
US Travelers Lead Surge in African Safari Bookings
A new report reveals that American tourists are significantly driving the demand for safari experiences in Africa.
Safari operator Asilia Africa has revealed that US tourists are dominating the demand for African safaris, accounting for almost half of all bookings. This report is based on three years of guest booking data, highlighting a shift in travel patterns, with American travelers leading at 9% followed by the UK.
The average length of stay at safari camps increased slightly to 2.8 nights in 2025/26, up from 2.7 in the previous two years, with Serengeti camps seeing the longest stays at 3.5 nights. Monika Iuel stated, “As a camp sitting in a remote part of the Serengeti, Namiri Plains remains central to its protection. Its exceptional big cat sightings make it among the most distinctive safari experiences in the region.”
The analysis also reveals a nearly 59% increase in guest participation in activities, with a 38% hike the following year. This trend favors immersive travel experiences, where game drives remain popular alongside conservation and cultural activities.
While the US continues to dominate as a market, emerging countries like Mexico, China, and Italy also show significant growth. Despite increased guest numbers, the length of stay has remained stable, indicating that availability and itinerary structures may limit further growth. Asilia Africa maintains a focus on conservation-led tourism, supporting local communities and ecosystems through its operations.
