be the most visited tourist attraction site in Namibia, the Etosha National park is located in the South western part of the country with an impressive number of wild life that habitates within the park. The Park is filled with quite a large number of water holes which means that unlike in other parks where you have to drive around searching for the animals, in Etosha Park they will be found lazing around the water holes especially during the dry season. it has about 114 animal species and 340 bird species and if you ever get a chance to visit the Etosha National Park some of the wonders that you will see include elephants, lions cheetahs, kudus, leopards, elands, bat eared fox, black rhinos, impalas, giraffes, gemsbok, hyenas, zebras, the Kori bustard, the Monterio’s hornbill, the lesser pink flamingo, black necked grebe, vultures, the tawny eagle and many more exciting species. You can also take nature walks through the park and get to visit the oldest living group of people in Namibia known as the San Bushmen.

The Mangetti National Park

Located in the south western part of Namibia, Mangetti National Park is small as compared to its counterparts and it was initially opened up to cater for the endangered species that had been hunted down but at the moment you will find that there are a lot more animals species that habitate within the park making it a top spot for all those that love animal viewing. It is a home to a wide number of wildlife some of which include antelopes, the blue wildebeest, elephants, duiker, the African wild dog, African wild cat, caracal, the steenbok, leopards, the eland, hyenas and a large number of birds that are mostly seen during the rainy season and these also include the King fisher, the Meyer’s parrot, lapped faced vulture, the common bulbul, flycatchers, the African harrier hawk and the African blue. All these can be seen either when you take a game drive or a guided nature walk through the Park.

The Dorob National Park

The Dorob national park which is located along the Namibian coast is a home to a large number of wild life that is both animals and birds and it was opened up to protect the Namibian environment where it is located. Some of the wild life that can be seen in the Dorob National Park includes the springbok, African wild dogs, the brown fur seal, zebras, Oryx, the gray’s lark, the brown hyena and many more other species.

The Khaudum National Park

The peace and quiet that is experienced when one gets to Khaudum National park which is located in an isolated area in the North Eastern part of Namibia is immense in that you will want to go back there each time you go on a safari to Namibia. It is not commonly visited by tourists and that is why some refer to it as a jewel that still needs to be discovered by everyone. The animals can be seen moving freely around the park and since it is not fenced, you get to experience the real wild life of Namibia with animals like elephants, kudus, the roan antelope, Oryx, the African wild dogs, the side striped jackal, leopards, the blue wildebeest, giraffes, lions, hyenas, warthogs and all these can be seen during the dry season as they move around the park in search of food and water. It is a home of about 300 bird species which are best seen during the rainy season between the months of November and April and some of the species that you will get to see include Abdim’s stork, yellow billed stork, the African openbill, Bradfield’s hornbill, the southern ground hornbill, the pallid harrier, western banded snake eagle, Meyer’s parrot, lesser spotted eagle and the Dwarf bittern.

The Bwabwata National park

Bwabwata National Park is located at the border of Namibia with Angola and Botswana and as search there are several animals that cross from the two countries into the Park making it a good place for one to go game viewing. The Park is also filled with a human population of about 5000 people and when you add that to the ever increasing number of animals in the area, the Bwabwata national Park becomes a good place for any tourist who is within Namibia for a safari. The park is also filled with flood plains which normally get full during the wet summers subsequently bringing in a large flock of birds both local and migratory and if that is not enough for you, you can still go out and climb the mini sand dunes that are located within the Park.

Some of the wild life that you will see in Bwabwata National park include crocodiles, the African buffalos, zebras, wild dogs, the red Lechwe, elephants, the roan antelope, cheetahs, lions, leopards, hippos, sitatunga, white rhinos, the rarely seen African skimmer, the salty egret, rufous bellied heron, collared palm thrush, the African pygmy goose, the Dickinson’s kestrel, Allen’s gallinule and the swamp boubou.

The Waterberg plateau Park

The Waterberg plateau Park is located next to the Kalahari Desert and a top tourist destination in Namibia. It acts as a habitat for a large number of wild life and some of the animals that you will get to see while here on game drives and nature walks include hyenas, warthogs, cheetahs, leopards, the black rhinos, kudus, African grey hornbill, the crested Francolin, the cardinal wood pecker and the speckled pigeon.

The Mudumu national Park

The Mudumu National Park is located within the Kwando River plain and one of the best National Parks in the country. It is a home to many wild animals and about 430 recorded bird species and the good thing about this park is that each time you go there, you will find that there is always something new that you will see because they keep on introducing new species in the National Park. There are a lot of activities that are carried out within the Park and these include game watching, birding and nature walks. The Park was divided into different categories and these are the ones that determine the type of activities that you can carry out while in the Park. The animals that habitate here include the African elephants, impalas, zebras, sitatunga, cheetahs, giraffes, meerkats, leopards, the African buffalos and some of the bird species in the park include the African pygmy goose, coppery tailed coucal, the collared palm thrush, the rufous belied heron, the grey backed Cisticola, the brown fire finch and many more other species.

The Namib-Naukluft National Park

Located in the Namib Desert in Sossusvlei, this great National park was set up by the German colonialists in order to stop the advancing army of the British that wanted to overtake their colony. The Namib-Naukluft has a lot to offer to tourists from the numerous sand dunes that are found in close proximity to the Park that is the Dune 7, the big daddy sand dune and the Dune 45, the animals that are now used to the harsh conditions that are experienced within the Park and some of these include the giraffes, black baboons, Oryx, Kudus, duikers and Klipspringer. It is a very good destination for game viewing but the sand dunes will keep you busy and wanting to go back for more. Some of the most common tourist activities that can be done within the Namib-Naukluft National Park include quad biking, nature walks, hiking and balloon rides and all you need to do is to carry lots of water, hire a 4×4 car to maneuver the sand roads and a camera to capture all the beautiful moments.

The skeleton coastal National Park

The skeleton coastal National park located in Namibia got its name from the shipwrecks that can be seen on the banks of the Atlantic Ocean. It is made up of three National Parks that is the Namib-Naukluft, the sperrgebiet national Park and the Skeleton coast. The locals believe that the shipwrecks formerly belonged to pirates and they were washed up after experiencing bad weather. There are not so many wild life species to see in the Park but some of those that you can get to see include the Oryx, ostriches, giraffes, elephants, jackals, springbok, the brown hyenas, the black rhinos and other species. Although most visitors are attracted to the mess at the coast, there are so many activities that you can carry out while here are trekking along the coast, enjoying the good view of the Mountain in close vicinity and also get to explore the shipwrecks closely and all you need to know about this Park is that you will not be bored throughout your stay here but you need to be extremely ready for the harsh weather conditions in the area and therefore should pack some warm clothes with you.

The Nkasa Rupara National park

The Nkasa Rupara National Park located in the Caprivi Strip on the Island of Nkasa and Rupara and this is where the name of the park came from. The park has a lot to offer the only problem is that the roads that lead into the park are so terrible that one has to use a 4×4 car to get to and through the Park and not with ease but this does not mean that you will not get to enjoy yourself as some of the animals that you will get to see when you take a trip to the Nkasa Rupara Park include the hippos, elephants, hyenas, the red Lechwe, the roan antelopes, kudus, Impalas, sitatunga and many more other species. The Park is also a home to quite a number of birds and these include the Bradfield’s hornbill, the Luapula Cisticola, Dickinson’s kestrel, the red winged pranticole, the southern bee-eater, African Jacana and the rufous bellied heron.

The Tsau Khaeb National Park

This former diamond mine is one of the thriving National Parks in Namibia that you should follow in order for you to have a blast while on a safari in the country. It is located in the southern part of Namibia in the Namib Desert next to the South African border and it was isolated by the German colonialists in the year 1908 after the discovery of diamonds in the neighboring Lüderitz. The park is a home to meteor rocks and many archeological sites that you can visit on top of game viewing all the wild life that is found in the Park.

 Namibia is one of the most exciting adventure and holiday safari destinations in Southern Africa. Some of the Namibia National parks and reserves are found in the vast Kalahari desert which is home to more than 56 different species of endemic Namibia wildlife and more than 500 species of birds including endemics like Herero chat, Damara tern, Monteiro’s Hornbill and the rock runner…to mention a few.

Some thing unique about Namibia’s wildlife is the Namib desert habitat…it seem kind if hot and hostile but boasts some of the unique wildlife habitats and endemic species of both flora and fauna.

Nigeria National Parks

Nigeria is largely a landscape of tropical rainforests, mangrove swamps, a diverse system of rivers and small water streams that drain at the Gulf of Guinea. The thick forest canopy covers much of the south and the central parts of the country.

Other attractions on Nigeria safaris include the undulating hills, cascading waterfalls, lakes, water pools and people, the most fascinating attractions include the exotic flora and fauna that this country has protected in its 8 national parks and different game or nature reserves namely; Old Oyo National Park, Chad Basin National park, Yankari National park, Cross river National Park, Okumu National park, Gashuit-Gumti National park, Kainji National Park and Kakumu National Park.

List of Nigeria National Parks

Yankari National Park- is one of the best wildlife reserves and habitats in Nigeria. Yankari game reserve covers 2, 058sq km of dense rainforests and savannah woodlands. Some of the wildlife in this reserve includes hippos, bushbuck, buffalo, crocodiles, lion, elephants and more than 200 different species of birds. Game viewing in this park is best during the months of November to May. Other attractions in Yankari include the Wikki warm springs. There is accommodation near the springs, a lodge with tennis courts, fuel station, museum and restaurant.

Gashaka-Gumti National Park-covers an area of 6,000 sq km in the north eastern part of the country on the foot hills of Mount Chapal Wadd (2490m). This Nigeria National Park drained by different rivers and water streams such as river Benue, Taraba and Kam among others.

Animals found here range from buffalo, roan antelope, chimpanzee, colobus, monkey, hippos, hyena, giant forest hog, lion and leopard. The water catchment system attracts several birds from neighboring countries while 100 are resident in the forests of Gashaka Gumti National park.

Chad Basin National Park -is found in the northeastern part of Nigeria between Borno and Yobe States and covers an area of 2258sq km. The park covers 3 eco-regions of Chingurmi-Duguma, Bade Nguru Wetlands and Bulatura Oases. The park contains some rare desert wildlife like giraffe, ostrich, red fronted gazelle and many other species of mammals.

Cross River National Park– Created from two existing forest reserves of Bashi-Okwango and Oban Forest Reserves, this park is famous for its rain forest vegetation and it is a home to a herd of forest elephants, the white-faced monkey (found only in Nigeria), buffalo, leopards and lowland gorillas.This Nigeria wildlife park is located in the south eastern tip of the country in the cross river state.  The Cross River National park shares an eco-system and biodiversity with Korup National park in neighboring Cameroon.

Kamuku National Park-Kamuku Park located in Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State of Nigeria in the north-central part of Nigeria. It is the closest Nigeria National Park to Abuja, the capital of Abuja. Kamuku National Park was initially by gazette of 1936, a Native Authority Forest Reserve under the defunct Northern Nigeria Government. It boasts of a land area of about 1,120sq km of typical Savannah Woodland vegetation.

Kainji National Park-Kainji Lake, Nigeria’s first  National Park, is located in the north central part of the country. Kainji National Park was established in 1976 and is the oldest in Nigeria. It includes Kainji Lake (a reservoir) which was formed by the building of the Kainji Dam in 1968. Only the western sector of the national park (i.e. west of the lake) is currently open to visitors and the landscape here is mainly Sudan-Guinea Savanna. This park is in the west of Nigeria and would involve a long journey from either Lagos International Airport or Abuja International Airport.

Okomu National Park-This Nigeria national park is found in Ovia south west area in Edo state on the banks of Okumu river. The park is one of the smallest of the Nigeria’s national park covering an area of just 200sq km including the former Okumu forest reserve. The park was first gazetted as a forest reserve in 1935 and evolved into a protected national park later in 1940. Today the park is habitat for numerous endangered flora and fauna species.

National Parks and Reserves in South Sudan

Southern Sudan was one of the best kept wilderness zones of northern Africa until 1983’s civil war. The protected areas in present day south Sudan as a country are home to many endangered species and dry weather species of both flora and fauna. The population of wildlife in this area is regarded as second largest in the world with an important migratory route crossing through the park.

Boma National Park and Southern National Park are only a few of the wildlife zones in South Sudan.  The best wildlife zones in South Sudan include the River Nile floodplain, wetlands, high plateau regions, open savannah grasslands and escarpments.

Wildlife

Some of the notable species of mammals in South Sudan include white-eared kob and Nile lechwe, as well as elephants, giraffes, common eland, giant eland, oryx, lions, wild dogs, buffalo, and topi (locally called tiang).

Surveys in the preceding years revealed that Boma National Park, west of the Ethiopian border, as well as the Sudd wetland and Southern National Park near the border with Congo, provided habitat for large populations of kob and topis, buffalo, elephants, giraffes, hartebeests and lions.

South Sudan also has a number of forest reserves that create a lush habitat for forest hog, elephants, monkeys, river hog and bongo among other forest woodland species.

Other national parks and wildlife zones in South Sudan include Bandingilo National Park, Zeraf Wildlife reserve and the Nimule National Park.  Nimule Park is famous for its large herd of elephants, baboons, warthogs, waterbuck, bush buck, Hippos, Nile Crocodiles, Uganda Kob, Duiker, Leopard, vervet monkey, hyrax, common jackal, Oribi,  and abundant river bird life. The park straddles the Nile River and is right on the border with Uganda.

Travel tips

The best time to travel to South Sudan for game viewing is during the months of October to May occasionally interrupted by storms and heavy rains. April to May is great for game viewing as animals are found near the water pool, holes and near the river banks. The rainy season covers the rest of the months. The roads to parks and reserves such as Boma National Park and Nimule National park are flooded during the heavy rains of June and July.

Travel to the parks is recommended for 4X4 vehicles

Safari Accommodation

Some of the parks in South Sudan have accommodation in temporary tented camps. Such accommodation can be prepared before arrival at the park or reserve. Some parks have designated camping areas with showers, self catering kitchens, well furnished dining areas and also offer adventure tours

Challenges

Due to increase exploitation of land in South Sudan, wildlife and protected area are under great threat of destruction. Oil exploration is on the rise in southern Sudan region of the White Nile yet more and more people are looking at occupying the regions near the banks of the river.

Land near the river is also demanded for grazing, private hunting grounds, refugee settlement and agriculture to mention a few needs. Road construction and water diversion projects are under way and thus inevitably eat away sections of the protected areas

Seychelles National Parks

The island of Seychelles is one of the most fascinating places in Africa. Wide range of natural attractions stretching from the pristine sandy beaches to the mountains, hills and valleys covered in lush forest canopy.

In exploring the National Parks there are many wonders to discover, ranging from the crystal–clear waters of marine parks to the luscious green flora that carpets the tropical forests. The Parks have endemic species such as the renowned coco-de-Mer; indigenous species like coconut palm trees, including a variety of other exotic species.

Bird watching

Being so isolated from the rest of the world, many of the birds here are endemic and cannot be found anywhere else. The Seychelles bulbul, the black parrot and the fruit pigeon—three of the world’s rarest birds—are spotted regularly. There are bird sanctuaries located on four of the islands: Aride, Frégate, Cousin and the cleverly-named Bird Island. this hill road, a signboard indicates the entrance to the site. SPTC bus no. 14 (Victoria-Sans Souci

Wildlife

There are also four marine national parks loaded with hundreds of species of fish and coral. All national parks are located by the beach and on small islands stretching to form section of marine parks. Theya re great places for adventures like snorkelling, horse riding, nature walks, hiking and some have well maintained trails for quad biking, mountain biking and game drives.

The best islands to visit for Seychelles game and birds include Praslin, Desroches, Mahe and La Digue Island among many others

Saint Anne National Park

This Seychelles National Park established back in 1973, was the first in all of the Indian Ocean; its crystal clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. The park occupies nearly 6 small islands whose coral reefs and waters are full of colorful fishes and mammals.  The park overlooks Victoria which is the capital of Seychelles on Praslin island.  Also on Praslin island is Vallee de Mai-a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This tropical forest is the best place to check out the coco de mer, which is the famous palm that yields the world’s biggest fruit-shaped like a female pelvis.

Aldabra’s Giant Tortoise park

The island of Aldabra  boasts the Giant Tortoise and Crocodile Park. The giant tortoises are an endemic species of mammals on Seychelles island. More than 150,000 of them are recorded at the park

Curieuse Marine National Park

Curieuse Marine National Park is a popular visit from Praslin as well as the turquoise waters and red reefs of Ilê Coco Marine National Park. Some of the world’s best shallow-water scuba diving can also be found here, particularly at Baie Ternay, where shipwrecks and carpet anemone dominate. Some of the marine animals in the park include dolphins, porpoise, shark and barracuda can be found in deeper waters, primarily between islands.

Morre Seychellois National Park

On the largest island of Mahé lies the impressive mountain range that is home to this national park. The peak is the highest in the country, offering exquisite views of the sea beyond. Enjoy a day hike into the lush forest, with breaks along the way to appreciate the visually-vivacious vistas.

National Botanical Gardens

The fifteen acres of lush vegetation of these gardens are a relaxing getaway for those holed up in the capital city of Victoria. Among the most noteworthy of the plants here are the famous coco de mer palms. The orchid garden is worth seeing and the restaurant serves up tasty fare.

Best time to visit

The Seychelles islands have pleasant weather all through the year. The dry season is normally cool with chilly breeze from the ocean in May to September. The rainy season is recorded for the months of January to February and July to August.Seyc

Senegal National Parks

Senegal is one of the west African countries is notable for its unique national parks, reserves and marine parks.  Among these are the Langue de Barbarie National Park and Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary which provide wildlife habitat in the dunes and mangrove swamps surrounding the mouth of the Senegal River near picturesque city of Saint-Louis.

There are a large and diverse variety of plants to be found in the country. They are silk-cotton tree, bamboos, African teak, gingerbread plum, tallow tree, acacias, African locust bean, palm trees, kapok trees, baobabs, coconuts, mango trees and mangroves.

Wildlife

The list of animals in Senegal includes elephants, lions, hippopotamuses, buffaloes, leopard, hare, antelopes, chimpanzees, monkeys, warthogs, jackals, tortoises, lizards and snakes. There are several avian varieties in the country too. Most of them are migratory birds. Some of the names of birds that can be sighted in the country are quail, ducks, painted snipe, spatulas, osprey, sparrows, black rail, crowned ibis, little bee-eater, guinea fowl, bustard, cormorants and bihoreaux. The marine life off the coast of Senegal also offers a lot. Some of the commonly found species are swordfish, oyster, marlin, barracudas and tunas.

List of National Parks

The Niokolo-Koba National Park is a World Heritage Site and natural protected area in south eastern Senegal near the Guinea-Bissau border which protects a large variety of wild animals, including hippos, elephants, and lions. Largely undeveloped, the area is remote and lacks tourist infrastructure, but is a destination for specialty tours.

The Basse Casamance National Park, in the far southwest, includes both ecotourism and tropical forest excursions, and a popular coastal beach resort aimed at foreign tourism.

The Saloum Delta National Park is a large area of Mangrove estuaries and islands, visited by tourists for it wildlife, its cultural interest as the home of the minority Serer people, and its proximity to the tourist resorts of the Petite-Côte.

Smaller parks and reserves, like the Guembeul Natural Reserve in the center west or the Bandia Natural Reserve near Dakar exit primarily for the more conventional European tourist industry, resembling Wildlife Parks or zoos.

The Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary is found on the southeast bank of the River Senegal in Senegal, in northern Biffeche, north east of St-Louis. The park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting several species of water birds and also migrants. The sanctuary occupies 16000ha which includes wetlands, lake, water streams, ponds and grassland shores.

More than 400 species of birds are found in the park with regular sights of pelicans and flamingoes.  Other birds in the park include Great egret, cormorant, purple heron, African Spoonbill and more.

Angola National Parks & Reserves

The landscape and the climatic in southern Africa provide Angola tourism and safari with a vast diversity of animal and vegetable species.  It is however one of the few south African countries that are visited despite with wealth ecological system.

Landscape

In Cabinda, there is dense, humid forestland, rich in exotic woods and the natural habitat of gorillas. South of Zaire, in the basins of Kwanza, Kuango, Cuito and the tributaries of the Cassai can be found savannah forestland. On the elevated plains, the open forestland provides a natural habitat for those species normally to be found in such regions.Further South is the desert area of Namibe. A vegetable species known as Welwitshia Mirabilis and unique in the world, grows here.

National Parks in Angola

In order to preserve and protect animal and vegetable life, and some species which are becoming threatened by extinction, natural parks and reserves have been created throughout the whole of Angola, the most important of which being:

National Integral Park of Kwando and the National Park of Cangandala, in the province of Malange, home of the black palanca, a species to be found only in Angola.

The National Park of Quissama, South of Luanda, where, among other species, are to be found the elephant, the African antelope and the wild boar. The coastline of the park is used an egg laying ground for the sea turtles.Some of the mammals in the park include the forest buffalo, eland, roan antelope, waterbuck and bushbuck among others. The population of wild animals in the park decreased over the years due to the civil wars, illegal poaching and increased human activity in the park area

In the National Park of Kameia, in the Province of Moxico can be found the lion, the leopard, the chacal, the elephant and the antelope.

The National Park of Bicuar, in the Province of Huila in the home of elephants, antelopes, elands, gnus and zebras. Cameia National park is another of Angola’s National park that was drastically affected by the civil war besides the adverse effects of illegal poaching and human activity in the park.

The National Park of Mupa, in the Province of Cunene, can be seen among others, the ostrich, the elephant and the hippopotamus. The National Park of Iona, in the Province of Namibe, where the zebra, the elephant, the leopard and the rhinoceros roam freely.

Iona National Park is one of the parks and reserves from the block of protected areas on the Atlantic Ocean coast. This continuous block stretches from the Namibian border parks of Namib-Naukluft National Park and the Skeleton coast National Park both making sections of the vast Namib Desert.

Angola is a nice country for visitors who wish to explore untapped places with fascinating and abundant bird sightings. With about 1000 types of birdlife in its vast habitat, wild bird watching is one of the undiscovered attractions in Angola.

Zambia National Parks

Zambia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa for mostly the endless safari adventures in this one beautiful country. There are several parks and reserves in Zambia yet each of them presents plenty of game safaris, walking safari and elephant ride adventures.

South Luangwa National Park is among the best and most visited safari game parks in Zambia. Located in the lush Luangwa valley’s steep escarpment walls, south Luangwa Park was first gazetted as a reserve in 1904 covering more than 3000 sq km of lush savanna, forested river Luangwa banks and several lakes and streams flowing in the park

This abundant habitat is home to huge herds of elephant and buffalo, hundreds of animals strong, which are particularly spectacular if encountered whilst on foot. Impala and puku are prolific, while bushbuck, eland and kudu are often seen. Of particular interest are three unique subspecies: the beautiful Thornicroft’s giraffe, with its dark patterned skin, Crawshay’s zebra and Cookson’s wildebeest. The main predators are lion, leopard and spotted hyena, though wild dogs are occasionally seen.

Find several option of safari accommodation such as world-class safari camps, rustic safari lodges and bush camps, some of which are the best in the country. Enjoy a wide range of safari activities including elephant back safaris, walking safaris, game drives, horse back safaris and so much South Luangwa National Park.

North Luangwa National Park defines pristine safaris in the word itself. Renowned for the first walking safari around 1980, north Luangwa is indeed a safari haven. There is so much to expect here as the Luangwa river valley remains a lush habitat for wildlife that migrate between the South and North Luangwa national parks.

Besides the diverse array of wildlife in wide grassy plains, through Mopane woodland to rich riverine forests hosting Acacias, Mahoganies and Sausage Trees. Mwaleshi river, a tributary of Luangwa river winds through rocky plains forming a series of waterfalls in the park while attracting a host of water loving animals during the dry season.

The particular park is mostly famous for its huge herds of buffalo, prides of lions regularly viewed on the hunt, hyenas, bushbucks, wildebeests, zebras, warthogs, baboons, vervet monkeys, leopards, hartebeests, eland, puku and also the impala. Elephants are as well spotted moving from the south park.

There aren’t good options for accommodation in this game park since the road network is quite poor. This game park is however good for Zambia walking safaris and birding adventures.

Kafue National Park is probably the largest game reserve in Zambia occupying the area around the banks of river Kafue including the Busanga swamps, marsh and the small streams pouring into the river.

The abundant grasslands have thousand of red lechwe. Different antelopes located here happen to be blue wildebeest, impala, hartebeest, roan, tsessebe, reedbuck, oribi, sitatunga, puku plus the duiker. Common views are the the buffalo, baboon, vervet monkeys, zebra, bushpig plus warthog. When the rains flood in May, many hippos remain stranded in the shallow pools until the floods recede in the dry season.

There are many Zambia safari lodges in Kafue park with good accommodation and tourist adventures such as fishing, boating, game walks, guided bird walks and  tours to Itezhi Tezhi dam being part of the safari holiday package offered.

The park is bisected in the middle by the Lusaka-Mongu road, and in many ways we can consider the north of Kafue National Park as quite different from the south side. While the northern side is well facilitated with good tracks and paths, the southern side has been neglected although the arrival and establishment of safari lodges is on going in this part of the park.

Lower Zambezi National Park is found in the huge rift of the Zambezi valley on the banks of the Zambezi river. The landscape is beautiful: tall leadwoods, ebonies, acacias and figs stand on a carpet of rich grassland growing on the volcanic rich soils.

The best time for game viewing here comes during the dry season as several animals visit the banks of the river in search for water pool. Some of the sights include elephant, buffalo, hippo, waterbuck, kudu, zebra, crocodiles, impala warthog, roan, eland, vervet monkey as well as baboons. Nocturnal animals are the hyenas, porcupine, civet, genet and honeybadger are also common. Game viewing is great from the month of April to Speptember

Lower Zambezi Park together with the adjacent Mana Pools national park in Zimbabwe are great destinations for bird watching. Some of the recorded species of birds in the area include eagle, kingfisher, heron, stork and bee-eater.

There is a range of great safari camps and a few safari lodges within the Lower Zambezi National Park.

Other Zambia national parks and game reserves include Liuwa National park, Mosi oa Tunya National Park located near the Victoria Falls, Liuwa National Park ,Nyika Plateau Park, Sumbu national park, Lochnivar national park among other small parks and reserves. Each of these Zambia national parks offers unique tourist accommodation in form of Zambia safaris camps and lodges.

Linyanti Wildlife Reserve

Linyanti Wildlife Reserve Botswana

Located in North of Savuti near the Chobe National Park, Linyanti is a privately owned reserve which is a home to wild life and a top destination for all those that visit Botswana. It is a private reserve which offers tourists a unique experience which cannot be found in the other reserves. The Linyanti reserve receives less tourists as because you need to have booked before and exploring it is determined by which camps you have used while on your tour and therefore for all those who hate crowds Linyati is your destination.

The Linyanti reserve can be visited all year round although the activities that you have on your bucket list determine the exact time that you should visit the reserve. The dry winter is experienced in the months of May to October and this is the best time for all tourists who would love to go for game viewing. Between the months of May to October, most of the waterhole dry up which forces animals to keep on moving to areas within the reserve that still have water sources. You will need to however brace yourself for the heat which sometimes becomes unbearable especially towards the end of October.

The rainy season also known as the green season in Linyanti starts in November and ends in March. During this time birds of different species can be seen flying into Linyanti to settle at the different water bodies within making it an ideal time for birding. There are several ways that you can carry out birding in the Linyanti reserve and these are you can go birding on a Mokoro, walking through the reserve or by driving through the reserve. The rainy season is also the best time for tourists who want to see young animals as this is the time when most of the wild animals breed. Some of the baby animals that you will see include baby kudus, elephants, antelopes and baboons but you should be aware of the mosquitoes in the reserve during the rainy season and other insects that breed during this season.

Enjoy elephant trekking through Linyanti. The Linyanti has an extremely large number of elephants and trekking exercises are carried out for as long as you have an armed tour guide with you. The best time for all those who love elephant trekking is from the month of May to December and these can be seen along the River Linyanti before moving on to the nearby Savuti reserve.

Explore the Linyati River which is starts from the Okavango Delta and keeps on flowing through the Rift valley. It is characterized with papyrus plants and due to the change of course of the River, it brought about the formation of the Linyanti swamp. These can be explored when you go for a boat cruise and some of the activities that are carried out on the Linyanti River include fishing, birding and viewing of some aqua animals like crocodiles and hippos.

Birding in Linyanti is mostly done during the wet season because this is when the migratory birds fly into the Linyanti reserve. Some of the birds that are found within the Linyanti include the racket tailed roller, the wattled crane, red billed hornbill and red billed oxpecker, African fish skimmer, the African darter, squacco heron, the long toed lapwing, the African finfoot, the white backed night  heron, the pennant winged nightjar

Enjoy a Mokoro ride along the swamps and Rivers that are found in Linyanti. These are mainly offered by the camps that are located within the Linyanti reserve and a Mokoro ride is known to be one of the safest and easiest ways to enjoy nature without the disturbance of engine noise. It carries only two people and it is pushed forward across the water with a large pole, offers a great closer view of the birds and is normally carried out during the rainy season when the water levels are a bit high.

Enjoy a helicopter ride over the Linyati where you get to view the reserve from a different point of view. The helicopter ride over Linyanti takes about thirty minutes and it is the best way to track the animals that habitate within the reserve like the elephants. Note that the helicopter ride takes only three passengers and since the doors are removed, tourists get a clear view of the animals below and it is extremely good for photo safaris.

Game drives through Linyanti is the first activity that you should carry out when you get to Linyanti and this is because of the different animal species that habitate within the Linyanti reserve. It is commonly known for the high concentration of elephants that can be seen in moving around the banks of the River Linyanti. Other animals that habitate here minus the elephants include the sable antelopes, African wild dogs, hippos, the roan antelopes, waterbucks, sitatunga, zebras, impalas, crocodiles, kudus, buffalos, lions, leopards and the red Lechwe. The best time for you to go for the game drives through Linyanti is during the dry winter when the vegetation is scanty which allows you to easily see the animals and some can be seen moving towards the Linyati River in search of water and you will need to get yourself a 4×4 car in order to easily drive through the Linyanti reserve.

Enjoy fishing on the River Linyanti and the Linyanti swamp. Many of the camps and lodges that are found within the Linyanti reserve have fishing equipment that you can borrow and head out to enjoy some of fishing. The most commonly caught fish here is the tiger fish although you will also be able to get other fish species.

Night drives through Linyanti have become a favorite for many tourists and since it is a privately owned reserve, it is easily accessible at night but only if you have pre-booked for the night drive. The night drives are always carried out with the help of a tour guide and some of the animals that you will see when on night drives through Linyanti include spring hares, the wild cats that hunt at night, bush baby and night jars

Go for a field study of the vegetation found within the Linyanti reserve. It consists of riverine woodlands and open savannah grasslands which can be seen scattered all over the reserve. These act as habitats for both animals and birds within the Linyanti and with the help of a tour guide you will be able to get a close look at the vegetation and also get to know all that is medicinal while spotting all the wild life that habitates within the vast vegetation in Linyanti and it is best seen after the rainy season has come to an end.

 

Canoeing through Linyanti is also one of the activities that tourists carry out while on a trip to Linyanti. The area is filled with swamps and lagoons and the largest swamp is known as the Linyanti swamp which can be explored while on a canoe ride through Linyanti. The canoe rides are majorly carried out during the wet season or green season when the water levels are high and while canoeing you will be able to do birding as there are many bird species in around the swamps, do some fishing and take photos of the reserve while on water.

Nature walks through Linyanti are done during the dry season because this is when the nature trek routes are easily accessible. The nature walks are carried out in the presence of an experienced armed tour guide and they start in the morning and push towards the afternoon. Going on foot around the Linyanti reserve is an experience that everyone should get as you will get the real feeling of the wild, track down a few animals and get a close look at the animals while learning more about the bird, animals and plant life in the reserve.

Photo safaris in Linyanti are carried out by many tourists who visit the reserve and this is due to the fact that the landscape and all the wildlife that habitats within the reserve are better seen and remembered when you are behind the lens. There are hides that are found within Linyanti and these are used to easily get a close view of the animals and take photos from the different angles without the animals noticing that they are being watched.

How to get to Linyanti

Since it is a privately owned reserve, access to Linyati is not quite as easy as it is with other reserves and National parks. Tourists need a 4×4 car to drive through the sandy roads and access to the reserve is only open to tourists who are staying at the camps and lodges and have booked before the tourists get to Linyati. The best way to get to Linyanti is by using a light air craft since the roads are unbearably hard to drive on.

The Linyanti Wildlife Reserve covers and area of 125,000 hectares of pristine wildlife area and is bordered by Linyanti River in the north and the Chobe National Park in the east. Across the Linyanti River northwards lies Namibia’s Caprivi Strip. This area is very different from the Okavango Delta and should be included in every Botswana safari itinerary so that travellers have a more complete and varied experience of the country’s different wildlife areas.

Linyanti Wildlife Reserve

Linyanti Wild dogs

This private reserve is enormous and is one of the least visited and most pristine corners of Botswana and the private owners intend to keep it this way. The Linyanti region is shared between a very small number of private camps, ensuring that guests are able to view the abundant wildlife privately and exclusively.

Much of Chobe National Park’s wildlife spends the winter season in this area and huge concentrations of migratory species such as zebra and elephant can be seen. The Linyanti area is also renowned for its predators, particularly lions and hyenas. It has a wonderful diversity of habitat – open grasslands and waterholes, spectacular mature woodlands, Savuti channel, towering mopane and Leadwood forests.

Linyanti river

The Linyanti river meanders as it makes its way eastward towards Chobe river and along its way forms a myriad of pools and lagoons that attract hippos, crocodiles and incredible bird life. These pools also attract game from the dry lands to the east, for out of the rainy season they hold the first permanent waters to be found. In the early evening, with youngsters in tow, several breeding herds of elephant will gather to the pools along the Linyanti to enjoy a drink and to wallow and play in the mud holes.

There are large concentrations of buffalo and antelopes such as Red Lechwe, Tsessebe, Impala and Kudu. More elusive species such as Sable and Roan Antelope are also regularly encountered in this area. The Linyanti has high concentrations of giraffe, which love to feed on the abundant acacia trees along the floodplains, while cheetahs find the open areas of

Birds in Linyanti wildlife reserve

Linyanti Hooded Vulture

the Savute channel perfect for running down their prey. The water loving Sitatunga and red Lechwe antelopes are endemics of Linyanti swamps

Savuti Channel

The Savuti channel is a now dry “waterway” that connects the Linyanti River with the interior of the Chobe National Park, ending at the Savute marsh. The Savute has only ever flowed intermittently and today the channel is open grassland and is home to numerous animals including large herds of zebra,giraffes, buffalos, impala and wildebeests, as well as abundant predators such as lion, serval, bat eared fox, cheetah and African wild dog.

Enjoy the wide variety of birds that flock the river banks and flood plains during the rainy season. There are thousands of swamp endemic species chirping about during the day in harmony with grunting hippos and trumpeting elephants such as the rare Narina Trogon, pelicans and Okavango endemics like slaty egret, white rumbed babbler, wattle crane and others

When to visit

The rains come around November to March with slightly high temperatures and creating thus breeding grounds for Mosquitoes. Road access is thus rough and requires 4X4 vehicles. The dry season is May to October is the best time to visit Linyanti swamps and wildlife reserve with scanty water pools and holes attracting thousands of animals looking for water. The Savuti channel defines the famous zebra migration in Chobe park around November as herds of zebras migrate southwards of Linyati into Savuti area for fresh pastures that come along with summer rains.

Find Linyanti accommodation and overnight from some nearby safari lodges, tented camps, bush camps and other private options like homestays. Linyanti Duma Tau Camp offers luxury safari camping in addition to Kings Pool camp that has iconic views of Linyanti river and Kings pool. Other camping options include Savuti camp located within Linyanti reserve and near Savuti channel, Linyanti bush camp, Lebala camp and other budget options.

Libya National Parks and Reserves

Libya’s first National parks, protected areas and reserves were first designated in the 1970s. Many are found along the  Mediterranean coastline with the  most popular protected areas being Zellaf in the southwestern desert and Karabolli, Wadi El-Kouf and Benghazi, all spread along the northern coast.

Wadi El-Kouf

Set near Beidha in the forested, upland region of Jebel al-Akhdar (Green Mountain), this national park spreads for 12 miles east and west along northeastern Libyan coastline as well as over 100 miles south into Cyrenaica, following the riverbed for which it is named. With landscapes ranging from beaches, coastal dunes and lagoons to scrublands, forested hills, cliffs and caves, the park protects both marine and land wildlife. Among other species, visitors here can glimpse bottle-nose dolphins, golden jackals, hyenas and small-spotted genets.

Karabolli National Park

Located just to the north of Al-Garabulli, a town 31 miles east of Tripoli along the Mediterranean coast, Karaboli National Park covers nearly 60 square miles between Wadi Turghat in the East and Wadi Ramal in the west, stretching just several miles inland from the sea. Turghat, Ramal and Al-Mashid (a third wadi that bisects the park) all feature perennial, spring-fed streams. The park’s landscapes include beaches, dunes, salt lagoons and sandstone cliffs while its wildlife includes hyenas and nearly 100 recorded bird species. The area was proclaimed a protected park in 1992 to combat erosion along the coast.

Benghazi Nature Reserve

Less than 10 miles north of Benghazi on the northeastern Libyan coast is the Benghazi Nature Reserve, a popular pit-stop for migratory waterbirds. The reserve includes a stretch of sandy coastline with dunes and salt marshes, as well as the Ayn Zayanah Lagoon. The latter is fed by 10 springs and attracts flamingos in the winter months. Although nominally protected, the area is also used for fishing, recreation and as a garbage dump.

Zellaf Nature Reserve

Set deep in the desert of western Libya, Zellaf Nature Reserve is part of the Sabha area, gateway to the greater Sahara Desert. The reserve covers 385 square miles of dunes and rocky ridges populated by oryx and gazelle, among other desert fauna. It is one of the of the Sahara’s only protected wildlife areas.

List of National Parks, Reserves and Protected Areas in Libya

National Parks

  • Abughilan
  • El Kauf
  • Karabolli
  • Kouf
  • Naggaza
  • Rajma
  • Sirman

Nature Reserves

  • Benghazi
  • Bier Ayyad
  • New Hiesha Natural Reserve
  • Tripoli
  • Zellaf

Protected Areas

  • Ain Zayanah
  • Ajdabiya Marsh
  • Al Jaghbub Oasis
  • Berjuj valley
  • Bombe gulf
  • Fezzan valleys
  • Garabulli
  • Giarabub
  • Grotto de Lete
  • Harouj mountain
  • Jalo
  • Kufrah Oasis
  • Nefhusa
  • Oasis of Ghat
  • Ouau en Namu lakes
  • Qaminis and Tukrah salines
  • Rajma plantations
  • Sabratha
  • Sebkha el Sahel
  • Serir
  • Shahaat
  • Taizerbo
  • Taoulga islands (Thaouara)
  • Wadi Kham
  • Belkarra-Boulelli

Ramsar Sites and Wetlands of International Importance

  • Ain Elshakika
  • Ain Elzarga

Wildlife Safaris in Tarangire National Park Tanzania

Tarangire is a wonderful national park to see the seasonal wildlife. During the dry months, River Tarangire River becomes a magnet for numerous migratory wild animals such as elephants, wildebeests, the prevalent elands, buffaloes, zebras, gazelles as well as hartebeests all in overwhelmingly large numbers. Lions as well can easily be seen at whatever time of the year.

Tarangire National Park is home to several dry-country species of antelopes including the uncommon fringe-eared oryx as well as the weird long-necked gerenuk. Large pythons may be seen up in the trees within the swamps especially during the dry season when the swamps are dry.

Best time for wildlife viewing in Tarangire.

During the dry season (which begins in June up to October) is the finest time for viewing wildlife. During this season large wild animal herds migrate into the park moving from the adjacent areas and these are normally trailed by various predators. These Animals can easily be seen since the vegetation is generally thinner and the animals tend to crowd the banks of River Tarangire as the other sources of water are dried up. However in the wet season which starts in November up to May, most of the animals move out of this park so during this time the game drives are not very rewarding.

At present day, the most magnificent attribute of this Tarangire National is it large numbers of resident elephants which in fact is the largest in all parks found in the northern part of the country. Back in the 1980s, these impressive giants were intensively poached, but at present day, their numbers have greatly increased again. According to the last census which was conducted back in 2000, it showed that there were almost 3,000 elephants living in the park. Ever Since 2000, the population of elephants has continued to greatly increase and today Tarangire is having a baby-boom of elephants. While on your safari, you will be able to that the majority of these elephants are actually below 10 years of age while the most of them will actually be baby elephants. In Tarangire, viewing Elephant is very amazing and it is perhaps here that you will be able to see anything between 100 elephants and 400 elephants in just a single day’s game drive.  For those of you who have ever seen elephants, especially out in the wild, then you well certainly understand what an awesome presence it is to come close to these lovely large animals. I can not surely well describe the thrill of see these giants especially in large numbers in words, however a tour in Tarangire National Park will reward you with a personal experience of this amazing encounter.

It is estimated that Tarangire National Park is on an area of 1,600 square miles making it is the fifth biggest national park in the whole of Tanzania. Tarangire NP was named after the brisk River Tarangire that provides the only permanent water source for the wild animals living in this area. River Tarangire attracts various types of wild animals plus birds all in large numbers especially in the dry months hence rewarding you with views of numerous elephants, zebras, wildebeests as well as buffaloes seen drinking water on the river banks.
Tarangire Safari Tanzania

How To Get To Tarangire

Birding in Tarangire

Malawi National Parks

Malawi is endowed with a great variety of plant life and animals and has more than 9 National Parks / Wildlife Reserves. As it may not possess quite the large numbers of huge mammals (mainly predators) just like a number of its more well known neighbors, Malawi compensates this in several different ways. Malawi offers serious and special wildlife viewing within the unspoiled areas of true wilderness.
National Parks and Wildlife Reserves
Over the latest years these Parks plus Reserves have gone through some kind of a revolution, with non – public concessionaires assisting to develop conservation as well as the quality of wildlife viewing.
Within the Southern part is the Malawi’s longest reputable – Liwonde National Park, with outstanding accommodation as well as the finest game viewing in the country. Growing speedily is Majete Wildlife Reserve, exposed to a re-stocking program and about to turn into a ‘Big 5’ haven. Recently A new lodge has been constructed and another is just ongoing. Majete’s neighbors living in the Lower Shire Valley, Mwabvi Wildlife Reserve as well as Lengwe National Park also today have a privately managed accommodation, as well as increasing animal population.
Within Central Malawi, The onetime great Kasungu National Park is unfortunately now somewhat forgotten as well as abandoned, however the close by rocky wilderness of Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve was recently opened up and pledges a lot, having stayed largely unharmed for years. 2 other lodges where opened in 2010 there.
moving North, the Nyika National Park is among Malawi’s jewels offering exceptional wildlife views in its rising and falling grassland plateau. The top quality accommodation was actually opened in 2010. The Nyika is associated with the adjacent Vwasa Marsh Wildlife Reserve which is a lowland location that offers bush game viewing. A new private special consideration was approved in 2009 within Vwaza, although development is yet to start.
Mammals
The Big cats are actually rarely seen. Lions are seen although they are hardly ever seen, although the latest opening of the Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve as well as the planned re-introduction of species into Majete will alter that. There haven’t been any sights of cheetahs over several years. The leopards are seen almost across the whole country, with the largest population being in Nyika, although similar to any place, these have an elusive lifestyle that makes seeing them quite challenging. Among the smaller cats, the civet is actually the most prevalent although genet, wild cats and the serval may also be sighted. The Hyena is the commonest of all the key predators and actually can be seen in all the sheltered land locations. The Jackal also has standing numbers within Malawi although it is not commonly sighted at.
The Black rhino has been effectively re-introduced and fortunately can be sighted in Liwonde as well as Majete. There are great numbers of elephants in all the sheltered areas apart from the low lying Mwabvi as well as Lengwe. The Hippos are many in Malawi and these are frequently seen in River Shire, where they total up to thousands. In addition, Crocodiles too are commonly seen in the Shire.
Buffaloes as well as zebras are common seen in all regioons. among the antelopes, the  bushbucks, reedbucks grey duikers, klipspringers kudus, plus the grysboks, are seen in the majority of the sheltered areas. The Roans in addition to elands can in addition be sighted at, mainly in Nyika, whereas in Kasungu plus Liwonde are the mainly probable places to see the sable as well as waterbuck. The most uncommon species is Livingstone’s suni as well as the good-looking nyala, which are in large numbers in Lengwe. This is the most distant north of all nyala territories found in southern Africa.
Additional mammals within the country are monkeys plus baboons, porcupine, bushpig, as well as warthog. There aren’t any giraffes; although plans are ongoing to that they are re-introduction.
Birds
Malawi prides in a extraordinary diversity of birds with more than 650 bird species recorded across the diverse landscapes. these are mainly woodland or else grassland species including the endemic Lillian’s lovebird, Livingstone flycatcher as well as red-winged francolin and. on the other hand, the dams, lake, plus rivers in addition attract various water birds like pelican, hamerkop, egret, fish eagle, as well as kingfishers. Raptors, such as the peregrine falcon, African marsh harrier as well as the black-breasted snake eagle offer give additional diversity.
Fish
most of the approximated 700 species of fish within Lake Malawi are the cichlids, generally endemic to this country. These small dazzlingly colored mbuna are with no trouble seen within the sheltered waters in Lake Malawi National Park. Furthermore, The Shire River through Majete in addition to Liwonde also sustains great numbers of fish among which are the sungwa plus the tiger fish, whereas the Bua found in Nkhotakota supports mpasa – the lake salmon, popular for anglers.
Flowers
For people who love flowers, there is huge variety, among which are 400 species of orchid. These are seen at the different altitudes throughout the country. in addition, there are several unending flowers, water lilies, proteas, gladioli having reed-beds as well as aloes in the lagoons of Lower Shire.

Uganda National Parks

hippo

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park situated about the slopes of Rwenzori is boasts of Uganda Gorilla safaris. The lush montane jungle hosts roughly 300 mountain gorillas, about 50% of the believed world population. They live alongside 350 to 400 chimpanzees and this is actually the only forest in Africa where they occur together. Additionally you will find another 120 types of mammal, including 10 types of primate and roughly 360 bird species. Gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda are a part of every Uganda safari itinerary with Rwanda gorilla safaris to accomplish around the gorillas residing in the dense forest around south western Uganda.

The Mountains of the Moon ideally known as Rwenzori illuminate the south west corner of Uganda with several scenic features like numerous lakes and jagged, volcanic mountain tops. Astride the mountain tops sits Rwenzori National Park. It’s a fantastic spot to trek.

Queen Elizabeth National Park, Laying over the equator, this park is outlined by Lake Edward and Lake George using the Kazinga Channel hooking up the two. The Park boasts among the greatest bio-diversity rankings associated with a game park or reserve on the planet, with almost 100 mammal species as well as an incredible 606 bird species. The jungle within the Kyambura Gorge hosts chimpanzees and also the remote Ishasha sector is famous because of its tree-climbing lions while flamingos give a stunning a little colour about the crater lakes.

Kibale Forest National Park, This jungle, interspersed with patches of grassland and swamp, supports a wealthy number of fauna, 250 types of animal and also over 300 wild birds. You will find 13 different primates here, the greatest total for just about any Ugandan National Park, including a large population of chimpanzees. If Chimpanzee tracking is what you are looking for when you are visiting Uganda, then Kibale Forest Park has more than you can imagine. More Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda is done at Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary within Lake Victoria.

Murchison Falls National Park, is Uganda’s biggest National Park while the Nile River, the longest river in the world, winds through it. At Murchison Falls the river needs through narrow gap and falls 43 mtrs to some pool below. These Falls are notable less for height for their immense power. The park is huge and delightful. Mainly wooded savannah, at 4,000km² it hosts giraffe, lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, hartebeest and much more.

Lake Mburo National Park is a different landscape of open Grassland plains, acacia shrubs and wetlands this park hosts an enormous variety of plants and creatures. About 68 different types of animals are available within its 260km². The park also offers as much as 313 different types of wild birds including Uganda’s national emblem, the elegant crested crane.

Semliki National Park, This is actually the spot to become familiar with hot springs, incredible forests and pygmies. Situated inside the remote Semliki Valley, both of them are named for that river that forms the Congolese border. The Park safeguards extra time from the Congo’s huge Ituri Jungle – here’s where East Africa meets West! It’s of particular interest to bird viewers like a high proportion from the 400 bird species recorded here, are believed to happen nowhere else in Uganda (10% are basically Congolese species). Semliki can also be the place to find lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, chimps & more.

Kidepo National Park hides in the corner of Uganda on the border with Sudan and Kenya in the far north east. Kidepo is really a truly stunning park boasting a genuine a feeling of backwoods that enchants visitors. The Narus Valley within the southwest and also the Kidepo Valley within the northeast break the mountainous terrain from the park. Although it covers a large area, the majority of the wildlife is targeted inside the Narus Valley revealing fantastic breathtaking sights of huge herds of buffalo with elephant, giraffe, waterbuck and zebra grazing alongside. You will find also numerous potential predators present including lion, cheetah, leopard, and spotted hyena.

Ethiopia National Parks

National Parks in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a country that is filled with various tourist attractions and the most visited in the country are the different National Parks that are a home to numerous wild animals and different bird species and not forgetting the beautiful vegetation that is found in the Parks.

We provide good deals when you contact us to prepare a trip for you to Ethiopia and we provide a tour guide since you cannot go to any park without one and he will help you to get around Ethiopia and the different parks easily. Coupled with the semi desert climate that is experienced in the Northern Part of Africa adds to the uniqueness that you do not want to miss. The different National Parks that are found in Ethiopia include:

The Bale Mountains National Park

The Bale Mountains National Park is situated in the Bale Mountains region and is filled with a lot of wonderful things that you can do and see when you get to the Park and these include birding, game watching and trekking. The different animals and birds that can be seen in the park include the Samien Fox, the Ethiopian wolf, the cape bushbuck, the spot breasted lapwing, the mountain Nyala, the big headed African mole rat, the yellow spotted brush furre, the Abyssinian slaty flycatcher and many more others. When you visit the Bale Mountains National Park, you can also go for Mountain climbing on the Bale Mountain with the help of a tour guide.

The Nechisar National Park

Nechisar National Park in Ethiopia is one of the top destinations in Ethiopia and has several wild life that can be viewed when you get to the park. Located in the Greater Rift valley, it is surrounded by the famous twin lakes that is the Chamo and Abaya which provide water for the animals that habitate in the Park. It has over 84 animal species that use it as habituating grounds and over 342 bird species. Some of the animals that are found in the Park include the African hunting dog, the Bat eared fox, the Guenther’s Dikdik, the Hinde’s bat, the white footed rat, the warthog, Hippos, Greater kudu, the Swayne’s hartebeest, the Aubis baboon, the Burchell’s Zebra and leopards. It is also a home to the endemic Nechisar jar which can only be seen in this park.

Trekking can also be carried out in the Park and this is done on clearly marked routes with the help of a trained tour guide and while trekking you will get to see the various animals in the park, birds, hot springs and enjoy the beautiful scenery that is provided by the forests and the river where people get to rest and swim after a long trek.

The Awash National Park

The Awash National Park is located in the Great Rift Valley and covers over 756 square kilometers in the volcanic plains. It is an extremely good destination for all those that love birding as it has numerous birding spots where you get to see over 400 bird species. It is also a home to various wild animals which include cheetahs, zebras, golden jackals, the caracals, monkeys and many more others. Enjoy the game drives in the park, trekking and village walks to the nearby local villages where you get to know more about the culture that is practiced in the area.

The Awash National Park is faced with a lot of problems like deforestation and poaching that is carried out by the locals. These keep on cutting down the trees in order to get more land for settlement, cattle keeping and other domestic activities. The conservation authority of Ethiopia is trying all that they can so as to stop all the harmful in order to reduce on the migration of the animals and their extinction.

Mago National Park

Mago National Park was formed in 1979 making one of the newest Parks in the country. It is located in southern Ethiopia and it is watered by the Mago River. The different wild life that can be seen in Mago National Park include the Grant’s gazelle, the African hunting dog, Leopards, Hippos, the Gerenuk, the Oryx, the Burchell’s Zebra, the Lewlwel Hartebeest, the greater kudu, lions and the black backed jackal.

When you visit the Mago National Park, you will also get to visit the local people who have always lived in the area and find out more about their unique culture and get yourself some souvenirs from them as you head back. The locals will also be able to tell you more about the Park and the local trees that sometimes are used for medicine. The different tribes that are found around Mago National Park include the Ari, the Mursi, the Kwegu and the Hamar.

 

The Omo National Park

The Omo National Park was made a UNESCO heritage and is located in the Omo valley. There are several ethnic groups that live around the Park and these affect the habitats of the different wildlife causing a major depletion of the animals. Some of the animals that can be found in Omo Park include elephants, Buffalos, leopards, lions, hyenas, warthogs, gazelles, the African spurred tortoise and the Nile Lechwe. The zebras and giraffes can no longer be seen in Omo due to the destruction of their natural habitats.

The locals keep cutting down the trees in order to create land for expansion either for farming or settlement, they damage the rivers that are found in the park by throwing in unrecyclable waste. But when you visit the park, the government tries to make sure that the animals are preserved.

The Yangudi Rassa National Park

The Yangudi National Park is located in the North Eastern Park in the country in the Afar region. It has a lot of wild life that habitate in the different parts of the park but it was mostly created to protect the rare African wild Ass. Some of the wild life species that can be seen during your game drive and birding activities includes the lesser grey shrike, the pallid harrier, the Grevy’s zebra, the Oryx, the Ortolan Bunting, the gazelle and many more others and you can also go for trekking and enjoy a picnic in the woods with your family.

The Simiens National park

The Simiens National Park is also a UNESCO heritage which is located near the Simiens Mountain that gives it a good backdrop. It is located in the Northern Part of the country and it is known to be a home to many endangered wildlife species that include the wild mountain goat, the Ethiopian wolf that can be trekked but with the help of a tour guide, the Gelada baboon, the golden jackal and the Anubis baboon. It is also a home to over 130 bird species and 16 of those are endemic to the country. The different activities that can be carried out in the park include birding, game watching and trekking. You can also get to meet the locals and study the different tree species that are found in the Park.

 

The Abijatta National Park

The Abijatta National Park is located in the Rift valley and is a park that you should not miss when you visit Ethiopia. The National Park was originally created due to the vast wetlands that are found in the area and act as habitats to various wildlife ranging from aqua birds and provides water for the animals and there are other tourist attractions that are found in the park like the hot springs, the two twin lakes and the various vegetation types that are found in the Park.

The Gambella National Park

The Gambella National Park is located in the western part of the capital city of Ethiopia Addis Ababa. It is characterized with savannah vegetation which habitates almost all the wild life that is found in the Park. The best time to visit the park and get to do some trekking and game viewing is during the dry season which runs between the months of November to March. The different wild life species that are found in the Gambella National Park include the Nile Lechwe, the giraffes, hippos, lions, white eared Kob, buffalos, the Roan antelope, the Topi and crocodiles and the park is also known for having large swamps and wetlands which have a variety of aqua life within.

All the above National parks are being monitored by the conservation authority in Ethiopia to avoid all the destruction that is caused by the locals and this has greatly improved and increased number of animals in the country and therefore pushing the tourism industry in the country forward.

We have several itineraries that we can prepare for you to go on a safari to the different National Parks in Ethiopia. For more information about the National Parks in Ethiopia, get in touch with us or visit our website for the best deals when it comes to seafaring in Ethiopia.

Explore the National Parks

Maybe the best contributing aspect to several tourists’ amazing encounters of Ethiopia trekking is its big collection of national parks. Ethiopia is characterized of fascinating cities, landmarks, stunning display of fauna and flora and lush valleys that make the country the best spot to visit. Majority of tourists that visit Ethiopia come to see the mountains and it’s the main attraction of the country. If you are interested in mountain trekking, there are two alternatives that will make you enjoy your hike and these include Simien Mountains National Park along with Bale Mountains National Park. Whichever you decide to visit, you will get a memorable experience of true nature.Simien Mountains are often visited and this is because of its historic secrets along with the wonderful view that it offers to its visitors. Besides it has many well maintained routes that will direct you to Simien Mountains as you enjoy the beautiful scenery. Places of interest include the wildlife spotting chances at Chenek, the summit of Ras Dashen (4543meters) along with the sights from the Immetgogo promontory with a height of 3926 meters.

…And Don’t Miss

Ethiopian has some of the man-made attractions that are inspiring and well worth visiting.Gonder is a bus stop where funs of Ethiopia trekking proceed to the Simien Mountains. It’s acknowledged as 17th century castles that are often visited.Lalibela is a city in Ethiopia that is most treasured, it has beautiful attractions that include churches that were engraved straight into the rock-face. After a hectic day of trekking, you may decide to take a walk around the city and delight in its unique features. You will actually discover the beauty of Ethiopia.

Gambia National Parks

National Parks

Gambia’s total land area is occupied by national parks, nature reserves, and many other things. These occupy about 3.5% of the total land which is 38,000 ha. Out of the one and the 7 nature reserves and national parks, the following are the most protected sites; Kiang West National reserve (1987), Nuimi National Park {1986) Baobolon national park (1996), Abuko Nature Reserve, River Gambia National Reserve and many others. However, Abuko Nature Reserve, Tanji, and Kiang are the only ones open to the public and this is due to the fact that management wants to protect the biodiversity of these sites.

Background:

Way back in 1916 Abuko was offered government protection and declared a nature reserve and a water catchment. There protection system dates from then.

In order to expand the general area covered by the managed forests to at least 30%, and to put 200,000 of land  under community forest management after developing about  17,000 ha. Of the forest park, there was an establishment of a fresh forestry policy from 1995 to 2005 under the department of parks. Here they ensured that at least 75% of the forests are in the protection line of Forest management principles.