Elephants guaranteed: The top four places to see giants in Africa

No safari is complete without a photograph of the majestic splendour of an African elephant. We can guarantee that seeing one of these enormous beasts in their natural environment will be one of the best things you will ever see. These huge animals are so intelligent that they can recognize themselves in a mirror and are known to grieve when one of the members of a herd passes away. Highly social and skilled, elephants love the water and a trip to most watering holes is a guaranteed opportunity to see them frolicking and splashing around.

1. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Hwange National Park is a nature lover’s dream destination. The park, which is the largest in Zimbabwe, has the highest density of African elephants in the world. Conservation efforts by the Zimbabwean government have ensured that these majestic mammals are kept safe from poachers.

Elephants guaranteed: The top four places to see giants in Africa

Somalisa Camp

Hwange National Park also plays host to many other large mammals such as lion, leopard, spotted hyena and the Cape wild dog are also residents of this awe-inspiring reserve.

2. Addo Elephant Park, South Africa

Located in a malaria-free zone near Port Elizabeth, this park was created in 1931 to harbour the last remaining elephants in the area. Now there are over 600 elephants in the park, as well as the rest of the Big Five. A recent expansion of the park now includes a marine reserve near the coast and is considered the only national park in South Africa to be home to the Big Seven.

3. Chobe National Park, Botswana

Chobe National Park, located in the northeastern corner of Botswana is famous for its large herds of roaming elephants. It is also one of Africa’s top wildlife destinations. In addition to the herds of elephants, Chobe National park is also home to at least 440 bird species and the rarely seen oribi antelope. Whether you choose to camp under the stars or go for a game drive, Chobe is a place that everyone can enjoy.

4. Etosha National Park, Namibia

Etosha National Park is home to some of the largest elephants in Africa due to the thick vegetation found in the park in Namibia.

Elephants guaranteed: The top four places to see giants in Africa

For a keen photographer, this immensely popular park is a great place to visit due to the abundance of subjects that can form an amazing photo collection. You will also have an opportunity to see the black rhino, the lion and the leopard.

Make your safari experience complete by including one (or all) of these fantastic parks into your itinerary. From scrubland to the desert, elephants have conquered their environment and can now be enjoyed naturally from the safety of a guided safari. Just don’t forget to take pictures.

Written by Tiffany Bowers

• Travel Writer

Verified by Megan Warrington

• Africa Safari Expert

Megan is an Africa Concierge Expert responsible for compiling travel programs for people in search of their dream safari in Africa.

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"We had an amazing safari experience in Botswana thanks to Chrizaan! She planned everything perfectly and was very professional, honest, and helpful throughout the entire trip. She supported us every step of the way and was always available whenever we ne..."

Mojgan Owliaey, Germany•18 May 2026•

"This was a well organized trip that smoothly transitioned us from one adventure to the next. All our transfers from hotels to airport to safari lodges were professional, courteous, and timely. We loved the places that were recommended and felt the pace of o..."

Jeanne Bryan, United States•22 Nov 2025•

"Everything was more than what I expected. From the safari drives to the lodging and food was five star. At the camps, one was pampered. Everyone was personable and made me feel at home. The entire trip was wonderful!"

Nancy Dunnihoo, United States•05 Oct 2025•

"Our experience with Discover Africa was great. Justin Van Wyk, our consultant, was extremely accommodating, worked through a number of options to meet our dates and requirements, and checked in at numerous occasions before during and after the trip to check..."

Mitch Page, Australia•02 Oct 2025•

"I had 2 months lead time to plan a Botswana safari so I googled tour companies. After emailing a few, I chose Discover Africa. Susan Veldman responded quickly and was able to figure out an 8 night safari, with stays in 3 different camps. Each one was amazin..."

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"We just returned from an African safari in Kenya and Tanzania as well as gorilla trekking in Rwanda. Susan planned our 17 day to perfection. It was seamless to travel between countries, between lodges as well as negotiate airport arrivals and departures. Th..."

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