Credit: Makanyane Safari Lodge
Kenya is more of a dedicated wildlife destination than South Africa. A far greater proportion of the country is given over to national parks and other wildlife reserves, and these tend to have a wilder and more untrammelled feel than their fenced-in South African counterparts and their asphalt-roads and village-like rest camps. Kenya would thus be the better destination for people seeking a safari-dominated wilderness itinerary. That said, Kenya’s safari circuit is far less suited to budget-conscious travellers, or to DIY self-drivers, than the likes of South Africa’s Kruger National Park or Pilanesberg.
South Africa offers a far lower risk of contracting malaria, bilharzia and other tropical diseases makes it a safer bet for families, first-time safari goers, and other health-conscious travellers (indeed, South Africa also the only country in Africa to boast several malaria-free safari destinations). South Africa is a far more family-friendly destination than Kenya. Both countries have a superb coastline, but South Africa’s beach resorts tend to be better developed for families and children, while the ancient ports of Kenya have a interesting cultural dimension provided by the Swahili people and some amazing ruins dating back to medieval times.
