Safari Books

Our curated collection of the best safari books - from essential field guides and wildlife photography to gripping travel narratives and practical planning guides. Every book hand-picked by safari enthusiasts.

🔍 Field Guides (9)

📷 Safari Photography (5)

✍️ Travel Narratives (10)

🗺️ Planning Guides (23)

🌍 Conservation (8)

🧒 Children's Books (5)

🔍

Field Guides

Wildlife identification guides for African mammals, birds, reptiles, and more. Essential reading for any safari.

The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals

by Jonathan Kingdon

The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.

$35–45

640 pages(2015)

Roberts Bird Guide

by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye

Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.

$30–40

568 pages(2016)

Birds of East Africa

by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe

Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.

$30–35

640 pages(2004)

The Behavior Guide to African Mammals

by Richard Despard Estes

Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.

$30–40

634 pages(2012)

Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa

by Chris & Mathilde Stuart

Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.

$20–25

320 pages(2018)

A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa

by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon

Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.

$45–55

544 pages(2018)

Beat About the Bush: Mammals

by Trevor Carnaby

The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.

£25-35

488 pages(2018)

Sasol Birds of Southern Africa

by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton

The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.

£20-28

512 pages(2020)

Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide)

by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking

Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.

£12-16

256 pages(2014)

📷

Safari Photography

Master wildlife photography with these technique guides and stunning coffee-table books.

Photographing Wildlife in Africa

by Paolo Torchio

Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.

$25–30

240 pages(2017)

Safari: A Photographic Journey

by Art Wolfe

Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.

$50–60

256 pages(2018)

Remembering Elephants

by Various Photographers

Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.

$40–65

192 pages(2016)

The Handbook of Bird Photography

by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté

Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.

$35–45

336 pages(2013)

Remembering Lions

by Various Photographers

Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.

$40–65

192 pages(2019)

✍️

Travel Narratives

Memoirs and stories from the African bush — the books that make you book a safari.

Out of Africa

by Isak Dinesen (Karen Blixen)

The quintessential Africa memoir - a poetic and evocative account of life on a coffee plantation in Kenya. The book that defined the romance of East Africa for generations.

$12–16

240 pages(1937)

Whatever You Do, Don't Run

by Peter Allison

Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.

$14–16

256 pages(2009)

Born Free: A Lioness of Two Worlds

by Joy Adamson

The true story of raising Elsa the lioness in Kenya and releasing her back to the wild. The book that started safari tourism culture and inspired generations.

$12–15

272 pages(1960)

I Dreamed of Africa

by Kuki Gallmann

Classic memoir of an Italian woman's life on a Kenyan ranch - turned into a Hollywood film. A beautiful and heartbreaking love letter to East Africa.

$14–16

304 pages(1991)

West with the Night

by Beryl Markham

Aviation adventure memoir set in Kenya - Hemingway called it one of the finest books he had ever read. A unique perspective on colonial East Africa.

$13–16

320 pages(1942)

Cry of the Kalahari

by Mark & Delia Owens

Riveting account of wildlife research in Botswana's Central Kalahari. An adventurous tale of two young researchers living among the wild animals.

$14–18

352 pages(1984)

Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight

by Alexandra Fuller

Raw and unflinching memoir of growing up in Rhodesia/Zimbabwe during the civil war. One of the most honest accounts of life in southern Africa.

$14–16

320 pages(2001)

The Shadow of the Sun

by Ryszard Kapuscinski

Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.

£8-12

336 pages(2002)

The White Masai

by Corinne Hofmann

International bestseller about a Swiss woman who falls in love with a Samburu warrior during a holiday in Kenya. A wild, unforgettable true story of cultural collision. Over 4 million copies sold.

£8-12

368 pages(2005)

Elephant Company

by Vicki Constantine Croke

The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.

£9-13

368 pages(2015)

🗺️

Planning Guides

Practical travel guides for planning your safari — country guides, park maps, and logistics.

Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris

by Fodor's Travel

Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.

$25–30

640 pages(2023)

Lonely Planet East Africa

by Lonely Planet

Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.

$22–28

576 pages(2021)

Africa's Top Wildlife Countries

by Mark W. Nolting

The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.

£22-28

752 pages(2022)

The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals

by Richard D. Estes

Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.

£14-18

480 pages(1999)

Bradt Guide: Northern Tanzania

by Philip Briggs

The best single-country safari guide - covers Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara in extraordinary detail with expert local knowledge.

$24–28

408 pages(2020)

Lonely Planet Tanzania

by Lonely Planet

Comprehensive guide covering Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, and beyond. Practical transport, accommodation, and itinerary advice for independent and guided safari travellers.

£15-20

384 pages(2023)

Bradt Guide: Botswana

by Chris McIntyre

Gold standard for Okavango Delta and Chobe planning - self-drive routes, camp reviews, and detailed maps. Essential for anyone planning a Botswana safari.

$24–28

500 pages(2021)

Lonely Planet Southern Africa

by Lonely Planet

Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.

$22–28

624 pages(2022)

Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia

by Lonely Planet

Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.

£15-20

352 pages(2023)

Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique

by Lonely Planet

From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.

£15-20

288 pages(2022)

Lonely Planet Kenya

by Lonely Planet

In-depth guide to Kenya - Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo, Samburu, and the coast. Detailed maps, accommodation reviews, and practical travel advice.

$22–28

400 pages(2021)

Lonely Planet Ethiopia & Djibouti

by Lonely Planet

Covers the Simien Mountains, Bale Mountains, Omo Valley, and the Danakil Depression. Essential reading for Ethiopia's unique wildlife and cultural experiences.

£15-20

328 pages(2022)

Lonely Planet South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini

by Lonely Planet

Comprehensive guide to South Africa including Kruger, Garden Route, Cape Town, and the Drakensberg. Essential for self-drive safari planning.

$22–28

560 pages(2022)

Bradt Guide: Uganda

by Philip Briggs

The definitive guide to Uganda - gorilla trekking, Queen Elizabeth NP, Murchison Falls, and chimp tracking. Detailed practical information from Africa's leading guidebook author.

$24–28

488 pages(2022)

Lonely Planet Madagascar

by Lonely Planet

The definitive guide to the world's most unique wildlife destination. Covers lemur-spotting, rainforest reserves, baobab avenues, and practical travel logistics.

£15-20

320 pages(2023)

Lonely Planet West Africa

by Lonely Planet

Covers Ghana, Senegal, Gambia, Nigeria, Cameroon, and more. Includes national parks, wildlife reserves, and practical overland travel advice across the region.

£18-22

592 pages(2022)

Bradt Guide: Namibia

by Chris McIntyre

Comprehensive guide to Namibia - Etosha, Sossusvlei, Skeleton Coast, Damaraland. Self-drive routes, camp reviews, and wildlife guides.

$24–28

512 pages(2021)

Bradt Guide: Zimbabwe

by Paul Murray

The most detailed guide to Zimbabwe including Hwange, Mana Pools, Matobo Hills, and Victoria Falls. Written by a Zimbabwe specialist with decades of experience.

£16-20

456 pages(2023)

Bradt Guide: Rwanda

by Philip Briggs

The leading guide to Rwanda covering gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Akagera's Big Five safari, Nyungwe Forest chimps, and Kigali. Written by Africa's most prolific guidebook author.

£16-20

312 pages(2023)

Bradt Guide: Mozambique

by Philip Briggs

Covers Gorongosa National Park, the Quirimbas Archipelago, and Maputo Special Reserve. The only standalone English-language guide to this emerging safari destination.

£16-20

344 pages(2022)

Bradt Guide: Zambia

by Chris McIntyre

The definitive Zambia guide - South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, Kafue, and Victoria Falls in unmatched detail. Essential for self-drive and walking safari planning.

£18-22

528 pages(2022)

Bradt Guide: Ethiopia

by Philip Briggs

Comprehensive guide covering Simien and Bale Mountains trekking, the historic northern circuit, Omo Valley, and Ethiopia's unique endemic wildlife including gelada baboons and Ethiopian wolves.

£18-22

680 pages(2023)

Bradt Guide: Madagascar

by Hilary Bradt & Daniel Austin

The original and best Madagascar guide, from the publisher who pioneered travel to the island. Covers every national park, lemur species, and practical logistics for this complex destination.

£18-22

500 pages(2023)

🌍

Conservation

Understanding Africa's wildlife and the efforts to protect it for future generations.

The Elephant Whisperer

by Lawrence Anthony

Incredible true story of saving a herd of rogue elephants in Zululand, South Africa. A massive bestseller that will change how you see elephants forever.

$14–16

368 pages(2009)

Last Chance to See

by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine

Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.

$14–16

224 pages(1990)

The Last Elephants

by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell

Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.

$35–45

400 pages(2019)

Poached

by Rachel Love Nuwer

Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.

$16–18

384 pages(2018)

Safari Nation

by Jacob S. T. Dlamini

Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.

$25–30

280 pages(2020)

When the Last Lion Roars

by Sara Evans

An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.

£9-13

320 pages(2019)

An Elephant in My Kitchen

by Francoise Malby-Anthony

The moving sequel to The Elephant Whisperer, written by Lawrence Anthony's wife. Continues the story of the Thula Thula elephants after his death. A beautiful account of the bond between humans and elephants.

£8-12

320 pages(2018)

Ivory, Horn and Blood

by Ronald Orenstein

The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.

£12-16

240 pages(2016)

🧒

Children's Books

Prepare young explorers for their first safari with these engaging books for kids.

Safari: A Photicular Book

by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann

Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.

$20–25

32 pages(2012)

National Geographic Kids: Safari

by National Geographic

Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.

$8–12

48 pages(2010)

Here Is the African Savanna

by Madeleine Dunphy

Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.

$8–10

32 pages(2006)

Owen and Mzee

by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu

True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.

$8–12

40 pages(2006)

African Animals ABC

by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek

Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.

$8–10

32 pages(2011)

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