Contiki, a leading tour operator, has launched four new safari itineraries in Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Eswatini in response to growing demand for adventure travel. These new tours offer a combination of thrilling game drives, adrenaline-filled activities, and cultural immersion, providing travelers with an opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Africa. Contiki’s new itineraries are designed to offer affordable yet exciting travel experiences, giving participants the chance to explore Africa’s beauty in an immersive and responsible way.
For Kenya, Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) serves as the primary gateway, located just 20 km from the city center. In Tanzania, Dar es Salaam’s Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is the closest international airport, situated about 11 hours by road from Arusha, where many of the itineraries begin. Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is the main entry point for travelers participating in South Africa’s safari itineraries, located just 20 minutes from the city and its major attractions. Eswatini’s King Mswati III International Airport (MTS) is around 45 minutes from the capital, Mbabane, making it easily accessible for travelers on the Eswatini safari itinerary.
Kenya alone attracts around 2 million visitors annually, while Tanzania and South Africa collectively welcome over 5 million tourists each year. Eswatini sees around 500,000 visitors, drawn by its rich culture and natural beauty.
Kenya and Tanzania offer remarkable wildlife experiences. In Kenya, the Masai Mara National Reserve is famous for its abundant wildlife and the Great Migration. Amboseli National Park provides awe-inspiring views of Mount Kilimanjaro. In Tanzania, Serengeti National Park offers the chance to see the Big Five, while Ngorongoro Crater is another highlight, known for its biodiversity within a caldera.
South Africa’s Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest game reserves and home to a diverse range of animals, including lions, elephants, and rhinos. Cape Town, with its famous Table Mountain and Cape Point, offers a combination of natural beauty and urban charm, with plenty of outdoor activities and sightseeing options.
Eswatini’s Hlane Royal National Park is home to rhinos and lions, while the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary offers hiking, biking, and wildlife watching in a stunning environment.
The itineraries in Kenya and Tanzania include hot-air balloon rides, offering a stunning view of the plains and wildlife below. Visitors can also enjoy treetop walks and night safaris to spot nocturnal animals like big cats. In South Africa, visitors can go mountain biking around Table Mountain and enjoy white-water rafting on the Umkomaas River. In Eswatini, biking and hiking through the wilderness provide visitors with the chance to see animals up close in their natural habitat.
In Kenya, the Maasai Mara Music Festival in August 2025 will feature traditional Maasai music and dance performances. In Tanzania, the Sauti za Busara Music Festival in February 2026 in Zanzibar is one of East Africa’s premier music events, offering a mix of African music, arts, and culture. South Africa hosts the Cape Town International Jazz Festival in March 2026, attracting top artists from around the world for live performances. Eswatini’s Bushfire Festival in May 2026 is one of the largest music and arts festivals in the country, held at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary.
To visit Kenya, travelers can fly into Nairobi via Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), with direct flights available from major cities worldwide. For Tanzania, Dar es Salaam’s Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is the main international entry point. Cape Town, South Africa, is accessible via Cape Town International Airport (CPT), while Eswatini’s King Mswati III International Airport (MTS) is the primary airport for visitors traveling to Mbabane and nearby wildlife reserves.
Contiki’s new itineraries offer a perfect blend of adventure, wildlife, and cultural experiences in Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Eswatini. Whether you’re exploring Kenya’s Maasai Mara, Tanzania’s Serengeti, South Africa’s Kruger National Park, or Eswatini’s wildlife reserves, these African safaris promise an unforgettable journey. From game drives to cultural immersion, each destination offers unique experiences that combine nature with exhilarating activities. Don’t miss the chance to explore Africa this summer for the trip of a lifetime.
