Why: A classic safari destination, Kenya offers access to the Big 5 in world renowned settings like the Masai Mara and Amboseli National Park. Multiple flight options make Kenya an accessible destination with easy links to beach options in Mombasa or Zanzibar.

When to visit: Typically, Kenya is best visited from July to October for a chance to see the Wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara. January to March is also dry before the rains come.

Why: A quintessential safari experience taking in some of the most famous wildlife viewing spots Africa has to offer. Witness the Wildebeest migration in the Serengeti or get up close and personal with the Big 5 in the Ngorongoro crater. Tired from all the adventure? Head to Zanzibar for a relaxing beach escape.

When to visit: Tanzania can be visited year-round but the Wildebeest migration is best seen in June to July in the Serengeti. Avoid the crowds by visiting in November to December where the rains are generally sporadic showers.

Why: Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or it’s your first time, South Africa offers something for everyone. This spectacular country boasts huge wildlife diversity and a wide variety of parks and reserves to suit every budget and style. Looking for something accessible by car? Try Madikwe or the plethora of lodges in the Eastern Cape, popular with families for being malaria-free and easily accessible. If time is short and you just want a taste of a Big 5 safari, Aquila Private Game Reserve can even be visited as a convenient day tour from Cape Town and includes an expert led game drive.

When to visit: The Kruger is an all year round destination although game viewing is generally considered to be the best in the dry winter from May to September when waterholes are likely to be teeming with wildlife. The Eastern Cape, by comparison, on South Africa’s southern coast is most popular November to February at the height of summer.

Why: A varied safari experience including land and river game drive opportunities in Chobe National Park. The Okavango Delta offers a unique experience to explore floodplains and waterways.

When to visit: June to August is peak season as water levels are at their highest in the Okavango Delta. April to May offers good value as the rains fade and temperatures start to reduce.

Why: Understand Rwanda’s troubled past before embarking on one of the world’s most unique wildlife viewing experiences. Trekking to see endangered gorillas in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime journey completely worth the effort.   

When to visit: Avoid the rains and make your trekking slightly easier by going June to September or December to February. It makes a nice option for either a summer or winter holiday.

Why: Offering a different safari experience, Namibia’s desert landscape is otherworldly and offers world class attractions. Combine a safari in Etosha National Park with adventure activities

When to visit: April to October has little to no rainfall with pleasant temperatures. Animals gather around waterholes as rivers dry up.

Why: Exactly 50 years after launching their 'Project Tiger' conservation initiative, India is now officially home to 70% of the world's tigers. Easily combinable with other magnificent sights like the Taj Mahal, a tiger safari is a must add to your India itinerary.

When to visit: The best time to visit India varies by region. North India’s cool season is from October to April, and this is the best time to go if you want to try and see the elusive tiger at Ranthambore National Park.

Why: You may have been on safari elsewhere but never seen the elusive leopard. Yala NP in Sri Lanka has the highest density of leopards in the world so this can help you tick this beautiful animal off your list. Combine a safari here with a tour of Sri Lanka’s incredible cultural and historical experiences, and perhaps finish with a relaxing stay on the beach.

When to visit: Your best chance of spotting leopards is during the dry season from January to July. This combines well with a south coast beach stay as you’ll enjoy warm, dry weather.