East Africa is home to some of the world’s most iconic safari destinations. From endless savannah plains and volcanic craters to lush forests and shimmering lakes, this region is a true wildlife paradise. Whether you’re dreaming of seeing the Big Five, following the Great Wildebeest Migration, or experiencing rich cultural traditions, East Africa’s parks have something for everyone.

Here are the top national parks and game reserves you should consider when planning your safari.

  1. Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)
    The Masai Mara is Kenya’s crown jewel and one of the best safari destinations in the world. It’s famous for its incredible wildlife density, with lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and countless other species roaming freely. From July to October, it hosts the Great Wildebeest Migration, when over a million wildebeest and zebra cross the Mara River in dramatic scenes of survival.

    • Best for: Big cats, the Great Migration, and breathtaking photography.
  2. Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)
    The Serengeti is legendary for its endless golden plains and year-round game viewing. It is home to one of the largest lion populations in the world and is the stage for the Great Migration, which can be experienced in different regions of the park throughout the year. The Serengeti offers both action-packed predator sightings and peaceful wilderness.

    • Best for: Following the Great Migration, wide-open wilderness, and authentic safari vibes.
  3. Amboseli National Park (Kenya)
    Amboseli is often called the “Land of Giants” because of its huge elephant herds. What makes this park unique is its backdrop — the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, creating picture-perfect safari moments. With its wetlands, savannahs, and acacia woodlands, Amboseli offers diverse habitats and excellent game viewing.

    • Best for: Elephant photography with Kilimanjaro in the background.
  4. Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania)
    The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most unique safari locations in Africa. This ancient volcanic caldera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, often described as the “Garden of Eden.” Its floor is packed with wildlife, including lions, buffalo, hippos, and flamingos. It’s one of the best places to spot the endangered black rhino.

    • Best for: High concentration of wildlife in a compact area, black rhino sightings.
  5. Lake Nakuru National Park (Kenya)
    Lake Nakuru is world-famous for its flamingos, which paint the lake’s surface pink in spectacular fashion. It’s also a prime location for rhino conservation, with both black and white rhinos protected in the park. The surrounding acacia forests and escarpments make it a picturesque safari stop.

    • Best for: Bird lovers and rhino sightings.
  6. Tarangire National Park (Tanzania)
    Often overlooked, Tarangire is a hidden gem known for its massive elephant herds, towering baobab trees, and seasonal migration of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles. During the dry season, animals flock to the Tarangire River, making it one of the most rewarding parks for game viewing.

    • Best for: Elephant herds, birdwatching, and fewer tourist crowds.
  7. Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda)
    Uganda’s most visited park, Queen Elizabeth, combines savannahs, lakes, and forests with stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains. It’s famous for tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector and boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel, where hippos, buffalo, and elephants gather in huge numbers.

    • Best for: Tree-climbing lions and boat safaris.
  8. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda)
    This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to almost half of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas. Trekking through Bwindi’s dense rainforest to observe gorillas in their natural habitat is one of the most life-changing wildlife experiences in Africa.

    • Best for: Gorilla trekking and rainforest adventures.
  9. Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park, Tanzania)
    As one of Africa’s largest protected areas, Selous (now Nyerere NP) offers a wild, untouched safari experience far from the crowds. Its landscapes range from rivers and lakes to open plains, and it’s one of the best places for boat safaris alongside traditional game drives.

    • Best for: Off-the-beaten-path safaris and boat trips.

Final Thoughts;
East Africa is a safari wonderland, and the “best” park depends on what you’re looking for:

  • Masai Mara & Serengeti for the Great Migration.
  • Ngorongoro & Lake Nakuru for compact wildlife viewing.
  • Amboseli & Tarangire for elephants and landscapes.
  • Bwindi & Queen Elizabeth for primates and unique wildlife.
  • Selous for remote wilderness.