Best safaris for a first safari

The best safari destinations for a first safari in Africa and the Gulf, with reasons and the best time for each.

Africa

1. Masai Mara Kenya · June to October

   With the Big Five present, it delivers a classic first safari.

2. Merzouga Morocco · January to March

   1–2 days are enough for a good experience.

3. Ngorongoro Tanzania · January to February and June to September

   With the Big Five present, it delivers a classic first safari.

4. Pilanesberg South Africa · July to September

   With the Big Five present, it delivers a classic first safari.

5. Victoria Falls Zimbabwe · May to October

   2–3 days are enough for a good experience.

6. Kruger South Africa · July to September

   With the Big Five present, it delivers a classic first safari.

7. Ol Pejeta Kenya · June to October and December to March

   With the Big Five present, it delivers a classic first safari.

8. Serengeti Tanzania · January to February and June to September

   With the Big Five present, it delivers a classic first safari.

9. Etosha Namibia · August to October

   3–4 days are enough for a good experience.

10. Okavango Delta Botswana · July to October

    3–5 days are enough for a good experience.

The Gulf

1. Dubai Desert United Arab Emirates · December to February

   1–2 days are enough for a good experience.

2. Sharqiya Sands Oman · December to February

   1–2 days are enough for a good experience.

3. Sir Bani Yas Island United Arab Emirates · December to February

   2–3 days are enough for a good experience.

4. AlUla Saudi Arabia · November to March

   3–4 days are enough for a good experience.

5. Ras Al Jinz Oman · June to September

   1–1 days are enough for a good experience.

6. Ras Al Khaimah Desert United Arab Emirates · December to February

   1–2 days are enough for a good experience.

7. Khor Al Adaid Qatar · November to February

   1–2 days are enough for a good experience.

8. Liwa United Arab Emirates · December to February

   1–2 days are enough for a good experience.

9. Hatta United Arab Emirates · December to February

   1–2 days are enough for a good experience.

10. Mleiha United Arab Emirates · December to February

    1–2 days are enough for a good experience.