Safari holidays have always been high on many people’s bucket lists but recently Google searches for “safari holidays” has seen an enormous 6,800% uplift in the last month alone, showing that many are looking to make their dream a reality. As one in four Brits admit to having an interest in the holiday habits of the rich and famous, celebrities that have gone on safari and documented their trip online are inspiring many to follow suit.
The travel and safari experts from Go2Africa reveal the safari destinations that A-Listers have visited and loved and offer advice on how you can recreate their trip.
South Africa
South Africa is described as a “whole world in one country” and this is absolutely the truth! From prime Big 5 spotting to vast vineyards and stunning 1,550 miles of coastline, South Africa is the perfect destination for those who seek adventure and a new sight every day.
South Africa is a particularly romantic spot for those looking to celebrate their honeymoon, as proven by Hilary Duff and her husband Matthew Koma back in December 2019. The pair spent their honeymoon across South Africa and Mozambique, choosing to safari in Kruger National Park, where they took part in a night-time safari drive and could view elephants from their villa.
Tanzania
Tanzania is a great choice for safaris as it promises year-round viewing, meaning any time you go you can guarantee spotting wildlife. In fact, few destinations in Africa can rival Tanzania as its wildlife and landscapes are so diverse, boasting dry deserts, luscious rainforests, and even tropical islands.
Tanzania was also the backdrop of possibly the most romantic date between George and Amal Clooney (then Alamuddin) as the pair whisked off to Tanzania for a safari getaway. This was allegedly the couple’s first trip together and Africa clearly made a connection with them as they later returned to the continent. This time the couple celebrated their honeymoon in the beautiful Seychelles, which is just off the east coast of Africa.
Kenya
It is said that Kenya is the country where safari travel originated, with the best safaris and tours offering Big 5 viewing, breath-taking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and mouth-watering cuisine that is a huge part of Swahili culture. Kenya’s unforgettable and breathtaking views was the backdrop of one of the biggest proposals in British Royal Family history, as this is where Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton back in October 2010!
From actual royalty to fashion royalty, Naomi Campbell has said on multiple occasions that she loves Kenya and has done numerous photoshoots on location there. In fact, she’s so in love with the country that she has her own luxurious villa in Malindi which she says is a total sanctuary for her and her young child.
Zambia
Zambia provides the perfect combination of wild and raw beauty alongside luxurious lodges that offer incredible wildlife and bird spotting opportunities. Zambia is particularly advisable for those who are looking for a more peaceful safari, as Zambia doesn’t tend to attract the large crowds that better-known areas in Africa would attract. Consider Zambia Africa’s best-kept secret.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visited back in 2017, to celebrate Meghan’s 36th birthday, as part of a big trip to Africa, where the pair also visited Botswana. Harry has also been reported saying that he has a “love of Africa that will never disappear” and he hopes it carries on with his children too.
Uganda
Landlocked Uganda boasts a 90% success rate in finding gorilla family groups in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, making gorilla trekking one of its most popular wildlife experiences. However, there’s more to Uganda than just gorillas, as it is also home to over 320 bird species, elephants and chimpanzees.
Somewhat of a rising star when it comes to African safari destinations, Kim Kardashian and Kanye West took their eldest daughter, North, on a safari back in 2018, while Kanye was recording his album. The family stayed in a luxurious safari lodge with a view of elephants and hippos grazing and lounging.
