Africa is a continent of breathtaking contrasts — where golden savannas meet turquoise seas, and centuries-old traditions blend seamlessly with modern life. Whether you’re craving the thrill of a Big Five safari, a serene beach escape, or a deep dive into vibrant cultures, Africa has something unforgettable for every kind of traveler.
Here’s our guide to the top destinations across Africa that deliver the ultimate vacation — from wild landscapes to coastal paradise and rich cultural heritage.
One of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations, the Maasai Mara offers year-round game viewing and front-row seats to the Great Migration (July to October). Imagine witnessing thousands of wildebeest thunder across the plains with lions, leopards, and cheetahs in pursuit. Stay in luxury tented camps for an immersive, yet comfortable, wilderness experience.
Must do: Hot air balloon safari at sunrise followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush.
A paradise for wildlife lovers and first-time safari-goers alike, Kruger offers self-drive options and luxury lodges. The park boasts all of the Big Five and a variety of habitats, making it a top-tier safari destination with excellent infrastructure.
Must do: Private game drives in the Sabi Sands Reserve for up-close sightings of leopards.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a dreamlike water-based safari destination. Glide through the delta in a mokoro (dugout canoe) while spotting hippos, elephants, and birdlife galore.
Must do: Stay at an eco-lodge deep in the delta and take a guided walking safari.
White sand beaches, clear blue waters, and a mix of Swahili, Arab, and European influences make Zanzibar a top beach getaway. Stone Town is perfect for culture and history, while the northern beaches like Nungwi are ideal for relaxing and snorkeling.
Must do: Sunset dhow cruise and a tour of the historic Stone Town spice markets.
Off the coast of West Africa, Cape Verde offers a mix of Afro-Portuguese culture, lively music, and golden beaches. Sal and Boa Vista are favorites for sun-seekers, while Santiago offers cultural depth.
Must do: Catch live morna music and taste traditional cachupa stew.
Best Time to Visit: June to October for safaris; December to March for beach escapes.
Health & Safety: Consult your doctor about vaccinations and travel insurance.
Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs and dress codes, especially in rural or religious areas.
At Safari N Smiles, we don’t just plan trips — we create once-in-a-lifetime experiences tailored to your unique travel style. Whether you’re after a thrilling safari, a romantic beach getaway, or a cultural expedition, our local expertise ensures you get the most authentic and seamless adventure.
From the wild plains of Kenya to the sun-kissed beaches of Zanzibar, we’ll take you there — and beyond.
🌍 Let us turn your bucket list into a beautifully crafted reality.
📩 Reach out to us today and let’s start planning your perfect African journey.
Karen O'Keefe04/10/2024Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Egypt 2023-- Amazing adventure and wonderful people involved. This is geared towards dental professionals but I am not one of them. Thoroughly enjoyed myself and Morris makes every trip a memorable experience for everyone! Katy Nierman08/09/2024Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great experience! Saw the big 5 and much more. Thank you, Morris, Keshy, David and everyone behind the scenes! Gloria Herbert06/09/2024Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. What a sensational trip to Ghana! This was my first mission trip and I was unsure what to expect. It turned out to be a fantastic and humbling experience. Morris and his team put together a very well organized schedule mixing charity work with sightseeing and leisure time. The small group of professionals worked so well together it was amazing to see them in action. I am ready to go again and pitch in where I can. I highly recommend these folks for your next tour. Thanks again Morris. Take a bow! #ghana2024 Omar Hamdy06/09/2024Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing team and they do tremendous work overseas! Highly recommend!! Tanya Woods06/09/2024Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was so touched by the Community Service Day whole in Ghana, West Africa. Safari and Smiles was well prepared and organized. So many people were helped. harun anzia05/09/2024Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was an amazing experience. Laura B08/06/2024Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I just co-hosted the latest Safari N Smiles trip with founder, Morris. Getting to see some of the behind-the-scenes work in action was such a treat. Not only are SNS creating beautiful and amazing experiences for travelers, but they also care deeply about the impact they can create to support the people of Kenya and other African nations. With a trip of 20 people, everything felt seamless and very personal. We were picked up by team members from the airport, and the rest was taken care of. The moment we arrived, we were taken care of. From life-changing safari adventures in the Maasai Mara to a beautiful few days at the Indian Ocean in Diani Beach, this trip is one that will always be a top memory. Thanks to the Safari N Smiles team-- Morris, Keshy, Joseph, and Robinson for being such kind people and for taking such good care of all of our guests! Kiri-Gabriella26/05/2024Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently had the pleasure of joining Safari N Smiles in Kenya, and it was an absolutely incredible experience! The trip was exceptionally well-organized, with the perfect balance of thrilling activities and relaxation so there was never a dull moment. One of the highlights was experiencing the Masai Mara from a hot air balloon at sunrise - truly a once-in-a-lifetime moment. The safaris themselves were breathtaking, with knowledgeable staff who enhanced our experience with their expertise and passion for wildlife. The food throughout the trip was second to none and the accommodation was great. I also had the opportunity to connect with like-minded innovators who have became good friends along the way. This trip was worth every penny, leaving me with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the beauty of Kenya. I highly recommend Safari N Smiles for anyone looking to combine their dental career with the adventure of a lifetime, it's worth every penny!