Last Updated on January 31, 2026 by African Travel Hub Editorial

You’re in Canada. You’ve been wanting to go an African safari vacation? Good news, we have for you. Getting to Africa for a safari from Canada is so much easier than you might have thought. Did you know that Air Canada flies direct from Montreal to Cairo? and via Europe or the Middle East to nearly every part of  Africa.

So, even though there are no direct flights to most of  Africa from Canada, that should not discourage you. The majority of Canadian flights to Africa run via the USA or Europe and connections are good through major hubs like Doha in the middle East or Cairo and Addis Abba.

Africa is 6-8 hours behind Eastern Time, so jet lag is manageable compared to Asia or Australia. The flight times are similar to Europe but the experiences are unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

This guide lists and ranks the best African safari destinations for Canadians based on accessibility, wildlife experience & value for money.

What Are The Top 10 Africa Safari Destinations for Canadian Visitors?

 SafariBookings’ 2025 rankings survey placed Botswana at the very top, as Africa’s best safari destination. Botswana had a core of 4.63 out of 5. It was followed by Tanzania and Kenya. The rankings reflected opinions of first-and second-time safari-goers as well as industry veterans with decades of experience in the African safari trade – mostly guidebook writers for Lonely Planet, Bradt Guides, Rough Guides and Frommer’s.

Lets begin!

1. Botswana – Africa’s Premier Wilderness Experience

Located in the southern part of Africa, Botswana was ranked number one in Africa’s Best Safari Country in 2025, with a 4.63 out of 5 rating for Big Five viewing, Africa’s largest elephant population, and boat and walking safaris.

“Botswana is # 1 on our African safari bucket list, with its mix of landscapes from the Okavango Delta to the Kalahari Desert, “said Fodors.

Botswana is Africa’s most exclusive safari destination due to its low impact/high revenue tourism policy which caps visitor numbers. Imagine it as the Banff of Africa – pristine, protected and absolutely beautiful. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okavango Delta floods annually for a water-based safari experience.

The Okavango Delta remains Botswana’s crown jewel – a mosaic of channels and islands that floods every year and draws elephants, hippos and other bird-life. Chobe National Park has one of Africa’s largest elephant populations – imagine seeing 100 + elephants in an afternoon along the Chobe River during dry season – thousands gather there!

Which Category of Canadian Visitors would enjoy Botswana Safaris?

* Luxury seekers: Lodges at the high end with exceptional service and intimate settings
* Honeymooners: Romantic exclusive wilderness experiences (great for an anniversary too!)
* Photographers: Unique water perspectives & wildlife concentrations.
* Experienced safari-goers: You want wild places away from the crowds.
* Conservation-minded travelers: Commitment to sustainable tourism

How Does one fly from Canada to Botswana?

Air Canada does not fly direct to Botswana from Canada, but connections via Johannesburg are easy.

Option 1. Via Johannesburg (Recommended Route): Fly Air Canada or partner airlines from Toronto/Montreal to Johannesburg via European or Middle Eastern hub (20-24 hours total to Johannesburg)

Option 2. Fly to Maun for Okavango Delta or Kasane for Chobe on South African Airways or Air Botswana (1.5-2 hours) Most Botswana safari camps can be accessed by small charter aircraft from Maun or Kasane. These flights impose a 15-20 kg soft sided luggage limit – pack light.

Approximate Travel Time to Botswana from Canada: 24-28 hours

2. Tanzania Safaris for Canadians: Home of the Migration

In terms of wildlife parks, Tanzania is currently (2026)  ranked the best place to go Safari in East Africa. It is therefore a good destination for travelers from Canada. In fact, safari travelers everywhere love Tanzania and ranked it Africa’s second-best place to go on safari for the third year running.  See our customizable Tanzania safari itineraries here

Tanzania, as a safari destination is called the home of the Great Migration for a reason. More than two million wildebeest and zebras migrate in a circular fashion after rain in the Serengeti – the ultimate African safari experience. It really is nature at its most dramatic show on Earth – as dramatic as any sporting event you have ever watched but real and unpredictable.

That magic is centered on the largest intact volcanic caldera in the world – the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO site. It has more than 25,000 large animals spread across its roughly 100-square-mile floor – making it one of the best places to see the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos).

Who are the Target Canadian Travelers for Tanzania as a destination?

* First-time safari-goers: Classic African landscapes with wildlife guarantees.
* Wildlife photographers: Unparalleled action and photographic opportunities.
* Migration enthusiasts: Best place to see Great Migration spectacle.
* Honeymooners: Luxurious camps in idyllic settings.
* Beach lovers: Combining it all with Zanzibar’s pristine beaches

How Do Canadian Visitors Reach Tanzania by air?

Whereas there are no direct flights to East Africa from Canada, Canada travelers can fly into East Africa from the USA or Europe.

Below are the best Routes:

Via Europe (most Popular for Canadians):
1. Air Canada from Toronto or Montreal to Amsterdam, London or Frankfurt (7- hours) 2. KLM, British Airways or Lufthansa to Kilimanjaro or Dar es Salaam (8- hours) Total trip: About 22-26 hours including connections & layovers Via Middle East:

2. Air Canada partner airlines from Canadian cities to Dubai or Doha (13-14 hours) – Emirates or Qatar Airways from Dubai/Doha to Kilimanjaro or Dar es Salaam (6-7 hours) Total journey:: 24-26 hours Via Addis Ababa: One-stop service from Toronto to Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines serves most African destinations including connecting to Tanzania.

Pro Tip: Book with Air Canada Star Alliance partners (Lufthansa, Ethiopian Airlines or SWISS) to earn more Aeroplan points.

3. Kenya – Classic Safaris with Coastal Extensions

The 3rd best safari destination for Canadian visitors to Africa is Kenya. This destination ranked third in Africa’s Best Safari Countries for 2025. Kenya is where the African safari began and has more safari opportunities than many other safari countries. Sample Kenya safari itineraries.

The country contains more than 20 national parks and almost 30 national reserves along with many community-run conservancies that provide vital wildlife corridors where lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards and giraffes live alongside more than 1,100 bird species.

The Masai Mara has dramatic river crossings during Great Migration season (July-October) and year-round good viewing of lions, cheetahs and leopards. Its vast elephant herds and unbeatable backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro make Amboseli National Park your equivalent of the Canadian Rockies but with elephants instead of elk!

Who would be Canada’s Target Travelers for Kenya Safaris?

* First-timers: Excellent infrastructure & good wildlife viewing.
* Families: Various accommodation and activity options.
* Photographers: Iconic African scenery with good light.
* Budget-conscious travelers: Option at every price point.
* Beach combiners: Pair safaris with Indian Ocean coast relaxation.

How Does one Travel to Kenya from Canada?

Again, there are no airlines that fly directly between Canada and Kenya. To get to this destination from Canada, the best option is to fly to New York and connect the Kenya Airways direct flight to Nairobi.

The next best alternative is to fly to London or Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris or another major city and then connect with Lufthansa, KLM, Brussels Airways etc.

Canadian-Friendly Tip: The tourism infrastructure in Kenya rivals that of Canada in terms of proficiency and familiar service standards.

4. Zambia Safaris for Canadians – Authentic Bush Experiences

This is the 4^th suggestion for Canadian citizens looking for Africa safaris. Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park is a popular destination for Walking Safaris. The country has plenty of giraffes and leopards – and visitors must be really unlucky to come to Zambia on safari not to be able see some of these big cats.

This Southern African country offers more wilderness and fewer tourists than its neighbors – think of it as Africa’s Yukon – wild and unspoiled.

Walking safaris in South Luangwa let you follow animals on foot with a local expert while learning to read tracks and animal behavior. It also hosts excellent night drives when leopards hunt and other nocturnal animals appear.

Who is the Target Canadian Travelers for Zambia Safaris?

* Experienced safari lovers: Seeking authenticity and intimacy
* Walking safari enthusiasts: Best place to experience Africa on foot.
* Photographers: Excellent leopard viewing & unique perspectives
* Adventurers: Canoeing & remote wilderness experiences (for outdoorsy Canadians!)
* Value seekers: The cost is generally lower than Botswana but of similar quality

How Do You  to Get Zambia from Canada?

Flights to Zambia from Canada are available from major Canadian international airports (Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal), but all require connections.

Book Air Canada or partner airlines from Toronto/Montreal to Johannesburg via European hub (20-24 hours). Once in South Africa, connect South African Airways to Livingstone or Lusaka

The main entry points are Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka, Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone, and Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport (NLA) in Ndola.

5. South Africa – Canada’s Gateway to African safaris

This is another beautiful safari destination for Canadians. South Africa is rated fifth out of 10 Safari Countries in Africa and is known for Big Five viewing. There is plenty of leopard and rhino sightings, self-drive Safaris and luxury private reserves.

For Canadians, South Africa is the most accessible African safari destination. World class game viewing coupled with good infrastructure, malaria free and a diversity beyond wildlife make this country an ideal destination. Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest reserves – available for self-drive safaris or luxury guided experiences.

Some of the best leopard viewing is in the private reserves bordering Kruger – particularly Sabi Sand. Imagine watching a leopard drag its kill up a tree while the African sun sets behind you – these are safari dreams fulfilled.

Few safari destinations have malaria-free game reserves, so South Africa is a favourite with families, first-time safari-goers and seniors. Best malaria-free options include Addo Elephant National Park and nearby private Game reserves in the Eastern Cape, and Madikwe game Reserve.

Which Canadian Tourist does South Africa Target?

* First-timers: Good infrastructure makes South Africa the easiest introduction to African safaris.
* Families: * Self-drivers: malaria free reserves and good medical facilities * Self-drivers: Good roads and an English-speaking population (no need for a translator!)
* Luxury seekers: World class lodges at attractive exchange rates.
* Multi-interest travelers: Combine safari with wine tasting, city tours or coastal drives * Value seekers: Here the Canadian dollar goes further than in many safari destinations

How Does a Tourist get to South Africa from Canada?

No direct flights from Canada to South Africa exist – all flights go via Europe or the USA. However, connections via Europe are straightforward and convenient to South Africa.

Via Europe (Most Popular): Airlines Air Canada flies from Toronto and Montreal to several European hubs with connections to South Africa:

Via London: From London Heathrow: Air Canada to Johannesburg or Cape Town (approximately 20-22 hours)

Via Frankfurt: Air Canada to Frankfurt

Via Amsterdam: Connections through Amsterdam via KLM or via Johannesburg or Cape Town

Via Middle East:

Alternatively: Qatar Airways from Toronto, Montreal or Vancouver Via Doha to Johannesburg (approximately 22-24 hours)

Via Dubai: Emirates from Toronto or Montreal to Johannesburg or Cape Town via Dubai Best Aeroplan points. Toronto to Zurich to Nairobi with Air Canada and SWISS with Aeroplan points makes an African safari possible.

Check out some of Customizable Africa Trip Packages

1. 10 Days Uganda Gorillas and Kenya Big 5 Safari

2. 12 Days East Africa Safari – Uganda Gorillas, Kenya and Tanzania Big 5

3.  12 Days Masai Mara and Seychelles – ideal for honeymoon

4. 12 Days Egypt and Africa – Pyramids – Nile Cruise – Masai Mara and Serengeti

5.  14 Days Victoria Falls – Chobe – Masai Mara and Serengeti

6.  16 Victoria Falls, Masai Mara, Serengeti and Rwanda Gorillas

6. Zimbabwe Safaris for Canadians  – Expert Guiding & Vic Falls

Canadians can also visit Zimbabwe. It is 6th out of 10 Best Safari Countries in Africa. The destination is home to the mighty Victoria Falls. You also enjoy river cruises, walking and canoe safaris, Big Five (rare rhino sightings) and African wild dog.     Here is a multi-destination itinerary with Vic Falls.

World class guiding and great value are reviving a safari in Zimbabwe. Hwange National park has more elephants than Botswana’s Chobe, and huge herds gather at artificial waterholes in dry season. The park supports good predator populations including endangered African wild dogs.

One of Africa’s most unusual experiences – walking around unrestricted while tracking game on foot – Mana Pools. The standing of elephants on hind legs to reach seed pods is a Mana Pools specialty. And Victoria Falls? It is like Niagara Falls on steroids!

Which Canadian Visitors are targeted by Zimbabwe?

* Experienced safari-goers: Enjoy professional guiding and wilderness excursions.
* Photographers: Excellent elephants & wild dogs!
* Adventure travelers: Walking and canoeing safaris
* Victoria Falls enthusiasts: Combining wildlife with world wonder

How to Get To Zimbabwe from Canada:

Find your way into the Us. Then get to Zimbabwe via Johannesburg, South Africa.

This is how
Air Canada or partners from Toronto/Montreal to Johannesburg (20-24 hours)
From Johannesburg, connect South African Airways or British Airways to Victoria Falls or Harare (1.5-2 hours)

7. Canadian Tourists to Uganda – Gorillas and Big Five Combined

Uganda comes seventh on Africa’s Top 10 Safari Countries with a 4.34 out of 5 rating.

Uganda – also known as the Pearl of Africa, is a relatively undiscovered wildlife destination with great gorilla, chimpanzee and other primate sightings. Its location between East African savannah and Central African jungle provides a diversity of landscapes and ecosystems. The country also offers the famous Big Five, boat safaris and Africa’s best birding.  Look at this customizable East Africa Safari that includes gorilla trekking and the big 5.

Imagine sitting with a family of mountain gorillas amongst the dense forest canopy of Bwindi – imagine being meters away from these gentle giants in their daily lives. This is like nothing you’ve done outside in Canada before.

Which type of Canadians would visit Uganda?

* Primate enthusiasts: Best gorilla and chimpanzee experiences.
* Wildlife photographers: Unique primate opportunities
* Eco-conscious travelers: Strong conservation focus

How does one Get to Uganda from Canada?

If you can find your way into the US – New York, you can then connect the Kenya Airways direct flight to Nairobi. Then connect to Entebbe.

Alternatives:
Air Canada to European hub & connections via Middle East to Entebbe

8. Namibia – desert landscapes & Unique Wildlife

Namibia is another great safari destination for Canada citizens. On the safari list, it ranks eighth among Africa’s Top 10 Safari Countries with a 4.32 out of 5 rating with vast Desert Landscapes, wild coastal scenery and the Big Five in Etosha and the northeast.

This destination is very different from traditional safari destinations – arid desert beauty where wildlife has adapted to harsh conditions. In Etosha National Park there is a huge salt pan and animals tend to congregate at waterholes during dry season.

The settings are otherworldly – from red sand dunes at Sossusvlei to the Skeleton Coast where desert meets ocean. Imagine the Badlands with Arctic coastline, but with elephants and lions!

Who from Canada should consider visiting Namibia?

* Adventurous travelers: Seeking landscapes other than savannah.
* Photographers: Beautiful scenery & light!
* Self-drivers: Good roads with marked routes.
* Conservation enthusiasts: Strong community-based conservation programs
* Couples: Romantic desert landscapes & intimate lodges

How Do you get from Canada to Namibia?

Find your way to Johannesburg, South Africa. This is mostly likely via USA. From Johannesburg, connect regional flights  Windhoek (2.5 hours)

The Airlines would be:  Air Canada or partners to Johannesburg (20-24 hours) Air Namibia or South African Airways to Johannesburg (20-24 hours) Air Namibia or Air Canada to Johannesburg (24 hours) Total Travel Time: 24-28 hours

9. Rwanda – Luxury Gorilla Trekking for Canadians

Canadians looking for primate safaris should consider Rwanda. This destination ranks 9th in Africa’s Top 10 Safari Countries with a score of 3.99 out of 5. Rwanda is home to the mountain gorillas, chimps and other forest primates and birds including the Big Five in Akagera National park.

The small but perfectly organized country offers high-end gorilla trekking with good infrastructure. Consider it the clean, efficient, organized Switzerland of Africa.

And Volcanoes National Park, where Dian Fossey conducted her famous research, offers controlled gorilla encounters with strict protection rules. The gorilla experience is world class – better organized than many Canadian national parks!

Which Type of Canadians should consider Rwanda for safaris?

* Luxury travelers: High end lodges with world class service.
* Short-trip visitors: Compact country allows short but full experiences.
* Gorilla enthusiasts: Trekking organized with guarantees of encounters.
* Eco-conscious visitors: Very strong conservation and sustainability focus.
* Safe travel seekers: One of Africa’s safest and best organized countries

How to Get to Rwanda from Canada:

The most efficient route would be to fly to New York, and then connect the direct flight from New York to Nairobi, Kenya. From Nairobi Rwanda operates daily flights to Kigali.

It is also possible to get to Rwanda from Canada via Europe or Middle East: Connections from Europe/Middle East hubs to Kigali.

10. Canadian Tourists to Madagascar – Wildlife and Island Adventures

Last but not least, Madagascar – a safari destination that no other place on Earth can match. Canadians would certainly enjoy a trip to this country. The island split from Africa millions of years ago creating ecosystems in which over 90% of species are endemic. Besides lions and elephants there are lemurs that no other country has, chameleons, fossas and numerous endemic birds.

The landscapes are just as extraordinary. Avenue of the Baobabs – it looks like something out of a Dr. Seuss book – real trees!

Which Canadian might enjoy a visit to Madagascar?

* Nature enthusiasts: Seeking unique, endemic species
* Families: Experience something different from the usual safaris.
* Adventure travelers: Trekking, climbing, and exploration
* Photographers: Subjects Extraordinarily unique

How do we fly from Canada to Madagascar?

Via Johannesburg or Europe:
Use Air Canada or their partners to get to  Johannesburg South Africa  or through  European hubs like Amsterdam, London and Frankfurt. From there get connections to Antanarrivo, the capital city of Madagascar. It will take between 20-24 hours to get there.

Yap, you have it all wrapped up. Africa’s safari destinations offer something for every Canadian traveler, from first-timers seeking accessible adventures in South Africa to experienced safari-goers looking for remote wilderness in Zambia. The continent is more accessible than ever, with direct flights from major U.S. cities and excellent connecting options through Europe and the Middle East.