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Your first visit to Africa saw you barely scratching the surface of what this vast and varied continent has to offer. With 15 countries across East and Southern Africa to choose from, each with their own unique destinations, the possibilities of where to go and what to do on your second African safari is nearly endless.
If your last trip took you to East Africa, why not try Southern Africa this time around? Or if you're keen on revisiting the same country again, switch it up a bit and stop by a different region. Beyond visiting a new destination, there are a wealth of reasons as to why you should visit Africa again.
From hands-on experiences that aid heroic conservation efforts to discovering some of the continent's hidden gems that few ever experience, we look at the top reasons to revisit Africa.

Seeing the Big 5 in their natural habitat or witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration across the Serengeti or Masai Mara might have been what had you interested in African safaris the first time around. But the continent's diverse ecosystems are home to many more magical and unique wildlife behaviours and phenomena. Some of our favourite lesser-known yet spectacular animal encounters include:
Uganda's Queen Elizabeth National Park and Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania might not be the first destinations that come to mind for game viewing. But both these destinations have an advantage that no other wildlife destination has, tree-climbing lions. These big cats are not known for scaling heights, but the lions in these areas have learnt to climb to escape insects, scout for prey and enjoy a nap in peace.
Namibia is best known for its towering dunes and hauntingly beautiful vistas, but one thing that might surprise you is the elephants. Desert-adapted elephants are a little different to their bushveld-dwelling counterparts, as they've had to adapt to the harsh climate and arid surroundings. Elephants in Namibia have longer legs, leaner bodies, and larger feet to aid them in covering the long distances they need to cover to find food and water.
The mass annual migration across the Serengeti and Masai Mara might be the most famous of Africa's migratory events, but it's certainly not the only one. That crown belongs to Botswana's Zebra Migration, taking place twice a year across the Kalahari Desert. This mass exodus sees up to around 30,000 animals moving from north to south and back again in search of greener pastures and refreshed water sources.
Arguably the most wholesome animal encounter available in Africa, you won't want to pass up the chance to hang out with the coolest customers in the Kalahari. When visiting Botswana's Makgadikgadi, you can enjoy up-close, first-hand interactions with habituated meerkats – remember to fight the urge to take one home when they climb up your shoulder to scout their territory!

Land mammals aren't the only ones migrating around Africa. Between October and December each year, Zambia's Kasanka National Park plays host to an influx of 8 million straw-coloured fruit bats migrating from Congo. Known as the annual Kasanka bat migration, this is one of nature's best-kept secrets and is a real treat to see.
After seeking out desert-adapted wildlife in Namibia's desert, head down to the Cape Cross Seal Reserve on the country's coastline for a dose of wholesome cuteness. Between late October to early January, Cape Fur Seals put on a show worthy of a National Geographic episode. Bulls spend the breeding season fighting off other males to establish their territories and defend their harem, while females give birth to a single pup and nurse it for the next 10 months. Stroll along the extensive walkway, taking in the views of these adorable dogs of the sea as they go about their day.
Where your first visit to Africa might have been spent sighting the big stars on game drives, like big cats, elephants and giraffes, let your second trip be one where you notice the smaller details of nature. The lesser-visited island of Madagascar is home to a plethora of chameleon species, known for their ability to change colour for camouflage, communication and temperature regulation. And while you're here, be sure to say ‘hi' to the ring-tailed lemurs running around the jungle.
One of the most rare and elusive creatures on the planet is the dugong – a large, grey-brown bulbous marine animal characterised by its flattened fluked tails, paddle-like flippers, and distinctive head shapes. Often said to resemble a potato at certain angles, dugongs were once common throughout the waters of Africa's east coast and western Indian Ocean, but are now significantly rarer in the region, with less than 400 residing in Bazaruto National Park and the surrounding coastal area. On your return safari to Africa, head down to Mozambique and search for this hard-to-pin-down creature.

One of the most magical animal encounters you can experience in East Africa is a tradition that often goes overlooked. Between November and January each year, gigantic leatherback, hawksbill, loggerhead and green turtles leave the warmth of the Indian Ocean to create nesting sites in the sun-warmed sand along the coastlines of Tanzania, Kenya and nearby islands. And if you plan your trip just right, you might get to catch the miracle of life when these critically endangered sea turtles hatch and make their perilous journey across the sand into the ocean
When asked to imagine the size of a crab, most people think of ones no bigger than the palm of their hand. However, that's probably not the case for the Seychellois. Some Seychelles islands are home to coconut crabs, the world's largest land crabs. Visit this tropical paradise to see their unique foraging behaviours – where coconut crabs climb trees to cut down coconuts and use their massive, powerful claws to crack them open.
If your first trip to Tanzania comprised seeing the Great Migration in the Serengeti or sighting the Big 5 in the Ngorongoro Crater, let your second visit be one few others get to brag about. The east coast of Tanzania's Mafia Island offers the opportunity to encounter the world's largest yet gentlest shark species. If your luck is in, between November to March, you'll not only get to spot whale sharks, but you'll also get to swim alongside these majestic creatures.
Tanzania's northern circuit, comprising of safari heavy hitters like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, is the perfect introduction to East Africa. But if you're looking for a little more adventure the second time around, then Tanzania's southern circuit is the ideal destination. One spot that stands out is Rubondo Island, a pristine wilderness located on Lake Victoria. The lush rainforest is home to wild chimpanzees, and you can enjoy an immersive trek through the foliage in search of these playful primates. Chimp trekking is also the perfect activity for those who already experienced the rewarding moments of gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda.

A first safari in Africa usually consists of a visit to one or more of the continent's top destinations. Wildlife hotspots like Kruger, Okavango Delta, Serengeti, and the Masai Mara, as well as activity-rich areas like Victoria Falls, Cape Town and Zanzibar, are the perfect introduction to Africa for first-timers, as these destinations ease you into the safari experience.
On your second visit to the continent, you'll feel more comfortable, relaxed and assured to explore a little further than the last time. Africa is brimming with hidden gems and out-of-the-way marvels that are little known to the vast majority.
Whether you're seeking a safari away from the crowds, an off-the-beaten-path adventure, or to experience natural landscapes that few others have, here are our favourite best-kept secrets to visit on your return to Africa:
Tanzania's northern circuit is one of the most popular safari routes for first-time visitors to Africa. With big-name attractions like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, it's the ideal first safari experience. But once you've got the hang of the bushveld, it's time to expand your horizons and see what else Tanzania has to offer.
Comprising hidden gem destinations: Rubondo Island, Mahale Mountains National Park, Katavi National Park, Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park, the southern circuit offers an off-the-beaten-track experience filled with incredible views and wildlife sightings in remote, unspoilt regions.
Experience everything from boat safaris on the Rufiji River and fishing excursions in Nyerere to encountering East Africa's largest elephant population in Ruaha to chimp trekking on Rubondo to incredible hands-on conservation activities, like setting camera traps, at Usangu Expedition Camp. For the seasoned safari traveller seeking an authentic, exclusive safari adventure, these magical, uncrowded destinations are for you.
In a remote, unfrequented corner of southern Zimbabwe, Malilangwe Reserve is an undisturbed wildlife haven. The reserve's landscape is characterised by unique sandstone outcrops, mopane forests, baobab trees and ancient rock art sites (thought to be over 2,000 years old). Beyond the stunning natural scenery, the wildlife viewing in Malilangwe is exceptional, with black and white rhinos, elephants, wild dogs and white lions regularly spotted. Malilangwe is the place to be for an uninterrupted, luxury safari escape.
Rwanda and Uganda might be the favoured of all the gorilla trekking destinations, but Congo's Odzala-Kokoua National Park is a lesser-known treasure. Odzala-Kokoua is one of Africa's oldest national parks and lies in the heart of the Congo Basin. The pristine rainforest, only bested in size by the Amazon, is home to habituated western lowland gorillas, as well as a variety of popular African wildlife, including forest elephants, buffalo, antelope and chimpanzees. So, not only can you tick gorilla trekking off your bucket list, but you'll also enjoy a different kind of safari – swopping game drives in the bushveld for hikes through the jungle.
Namibia is a favourite destination for returning visitors. Offering something for every type of traveller, this desertscape is ideal for the wild at heart with an adventurous streak. After taking on the towering dunes of Sossusvlei (sand dune surfing) and spotting desert-adapted animals in Etosha, trade the conventional Namibian activities for something out of the ordinary.
Skeleton Coast is a seaside destination with a rich history. Dotted with shipwrecks and skeletal remains of marine creatures, Skeleton Coast is equal parts haunting and beautiful. Head further inland to the rugged environment of Damaraland. The dramatic, harsh geology of this region might not seem to offer much at first glance, but it is ripe for discovery. The mountainous landscape is breathtaking by day, while the night sky produces a spell-binding carpet of stars.
And in addition to great game viewing opportunities, you'll also enjoy a trip to Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's heralded as the world's greatest outdoor art gallery, comprising approximately 5,000 carvings and paintings by the region's original inhabitants.

If your only experience of Zambia so far has been a visit to Victoria Falls, then we urge you to explore this incredible country a little more on your second visit. Credited as the birthplace of the walking safari, South Luangwa stands as Zambia's premier wildlife destination. Wild, remote, and packed with big game, this lesser-known gem offers an authentic yet comfortable safari experience in a largely unexplored, off-the-beaten-track region. While here, you'll experience game viewing from a different perspective. Expert guides lead you on a walking safari, where the activity can range anywhere from a leisurely stroll spanning a few hours to several days, hiking from camp to camp. It is truly an unforgettable experience that immerses you in nature like never before.
Explore a frontier few get to experience in their lifetime: Antarctica. Start in the mesmerising city of Cape Town for an urban adventure that serves as an appetiser for the main dish. Depart the Mother City on an Airbus or Gulfstream private jet where you relax in absolute comfort and style for the entire 5-hour flight. Land on Wolf's Fang, the only exclusively operated private aircraft runway in Antarctica. From here, you'll enjoy a high-end luxury stay in one of White Desert's opulent camps, a comfortable base from which to explore the seventh continent.
Spend your days in Antarctica hobnobbing with Emperor Penguins and their chicks, exploring the Geographic South Pole (one of the most remote places on the planet), climbing up and abseiling down glaciers and wandering around ice caves, fat biking and kite-skiing on the icy surface, and visiting the research base, where you learn more about climate science and life on the continent.
The best part about travelling with White Desert is their commitment to environmental responsibility. The company's entire operation is offset through carbon-neutral programmes, and they have a minimal impact on the environment, using eco-friendly infrastructure and waste management.
Known as the ‘Lake of Stars', Lake Malawi is an oceanic tropical island lined with palm-fringed, sandy beach and sapphire water stretching on seemingly forever. The only catch? Lake Malawi is hundreds of kilometres away from the nearest coast!
This massive inland freshwater lake has all the offerings of a luxury island vacation, providing a stress-free beach holiday in a unique environment. Ideal for family getaways or romantic escapes, Lake Malawi is untouched by mass tourism – meaning, you'll have this slice of paradise virtually all to yourself.
Lemurs, rainforests and beaches – those are the hallmarks of a Madagascan getaway. This biodiversity hotspot has something for everyone. From spotting wildlife in the jungle and scenic hikes through the dense forest to snorkelling and diving along the coral reef and catching a tan on the powder-soft sand, Madagascar is the perfect destination for an uncrowded, breathtaking, and above all, unique return visit to Africa.

For the more adventurous traveller, the Kalahari is teeming with various wildlife, unique encounters and thrilling activities. Game drives through the Kalahari parks yield sightings of classic animals like zebra, giraffe, cheetahs, hyenas, wild dogs, and others. Experience the annual zebra migration and spend time with playful meerkats.
Ditch the 4×4 vehicle and spot wildlife on horseback. Get your kicks in with a hot-air balloon ride or quad biking on the salt pans. Or take it nice and slow with a sleepout under the stars and guided nature walks with San Bushmen. There's so much to do and see in this often-overlooked destination.
While the Masai Mara is undoubtedly Kenya's top safari destination, there is no denying the breathtaking beauty, unique wildlife and incredible cultural immersion of a Samburu holiday. If Kenya stole your heart the first time, Samburu will ensure you are willing to leave it behind on the next visit. The game viewing is phenomenal, the scenery is stunning, and the adventure activities and cultural interactions leave you wanting more of this fascinating destination. Guests can look forward to game drives through the diverse landscape in search of the ‘Samburu Special 5' (Grevy's zebra, the long-necked gerenuk, reticulated giraffe, besia oryx, and Somali ostrich), tracking big cats, bush breakfasts and camelback safaris, to name but a few.
After swinging by South Luangwa, keep your exploration of Zambia going with a visit to Lower Zambezi National Park. Found on the northern banks of the Zambezi River, this game-rich region promises first-class wildlife viewing on both land and water – which includes canoeing, sunset cruises, and boat safaris along the riverbank. And with Lower Zambezi being a relatively under-developed region, you'll enjoy a private experience away from the crowds.

Seeing the various wildlife may be what attracts visitors to Africa in the first place, but one thing that is almost guaranteed is the connection they'll form with the local people and wildlife. Many return travellers come back to the continent because of the strong bonds and fondness they formed with the locals. You'll arrive as a stranger but leave as part of a safari family.
A common sentiment shared by our clients after their first safari is how they would love to give back and support local communities and conservation efforts in Africa. Before setting foot on the continent, Africa was nothing more than an abstract concept influenced by articles on the internet. But when you're here, immersed in the untamed nature and embraced by the friendly locals, you can't help but want to do anything in your power to make sure that this magical place stands the test of time.
If that penchant to help is still lingering in your mind long after your safari, consider returning to Africa for a hands-on adventure that leaves a lasting impact. We have a range of conservation tours where you get to be an active participant in conserving wildlife, protecting natural environments, and supporting local communities. A second trip to Africa also gives you the chance to deepen your cultural immersion and engage more meaningfully with local traditions and people. Whether it be spear-throwing with the Maasai, camelback safaris with the Samburu, guided walks with the San Bushmen, or learning about the Himba's fascinating way of life, there are so many enriching moments to be had with Africa's local communities, traditions and cultures.

The vast majority of first-timers want to see as many animals as possible on their inaugural safari, the likes of which include the Big 5 and other iconic animals, such as giraffes, cheetahs and zebra. With that in mind, many trips to Africa are planned during a region's dry season, when vegetation thins out and water sources become scarce, making the wildlife easier to spot.
For a change of pace on your next visit, book a safari during your chosen destination's green season. Also known as the wet season, the green season is a period punctuated by rainy weather, which brings with it lush vegetation, abundant birdlife, and a run of baby animals, newly birthed and finding their feet. The green season offers a new perspective on wildlife behaviour and Africa's ecosystem and is a real treat to behold on your second safari.

Few holidays rival that of a safari. Game drives through the open plains, spotting your favourite animals in their natural habitat before stopping at a scenic spot to marvel at the African sunset with a chilled sundowner in hand. Nothing beats the feeling of being at one with nature. But now that you've got the magical experience of a safari under your belt, why not sample Africa's other adventures? Here are some of our favourites:
Affectionately known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “The Smoke that Thunders”, Victoria Falls is one of Africa's most popular attractions, and a firm favourite amongst travellers with an adventurous streak. The world's largest continuous sheet of falling water is not only a gorgeous sight to behold, but also a playground for adults. Experience the waterfall through a variety of activities, including microlight flights, bungee jumping, bridge swings, white water rafting, and canopy tours.
Swop rolling savannah plains for sky-scraping sand dunes on your next visit to Africa. Namibia and the Kalahari both offer great wildlife viewing opportunities, but if you're looking for something a little different this time around, these desert landscapes provide the ultimate playground for a spirited adventure. Get your blood pumping with a thrilling line-up of activities that includes scaling iconic dunes like Big Daddy and Dune 47 and then sandboarding your way back down, exploring the desert on horseback and quadbikes (ATVs), or inspecting the maritime relics of shipwrecks and skeletal remains that are scattered across the Skeleton Coast's shoreline.
And if the warm, golden sand doesn't tickle your fancy, the icy, white snow of Antarctica might be more suited to your taste. Scale glaciers, stopping to explore ice caves along the way before abseiling back down once you reach the summit. Meet the resident Emperor penguin broods who call the region home. And take on the slick, icy terrain with a fat bike, or glide across the surface while kite-skiing.
A lesser-known detail about Africa is its paradisical islands. Wildlife safaris dominate Africa's tourism industry but don't miss out on these eye-popping beachside escapes. The likes of Seychelles, Mauritius and Mozambique's Bazaruto Archipelago epitomise barefoot luxury at its finest. Temperate, balmy weather, crystal clear water, powder-white sand, and 5-star resorts are commonplace characteristics of these tropical islands. And for those who like to keep active on their vacations, there are endless land- and water-based activities on offer, from water sports, diving and snorkelling to scenic hikes and cultural visits to historic landmarks and towns.

You explored the untouched side of Africa, now it's time to venture into the more developed parts of the continent. Major cities like Cape Town, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Kampala and Kigali are vibrant hubs of culture, adventure, history, and modern conveniences that make for the perfect urban safari. Indulge in several exciting experiences, from sipping award-winning varietals in the Cape Winelands and bungee jumping off the iconic Soweto Towers to feeding giraffes and strolling through charming local markets.
One of the most profound, life-altering experiences you can have in Africa is hiking through the dense vegetation of lush rainforest in search of gorilla families inhabiting the region. Repeatedly, travellers spend time with these great apes, observing as they interact with their natural environment for hours, and return a different person. ‘Life-changing' and ‘transformative' are words consistently associated with gorilla trekking. If you didn't have the chance to experience this beautiful experience on previous visits, it's highly suggested that you add it to your next itinerary.
There's no better opportunity to turn your full focus on your mental and physical well-being than on a visit to Africa. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the modern-day rat race and are slowly losing touch with yourself, a wellness retreat in Africa is the ideal place to catch your breath, connect with nature and ground yourself back into your body and mind once more. Let the tranquil sounds of nature, soft calls of wildlife and calming beauty of the bushveld inspire a sense of refresh within you, so you can return home feeling happier, healthier and more relaxed.

A classic safari holiday in Africa is an unforgettable experience – feeling the wind whip past you on the back of a 4×4 vehicle, spotting a major sighting after tracking it down, pulling over to a quiet, scenic spot for a bush breakfast or sundowner, all vivid memories that will stay with you.
But traditional safaris aren't the only way to encounter wildlife and explore the untamed wilderness in Africa. This magical continent is home to a smorgasbord of alternative safari adventures to traditional game viewing. Here are our top picks:
See Africa's wildlife from a new perspective (literally!). Hot-air balloon safaris are widely available throughout Southern and East Africa, providing a bird's-eye view of the landscape below. Take to the sky and gain a different point of view on Africa's best drawcards, from phenomena like the Great Wildebeest Migration to breathtaking views of the most beautiful sights, including the likes of Mount Kilimanjaro and the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei.
Your first safari experience might have yielded an abundance of major wildlife sightings, so turn your sights to the ocean on your second visit. South Africa's Whale Coast sees an influx of visitors from all over the world between August and October each year wanting to catch a glimpse of the migrating southern right whales.
The charming seaside town of Hermanus is the most popular destination for both land- and water-based whale watching. Other than seeing these giants of the sea up close, a holiday on the Whale Coast also offers incredible views, pristine beaches, scenic mountain hikes, delectable food and wine, and cute country-style accommodation.
Ditch the modern mode of transportation for old reliable – horse riding. Led by an expert guide, you'll trot along the savannah in search of animals a little less tamed than the one carrying you. Available in Botswana's Okavango Delta and Makgadikgadi Pans, as well as the Masai Mara, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, this is one game drive you won't forget in a hurry!
It wouldn't be a surprise if the thought of a camel roaming the wilds of African savannah never crossed your mind, especially as these animals are best suited to arid regions like the deserts of Egypt and Morrocco. But when visiting Kenya's Laikipia and Samburu regions, a camelback safari is on the cards.
Africa's paradisical islands not only provide the perfect beachside escape, but they also offer world-class diving and snorkelling in some of the world's most beautiful coral reefs. From the KwaZulu-Natal coastline in South Africa to the shores of Mozambique, Seychelles and Mauritius, the colourful coral reefs of Africa deliver an unmatched diving safari.

Conquer Africa's highest peak and be rewarded with the most spectacular views of Tanzania below. Scaling Mount Kilimanjaro is by no means an easy feat, but it is a gratifying one. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is on many a bucket list, and few attempt this mammoth undertaking on their very first visit to Africa, but your second or third visit could be the moment you leave your mark at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Africa's floodplains and glistening rivers are teeming with wildlife, from water dwellers like crocodiles and hippos to a variety of animals dropping by to quench their thirst. The winding waterways of safari destinations like the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Lower Zambezi and Lake Tanganyika are just a few examples of where you can enjoy a water-based safari. From river cruises and houseboats to kayaking and mokoros (traditional dugout canoes), gain a fresh perspective on game viewing in Africa's top safari destinations.
Have you ever spent a night out in the African wilderness, with nothing separating you from the canopy of stars above? Where the soothing sounds of nature lull you to sleep, and you wake up truly at one with the wildlife and ecosystem? If you've not yet experienced the magic of a sleepout in Africa, it's time to rectify this huge injustice. On your next safari trip, consider booking a fly camping experience, where you spend a night in the wild with nothing but the essentials. Or for those who prefer a little more comfort, Africa's top safari destinations offer charming star beds and romantic treehouses that offer the same experience.

Step back in time to the golden age of leisure travel with Rovos Rail's safari train journeys across Africa. Restored wood-panelled coaches house old-world luxury adorned with Edwardian-style décor, maintaining the glamourous essence of a bygone era. Explore the continent with bespoke safari itineraries that last anywhere from 48 hours to 16 days, winding through some of Africa's most beautiful destinations. But you won't need to look from afar as a variety of off-train excursions afford you ample time to enjoy all that each stop has to offer.
It doesn't matter if you were born with a camera in your hand or picked up one for the first time yesterday, photographic safaris are the perfect opportunity for all levels to hone their skills. Led by guides well-versed in both the natural environment as well as the best angles to capture breathtaking shots of wildlife, you can document your next African safari in a series of immaculate photographs.
Odds are, you relied heavily on transfers and short-haul flights to get from one destination to the next on your first safari. Now that you're familiar with Africa, it's time to take your greatest adventure into your own hands with a self-drive journey. Places like South Africa's stunning Garden Route and the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of Namibia are just two examples of incredible regions that offer the infrastructure needed for you to revel in a safari itinerary where you dictate every single aspect.

When–not if–you decide to return to Africa, opt to use your trusted travel agent from before. Unless you had an awful experience, there are lots of benefits to using the same agent:
If the above reasons reignited the desire to travel to Africa you felt before booking your first trip, it might be time to start thinking about your next safari escape. Get in touch with our Africa Safari Experts and begin planning your grand return to Africa – she misses you!