We’ve done safaris in both Zimbabwe and South Africa—and while both offer incredible wildlife, they deliver very different experiences. If you’re wondering where to go for your next (or first!) safari, we’re breaking down the pros, cons, and surprises we discovered. Spoiler: Zimbabwe just might be Africa’s best-kept safari secret.
Get To Know The Traveling Taylors!
Wildlife: Who Comes Out on Top?
Both countries have the Big Five—lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard—but the experience varies.
🦁 South Africa:
- Higher likelihood of seeing the Big Five in one day (especially in Kruger)
- Fenced reserves and more controlled environments
- Easy access via paved roads and domestic flights
🐘 Zimbabwe:
- More natural, unfenced terrain
- Huge elephant populations (especially in Hwange and Mana Pools)
- Fewer vehicles crowding sightings
📸 Verdict: South Africa wins for guaranteed sightings, but Zimbabwe wins for wilderness vibes and fewer tourists. Whichever safari you choose, South Africa or Zimbabwe, if want high-quality photos and videos of the wildlife, a lightweight mirrorless camera like this one is a good choice to take.
Crowds: Zimbabwe Wins Hands Down
South Africa’s Kruger Park is iconic—but also busy. Expect traffic jams near animal sightings and tour buses in peak season. In Zimbabwe, many game drives feel like a private experience where you may not see another vehicle for hours. Local guides are among the most respected in Africa.
Safari Styles: What’s the Vibe?
🚙 South Africa:
- Mostly vehicle-based safaris (great for comfort)
- Luxury lodges with fine dining, spas, and pools
- Options for self-drive safaris – For travelers who want high-quality photos and videos during their trip, a lightweight mirrorless camera like this one is a popular choice among content creators and travel photographers.
🚶 Zimbabwe:
- Walking safaris in Mana Pools (bucket list!) – Comfortable shoes are essential when doing a walking safari, and many travelers recommend supportive walking sneakers like these for extra comfort.
- Canoe safaris on the Zambezi River
- Rustic, intimate lodges with serious charm
🔥 Unique to Zimbabwe: Tracking rhinos on foot in Matobo National Park.
Cost: Is Zimbabwe Safari More Affordable?
This one’s tricky. Both countries offer a range of options—from budget to luxury—but Zimbabwe often provides better value for fewer crowds.
| Category | South Africa | Zimbabwe |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Fees | Lower (especially Kruger) | Higher (Mana, Hwange) |
| Lodging | More variety | Fewer but more exclusive camps |
| Safari Packages | More mass-market | More tailored/private |
💬 Our Experience: We paid slightly more in Zimbabwe, but got deeper access and more personalized guiding.
Accessibility & Logistics
- South Africa: Easier for first-timers. Fly into Johannesburg, rent a car, drive to Kruger.
- Zimbabwe: Slightly more planning. Fly into Victoria Falls or Harare, then connect to parks.
✈️ Pro Tip: Combine a Zimbabwe safari with Victoria Falls—it’s just minutes away from Zambezi National Park. If you’re visiting multiple attractions throughout the day, attaching an Apple AirTag like this one to your bag or backpack can give you peace of mind in case something gets misplaced.
So… Is a Zimbabwe Safari Better Than South Africa?
If you’re looking for:
- Easy access
- A chance to see the Big Five in 48 hours
- High-end lodges with every amenity
👉 Go with South Africa.
But if you want:
- True wilderness without the crowds
- Deeper, slower, more meaningful wildlife encounters
- Walking and canoe safaris guided by legends
👉 Zimbabwe is 100% the better choice.
Zimbabwe Safari = Underrated and Unforgettable
South Africa may be the safari superstar, but Zimbabwe? It’s the soulful, less crowded, unexpectedly thrilling alternative. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning traveler, Zimbabwe’s parks, people, and wild heart will stick with you long after the game drive ends.
Planning your adventure? Check this out:
- Zimbabwe Safari Guide: Where to Go & What to Expect
- South Africa Safari: First-Timer’s Complete Guide
- South Africa vs. Zimbabwe: Which Should You Visit First?
- Zimbabwe v South Africa: Which Is Better for First-Time Visitors?
- Add Victoria Falls to your Zimbabwe safari with a Zambezi River sunset cruise like this one for a wildlife-filled end to the day.
