If 2025 showed us anything, it’s that travelers are no longer just booking safaris, they are looking for experiences that feel personal, immersive, and meaningful. Many of the destinations our travelers loved most last year are now shaping how people are planning their trips for 2026.

Building on our recap of Destinations Our Travelers Loved in 2025, here are the safari trips already emerging as favorites for 2026. These itineraries combine our most-booked parks, traveler feedback, experiences that consistently deliver unforgettable moments as well as recommendations from our local experts.

🇰🇪 1. Kenya: Amboseli, Tsavo West, Tsavo East & Diani Beach (5–10 Days)

A perfect blend of classic safari and coastal relaxation, without the crowds.

Why it’s trending

• Iconic elephant encounters in Amboseli

• Immersive lodge stays like Salt Licks in Tsavo West

• Diverse landscapes across both Tsavo parks

• Avoiding expensive and crowded Masai Mara

• Finishing on Kenya’s best beach

Signature experiences

• Sunrise game drives with Kilimanjaro views

• Wildlife viewing directly from Salt Licks Safari Lodge

• Exploring the vast plains of Tsavo East

• White-sand beaches and dhow cruises in Diani

Best for: Couples, families, first-time safari travelers

🇰🇪 2. Kenya: Samburu, Ol Pejeta, Nakuru & Masai Mara (8–11 Days)

A wildlife-rich journey through Kenya’s most diverse ecosystems.

Why it’s trending

• Rare northern species in Samburu

• Rhino conservation at Ol Pejeta

• Flamingos and lakeside scenery in Nakuru

• Big cat action in the Masai Mara

Signature experiences

• Spotting Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe

• Experiencing Kenya’s diverse nature by moving across the rift valley

• Lake Nakuru game drives

• Hot air balloon safaris in the Mara

Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, repeat safari guests

🇹🇿 3. Tanzania: Tarangire, Ngorongoro & Serengeti (5–8 Days)

Tanzania’s most loved safari circuit remains a top choice.

Why it’s trending

• Elephant herds and baobabs in Tarangire

• Unmatched wildlife density in Ngorongoro

• Migration-focused drives in the Serengeti

Signature experiences

• Baobab sundowners

• Crater floor picnic lunches

• Hot air balloon safaris over the Serengeti

Best for: First-time Tanzania travelers, families, couples

🇧🇼 4. Botswana & Victoria Falls: Okavango, Moremi, Chobe & Vic Falls (8–12 Days)

A high-end safari combining water, wildlife, and one of Africa’s greatest natural wonders. Best experienced during the wet season.

Why it’s trending

• Mokoro safaris in the Okavango Delta

• Predator-rich game viewing in Moremi

• Massive elephant herds in Chobe

• Iconic Victoria Falls experience

Signature experiences

• Canoeing through flooded channels

• Sunset cruises on the Chobe River

• Helicopter flights over Victoria Falls

Best for: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, adventure seekers

🇺🇬 5. Uganda: Kibale, Queen Elizabeth & Bwindi (8–10 Days)

The gorilla seekers’ itinerary: A journey that combines primates, classic safari, and mountain forests.

Why it’s trending

• Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale

• Tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth

• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi

Signature experiences

• Guided forest walks

• Boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel

• Once-in-a-lifetime gorilla encounters

Best for: Adventurous travelers, wildlife lovers, photographers

Planning Ahead for 2026

These itineraries reflect what today’s travelers value most: authentic experiences, thoughtful pacing, and unforgettable moments.

Peak travel dates are filling earlier every year, especially for migration season, gorilla permits, and festive periods. 

✨ Which itinerary is making it to your 2026 travel plans?

Ready to design your 2026 safari? Start planning!