Since the dawn of time, the natural world has inspired us, and these days it's no different. One of the finest ways to see some of the world’s most extraordinary animals in their natural habitat is on safari. Whether you fancy a sunset stroll in the African bush, or a busy day spotting one of the famed Big Five on a game drive, you can enjoy an otherworldly experience on a safari holiday.

Here are four incredible countries to put on your safari wish list:

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe, located in Africa's southern region, is a place where natural phenomena truly thrives. Whether it's the winding Zambezi River or the raging Victoria Falls (which plunges to an unbelievable drop of 355 feet), this country is truly the place for nature lovers and those looking to see plenty of beauty on their safari holiday.

Of course, we can't look past Zimbabwe's Zambezi National Park, where elephants, lions, kudu, waterbuck, impala, buffalo, leopard, sable antelope, zebra, and giraffes roam free. Visit Zimbabwe on one of our newest tours, On Safari in Victoria Falls.

India

India might not be a country that naturally springs to mind when thinking of safaris, however, this huge country is home to a staggering amount of wildlife, including around half the world’s total tiger population.

Spread throughout the country’s 104 protected national parks, the most well-known of which is Ranthambore National Park, you’ll find an array of wonderful animals, including Indian elephants, snow leopards and sloth bears, together with hundreds of rare and fascinating birds. Explore the stunning Ranthambore National Park on Newmarket’s Tigers and Taj Mahal escorted tour, and keep your fingers crossed for a glimpse of the majestic tiger in the wild.

Kenya

Safaris have been recorded in Kenya as far back as the 14th century when Arabs visited the region to trade. The word ‘safari’ comes from the Arab word ‘safara’, which means journey. Having been part of the British Empire until fairly recently, Kenya is a popular safari destination with Britons. Queen Elizabeth was on safari in Kenya when she learned that her father, King George V, had died.

Much of the country is covered in savanna grasslands, including the fabled Maasai Mara, where the Big Five (rhino, lion, leopard, elephant and buffalo) run wild. Newmarket Holidays’ Kenya Grand Safari tour goes in search of the Big Five and includes a stay at the famous Treetops Lodge. It's a perfect trip for the family.

South Africa

South Africa, the Rainbow Nation, is another of Africa’s legendary safari hotspots. The country is home to the Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s largest game reserves, which is almost the same size as the entire country of Belgium.

The Big Five can all be found in the Kruger National Park, along with diverse species of birds, including storks, eagles and vultures. Outside of Kruger, South Africa boasts the Garden Route, a glorious 120-mile stretch of coastline, which is home to the Tsitsikamma National Park and the famed ‘The Big Tree’, a 120 feet-tall yellowwood that is the country’s national tree. Visit both Kruger and Tsitsikamma on Newmarket’s Cape Town, the Garden Route and Big Five Safari tour

Whether you see yourself exploring South Africa, or roaming Zimbabwe, explore our full range of safari holidays here.