Go2Africa Releases 2025 State of Safari Report Highlighting New Travel Trends
What is the Go2Africa State of Safari Report?
Go2Africa has released the fourth edition of its State of Safari Report, analyzing safari travel enquiry data from 2022 to 2025. The report identifies emerging trends shaping African travel, including regenerative luxury tourism, shoulder season travel, and increased demand for longer and more intentional safari journeys.
Go2Africa, a Cape Town–based safari specialist with more than 25 years of experience, uses internal enquiry data to understand how travelers plan African safaris, including preferred destinations, travel timing, budgets, and itinerary length.
What are the key safari travel trends from 2025?
Travelers are arriving more informed
82% of travelers now contact safari specialists after already choosing their destination, compared to 65% two years ago. This shift reflects the growing influence of online research and digital travel planning.
Shoulder season travel is growing
For the first time, shoulder season months account for the largest share of safari enquiries at 38%, surpassing traditional peak travel periods.
Luxury safari demand is increasing
Medium-high budget safari enquiries rose from 36% to 59% in one year. At the same time, travelers are booking longer journeys, with two-week itineraries replacing shorter one-week safaris.
Which safari destinations are seeing the most interest?
South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania remain the three most requested destinations, accounting for 64% of safari enquiries.
However, interest in emerging destinations continues to grow. Botswana recorded the strongest increase in demand, while niche destinations such as Madagascar and Malawi doubled in enquiry share.
Uganda and Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique are also gaining attention among experienced safari travelers seeking remote and less crowded wilderness areas.
How are safari experiences evolving?
Safari itineraries are becoming more layered and diverse. While traditional Big Five safaris remain central, travelers increasingly combine wildlife viewing with cultural, conservation, and coastal experiences.
Adventure elements are also expanding. Walking safaris, primate trekking, hiking, and water-based activities are growing in popularity as travelers seek more immersive connections with nature.
Who is traveling on safari?
The report shows clear differences in destination preferences by traveler type.
Families most frequently choose South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania, while groups of friends prioritize South Africa, Rwanda, and Uganda.
Couples tend to favor coastal or island destinations such as Seychelles, Mozambique, and Botswana, while solo travelers show growing interest in Malawi, Rwanda, and Congo.
The United States remains the largest source market for safari enquiries, followed by Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
What safari trends will shape travel in 2026?
Wellness in the Wild
Travelers are increasingly seeking restorative experiences in nature. Instead of spa-focused itineraries, demand is rising for walking safaris, slower travel rhythms, and fewer lodge changes.
Regenerative Luxury
Luxury travel is shifting toward measurable conservation impact. Travelers want their trips to support local communities and environmental protection.
Multi-Generational Safaris
Families are booking longer trips designed for multiple generations, with private guiding and flexible itineraries.
Exploring Beyond the Obvious
While iconic destinations remain popular, interest in lesser-known regions continues to grow as travelers look for more personal and uncrowded safari experiences.
About Go2Africa:
Go2Africa, part of the Nawiri Group, has been crafting personalized African safaris for over 25 years. With deep local connections and first-hand knowledge, the team personally visits every destination, accommodation, and experience they recommend. Based in Cape Town since 1998, Go2Africa has created seamless and unforgettable journeys for over 200,000 travellers. Recognized by Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and the World Travel Awards, the company offers expert guidance with 24/7 support. Every journey supports Africa’s people and ecosystems, ensuring that travel makes a positive impact. With Go2Africa, it’s not just a safari – it’s the greatest adventure.
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Media Inquiries:
Anna Gilchrist
REYA Communications
State of Safari 2025 Report
