The reality is that many species of wildlife are becoming more endangered every year; there are less than 5500 black rhino in South Africa and just over 1000 mountain gorillas left in the world.

A safari is a truly soul-enriching experience, make sure you tick it off your bucket list before it’s too late. Here are some of the best places to see wonderful wildlife.

Best place to see the Big 5 – Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa

Lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and buffalo – catching a glimpse of these five iconic animals is sought after by tourists every year. The Greater Kruger National Park is a wildlife paradise where the Big 5 are able to thrive in their natural habitat.

There are many safari lodges in the famous Greater Kruger, but one of the most outstanding game lodges in South Africa that will give you an authentic, soul-enriching safari experience, is Pondoro Game Lodge.

Owing to its superior location in the Balule Nature Reserve in the Greater Kruger National Park, the award-winning lodge boasts private, luxury game drives for its guests – no more than eight people travel on the cruisers at a time.

Best place to see gorillas and monkeys – The Democratic Republic of Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo is the premier destination for you to see gorillas, monkeys and other primates in their natural habitat. the Virunga National Park offers the best viewing of mountain gorillas in Africa.

You’ll be accompanied by experienced rangers who will take you on a journey through dense jungle. There is no guarantee that you will see the primates, but the rangers will use their unmatched experience to find them, and once you set eyes on them, you’ll realise that the journey was worth it. Witnessing a giant silverback gorilla relaxing in a shady alcove and mischievous chimps swinging through the trees, are sights that will never be forgotten. Ensure that you have your camera ready to capture these wonderful moments.

Best place to see migrations – Kenya and Botswana

Maasai Mara National Reserve is a wildlife haven located in south-west Kenya. It’s considered to be Africa’s most diverse eco-system. The reserve is renowned for the legendary Great migration of wildebeest. From late July/early-August, millions of wildebeest begin their long trek through the southern Serengeti.

Did you know that zebra is the national animal of Botswana? The zebra migration is the longest mammal migration in Africa. Every year hundreds of thousands of zebras make a 500 km round-trip from the Chobe River and its surrounds to the Nxai Pan (part of the famous Makgadikgadi Pans).

Best place to see birds – Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South Africa

If you’re an avid bird watcher, the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a must-experience destination. You’ll be privy to over 300 different species of birds, however only 102 species are resident. The park is famous for its birds of prey, with 46 species having been recorded, including red-necked falcon,  Black-chested snake eagle, Martial eagle and bateleur.

November to April is the best time to visit the park to see resident birds and migrant species. Happy bird watching.