African Safaris » Africa Game Reserves

There is nothing quite like the drama of wildlife, and the game parks and reserves of East Africa provide the best and biggest stage from which to watch. A herd of elephants trudging across a grassy plain, hippos happily wallowing in a mud pool, vultures riding the air currents over a group of grazing gazelles all area part of the animal kingdom’s daily routine. East Africa’s game parks give a fascinating glimpse of animal life in a series of pristine habitats. This can’t-miss combination of birds, animals and scenery brings thousands of visitors each year to some of the most famous reserves in the world.

Kenya and Tanzania are at the heart of the safari experience, and the vast majority of safari goers will be heading for destinations within these two countries. They possess the tourist infrastructure, the facilities and the variety of wildlife to pamper those who like to temper their adventure with the trappings of luxury, although arrangements can also be made for anyone who prefers to rough it out in the less-explored regions.

Political and economic uncertainties in recent years, coupled with the problems of poaching, have complicated the wildlife picture in Uganda and Ethiopia. However, their respective governments recognise the value of tourism and have embarked on recovery programmes to protect the game parks there.

The tiny nation of Rwanda is best known for its population of mountain gorillas, whose habitat extends across the border to eastern Zaire. Neighbouring Burundi is only mentioned in passing in this guide as its wildlife has, sadly, been almost completely poached out of existence. The struggle for conservation continues in each of the other countries.

Despite these inherent problems, East African game parks well deserve their reputation as destinations that exceed expectations. This section discusses all the major game parks in East Africa, and some of the lesser ones as well. Whether it’s a day trip to a nearby reserve or an extended journey through the bush, a visit to the land that spawned the word safari is one that few are likely to forget.