Largest National Parks in Africa: A Quick Guide

Introduction

Africa is home to some of the continent's most expansive protected areas. When we talk about the largest national parks, we're usually counting land area and looking at official park designations. In Africa, some of the biggest 'parks' are singular national parks, while others are cross-border or multi-park reserves that are commonly referred to as parks.

Top Largest National Parks in Africa by Area

Namib-Naukluft National Park (Namibia) — about 49,768 square kilometers

Namib-Naukluft covers a vast swath of the Namib Desert and the Naukluft Mountains, spanning a substantial portion of southwestern Namibia. It is widely cited as one of Africa's largest national parks and offers dramatic dune landscapes, canyons, and sparse wildlife.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (South Africa / Botswana) — about 38,000 square kilometers

A cross-border wilderness famous for red sand dunes, big cats, and long horizons. The park is jointly managed by South Africa and Botswana as a single protected area, providing a unique transfrontier experience.

Etosha National Park (Namibia) — about 22,270 square kilometers

Etosha centers on a large saline pan that can attract large herds, especially during the dry season. The park's broad savannahs support sizeable populations of elephants, predators, and other wildlife.

Kruger National Park (South Africa) — about 19,485 square kilometers

Kruger is one of Africa's best-known parks, offering a classic safari experience with abundant wildlife, well-developed visitor infrastructure, and a long conservation history.

Chobe National Park (Botswana) — about 11,000 square kilometers

Chobe is famed for its riverfront ecosystems and large elephant populations, delivering rich wildlife viewing along the Chobe River.

Visiting these parks: tips

• Check official park sites for current boundaries and entry fees, as designations and sizes can change over time.
• Plan a dry-season visit for the best wildlife visibility, though many parks offer striking scenery and wildlife across seasons.
• Consider combining adjacent protected areas or transfrontier parks for a broader African safari experience.