south africa safari park

• Best Safari Parks in South Africa

• Liryn De Jager
• No Comments
• August 23, 2020

The southern tip of the African continent is abundantly rich in all things wild and wonderful with some of the best safari parks in South Africa on the bucket list of most safari-goers. From national parks and game reserves to those under private management, the choices are endless.

These wildlife havens offer plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with the inhabitants of the natural world. The biggest attraction in almost all of these parks is undoubtedly the famed members of the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. And for the avid birder, there are more than 850 species that criss-cross the skies.

Wild Safari Guide has narrowed down the list to ten of the best safari parks in South Africa to make things a little easier.

1. Kruger National Park

The Kruger National Park can most certainly claim the top spot on any list of the best safari parks in South Africa. Covering nearly two million hectares and bigger than some countries, this bushveld paradise is situated in the Lowveld and straddles the Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces.

The park’s richness in fauna and flora is evident in the nearly 150 mammals, 500 species of birds, and more than 1,900 plant species. Apart from the Big Five, visitors are sure to encounter creatures like giraffe, zebra, impala, cheetah, wild dog, warthog and jackal when setting foot in this park.

Including the popular self-drive or guided game drive experiences, there are many activities to participate in when visiting Kruger. Many rest camps offer wilderness trails while those looking for something shorter can embark on a guided morning walk. There is even a golf course at the Skukuza rest camp, should one wish to get sporty.

2. Addo Elephant National Park

The Big Seven call the Addo Elephant National Park —considered to be one of the best safari parks in South Africa—home. Added to the usual suspects of the Big Five, is the Great White Shark and the Southern Right Whale in this park situated in the Eastern Cape.

The park is a haven for elephants while lions, leopards, spotted hyenas as well as Cape mountain zebras and red hartebeest also roam freely. And don’t forget about the famous flightless dung beetle who has the right of way on any given day. Visitors will not run out of things to do in this fantastic safari park in South Africa. There are two hides to view the game from, as well as an interpretive centre at the main rest camp to occupy the kids. Guided game drives, horse riding and 4WD trails are also on offer.

3. Table Mountain National Park

The Table Mountain National Park in the Western Cape deserves its status as one of the best safari parks in South Africa, especially as it is a World Heritage site and also one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.

This mostly open-access park comprises of much more than just the famous mountain and the sea. It falls within the fynbos biome, which makes it extremely diverse—plant-wise. Various butterfly and bird species flutter about while it is also not too farfetched to catch a glimpse of the rare caracal.

For the more adventurous, the National Park offers a plethora of hiking options, and many of the park’s trails can be accessed without paying anything. Cable car trips to the top of Table Mountain will give visitors a bird’s eye view of the surroundings below.

4. West Coast National Park

The endless white beaches, salt marshes and carpets of flowers every year at spring, indeed make the West Coast National Park one of the best safari parks in South Africa. This park on the West Coast is a dream for visitors loving the fresh air and plenty of sunshine.

Birding enthusiasts can visit one of four bird hides to capture spectacular snaps of the birdlife. Approximately 10% of the country’s wader population occur in the park.

There is a variety of outdoor activities available in West Coast National Park. Visitors can either choose a short walk or more strenuous hike, while cyclists can explore one of the many routes. Langebaan Lagoon is fantastic for water sports such as kayaking, sailing and kite-boarding in selected sections.

5. Bontebok National Park

Even though it is the country’s smallest national park, Bontebok National Park in the Western Cape can still be regarded as one of the best in South Africa. It is home to the bontebok, red hartebeest and Cape mountain zebra.

In the absence of large predators, the park is one of the best safari parks in South Africa in which to explore the distinctive flora of the Cape Floral Kingdom. Macro photographers will rejoice in the number of small flowers and insects found in this fynbos paradise.

Several short hiking trails are available while there are also designated bicycle routes in the park. Swimming, canoeing and fishing can also be enjoyed.

6. Mokala National Park

Mokala National Park in the Northern Cape may be the youngest park in the SANParks stable, but as it is the place where endangered species roam, it should be labelled as one of the best safari parks in South Africa.

The animal numbers in the park have been increasing since wildlife translocation began in earnest in 2006. Today visitors to this safari park in South Africa can expect to encounter white and black rhino, buffalo, giraffe, zebra and black wildebeest.

The best way for safari-goers to immerse themselves is to participate in a breakfast or bush braai at the beginning or end of the day. For those with an interest in cultural heritage, guided drives or walks to rock art engraving sites are available.

7. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

The adage that once the red sand of the Kalahari sticks to a visitor’s sole, it will be hard brush off, most definitely gives the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park a place among the best safari parks in South Africa. The park, in the Northern Cape, also borders Botswana and Namibia.

Safari-goers to the park will be enthralled by the arid landscape and shutterbugs will for sure be kept busy. Sightings of lion, leopard and cheetah abound while the lucky will also be able to tick off bat-eared foxes, aardwolf and brown hyenas on their must-see lists.

Apart from wildlife enthusiasts navigating the red dunes in the appropriate vehicle, photographers and bird lovers will have a field day here and are encouraged to bring along their gear to capture incredible moments in nature. 

Click here for more of the best safari parks in South Africa

8. tankwa karoo national park.

The silence and tranquillity of the Tankwa Karoo National Park in the Western Cape truly make it one of the best safari parks in South Africa. It is the ideal destination to escape the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle.

A drive around the park can expose wildlife such as Cape mountain zebra, oryx, red hartebeest, springbok and eland. Many birds, endemic to the Karoo occur in this safari park in South Africa. These include the Karoo eremomela, Burchell’s courser and Karoo long-billed lark.

One of the most amazing features is the stars at night as the location is far from civilization and not too far from Sutherland, a region great for stargazing. There are also some 4WD trails in the park, and the use of a vehicle with high clearance is recommended.

9. Golden Gate Highlands National Park

For a mountainous experience, the Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State is a must-see as the best safari parks in South Africa list. It lies past the foothills of the Maluti Mountains with the sandstone cliffs a shining beacon in the sun.

The bearded vulture is a prominent feature in the sky of this safari park in South Africa. Golden Gate is the only national park dedicated to the protection of the grassland biome and also one of the most important water catchment areas in South Africa.

One of the most popular activities on offer in this park is hiking. There are numerous trails to explore, ranging from short hikes to overnight options. Guided horse riding excursions are also available while a visit to the Basotho Cultural Village can be arranged.

10. Garden Route National Park

The pristine beaches, mountains, forests, fynbos and lakes of the Garden Route National Park pencil it in as one of the best safari parks in South Africa. It is indeed a place where the soul can rest and everlasting memories are created.

Even though only one elephant remains in the Knysna forest, the park’s other residents, like a variety of antelope species, do not take away from it being among the top parks. The park is a birder’s paradise with more than 280 species fluttering about, including the colourful Narina Trogon and the Knysna Turaco.

The world-famous Otter hiking trail put the park firmly on the map. For those looking for less strenuous hikes, there are numerous shorter trails throughout the park. Lovers of water sport, as well as adrenalin seekers, can choose from a variety of activities.

Best Safari Parks South Africa

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South Africa safari: when to go, what you'll see, where to stay

By Jane Broughton

South Africa has a well-deserved reputation for its many design-forward, eco-conscious safari lodges offering every conceivable luxury and almost guaranteed game viewing throughout the year. As a safari destination, South Africa is easy to get to and navigate once on the ground, making it an ideal last-minute romantic getaway for couples or a sunny winter safari for families. And while it remains an excellent choice for first-timers wanting to experience a classic, big five safari, this destination is just as popular with seasoned philanthropists taking annual impact trips supporting innovative, privately funded conservation initiatives to regenerate animal habitat, protect biodiversity and save critically endangered species .

The most sought-after lodges and safari camps are in private conservation areas, within private game reserves scattered across the country, or in the Greater Kruger area, which includes the Kruger National Park. Small and often owner-run, these luxury, light-footprint properties are in hand-picked, scenic locations and offer deeply layered, immersive safari experiences on and off the vehicle led by experienced guides and trackers with an intimate knowledge of the ecosystem in which they’re working. Many privately protected areas share unfenced boundaries with neighbouring tracts of protected land so that animals can roam and establish their territory over a larger space in tune with seasonal changes. Along with exclusive, up-close sightings and a limit on the number of vehicles permitted, other private concession perks include the freedom to drive off-road where permitted, take guided walks and night drives , enjoy remote bush dinners and star bed sleep-outs, and get involved with hands-on conservation. Sustainably managed properties that are fully invested in protecting the environment while maximising the positive economic spinoffs of nature-based tourism to local communities should always be a consideration before booking anything.

When to go to South Africa for safari

Most of the go-to game reserves are in the northeast of South Africa and experience summer rain in thunderstorms followed by a dry winter with cool to chilly nights and warm, clear-skied sunny days ( May to October ). Winter is, therefore, the most popular time to go on safari, when the dry conditions lead to concentrations of animals around reliable water sources. This makes game viewing more predictable and animals easier to track and locate due to sparse vegetation and minimal ground cover. The mild, clear days are great for getting off the vehicle to track and explore the bush on foot. Summer rain radically transforms the bush, and everything explodes with life as the days heat up. Dense thickets and trees in leaf reduce visibility and make game viewing more challenging, but the lush, green vegetation attracts summer migrants and becomes a birder’s paradise. Predator activity increases, too, due to the abundance of baby animals at a time when food is plentiful for all. After the rain, the dust settles and light conditions are excellent for photography. Autumn and spring are good for witnessing the antelope rutting season. An early or late summer safari could be South Africa’s best-kept secret, especially with the add-on of a beach holiday outside of Cape Town ’s busiest time (from mid- December to end- January ). Elsewhere, the semi-arid Karoo and Kalahari are dry and clear-skied in winter and have low rainfall averages in summer but get very hot. In general, off-peak travel is underrated, with benefits including better availability, potential stay-longer, pay-less deals, and the possibility of securing a private vehicle.

Where to go in South Africa for safari

The private conservation areas in and around the Greater Kruger area are synonymous with South Africa’s reputation for delivering epic, up-close predator action interpreted by knowledgeable guides. Kruger shares unfenced boundaries with several private reserves, including the Sabi Sand, where iconic, family-owned properties like Mala Mala , Londolozi , and Singita first put the region on the map thanks to reliable big cat sightings, especially leopards. Further private properties within the Timbavati, Thornybush and Klaserie reserves add thousands of hectares to the Greater Kruger, encouraging natural species migration and collectively securing habitat for many rare and endangered animals. In the northern reaches of the Kruger National Park, Pafuri’s immense flood plains and dense forests are renowned for walking safaris. At the same time, Singita’s privately leased Lebombo concession on the park’s Mozambican border provides strategic protection for rhinos. Further afield, large, private malaria-free reserves like Madikwe, close to the Botswana border, Marataba in the Waterberg, Samara in the Great Karoo, Tswalu in the southern Kalahari, and Kwandwe in the Eastern Cape, provide shelter for an astounding diversity of big game and rare and elusive species, boast breathtaking scenery and offer a choice of intimately scaled lodges for immersive, romantic getaways, secluded, off-grid trails camps for adventurers, and fully staffed, exclusive-use bush villas for multigenerational families .

Lauren Burvill , CN Traveller

Olivia Morelli

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

The best lodges to book

Tengile river lodge, sabi sand.

This beautifully modern AndBeyond-run lodge in the Sabi Sand has nine energy-efficient, villa-sized suites – 200 square metres in extent – cleverly concealed in a riverine forest on a bend of the Sand River where elephants often come to feed. Hand-painted botanical print fabrics, recycled stone terrazzo floors, and bespoke throws and rugs add character to the smart, modern interiors, everything angled for soaking in the tranquil views. A glass-walled forest-green marble bathroom leads to an outdoor shower on a private, shaded deck and a big  pool . The lodge’s spa and gym also have a lap pool for training swims - necessary, as the food is delicious.

Best for: Nature-loving aesthetes will appreciate the sleek, glamorous style of this lodge, which champions local, eco-friendly design, and having exclusive access to over 10,000 hectares in the quieter south-east of the Sabi Sand reserve.

Cheetah Plains, Sabi Sand

Electric, solar-powered game-drive vehicles offer a zero-emissions ride and properly quiet encounters with wildlife at this 100 per cent off-grid luxury property in the Sabi Sand. In synch with its sustainable approach to game-viewing, Cheetah Plains uses the latest in grey-water recycling. It powers everything from the air-cons to the temperature-controlled wine cellars in its three exclusive-use lodges on renewable solar energy. Named after legendary big cats in the area, the three exclusive-use lodges have four private guest suites - think glass walls gliding away into raw concrete to bring nature closer, even from the bath. Burnished metal, unpolished stone and solid timber interiors are the counterpart to colourful contemporary South African artworks.

Best for: Silent game drives in fast and efficient electric vehicles, charged off renewable energy, designed by Cheetah Plains’ owner, a former rally driver, to be extra-comfortable with luxury SUV suspension, ergonomically shaped padded bucket seats with built-in seat warmers for chilly winter mornings.

Great Fish River Lodge, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Nine gloriously remote, romantic suites with viewing decks and private pools sit above the Great Fish River, which meanders for 30 kilometres through this rugged, 22,000-hectare, privately owned reserve in the malaria-free Eastern Cape province, within driving distance of the Garden Route’s long, sandy beaches and indigenous forests. The breeding ground of the blue crane, Kwandwe has just 30 rooms split across two intimate lodges (Great Fish River being one of them), three exclusive-use villas (ideal for family safaris), and an off-grid tented camp. Exclusivity at up-close sightings of the big five, black rhino, cheetah and smaller, but no less significant, vulnerable and endangered species is amplified by the rugged wilderness setting: extensive open plains interrupted by carbon-storing subtropical thicket-clad hills, securing vital habitat for wildlife that last roamed freely here over 120 years ago.

Best for: A big five safari with a luxury of space and privacy for a romantic getaway, after exploring the Garden Route or Cape Town. Malaria free makes it ideal for families and the elderly, too - multiple generations sharing a fully staffed villa with a private vehicle and guide.

The Farmstead, at Royal Malewane, Thornybush Private Game Reserve

On expertly guided drives from this sister property to Royal Malewane’s original lodge, sightings include leopard, cheetah, wild dog, and sizeable elephant and buffalo herds. A Master Tracker leads walks. Increased movement of animals has resulted in a richer game-viewing experience in this increasingly popular privately owned reserve - all because fences were dropped on the eastern boundary with the Timbavati in 2017, opening it up to the Greater Kruger area. Liz Biden’s inimitable riotous style doesn’t hold back in this celebratory lodge with three luxury suites plus a separate villa with space for six additional adults. Like Liz’s newest addition to Royal Malewane, Waterside Lodge, this one features fun Ardmore fabrics, animal print and plush velvets in jewel colours and lots of South African art. In summer, deep verandas encourage lazing outdoors on swinging daybeds or one of the loungers submerged in the pool’s shallow end. The local Moletele community own the land here and benefits financially from the lodge’s success.

Best for: House parties, especially if the Biden family’s original bush villa, Africa House, is too big – newly renovated, its six suites share two pools, a spa treatment suite and gym.

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South Africa safaris: our guide to the parks & reserves

• Kruger National Park

By Audley South Africa specialist Chris

Whether you’re a safari veteran or it’s your first time, South Africa’s diverse national parks and private game reserves offer some of the best game viewing opportunities in the whole of Africa. The majority of South Africa’s parks and reserves are home to the Big Five, and sightings of lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino all in one visit are not uncommon.

Safari in national parks and private game reserves

South Africa boasts a large number of game reserves and national parks, each with something different to offer. Most game viewing is undertaken on game drives from the lodges, with an expert guide who’ll explain the habits and life cycles of the animals you see. Occasionally, an additional tracker will help spot the wildlife, which can be well-concealed in the grass or undergrowth. In certain locations walking safaris are also possible. An exhilarating experience, they tend to focus on the smaller details that you might miss from a vehicle such as tracks in the dirt as well as the birds and insects.

Spot the Big Five in the Eastern Cape

The Eastern Cape is relatively new to safari when compared to the Kruger National Park , which has been operating since 1926. Established in 1992, Shamwari , home to the famous Born Free Foundation , is the oldest reserve in the region.

All game viewing in the Eastern Cape is in Big Five areas (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and cape buffalo), so for a stay of three nights your chances of seeing all five animals are good, although not guaranteed. The most elusive member of the Big Five in the Eastern Cape — the leopard — can be relatively hard to spot due to its secretive nature and the fact that they are not as accustomed to vehicles in this region.

While on safari here I was lucky enough to enjoy two incredibly rare sightings. First a relaxed black rhino and her calf voluntarily came within five meters of the vehicle, then I spotted an extremely rare and nocturnal aardwolf during the day.

The Eastern Cape, unlike most other safari destinations, is malaria free. Equally, when it’s wetter in the Kruger region, you can still get great weather in the Eastern Cape. The best time to spot game in the Eastern Cape is between October and April.

Most game viewing is conducted on game drives, however, you can also explore on foot. I’d recommend heading out with the more experienced guides, for example at the Kwandwe Private Game Reserve , as they are able to really bring the bush to life and highlight interesting details you may miss from a vehicle.

Visit the classic safari destination, Kruger National Park

The Greater Kruger Region is the oldest and largest area of undisturbed natural bush in South Africa. The park covers an immense area, allowing animals to follow ancient migration routes between South Africa, Zimbabwe  and  Mozambique . The premier big cat viewing destination in South Africa, the Kruger National Park and the Greater Kruger Region (which includes a variety of private game reserves bordering the park) also boasts the highest densities and widest varieties of game animals in the country.

If you’re looking to travel on a budget and are happy to drive yourself around the park, you can choose from an array of government run lodges and camps within the park boundaries. For a more luxurious and exclusive experience the private game reserves are highly recommended.

Sabi Sands is arguably the most famous private game reserve in the Greater Kruger Region, but there are also a number of smaller ones such as the Timbavati , Thornybush and Klaserie Private Game Reserves, where you'll see fewer vehicles and just as much wildlife. Both the Sabi Sands and Timbavati have unfenced borders with the Kruger National Park, so game is free to move in and out. It isn’t unusual to see hundreds of buffalo in one herd in this area, where game densities remain high. If you’re looking for a tented safari experience then Ngala Tented Camp in the Timbavati region is a good option.

With a diverse range of habitats, the Greater Kruger Region supports many different forms of life. To the south and southwest, the rivers are bordered by woodland which gives perfect cover to leopard. To the north the woodland gives way to open grassland, where on one trip, I saw six individual leopard in just three days.

Safaris in the Greater Kruger Region are predominantly vehicle based, but it’s sometimes possible to take a bush walk too. The purpose of these walks is not to view the big game (although you never know what you might come across) but to introduce you to smaller creatures and insects, as well explaining the principles of tracking and spoor identification.

Try an off the beaten track safari in the Madikwe

Madikwe , the second largest game reserve in South Africa is classified as malaria free and as such particularly appeals to families. Located near the border with Botswana you can arrive in around five hours if self-driving, or in just one hour by light aircraft from Johannesburg.

The 750 square kilometers that make up Madikwe Game Reserve are a beautiful combination of rocky outcrops and open plains. There are very few large trees, thanks in part to the 1,000 or so elephant found here, and also because of the arid climate which is more similar to the Kalahari than the rest of South Africa.  

Madikwe gained a reputation for good populations of wild dog, but unfortunately due to the introduction of rabies by poachers’ their numbers were decimated to only five individuals. Recently the population has started to bounce back, however, and on my most recent trip I saw a litter of nine pups. I have also heard that, since my return, another pack has also successfully raised a litter.

Although wild dog are rarely at the top of visitors’ animal wish-lists, they are the most endangered predators in Africa. Once you have seen these charismatic and sociable animals you will see why veteran safari-goers love them. Unlike other predators they can be very active during the day, hunting up to three times and with around a 75% success rate.

The quality and variety of the game viewing in Madikwe is unique and appeals to those who want a more traditional safari experience as you are less likely to see a lot of other vehicles whilst on game drives. There are also over 400 species of bird, so it is a popular choice for birders, with the opportunity for sightings of yellow-throated sandgrouse, kori bustard and Temminck’s courser as well as the barred wren-warbler.

Impodimo Lodge is my favorite in this area because of the vast number of elephants that often come to drink at the watering hole during the mid-day siesta.

Retrace history on a KwaZulu-Natal battlefields tour

There is so much to do in the KwaZulu-Natal area that you can spend two to three weeks just in this region, combining time on safari with an exploration of the military history that the region is famous for.

Probably the best private game reserve in this area is Phinda . Home to the Big Five as well as &Beyond’s Guide Training School, it’s a really special place, particularly for rhino viewing. There aren’t huge populations of either lion or leopard allowing cheetah (who are usually out competed by the other big cats) to thrive.

There are seven different biomes within the reserve, from mountains to the unique sand forest, giving you a wonderfully diverse experience. You can see animals here that you are unlike to spot elsewhere in Africa, such as the suni antelope, which are just 15 inches high and weigh only four kilograms. Game drives, pontoon boat trips and walking safaris are all possible, making this area perfect for active safari-goers.

KwaZulu-Natal is my favorite part of South Africa. It wouldn’t be accurate to say it’s off the beaten track, but it’s certainly lesser known and quieter than other areas. As well as safari, you can visit the battlefields of the Anglo-Boer and Anglo-Zulu wars , or if you want to walk there are some excellent hiking trails through the Drakensberg Mountains .

To round off your trip you can spend a few nights at the wonderfully remote Elephant Coast , where, if you’re traveling in January, you might even see the leatherback turtles hatching on the beach, or in November the adult females nesting.

Combine a safari with other highlights of South Africa

Cape Town and The Winelands work well as a combination with most parts of South Africa. You can fly directly from Cape Town to the Kruger Region or to the Eastern Cape Game Reserves.

Johannesburg is the other major entry point to South Africa and, during your stay you could visit the Apartheid Museum , the Pretoria Diamond Mines or perhaps the Cradle of Humankind, where the largest number of hominid remains have been found.

Depending on what time of year you’re traveling to South Africa, and particularly if you’re visiting Kruger, you may want to combine your safari with a visit to the Victoria Falls , just a two-hour flight from Johannesburg.

Alternatively, if you’d like some true relaxation after your safari then you couldn’t wish for better than the azure waters and beautiful beaches of the  Seychelles , Mozambique or Mauritius . These all offer a huge range of hotels, from small self-catering apartments to the most opulent and indulgent beach accommodation. Or, within South Africa, there is also the Elephant Coast , with its wild beaches and rustic accommodation.

Start planning your safari trip to South Africa

Discover South Africa

13 days from $5,100pp

Cape Town, Kruger & Victoria Falls

11 days from $9,200pp

Cape Town to Kruger: luxury South African rail journey

11 days from $14,995pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• Safaris in South Africa’s Greater Kruger Area
• Family vacations & safaris in South Africa
• A trip of two halves: the Garden Route and Eastern Cape safari
• What to do in South Africa: our highlights
• Self-driving in South Africa

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Kruger National Park - South African Safari Tours

Steeped in legend and history, the iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa is waiting for you to explore its vast landscapes and spectacular African wildlife.

Plan your Kruger National Park safari trip from our recommended Kruger Park safari tours which range from exclusive private safaris to affordable group safaris. Take a journey of exploration to find Africa's Big Five : Elephant, Lion, Rhino, Leopard and Buffalo, you will discover unique wildlife on a real Kruger National Park safari in Africa.

Classic Safari Tours

Our Classic Kruger Safaris offer you an authentic African safari experience with excellent wildlife sightings. Think 4x4 game drives followed by dinner under the African stars...

Safari Lodge

This Kruger Park lodging guide introduces you to the best safari accommodation in Kruger Park. You will stay in luxury safari lodges or opulent tented camps.

Romantic Safari

Romance, indulgence and luxury escapes. Exquisite destinations to celebrate your love. These Kruger Park honeymoon packages at the most sought after lodges...

Premier Safari Collection

Create timeless memories on the ultimate private South Africa safari Experience a safari with every luxury on hand, outstanding cuisine and a range of five star facilities...

Family Safari Holiday

Take your children on a safe, magical journey of discovery into nature's wonders. These family tours in Kruger Park provide options for kids of all ages, with tailored programs, fun...

Popular Safaris

For the time-constrained traveller wanting to experience the essence of a wildlife safari, this collection of Krugerpark tours , offers you a choice of classic, deluxe and luxury...

Accommodation Near Kruger Park

Hotel lodging and accommodation near Kruger National Park are close enough for you to participate in a self-drive or guided Full-day Safari Browse guest houses, lodges and hotels near Kruger Park entrance gates ...

Fully Guided Safari

Enjoy traditional Kruger National Park safari comfort, accompanied by a skilled ranger on your game viewing safaris. These fully guided safari travel packages deliver standard lodge accommodation and guided game viewing...

Luxury Lodge Safari in Kruger National Park

This selection of the finest luxury accommodation and lodging in Kruger Park is where you will discover a way to appreciate the African wild and do it in comfort - with exceptional cuisine, magnificent wildlife experiences and great hospitality. Our South African safari and game lodges range from artistically elegant to super luxurious with en-suite bathroom facilities.

Self-Catering Rest Camps in Kruger Park

Looking for more affordable self-catering accommodation in Kruger National Park? Rest Camps in Kruger Park offer a range of accommodation from campsites to huts, bungalows, cottages, rondavels, safari tents and guest houses. Facilities include restaurants, shops, petrol stations and more. Ideal for a self-drive safari, although guided game drives can also be arranged.

Kruger National Park Map

Where is Kruger National Park? A Kruger Park Map is indispensable in the planning of any safari. Find out how to drive to Kruger Park from Johannesburg, and how to get around Kruger Park if you are doing a self-drive safari . Here you can find

• Main Kruger Park Map
• Best Game Viewing Routes Map
• Kruger Park Gate Times and Distances List
• Map of Historical Kruger Park Sites
• Map from Johannesburg to Kruger Park

Flights to Kruger National Park

Get flight times and schedules for departures from Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban, to Kruger International Airport.

Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve

Timbavati private game reserve.

• Manyeleti Game Reserve

Thornybush Private Game Reserve

Balule private game reserve, nearby activities and attractions.

There are also other fabulous activities in the surrounding areas that will enhance your Kruger National Park safari experience. How about an amazing Kids elephant safari or a majestic hot air balloon flight? These are real once in a lifetime experiences! Other options include horseback riding, blissful spa treatments and golf.

You can also see what is being done on a grassroots level for the survival of African wildlife at rehabilitation, breeding and endangered species centres .

Combining any of these activities with your Kruger Park safari adventure is something you definitely should consider - maximize your holiday experience in every way.

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How to Safari in South Africa

By Laura Dannen Redman

It doesn’t matter what you’ve read, or how many times you watched Out of Africa, or if you’ve always felt comfortable in khaki-colored clothing: Nothing prepares you for the first time you’re within 10 feet of a lion in the wild. Your breath catches—there they are, the kings and queens of the African savanna, with retractable claws and powerful haunches any Cross-Fitter would envy, and the only thing between you and them is a few inches of safari-jeep metal and a very hearty guide with a gun, should you need it.

You won’t need it. The lions don’t care about you. (Even if you're advertising your snackability in a white or red windbreaker—don't do that.) Lions only see the massive multi-tiered Land Rover and figure it’s not worth wrangling with that elephantine creature. So you get the privilege to watch, quietly, binoculars and iPhones out, as they go about making a meal of the baboon they just caught. It’s a circle-of-life moment that makes you rethink what you know about survival, or the multi-course lunch spread you’ll have back at the safari camp. It also makes people who were previously blasé about animals want to quit their jobs and stay on as guides, teaching other newcomers about the tell-tale signs of rhino droppings.

That first safari may change you, in subtle ways—sharpening the senses to the slightest rustle in the bushes, or training the eye to look for different birds in the trees, even once you’re home in a concrete jungle. It’s addictive, and despite its legacy as a vacation for the rich and regal, it doesn’t have to exclusive. Think about this: South African children grew up exploring the bush on school trips, camping out under the stars, and keeping night’s watch with a buddy and a flashlight, just like Traveler’s Mary Holland did ; Capetonians may make a long weekend out of the same excursion you feel like you need a lifetime to plan. South Africa offers everything you may want in a safari, so it's a great place to get your boots dusty.

Consider this your nudge out the door—our guide to planning your first, but hopefully not your last, safari holiday.

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Let’s start with the basics: Are you worried about malaria?

If you’d rather not fuss with malaria medication, just plan a trip to a no-malaria or low-risk malaria zone. A number of South African private game reserves—like Phinda in KwaZulu-Natal on the east coast and Madikwe just south of the border with Botswana—check all the boxes. “Madikwe Reserve has wonderful and varied game viewing as well as camps that cater to families, ” Daniel Saperstein , co-owner of Hippo Creek Safaris and a Condé Nast Traveler travel specialist, told us . “Also, Tswalu Kalahari is one of the largest private game reserves in Africa—it’s malaria-free and has fantastic activities for children, including Southern Skies stargazing and daytime meerkat tracking.” Tswalu doesn’t guarantee sightings of all Big Five, though. “If you want something different, there’s Shamwari in the Eastern Cape, a no-malaria area,” says Holland. Shamwari has a number of options, including the luxury tents of Bayethe and the family-friendly Riverdene Lodge, and is just an hour-long drive from Port Elizabeth.

Is it a top priority to see the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo?

If yes, “definitely head to Kruger Park,” says Holland. South Africa's pride and joy of national parks, with nearly 5 million acres to explore, all but guarantees a Big Five sighting in a two- or four-day safari (though, really, there's no guarantee, no matter what anyone says). East Africa may deliver more of the "ur-safari people think of"—those wide-open, big-sky, Lion King landscapes—says Traveler's Andrew Sessa, but Kruger gives you a better shot at seeing white and black rhinos. There will be crowds, though, so consider private reserves within Greater Kruger National Park like Royal Malewane , a luxury lodge in Thornybush Private Game Reserve, and Tanda Tula Safari Camp , a luxury camp in Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. For more budget-friendly options, try Jock Safari Lodge (from US$630 per adult per night) or the Sanparks website, which has a huge range, from cheap to expensive, self-catering to camping and luxury lodges.

Are you going solo, or as a couple, maybe on a honeymoon?

"South Africa is great because you can have incredible city and wine experiences [by pairing a few days in Cape Town and its surrounding wine country] with safari," says Sessa. I did just that for an anniversary trip: four days in Cape Town, then a flight to Durban, where we rented a car and drove to andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve (though that drive is only suited for nerves of steel—you can also fly to Phinda via Johannesburg and Cape Town). There are multiple andBeyond lodges in this game reserve: Phinda Forest Lodge, Phinda Mountain Lodge, Phinda Rock Lodge, Phinda Vlei Lodge (which will reopen June 2018 after a complete renovation), Phinda Zuka Lodge, and Phinda Homestead. We booked a four-day, three-night stay at the Rock Lodge, which has six suites built of contoured stone and adobe—our own private pueblo in Zululand. Each comes with an outdoor deck and plunge pool, big ensuite bathrooms and outdoor showers, and feels entirely secluded and romantic. If you're celebrating an anniversary or birthday, tell the staff ahead of time, and they may surprise you by prepping a champagne-and-roses bath at night.

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

And the two-a-day safari drives? Incredible. We spotted the Big Five easily, but there were so many other special sightings: a pregnant zebra, an albino giraffe, a cheetah and cubs, white and black rhinos (and their babies!) that looked like they had stumbled out of some prehistoric time warp. And then there was the unexpected visit by a herd of elephants looking for a mid-day drink out of our plunge pool.

Are you going as a family?

“I would say a high-end lodge or camp in Sabi Sands Game Reserve (on the outskirts of Kruger) is ideal for the first-time family safari," says Traveler correspondent Paul Rubio, who’s been on 20 safaris in as many years. "This area is incredibly wildlife-dense so sightings are prolific—it's not uncommon to see rhinos, lions, elephants, and a pack of wild dogs in a single game drive (read: the kids will be constantly entertained)." At the lodge, you have every amenity possible to ease the transition for tech-driven teens, he says. "The Wi-Fi and TVs we want to avoid as adults are there for the kids to enjoy if need be. Plus everyone loves the pool." For starters, try Singita Ebony Lodge , where all ages are welcome, and infants under the age of two are free, or Ulusaba Private Game Reserve , one of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Limited Edition collection of retreats, which has a dedicated Cub’s Club.

Related: Should you bring kids on a safari?

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South Africa

Discover south africa’s cities, diverse culture to dramatic landscapes teeming with wildlife.  .

Our South Africa safaris and tours will take you on a journey of contrasts that you will never forget, from game drives through magnificently wild landscapes seeking out the ‘Big 5’ to strolling along golden beaches, visiting award-winning wine regions and exploring exciting, cosmopolitan cities. Our selection of preferred South Africa accommodation ranges from extravagant luxury hotels and luxury safari lodges to rustic bush camps.

South Africa is populated by a mix of African, Asian and European people, with a rich variety of languages and cultures. Equally diverse is its variety of landscapes, including spectacular mountain ranges, rugged coastlines, forests, deserts, sun-drenched beaches as well as renowned game reserves teeming with iconic species. At the same time, South Africa offers a refined tourist infrastructure, excellent road and air networks, and top-drawer accommodation.

South Africa’s most famous national park – Kruger – is approximately 19,485 km2 and bordered by a number of equally well-known private game reserves. The Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve offers some of the best leopard viewing in Africa.

Popular with young families are South Africa’s malaria-free reserves, including Madikwe and Tswalu Kalahari game reserves. To the south, award-winning Grootbos Private Nature Reserve offers a unique experience overlooking South Africa’s famous Walker Bay. It is home to the “Marine Big 5” – Southern Right Whales, African Penguin, Dolphins, Cape Fur Seal and the Great White Shark.

The perfect finish to a South African safari is a stay in beautiful Cape Town, where Table Mountain forms a stunning backdrop to the city. Of the many tours available one of the most worthwhile is a visit to Robben Island – where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 18 years. Less than an hour’s  drive from the city are the fabulous Cape Winelands, another popular destination for couples after a safari.

Finally the country also boasts two of the finest luxury train experiences in the world. The luxurious Blue Train operates between Cape Town and Pretoria and offers all the comforts of a 5-star hotel. Re-creating the old-world charm and romance of the golden era of train travel, legendary Rovos Rail operates journeys between a number of destinations within South Africa as well as to neighbouring countries. Their elegantly restored 1920s carriages have been painstakingly refurbished over the years, fitted with traditional furnishings, period décor and fine wood panelling.

Be transported to a more glamorous era while travelling on our selection of luxury trains across the spectacular landscapes of southern Africa.

South Africa Train Journeys

Phinda Private Game Reserve is a majestic mosaic of woodland, grassland, wetland, mountains and rivers. Phinda has a range of exquisite five-star

Phinda Private Game Reserve

The captivating Cape Winelands and Garden Route regions are best explored on a self-drive holiday, staying along the way at a beautiful historic

Cape Winelands & the Garden Route

Our selection of fabulous hotels in stunning Cape Town have been handpicked for their superior standards of accommodation and fantastic locations

South Africa has a wonderful range of malaria-free game reserves throughout the country. Enjoy an authentic safari experience with complete peace

Malaria Free Game Reserves

Kruger National Park is home to a mind-boggling array of game but where should you stay? We’ve featured a range of premium safari lodges and

Kruger, Sabi Sands and Surrounds

For a destination that has great gameviewing, is conveniently malaria-free, and provides entertainment for all ages, look no further than

Pilanesberg and Sun City

A popular gateway to southern Africa’s prime safari areas, Johannesburg has a wealth of quality hotels in vibrant inner-city locations, as well

Johannesburg

Best south africa safaris.

Explore some of the best holidays & experiences that we can custom-design for you. All of our safaris and tours are tailor-made to suit your interests, budget and timeframe.

Ultimate South Africa

Discover the very best of South Africa from it’s iconic wildlife reserves to it’s romantic railways

Kruger and The Cape

Discover some of South Africa's best known attractions on this journey that begins with a big game safari in the world-renowned Sabi Sand and concludes in beautiful Cape Town.

South Africa in Luxury

Travel from cosmopolitan Durban to Cape Town in utmost luxury, taking in two beautiful and unusual private game reserves in between: Phinda and Grootbos.

Winelands, Garden Route and Safari Self Drive

Explore Cape Town, self-drive the famous Winelands and Garden Route regions and finish with a "Big 5" safari at Shamwari Game Reserve.

South Africa and Victoria Falls Family Safari

Go gameviewing with the kids in two excellent malaria-free "Big 5" reserves in South Africa: Pilanesberg and Madikwe. Then, fly to Zambia for a tour of Victoria Falls.

South Africa Cape Explorer

Travel with the family from Cape Town to beautiful Grootbos Private Game Reserve. At malaria-free Kwandwe, experience an unforgettable "Big 5" safari.

Say ‘I Do’ in Africa

Tie the knot at a stylish resort in Mauritius, before a honeymoon in South Africa staying at two exclusive safari lodges adjoining Kruger National Park and exploring Cape Town.

Cape, Kruger and a Castaway Island

This 13 day African getaway has it all: Cape Town, the winelands, Kruger National Park and even a castaway island off the coast of Mozambique.

African Safari Extravaganza

This epic itinerary encompasses an epic five-country train journey aboard the Rovos Rail, a safari in Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti as well as a beach getaway on the Indian Ocean coast.

Cape Town and Garden Route Discovery

Experience the sites of Cape Town, Cape Winelands, the Karoo semi-desert and the lush forests and lagoons of the famous Garden Route.

Malaria Free Safari

This malaria-free South Africa safari means that you don't need to worry about taking medication on your holiday. This is an ideal option for families with young children or travellers with health concerns.

Essential South Africa and Victoria Falls by Rail

Experience an unforgettable safari in the Sabi Sand Private Reserves, be awed by Victoria Falls then journey aboard Rovos Rail back to Johannesburg.

Best of South Africa

Experience the very best of South Africa from vibrant Johannesburg and spectacular Cape Town to seeking out the 'Big 5' on safari and discovering the beautiful Cape Peninsula.

South Africa and Victoria Falls

Discover Zimbabwe's magnificent Victoria Falls, go on a safari in search of the Big-5 in South Africa and visit scenic Cape Town.

 Accommodation in South Africa

Like many other African countries, South Africa offers a wealth of sophisticated camps and lodges as well as opulent city hotels – many of which have been awarded  Relais  & Château x  or National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World status.  Many others  offer a level of sophistication, intimacy and service seen in few other places around the world. Our preferred lodges, hotels and camps in  South Africa  have been carefully selected for their superior location, service and comfort. Explore our handpicked accommodation options available across the many highlights of  South Africa .  

Londolozi Pioneer Camp

Luxurious Londolozi Pioneer Camp consists of 3 secluded suites in the heart of the famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve near Kruger National Park.

Idube Game Lodge

Idube is a classic safari lodge that offers all the wildlife found in South Africa's celebrated Kruger National Park with none of the crowds.

andBeyond Kirkman’s Kamp

One of South Africa's most prestigious luxury safari lodges, andBeyond Kirkman's Kamp is situated in the leopard-rich Sabi Sand Private Game Reserves.

Dulini Lodge

Dulini Lodge nestles in a grove of ancient hardwood trees on the peaceful banks of the Mabrak River in the celebrated Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

River Lodge

Set beside the seasonal Sand River frequented by all of the 'Big 5', indulgent River Lodge combines contemporary luxury with centuries-old safari traditions.

Leadwood Lodge

Stunning Leadwood Lodge sits in a grove of ancient hardwood trees at the confluence of the Sand and Mabrak rivers in the exclusive Sabi Sand Private Game Reserves.

Savanna Lodge

Savanna Lodge is wildly popular for good reason - it's within the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserves, where ‘Big 5’ sightings are almost guaranteed.

MalaMala Main Camp

On the largest privately owned game reserve adjoining Kruger National Park, Mala Mala Main Camp was South Africa's first safari lodge to transition from hunting to photographic safaris.

MalaMala Sable Camp

Family-friendly Sable Camp offers personal wildlife experiences in the historic, prolific Mala Mala Game Reserve, which adjoins world-famous Kruger National Park.

MalaMala Rattray’s Camp

The most exclusive of the three properties on the historic Mala Mala Game Reserve, Rattray’s luxury suites embody old-world grandeur with their claw-footed tubs and romantic canopied beds.

Sabi Sabi Little Bush Camp

Little Bush Camp is the latest addition to the Sabi Sabi family of luxury safari lodges, set on a riverbank in the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserves.

Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge

One of South Africa’s premier safari lodges, sumptuous Bush Lodge has earned a reputation for luxury, service and cuisine over 35 years.

Sabi Sabi Selati Camp

Award-winning Selati Camp is named after a railway once used to transport gold, and this historic theme carries across this safari lodge.

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge has been described as the most environmentally sensitive luxury safari lodge in all of Africa.

Singita Lebombo Lodge

Perched high above Kruger National Park’s N’Wanetsi River, Singita Lebombo Lodge offers exceptional opportunities for intimate wildlife encounters.

Singita Sweni Lodge

The more intimate of Singita's two lodges in the northern Kruger, Singita Sweni offers indulgent accommodation and exclusive gameviewing experiences.

Singita Castleton Lodge

The former family home of Singita’s founders, Singita Castleton Lodge has the atmosphere of a very luxurious private country farmhouse with all of the advantages of a high-end safari camp.

Singita Boulders Lodge

Inspired by the rocks on which it rests, Boulders Lodge is a rustic yet sophisticated retreat crafted from raw timbers, wrought iron, stone and thatch.

Singita Ebony Lodge

Nestled in a grove of ancient hardwoods on the banks of the Sand River, Singita Ebony Lodge combines the luxury of a bush lodge with the simplicity of a tented camp.

Londolozi Varty Camp

The Londolozi Private Game Reserve’s spiritual heart, Varty Camp is casual and relaxed in atmosphere making it a wonderful choice for families on safari.

Londolozi Private Granite Suites

Londolozi’s adults-only Private Granite Suites are set amid great boulders and large trees, natural features which have influenced the property’s interiors and organic colour palette.

Greenfire Game Lodge

Situated on the 50,000 hectare privately owned Balule Nature Reserve, this small luxury safari lodge virtually guarantees good game sightings.

The first East African-style luxury safari camp in South Africa, Tanda Tula remains a pioneer in many areas including memorable wildlife experiences.

Thornybush Game Reserve

One of South Africa’s oldest private game reserves, Thornybush comprises of 34,000 acres of wilderness inhabited by elephant, leopard, lion and cheetah.

andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge

Adjoining Kruger National Park, the andBeyond Private Game Reserve is home to all of the "Big 5", a classic safari lodge and luxury tented camp.

In the Timbavati Private Reserve which shares a boundary with Kruger National Park, Kings Camp faces a waterhole visited by an endless parade of wildlife.

Tuningi Safari Lodge

On the vast Madikwe Game Reserve is the luxurious Tuningi Safari Lodge as well as family-friendly Little Tuningi, a self-contained private villa.

Tau Game Lodge

Located on the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, Tau Game Lodge offers an authentic safari experience in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge

A secluded retreat within the exclusive 185,000 acre Madikwe Game Reserve, Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge offers guests two accommodation options.

andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge

In the heart of a rare sand forest lies andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge, a collection of serene, contemporary glass houses.

andBeyond Phinda Mountain Lodge

On a crest in a dramatic mountain range, andBeyond Phinda Mountain Lodge offers breathtaking views of the wildlife-rich landscape below.

andBeyond Phinda Vlei Lodge

Blending beautifully into the surrounding bush, andBeyond Phinda Vlei Lodge is the kind of place where you’re much more likely to see wildlife than people.

andBeyond Phinda Rock Lodge

andBeyond Phinda Rock Lodge is an architectural wonder - a collection of suites seemingly suspended from cliff face over a valley many metres below.

Tintswalo Atlantic

With iconic Chapman’s Peak as a backdrop, award-winning Tintswalo Atlantic is perfectly positioned for explorations of beautiful Cape Town.

Londolozi Founders Camp

This relaxed safari lodge nestles in ancient forest along the Sand River, offering activities for all the family from yoga to an entertaining kids' program.

Londolozi Tree Camp

Londolozi’s adults-only Tree Camp is a super-stylish luxury safari camp set deep within a thicket of leadwood trees

Taj Cape Town

Situated in one of the most historic areas of Cape Town, Taj Cape Town is synonymous with the highest standards of service and style.

Victoria & Alfred Hotel

The classic Victoria & Alfred Hotel is a haven of old-world character and personalised service right on Cape Town’s vibrant V & A Waterfront.

Le Quartier Francais

Set in the peaceful village of Franschhoek, Le Quartier Francais invites visitors to indulge in absolute luxury and sumptuous cuisine.

Franschhoek Country House and Villas

Just outside of Franschhoek village lies a lovely original homestead with many decorative accents that allude to the property’s rich history. Innovative regional cuisine awaits you at the

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Overlooking Walker Bay on South Africa's Western Cape, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is an oasis of luxury set amid unique native wilderness - a magnet for rare birds.

Tswalu Kalahari

South Africa’s largest private game reserve, Tswalu Kalahari is inhabited by over 80 mammal species including meerkat and desert rhino.

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Malaria-free Kwandwe Private Game Reserve on South Africa’s Eastern Cape offers five safari lodges, each designed to showcase the remote beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Shamwari Game Reserve

On South Africa’s pristine Eastern Cape, Shamwari Game Reserve is an excellent safari destination being malaria-free and home to fantastic wildlife including all of the legendary "Big 5".

Makutsi Safari Springs

Family-owned and operated, Makutsi Safari Springs is a private reserve which has a very similar ecosystem to neighbouring Kruger National Park. This delightful property encompasses a number of

Sun City is a sprawling resort complex with two golf courses, entertainment, a huge water park and casinos - an ideal place for the whole family to relax at the end of a safari holiday.

Experience the extravagance of Victorian and Edwardian-era train travel on a journey aboard one of Rovos Rail’s gleaming, gloriously restored vintage trains.

The Blue Train

The multi award-winning Blue Train first launched in 1946 and today remains synonymous with the highest standards in luxury train travel.

Elegant Leeu House is an enchanting combination of casual country living and world-class luxury set in the charming, historic village of Franschhoek.

Delaire Graff Lodges & Spa

At the edge of charming Stellenbosch in the Cape Winelands, Delaire Graff Lodges & Spa offers the ultimate in luxury accommodation and fine dining.

Tintswalo Safari Lodge

Tintswalo Safari Lodge offers old-world elegance and an authentic safari experience in the beautiful Manyeleti Reserve.

Leeu Estates

Leeu Estates is a 17-room country house and boutique winery in the Frankshoek Valley and is the flagship property of Leeu Collection

Find out more about our tailor made African safaris. Get in touch with one of our Destination Specialists.

Subscribe below to keep up to date, find out more about our tailor made african safaris, talk to one of our africa experts, michael fitzgerald.

Senior Destination Specialist

Taleen Gaidzkar

When is the best time to visit south africa.

South Africa  is very much a year-round destination with many camps and lodges open throughout the year. However, certain times of the year offer a better game-viewing experience. Like many other countries across  Southern Africa , the best time to visit is from June to October during the dry season. Game viewing in national parks and game reserves is superb at this time of year, and coincides with whale watching se ason (June-November) along the  Eastern C ape  coast  – a popular add-on  to see the marine “Big 5” .   

A visit to  Cape Town  and the renowned  Cape   wine   lands area is  perfect  at any time of year. However  winters can be cool and wet whilst  the weather during the summer months between November and February makes  is sunny and dry.  

July - October

November - december, january - march, april - june.

In the north of the country July marks the beginning of peak season. Wildlife viewing is excellent with animals congregating around the remaining water sources and accommodation space is limited around the  Kruger   National Park  and  Sabi  Sand Game Reserve. July also marks the start of whale watching season. Southern Right Whales reside around  Walker   Bay  between June and December and boating tours are a major highlight of the region. Renowned  Grootbos  Private Nature Reserve  overlooks the bay and whales can come as close as 30 metres from the shoreline.   

November marks the final month of whale watching season and  Walker   Bay  and  Plettenberg   Bay  remain two of the best spots to see marine life. December is busy in  South Africa  during the school holidays and festive period. Game viewing is still good, but the rains have transformed the landscape and  finding and viewing  wildlife  becomes a bit more difficult .   

January to March is fantastic time visit  South Africa ’s  Cape  with hot days and little rainfall.  Cape Town  and other coastal towns such as  Hermanus , George and  Knysna  are popular destinations with cool ocean winds combating the hotter temperatures. It is a popular time to travel the famous  Garden Route  or  explore the famous  Cape   Winelands . January and February are parti cularly popular times so  bookin gs  well in advance  is  important.   

A quieter time of year, the landscape is starting to dry out, particularly in the north – including  Kruger   National Park . April and May is a nice time of year to combine different regions. May is a shoulder month, before game   viewing and crowds begin to pick back up leading into the peak wildlife viewing months of July to October. June is a fantastic time to visit too, when the days are cool and dry. It can be very chilly at night so layers are necessary.   

South Africa FAQ’s

Can i see the big 5 in south africa.

South Africa is one of the best countries to see the legendary “Big 5” – lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino. There are a number of national parks and reserves where you can see all members of the “Big 5”. The country remains a stronghold for rhino whilst the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve is one of the best places in Africa to see leopard.

Are there malaria-free game reserves in South Africa?

South Africa does have some malaria-free game reserves including Madikwe and Tswalu Kalahari game reserves ideal for family safaris. There are also a number of reserves along the Eastern Cape easily combinable with a stay in Cape Town or a tour along the renowned Garden Route.

Where in Africa can I do a train safari?

South Africa has two of the world’s best luxury train experiences. Rovos Rail offers luxury rail safaris between major destinations including Cape Town to Pretoria and Pretoria to Victoria Falls. Many departures stop at famous national parks including Kruger and Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe.

Why travel to South Africa? 

Described as “a world in one country” South Africa  is more than just a safari destination. The wildlife of Kruger and the many private reserves throughout the country are complemented by  South Africa ’s fascinating history and diverse cultures, the beautiful coastline and majestic landscapes of the  Cape .  

What is the culture of  South Africa? 

There are m any different cultures including Zulu, Swazi, Xhosa, Indian,  Cape   Malay  and European.  As a result, there are many  unique  culinary dishes as well as  distinct music and dance.  Elegant   Cape  Dutch architecture  is also a highlight of  South Africa ’s cape .  

What can I combine South Africa with?

South Africa is easily combined with neighbouring Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia or the nearby tropical island of Mauritius. Johannesburg is a very popular gateway to most of southern and eastern Africa.    

How to get to South Africa?

Many major airlines including South African Airways, Qantas, Etihad, Emirates, Kenya Airways, Qatar, Singapore Airways and British Airways fly into Johannesburg  OR Tambo International Airport . There are also many regional and domestic carriers that service local cities such as Cape Town and the Kruger National Park area.  

US  – South African Airways fly’s directly to east coast cities including New York and Washington. Delta Airlines is another option to consider flying directly to Johannesburg from Atlanta.   

UK / Europe  – There are direct flights to OR Tambo International Airport with South African Airways from London-Heathrow, Frankfurt and Munich. Major European Airlines flying directly into Johannesburg include British Airways, Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Lufthansa and Swiss International Airlines.   

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South Africa Safaris

South africa safari guide– where & when to go, and what to see.

Safaris in South Africa offer a fantastically accessible way to see some great wildlife in a country that’s tourist-friendly and great value. South African wildlife viewing offers one of the most magnificent experiences on the planet and the country has pretty much any kind of safari you could hope for.

At over 1.2 million km sq, and five times the size of the UK, South Africa is bordered on three sides by the ocean. Whilst much of the country is made up of the highveld – a 1500m plateau – South Africa has very varied terrain, ranging from desert and dry shrubland to coastal swamps, woodland, and savannah – inspiration for generations of South African writers .

Self drive safaris are definitely an option in South Africa, with national parks all over the country allowing you to drive yourself around, so long as you follow the basic rules of safari etiquette . Even still, you may want to review our list of safari tour companies in South Africa to get some inspiration on itineraries.

Animals in many national parks in South Africa are comfortable with vehicles driving nearby, making spotting wildlife here easy for even a novice, and a great self-drive safari destination. Most parks are easily accessible in a 2WD hire car, which can keep the cost down as you won’t have to pay for a guide. With the money you save you could take one or two walking safaris, which gives a different perspective on the bush and wildlife. These are offered by many of the larger national parks and well worth the money.

The big five animals are present in a number of national parks in South Africa, and if you’re an old safari hand Africa’s little five can also be found here. On the endangered list, South Africa is also home to the black rhino, wild dog, wattled crane, and riverine rabbit.

With over 550 national parks and nature reserves and a great infrastructure to get into and around them, South Africa has a very well developed tourist economy, with wildlife making up a large portion of it. The tourist dollar derived from South Africa’s reasonably priced national park network is one of the main sources of revenue that goes back into local wildlife conservation efforts.

And of course, South Africa offers so much more than just safaris. There are all manner of activities and destinations you can combine with a safari in South Africa – including more than 2,500 km of stunning coastline with some of the world’s most famous beaches, world-class wine estates, and the many great things to do in Cape Town , the Mother City.

South Africa Safari Resources

Book a South Africa safari

South African wildlife

Cape Nature Conservation

Official South Africa Tourist Office

KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife

South Africa National Parks (SANParks)

Weather in South Africa

South Africa safari highlights

Self-drive kruger national park.

Drive yourself around the Kruger National Park – one of Africa’s best national parks, home to the battle at Kruger . Spot the big five – and far more – from the luxury of your own vehicle whilst taking in some of the park’s many sights. Not sure about self-drive safaris? Read our handy guide…

Go searching for the big seven

Yes, you read that right. South Africa is home to thousands of miles of coastline, and have added the southern right whale and the great white shark to the big five to make up South Africa’s ‘big seven’ (less reliably also available in Namibia and Mozambique)!

Splurge on a luxury retreat

Treat yourself to a stay at one of South Africa’s many exclusive private reserves. These are mostly dotted around the edges of Kruger National Park, but if you’re looking for a top-end malaria free safari can also be found in the Eastern Cape, the Waterberg Region, and the Namibian border.

Hiking in Table Mountain National Park

Whilst not strictly speaking a safari, no trip to South Africa would be complete without taking in Table Mountain National Park. There are many hiking paths up and around one of Africa’s most iconic mountains that let you take in views of the city and the Atlantic and Indian oceans, as well as the chance to spot local wildlife such as hyrax, tortoise, porcupine , and mongoose .

Best time to safari in South Africa

South Africa can comfortably be visited at any time of the year. June to September is the coolest, driest time of year, leading wildlife to congregate more around water sources. As vegetation is also less dense at this time of year it’s the best time to see the wildlife. If you’re visiting the highveld part of South Africa make sure you have a couple of layers – including a jacket or fleece – as the nights get nippy.

From November to March is summertime, and brings with it drizzle, mist, and some very hot weather in the Lowveld to the east of the country. There are occasional huge thunderstorms and heavy downpours, which tend to pass over the course of a few hours. Wildlife viewing is still possible when it’s not raining.

One other thing to bear in mind when considering when to take a safari in South Africa is the school holiday schedule. Locals travel a lot around the Christmas and Easter periods, meaning accommodation can be full and national parks busy. Because the country is so tourist-friendly, these numbers are also bolstered by large numbers of arrivals from Europe and North America. If you can, try to avoid booking a safari in South Africa during the school holiday season.

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National parks in South Africa

South Africa has a wealth of national parks covering around 3% of the total area of the country – over 35,000 km sq in total. Parks and all facilities within them are managed by South Africa National Parks. Most national parks in South Africa are easily accessible with good infrastructure and facilities, and can be visited in your own rented 2WD car.

Top South Africa national park picks

Kruger national park.

The centrepiece of South African national parks, Kruger National Park has a worldwide reputation as offering one of the best wildlife experiences anywhere, as well as a great chance to spot the big five . At the size of Israel Kruger is one of Africa’s largest national parks , with fabulous wildlife sightings all but guaranteed.

Addo Elephant Park

Addo Elephant Park is easily accessuly, just 75km north of Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. Aside from the 450 resident elephants, the recently expanded park contains a range of wildlife including the big seven, and a population of endangered black rhino.

West Coast National Park

Something of a hidden gem and a birders paradise, the West Coast National Park is a little-visited area home to secret beaches, hidden lagoons, blooming carpets of flowers, jaw-dropping picnic spots plus over 250 species of bird and mammal life. The park is a 120km road trip up South Africa’s west coast , so can easily be incorporated into most South African itineraries.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

One of Africa’s top – and most remote – parks, the rugged Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in the Kalahari Desert covers land in both South Africa and Botswana , and borders Namibia to the west. The park is characterized by dry river beds and red dunes, and is home to migrating herds of wildebeest and springbok, along with predators including black-maned Kalahari lions.

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Addo Elephant Park 75km north of Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape, aside from the 450 resident elephants the park contains plenty of buck, along with buffalo and black rhino.

Agulhas National Park The area also known as the Agulhas Plain is an internationally signicifanct national park, primarily due to its’ rich plant biodiversity.

Ai Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park An arid, rugged wilderness with dramatic desert landscapes in the Northern Cape, forming part of the border with Namibia.

Bontebok National Park Situated around the Breede river in the Southern Cape, the park is home to over 300 bontebok, with a spectacular range of flora and forna.

Camdeboo National Park Stunningly scenic park, the Cameboo National Park is pary of the unique Karoo landscape.

Golden Gate Highlands National Park Set in the foothills of the Maluti mountains of the northern Free Sate Highlands, the park is an area brimming with game animals.

Karoo National Park The Karoo biome includes a huge diversity of succulent plants and small reptiles, and an interesting variety of endemic wildlife – including black rhino & buffalo.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park Regarded as one of Africa’s top parks, the rugged Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is made up of The Kalahari Gemsbok National Park in South Africa and Gemsbok National Park in Botswana.

Kruger National Park The centrepiece of South African national parks, Kruger has a worldwide reputation as offering one of the best wildlife experience…and a great chance to spot the big five.

Mapungubwe National Park Aside from a decent amount of wildlife, the Mapungubwe National Park containts plenty of rich fossil deposits, Bushman rock art and gold and metal artefacts of ancient civilisations that once lived here.

Marakele National Park The Waterberg mountain range provides mountain landscapes – punctuated with hills and valleys – along with an impressive variety of wildlife.

Mountain Zebra National Park A sanctuary for the endangered Cape Mountain Zebra, as well as over 200 bird species.

Namaqua National Park Famed for the variety of bulb flora, during August and September the park blooms into an area carpeted with wildflowers.

Table Mountain National Park South Africa’s number 1 tourist spot is also a national park. Don’t expect to see big game once you get to the top – Table Mountain is all about the incredible views.

Tankwa Karoo National Park Another of South Africa’s national parks situated within the Succulent Karoo biome, Tankwa Karoo is rich in birdlife and home to many rare and endangered plant species.

West Coast National Park A coastal park featuring miles of deserted golden beaches, fringing salt marches and the Langebaan Lagoon.

Wilderness National Park Situated in the heart of the Garden Route, Western Cape, the Wilderness National Park is a combination of rivers, estuaries, lakes and beaches, with a backdrop or lush forests and mountains.

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South africa safari companies.

South Africa sees large numbers of inbound and local tourists visiting it’s national parks, has great infrastructure to allow travel around the country. Whilst self-drive safaris are extremely easy to do in South Africa, there are also plenty of safari companies right across the country to help visitors take advantage of the world-class wildlife viewining available. Check out our reviews of safari tour companies in South Africa .

South Africa safari lodges

There really is something for everyone when considering safari accommodation in South Africa. From great campgrounds including decent washing and BBQ facilities as standard to ultra-high end luxury lodges, with everything in between. Safari accommodation is most concentrated in and around Kruger, but you wont struggle to find the right place at the right place when visiting any of South Africa’s national parks. Search and book accommodation in South Africa .

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Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
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• Kruger National Park

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

By Andre Van Kets

Co-founder, Discover Africa

Extending over a mind-boggling 19,485 km2 (7,523 square miles), the Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest and most iconic safari destinations. It’s comparable in area to Wales or the state of New Jersey.

It shares open borders with several smaller private reserves as well as two transfrontier national parks in the form of Gonarezhou (Zimbabwe) and Limpopo (Mozambique).

Kruger National Park vies with Cape Town as South Africa’s top destination, attracting more than one million visitors annually. The park is better suited to affordable self-drive safaris than any other major African park.

By contrast, the exclusive private reserves that border Kruger and ‘concession lodges’ that occupy exclusive enclaves within it set the bar for all-inclusive luxury safaris in open-top 4×4 vehicles driven by expert guides.

Set in the hot eastern Lowveld, Kruger is traversed by several rivers and is punctuated by a few hilly areas. Still, it mostly comprises flat savannah dominated by acacia trees in the south and mopane woodland in the north.

Kruger National Park Parfuri ElephantThe Nile crocodile is the most conspicuous of 114 reptile and 34 amphibian species, but the ethereal communal calls of the Bubbling kassina and other tree frogs often provide a haunting aural backdrop to dusk waterhole vigils.

Kruger is a magnet for birding safaris , with 517 bird species recorded. Expect everything ranging from the spectacularly colorful Lilac-breasted roller and White-fronted bee-eater to several heftier species now rare outside of protected areas, such as the eyelid-fluttering Southern ground hornbill, the bizarre Secretary-bird, the massive Kori bustard (the world’s heaviest flying bird), the macabre Marabou stork, and, of course, the ostrich.

Highlights of Kruger National Park

Southern Kruger

Thanks to its relative proximity to Gauteng, Southern Kruger carries the highest volume of safari-goers.

The far south offers the park’s most reliable game viewing: the surfaced H4-1 that follows the Sabie River from Skukuza to Lower Sabie, a great area to spot elephant, buffalo, lion, and even leopards.

It’s also a favorite for birding safaris , while the H4-2 and associated dirt roads running south to Crocodile Bridge explore the park’s best rhino country.

Central Kruger

The focal point of the lightly-wooded savannah of Central Kruger, Satara, stands at the crossroads of some superb safari roads.

Seasonal concentrations of wildebeest and zebra are reminiscent of the Serengeti, and it’s the best place to look for cheetahs and see lion kills – the latter also often attracting jackals and hyenas.

The aptly-named Olifants River is a favored haunt of elephants, and it also often attracts immense herds of thirsty buffalo.

Northern Kruger

Wildlife viewing in the remote Northern Kruger is challenging because while buffalo and elephants are conspicuous, lions, leopards, and rhino encounters are rare.

Balanced against that, the untrammeled north possesses a mesmerizing wilderness feel and hosts many localized bird species absent further south, making the Northern Kruger a perfect destination for a birding safari .

Thulamela Heritage Site, on the south bank of the Luvuvhu River, protects the substantial ruins of a 16th-century Zimbabwe-style stone-wall royal village.

Makuleke Contractual Park

The 240km2 (93 square mile) Makuleke Contractual Park, which runs south from the Limpopo River along the border with Zimbabwe, was annexed to Kruger following the forcible relocation of its inhabitants in 1969.

Restored to the Makuleke community in the 1990s, it’s still managed as part of Kruger and hosts two private lodges that offer much to keen birdwatchers or anybody seeking a genuine wilderness escape.

An excellent place to seek out the likes of Pel’s fishing owl, Racket-tailed roller, and Triple-banded courser, it also offers exclusive access to the spectacular Lanner Gorge and lush Fever tree forest at Crooks Corner.

Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Home to some of South Africa’s most lauded game lodges, the Sabi Sand Reserve was amalgamated from several now jointly-managed private properties in 1948.

It shares an open boundary with southern Kruger, and expertly guided game drives in open-top 4×4 vehicles often throw up all the Big Five on safari , as well as cheetah and African wild dogs. The reserve also arguably offers the world’s best and most intimate leopard viewing.

Manyeleti Game Reserve

Immediately north of Sabi Sand, Manyeleti Game Reserve , whose Shangaan name means ‘Place of Stars,’ was set aside in 1964 and now shares an unfenced 30km (19mi) eastern border with Kruger and supports a similar selection of wildlife.

However, poaching and low tourist volumes mean that game viewing on safari isn’t quite up there with several of its neighbors.

Timbavati Nature Reserve

Named after the seasonal river that flows close to its southern boundary before crossing into Kruger, the private Timbavati Nature Reserve , created in 1962, and now unfenced along its border with Kruger, operates similarly to Sabi Sand.

Game drives don’t quite match up when it comes to leopard and rhino safari sightings, but since camps are more spread out, they tend to operate at a more relaxed pace.

Private Concession Lodges

The Kruger’s dozen-or-so privately-run concession lodges stand on individual enclaves of national parkland where exclusive traversing rights have been awarded to the concessionaire.

Much like the private reserves bordering Kruger, each concession hosts between one and three exclusive small camps offering guests a deluxe package, including expertly guided safari game drives in open-top 4x4s.

However, the concessions are typically much larger than the private reserves, wildlife is less habituated to vehicles, and there is no cross-traversing with other lodges – the net result being that game viewing tends to be more erratic. Still, the overall experience is arguably more holistically satisfying.

Practical Information of Kruger National Park

• Kruger is well-suited to affordable self-drive safaris. An ordinary saloon car can easily explore a good network of sealed roads. The 20-odd rest camps offer inexpensive but comfortable accommodation , and most have grocery shops, filling stations, and restaurants.
• In addition, an excellent selection of maps, guidebooks, and other interpretive material is available on-site.
• Kruger-Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) lies within an hour’s drive of Numbi and Phabeni Gates. It’s connected to Gauteng’s OR Tambo International Airport by several scheduled flights daily, and several car rental companies are represented there. For couples or families, it may be more affordable to rent a car out of Gauteng and drive, following the N4 east from Pretoria to Mbombela or the N12 from Johannesburg/OR Tambo to connect with the N4 at eMalahleni (formerly Witbank). Allow five hours for the drive.
• The private and concession lodges associated with Kruger offer a very different and somewhat more costly experience. Most exude an aura of safari chic, pamper clients with gourmet meals and service levels in line with a luxury spa, and include a guided evening and morning game drive. These lodges are typically visited as a two- or three-night all-inclusive fly-in or drive-down package from Gauteng.
• You could also tag one night at a private reserve to the end of a self-drive Kruger safari – though be sure to time things so that you arrive at camp in time and leave late enough to do all game drives.
• Kruger is hot and seasonally humid, with summer daytime temperatures routinely topping the 30°C/86°F mark (frequently 40°C/104°F in the north). The air dries out in winter when nights can be freezing, and you’ll want plenty of warm clothing for evening and early morning game drives.

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With over 20 years of experience, our team will help you tailor your itinerary to your perfect adventure., 24/7 support, personalized, popular south africa safaris, these recommended tours for south africa can be tailor-made to match your budget..

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10 Best South Africa Safari Experiences (For All Budgets!)

Among South Africa’s vibrant cities and stunning natural wonders, its one-of-a-kind wildlife remains the indisputable biggest draw for travelers headed to South Africa .

Searching for gracefully powerful big cats and thundering elephants and rhinos turns a visit to South Africa into a bucket list adventure most travelers can’t wait to experience for themselves. While there are plenty of memorable safari destinations throughout Africa, South Africa safaris have long reigned supreme.

From budget-friendly self-driving safaris to Africa’s most high-end safari experiences, these ten best South Africa safari tours and destinations are among the nation’s safari highlights. Whether you’re traveling with a budget in mind or are ready for a once-in-a-lifetime luxury trip , these South Africa safari highlights are guaranteed to impress.

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South Africa Safaris

While the Serengeti in Tanzania and Masai Mara National Park in Kenya remain the most popular safari destinations in Africa, South Africa is the safari destination that is most quickly growing in popularity – and for a number of reasons. Boasting iconic safari parks like Kruger National Park , impressive game reserves like Sabi Sands with some of Africa’s most luxurious accommodations, and out-of-this-world animal experiences , it’s no wonder South Africa is such a popular safari destination.

The standout South Africa safari destination is certainly Kruger National Park and its neighboring private game reserves. Offering self-driving safaris for budget travelers within the park, and some of the most upscale safari experiences you’ll find anywhere in the neighboring game reserves , it’s both an iconic destination and an endlessly popular one that every traveler can fall in love with.

However, don’t book your trip to Kruger without considering the other incredible safari tours in South Africa. Coastal destinations like Addo Elephant National Park boast incredible diversity of wildlife, Phinda Game Reserve and its neighboring public safari park are world-renowned for birding , and northern Madikwe is a “Goldie Locks” destination offering private reserve benefits with more affordable prices.

Whether you’re looking for unique animal experiences, shorter travel times, or particularly affordable (or luxurious) safari options, there are plenty of reasons to look beyond Kruger.

How Much Does It Cost To Go on a Safari in South Africa?

Safaris are generally considered to be quite expensive vacations – but they don’t always have to be. For the most part, expect to spend more on a safari than you might on another type of vacation – safaris can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per night (or more!).

Factoring in your room, all the food you’ll be eating at your remote lodge or accommodation, plus game drives and other safari excursions, there is simply a lot to pay for when on safari.

However, safari travel on a budget is possible. Option for a national park with self-driving safari options like Kruger National Park or Pilanesberg National Park, where you won’t have to pay a guide to see the wildlife, and will only need to factor in the cost of a rental car. You can also stay at national park rest camps along the way, meaning no need to pay for expensive lodges. These safaris are different experiences, that’s for sure, though often just as memorable!

Which Safari Is Best in South Africa?

The iconic Kruger National Park and the neighboring private game reserves like Sabi Sands Game Reserve are home to nearly 150 species of mammals, including all of the Big Five Animals and even the elusive leopard, are generally considered among the best safari destination in South Africa.

Other favorite South African safaris include Phinda Game Reserve for those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path destination with similar wildlife experiences to Kruger , and luxury lodges like Sabi Sands. The neighboring Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is a public park, offering much of the experience of Phinda without the luxury price tag.

However, there’s no one “best” safari experience in South Africa – each different park and game reserve offers such a unique experience that every traveler will find something to their liking on a South Africa safari. Whether you’re looking for a self-driving safari through Kruger or a high-end luxury experience at a plush lodge, you’ll find it here.

Best South Africa Safari Experiences

1. kruger national park.

One of the great, iconic safari parks in Africa, Kruger National Park is South Africa’s first national park and one of the most desirable African safari destinations . Located in northeastern South Africa , this remote corner of the country is well known for offering an array of incredible safari experiences, meaning no matter the South Africa safari experience you’re looking for, you’ll find it at Kruger.

With an array of impressive wildlife – pretty much everything you’d want to see (the entire Big Five , and then some) – Kruger is a great place to come for first-time safari travelers, though even more experienced safari travelers will appreciate setting foot in this iconic destination .

Highlights of Kruger include seeing the rare leopards, rhinos, and African wild dogs, as well as more commonly-spotted animals like warthogs, zebras, elephants, lions, and giraffes. This is one of the few places on Earth you’ll be able to spot a leopard, so while sightings are rare, you might just get lucky in Kruger.

Whether you’re looking for luxury or more affordable South Africa safari tours, you’ll find great options in Kruger National Park. As a national park, you’ll find some very basic accommodations called “rest camps,” which make it a popular destination for budget-conscious travelers. For luxurious safari lodges within Kruger, the world-famous Singita offers luxury lodges on private concessions within the park.

Read More: Kruger National Park: Ultimate Travel Guide

Best Safari Tours in Kruger National Park

There is a reason Singita is so well-known as a South Africa safari tour provider: they’re simply the best. Experience a safari with Singita at Lebombo and Sweni, both located directly within the park, offering incredible game drives through the park and on the neighboring private game reserves.

Travelers looking for savings but who would like a guided drive rather than a self-driving experience can book one-day guided drives through Kruger National Park . These are quite economical and can really enhance the experience!

2. Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Bordering Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands Game Reserve is another one of the most popular destinations for a South Africa safari. While Kruger is a national park, meaning self-guided safari drives and lower-cost accommodations, neighboring Sabi Sands is a 65,000-hectare private reserve on the lands of third- and fourth-generation landowners.

The reserve boasts what many claim to be one of the largest concentrations of big game in Africa, including the Big Five and the leopard. With game drives led by experienced private guides – no self-driving here! – you’ll have the very best opportunity to spot every animal you’re looking for and more. 

In terms of the experience here for travelers, Sabi Sands Game Reserve is known for having some of the most impressive and luxurious lodges in all of South Africa (and beyond). Think five-star luxury, ultimate attention to detail, and the price tags that go along with it. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience, Sabi Sands Game Reserve is the safari destination for you.

Best Safari Tours in Sabi Sands Game Reserve

A truly standout choice for a safari in Sabi Sands Game Reserve is  Cheetah Plains , among the most exclusive spots for a safari experience in South Africa. This luxurious property boasts incredible private villas, each with its own hospitality team, to ensure a first-class stay for every guest, personalized to each visitor’s interests. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience.

Plan a Trip to Sabi Sands

• Sabi Sands Game Reserve: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
• 8 Best Sabi Sands Lodges

3. Thornybush Game Reserve

Yet another one of the impressive (and high-end) game reserves located along the bounds of Kruger National Park, Thornybush is among one of the best South Africa safari destinations for wildlife spotting. Get ready to meet all the stars of Kruger National Park , and enjoy excellent opportunities to spot the more hard-to-find big cats like leopards and cheetahs.

Both white and black rhinos are found in this reserve, as well as the rare white lion that occasionally makes a visit from the neighboring Timbavati Game Reserve. Other animals you may spot include pangolins, hyenas, meerkats, civets, and more; with Thornybush’s being so well known for its incredibly dense concentration of animals, you’re sure to have some incredible wildlife experiences here.

Thornybush is also well known for incorporating walking safaris into the safari experience of guests and visitors, which is an incredible option! These more intimate, guided experiences mean you’ll have a chance to see the incredible smaller creature of the area up-close and personal – a huge highlight.

Thornybush is also home to some of the most impressive safari lodges in South Africa, including luxurious spots known for incredible game drives with world-class guides. There are quite a number of lodges to choose from, and at a range of price points, though most tend to skew luxurious and exclusive.

Best Safari Tours in Thornybush Game Reserve

Favorite safari tour experiences can be had at Shumbalala Game Lodge and Royal Malewane , both on the luxurious end of the spectrum in this impressive safari spot. In fact, Royal Malewane is considered among the most luxurious safari lodges in the world. Expect both world-class service while at the lodge and incredible game drives with excellent guides.

4. Pilanesberg National Park

Another one of South Africa’s beloved national parks offering second-to-none safari experiences and accommodations, Pilanesberg National Park in the north of the country is a very popular safari destination. Just over two hours north of Johannesburg, it’s also easily accessible, making it a favorite choice for travelers with shorter itineraries and even families who prefer a less-remote destination.

Pilanesberg has all of the Big Five you’re hoping to see and plenty more animals as well. The Big Five, antelopes, wild dogs, and an array of smaller mammals all populate this pristine safari park due to its distinct (malaria-free!) location between the Kalahari and the Lowveld, and in the area of a massive extinct volcano. Pilanesberg’s unique scenery is a welcome breath of fresh air for safari travelers tired of flat savannah.

One of the draws of a safari in Pilanesberg National Park is the ability to self-drive through the park, which can make the experience an affordable one for travelers looking for a budget safari option – rest camps and more affordable lodges make accommodations a breeze, too. However, luxury isn’t lacking, with some truly impressive lodges awaiting travelers escaping from Johannesburg for a long weekend or the safari of a lifetime.

Best Safari Tours in Pilanesberg National Park

If you’re staying at Pilanesberg but aren’t interested in a self-driving experience, don’t worry – the lodges at the park offer guided game drives with experienced guides as part of their safari tours. For a more luxurious experience, Nkala Safari Lodge is second to none , both in impressive accommodations and world-class game drives. For a more rustic “bush lodge” experience, Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge is a stand-out favorite , though you’ll by no means be roughing it!

Many visitors to Pilanesberg love the self-driving safari options, which give freedom to explore the park at your leisure. However, many visitors also book experienced guides to help them explore the park with a professional eye, as this can greatly increase your chances of seeing all the wildlife you’re looking forward to spotting.

It’s certainly recommended to explore the park with a guide for at least one day of your safari – they can also give you tips to help make the rest of your self-driving experience even better!

5. Mala Mala Game Reserve

While Mala Mala Game Reserve is technically within Sabi Sands Game Reserve, this private, exclusive game reserve is worth mentioning in its own right thanks to its world-class lodges and second-to-none South Africa safari experience. One of the area’s oldest and most-beloved game reserves, it makes for an incredible destination whether you’re planning your first safari or your tenth!

Bordering Kruger National Park , this private game reserve is home to all the wildlife you’re looking forward to seeing at Kruger, but with a fraction of the crowds. In fact, a safari experience at Mala Mala may be the most private and secluded you’ll find, as only visitors staying overnight within the park are allowed access to it. You (and the animals that reside here!) will feel like you have the place all to yourself!

Of course, the Big Five roam aplenty in Mala Mala, as well as cheetahs, leopards, and other mammals like wildebeests, wild dogs, and hyenas. The frequency of leopard spotting at Mala Mala is a highlight for many visitors.

Best Safari Tours in Mala Mala Game Reserve

One of the most impressive lodges in Mala Mala, with the most well-known safari tours, MalaMala Rattray’s Camp is an excellent choice when looking for a safari in this game reserve. Opened in 1927, this luxury lodge has a history of providing a fabulous guest experience on game drives and breathtaking freestanding suites offer seclusion and privacy, in your own stunning corner of the savannah.

6. Madikwe Game Reserve

Located along South Africa’s northern border with Botswana, Madikwe Game Reserve is perhaps the most underrated safari park in South Africa. Just a few hour’s drive from Johannesburg and just over an hour from the capital of Botswana, Gaborone, you’ll be able to easily access the reserve while still feeling like you’re a million miles away.

You thought the Big Five was impressive? In Madikwe, you’ll see the Big Seven. This includes all the animals of the classic Big Five (the lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and black rhinoceros) in addition to the rare African wild dog and the cheetah. It makes for one-of-a-kind wildlife experiences. No self-driving safari option here, but the guides are absolutely incredible – you’ll have a million times more luck with them than you would on your own!

In addition to the incredible wildlife at Madikwe Game Reserve, you’ll get a great mix of safari lodges to choose from, making the experience here just as luxurious or as budget-friendly as you can dream of. From rustic, off-grid camps like Mosetlha Bush Camp & Eco Lodge to high-end spots like Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge , you’ll have a great range of choices for your South Africa safari experience at Madikwe.

Best Safari Tours in Madikwe Game Reserve

Featured among the world’s top ecolodges in Hitesh Mehta’s  Authentic Ecolodges ,  Mosetlha Bush Camp & Eco Lodge  is a family-owned and operated bush camp in the heart of Madikwe Game Reserve.  With world-renowned guides and incredible opportunities to get up close and personal with wildlife, it’s no wonder that 50% of guests are return visitors.

This beloved, rustic eco camp provides visitors with an authentic wilderness experience and minimal environmental impact.  This off-grid property offers just ten raised cabins with partly open sides, encouraging guests to unplug to reconnect .

7. Phinda Game Reserve

Located in eastern South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal area, right along the coastline and south of Eswatini, Phinda Game Reserve offers easily one of the very best South Africa safari experiences. Home to seven ecosystems – known as the “seven wonders of the world” – you’ll find a bit of everything here, including impressive, easily-visible wildlife, the complete Big Five , and rhino rehabilitation and conversation projects that make this one of the best places to see rare rhinos in the wild.

This game reserve is owned and operated by andBeyond, the award-winning, responsible safari brand whose presence is now throughout Africa. Phinda Game Reserve helped launch andBeyond to global recognition. At their flagship Phinda, you’ll experience their very best of the beloved andBeyond experience and feel welcomed to their pride and joy.

Despite being the flagship of such a well-known safari brand, Phinda Game Reserve still has a bit of an off-the-beaten-path vibe, especially when compared to other high-end safari spots like Thornybush and Sabi Sands . It’s a great choice for a relaxed yet luxurious safari without sacrificing wildlife experiences.

Looking to pair a safari with a beach vacation? Located close to the coast, a stay at Phinda combines perfectly with a beach getaway. The nearby iSimangaliso/Greater St Lucia Wetland Park is actually a UNESCO World Heritage-protected site, and offers pristine beaches and great snorkeling opportunities.

Best Safari Tours in Phinda Game Reserve

You really can’t go wrong with any experience at Phinda, no matter which is of the six lodges you choose from. Game drives are incredible, truly second to none, and the off-the-beaten-path luxury of the game reserve permeates no matter where you stay.

Two of the most beloved spots, offering the most distinct safari experiences at Phinda, are Phinda Mountain Lodge and Phinda Forest Lodge – nestled within totally distinct ecosystems within the reserve, they offer very different experiences. Expansive mountain views and family-friendly amenities await at Phinda Mountain Lodge, while Phinda Forest Lodge is an ecolodge par excellence with shaded cabins among the forest providing secluded luxury.

For even more privacy, choose the exclusive safari villas – The Homestead and Zuka Lodge – which offer a complete, private estate , perfect for all your family and friends to tag along and create safari memories together.

8. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

Just south of Phinda Game Reserve, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is an excellent choice if you’re looking for the unique experience of a safari in KwaZulu-Natal without Phinda exclusivity. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is the only national safari park in the area that is home to the Big Five animals, and much of the same beautiful and diverse landscape as Phinda.

In addition to the park’s Big Five animals and dozens of other impressive animals, it’s also home to a large population of white rhinoceroses, as the park has been home to traditional breeding grounds and an extensive preservation project.

Another wildlife highlight at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park? The incredible bird populations. This is one of the most well-known and beloved destinations for birders on safari looking to spot unique species of eagles, herons, longclaws, and more. It’s the perfect spot to combine birding excursions with game drives.

Best Safari Tours in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is open for self-driving safari excursions, a popular option in the park, though not the only one. Private game drives with trained guides are still generally the best safari tours, as guides have all the inside scoop about where and when to find animals. Stay at the favorite Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge for private game drives with the very best guides.

Looking for a budget safari tour? Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park might be the perfect option. It is close enough to Durban to enjoy a one-day safari excursion from Durban . Of course, staying in the park for at least a night or two means a more complete safari experience, but a safari excursion from Durban is a great option for travelers with just a short itinerary. You can also find excellent multi-day safari excursions from Durban with transportation included for a hassle-free option.

9. Addo Elephant National Park

Located along South Africa’s southern coast, Addo Elephant National Park is among the country’s largest national parks and a great choice for safaris whether you’re on your first safari or more experienced. Best known for – you guessed it – the numerous large herds of elephants, Addo Elephant National Park is also home to a rich and varied landscape. It promises incredible wildlife sightings , with much more than just elephants.

Elephants aren’t the only wildlife you’ll see here – not by far. The park is home to the Big Five , plus African wild dogs, cheetahs, hyenas, and over 13 species of antelope. The park’s coastal location also makes for an entirely unique safari, meaning you can see seals, whales, and even sharks along with the standard safari favorites.

A mix of self-driving options and some incredible luxury lodges with top-notch private game drives means a safari in Addo Elephant National Park can be just as affordable or luxurious as you’re looking for. Nearby spots to stay, Airbnb style, offer more affordable choices as well.

Best Safari Tours in Addo Elephant National Park

As with other national parks in South Africa, Addo Elephant National Park offers the option for visitors to self-drive through the park rather than hire a guide . It makes for an exciting experience and an affordable one if you’re traveling on a budget; it’s certainly one of the draws to the park. Many travelers also love to hire a safari guide for at least one day of experiencing a guided game drive – these can be a great introduction to the park and offer tips for a self-driving experience.

For a more luxurious experience, Gorah Elephant Camp is a stunning tented lodge, while the more affordable Zuurberg Mountain Village is also an excellent choice, and much loved.

An andBeyond outpost exists at Addo Elephant National Park as well, offering one of the best experiences in the park – Riverbend Lodge feels perfectly old-world and classic , providing a great experience for travelers and a comfortable retreat after a day spent scouting out animals.

• Addo Elephant National Park: Traveler’s Guide
• Best Lodges in Addo Elephant National Park

10. Lalibela Game Reserve

Another one of coastal South Africa’s best safari destinations, Lalibela Game Reserve offers a great mix of attractive features for travelers that makes it so special. Malaria-free, exclusive, and meaningfully conservation-focused, this Big Five game reserve isn’t as sprawling as its counterparts in the northern part of the country, though it doesn’t feel like it.

Home to five unique ecosystems within just 26,000 acres, you’ll get incredible opportunities to see unique bird species, mammals like lynx, jackals, and cheetahs, as well as all the Big Five favorites you’re expecting. With large expanses of grasslands, you’ll find great herds of zebras and wildebeests, making for incredible wildlife experiences and stunning photography.

Lalibela Game Reserve is home to six high-end lodges, making it a luxury safari destination perhaps not the best choice for budget travelers but a great option for those looking for a one-of-a-kind getaway.

Best Safari Tours in Lalibela Game Reserve

Each of the six lodges at Lalibela is incredible – you really can’t go wrong here. Tree Tops Safari Lodge makes for a unique experience if you’ve never stayed in a tented safari camp before. Mark’s Camp is a family-friendly option, while Inzolo Lodge feels particularly romanti c (and exclusive) with its private chalets.

Wherever you stay in Lalibela Game Reserve, make sure to add a walking safari to your itinerary. You’ll love the experience, and the guides do an incredible job making the most of a slow journey through the incredible landscape and diverse ecosystems of the park.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual New York-based travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Explorers Away and Home to Havana. Carley is an expert on all things Latin America, the Caribbean, and Cuba, having lived and worked in four different countries in the region. Her writing has appeared on the Associated Press wires and in Travel + Leisure, Yahoo, MSN, Euronews, The Weather Channel, and more. When she's not writing about her travels, find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

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Sabi sands is the best place in the world for a safari..

A little bit about Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Spanning 65,000 hectares, the Sabi Sands Nature Reserve is a testament to the vision of local landowners in the 1950s. It stands proudly adjacent to the globally acclaimed Kruger National Park, forming a vast wilderness teeming with wildlife.

The legacy of these founding families, now in their third and fourth generations of stewardship, resonates in the successful conservation of South Africa's richest density of big game. A unique feature of Sabi Sands is its 50-kilometer unfenced boundary with the Kruger National Park, creating a harmonious coexistence that allows wildlife to roam freely. This has led to remarkably close encounters with the local fauna, including prolific sightings of the elusive leopard. The dynamic landscape is further enriched by the Sabi and Sand Rivers, weaving their way through the reserve, enhancing the rich biodiversity of this extraordinary habitat.

Going on safari in Sabi Sands

Embark on an incredible journey to Sabi Sands Nature Reserve in South Africa, but before you go, there are some important details you should know.

Curious about the travel duration? Wondering if this destination is accessible to everyone? Intrigued by the unique aspects that make this place truly special? And what essentials should you pack? In the following sections, you will find answers to these queries and more. If there's a question left unanswered, feel free to reach out to us using the contact form below, and our team will be thrilled to assist you!

About Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve near Kruger National Park in South Africa is one of those very special places in the world and is the ultimate African safari destination.

Sabi Sands special offers

Searching for that one special offer that makes all your safari dreams come through? Our Sabi Sands special deals offer excellent value for money. We hope to see you soon!

Getting to Sabi Sands Reserve

The Sabi Sands is one of South Africa's best accessible game reserves. We have multiple daily flights, three access gates and a lot of world-class roads leading right to us.

So incredible, we started to plan a return trip during the flight home!

The food was spectacular - budget on gaining a kg or 3! Good, fresh South African food, prepared and served in style. You will love it!

...the highlights being following a pack of wild dogs and watching a leopard and her cub jumping from branch to branch high up in the trees.

Sabi Sands Game Reserve lodges

Set off on a journey to Sabi Sands Nature Reserve, a captivating destination that offers a unique safari experience. After a day filled with discovery and exploration in the African bush, you'll appreciate a tranquil haven to relax and recharge.

Sabi Sands caters to every taste and budget with its varied accommodations. From cozy bush camps tucked away in the wilderness to luxury options beneath the stunning African night sky, there's a unique experience for every traveller. A stay in the Sabi Sands not only promises unforgettable moments, but also fosters a lasting bond with the pulsing heart of the African bush, leaving an enduring memory long after your journey is over.

• Price $$$$$

Chitwa Chitwa Lodge

lodge style Art-inspired African

Chitwa Chitwa Lodge overlooks one of the largest lakes in the Sabi Sands. It is designed as a spacious yet intimate camp - presenting sophistication in a relaxed atmosphere. The eight very spacious suites all have plunge pools.

from ZAR 26,550 per person per night

Ulusaba Rock Lodge

lodge style Tranquil hill & trees

Ulusaba Rock Lodge is built high on the summit of a small hill overlooking the South African bushveld. The rooms and suites offer views over a waterhole in front of the lodge, allowing you to view wildlife from the privacy of your room.

from ZAR 14,159 per person per night

Notten's Bush Camp

lodge style Down to earth elegance

Notten's is one of the original family run lodges in Africa, and a true gem within the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. As one of the original lodges, it has a magical bush atmosphere and offers a truly authentic safari experience.

from ZAR 9,975 per person per night

Lion Sands Game Reserve

lodge style Riverside serenity

The award winning Lion Sands is the only private reserve to have access to the perennial Sabie River, which it shares with Kruger National Park. You will find five beautiful lodges here, so there's always one that suits your taste!

from ZAR 23,800 per person per night

Sabi Sabi Game Reserve

lodge style Present, past & future

Within the Sabi Sands Reserve, Sabi Sabi has created three unique worlds through its four first-class camps: one of yesterday's vintage romance; today's classic bush experience; and tomorrow's African renaissance.

from ZAR 15,969 per person per night

Singita Sabi Sand lodges

lodge style A very private affair

At the Singita lodges, guests share the privilege of experiencing this wonderful part of Africa. Spanning more than 45,000 acres, Singita is renowned for high concentrations of big game and frequent leopard sightings.

from ZAR 39,954 per person per night

Dulini Game Reserve

lodge style World class luxury

Dulini boasts several extraordinary safari lodges, including Dulini River, Dulini Leadwood, and Dulini Moya, where sumptuous accommodations offer a strikingly elegant contrast to the rugged bushveld.

from ZAR 26,800 per person per night

Elephant Plains Lodge

lodge style Bushveld simplicity

Elephant Plains Lodge offers comfortable style and affordable luxury. This lodge is family owned and sleeps a maximum of 24 guests. As such, you can be sure to expect personal service and a warm atmosphere.

from ZAR 5,500 per person per night

Arathusa Safari Lodge

lodge style classic lakeside safari

Arathusa offers an affordable wildlife and Big 5 Safari experience in a traditional safari camp. In front of your chalet is a lake that attracts lots of game throughout the day: perfect for game viewing from your lazy chair!

from ZAR 9,045 per person per night

Tengile River Lodge

lodge style Tranquil river views

Tengile River Lodge is the latest addition to the Sabi Sands. Extremely spacious suites offer incredible views over the river in incredible luxury. Of course the sounds and views of the African bush are best enjoyed from the privacy of your own plunge pool.

from ZAR 34,799 per person per night

Jaci's Sabi House

lodge style Group and family home

This is the ideal bush retreat for small groups and families alike. Jaci's Sabi House accommodates six guests only in a completely private setting. Explore the Sabi Sands from the comfort of your private safari vehicle and take home some unforgettable memories.

from ZAR 48,174 (sleeps four)

Ulusaba Safari Lodge

lodge style Under a canopy of trees

Sir Richard Branson's Ulusaba Safari Lodge overlooks a dry riverbed and is shaded by ancient trees. The nearby waterhole guarantees great game viewing. The eleven luxury rooms provide a luxurious safari experience in complete privacy.

Leopard Hills Lodge

lodge style Hilltop splendour

Expect to enjoy some amazing views over the African bush when staying in Leopard Hills Lodge. Eight luxury suites offer only the best safari accommodation. Enjoy the sunset from your viewing deck or plunge pool.

from ZAR 22,714 per person per night

&Beyond Kirkman's Kamp

lodge style Victoriana delight

Kirkman's is a well known historic camp which was originally built in the 1920s. It airs a feeling of an early rural homestead, with a vintage style and gracious ambience. All cottages have a deck overlooking the Sand River.

from ZAR 18,394 per person per night

Nkorho Bush Lodge

lodge style stylish modesty

To ensure travellers of the best possible attention, Nkorho only sleeps a maximum of twelve people in six stylish thatched chalets. The spacious rooms have en suite bathrooms, contemporary interiors, and offer complete privacy.

from ZAR 9,379 per person per night

Londolozi Game Reserve

lodge style Magical lodge collection

Londolozi is one of the pioneering Private Game Reserves of the ecotourism industry in South Africa and an unashamedly family run, stand alone operation. There are five beautifully appointed lodges to choose from.

from ZAR 22,564 per person per night

Savanna Game Lodge

lodge style Classic semi-tented savannah

A longtime favourite and much loved true South African safari lodge. Savanna Lodge is situated in an area where 'Big Five' sightings are so common that it is not unusual to see all of them during a single safari activity.

from ZAR 16,015 per person per night

Idube Game Lodge

lodge style affordable african safari

Idube is situated in prime game area. Many animals are seen close to the lodge on a daily basis. The lodge is family owned and offers just ten luxury suites. Each suite has its own private wooden deck, great for wildlife viewing!

from ZAR 11,309 per person per night

Inyati Safari Lodge

lodge style Classic bush experience

Inyati Game Lodge is situated on the banks of the Sand River, providing stunning river views. All chalets have been refurbished recently, now offering perfect luxury safari accommodation in the midst of the Sabi Sands Reserve.

from ZAR 12,584 per person per night

Silvan Safari Lodge

lodge style Luxury safari redefined

An innate understanding of the bush and a deep love for Africa: these two elements define Silvan’s story. Book yourself a stay in this new, luxury lodge and leave with an uplifted spirit and a firmly rooted love for this land.

from ZAR 29,129 per person per night

Cheetah Plains Lodge

lodge style Ultrachic retreat

Characterised by modern design, this three-villa lodge offers privacy and exclusivity, accompanied by superb service. The ideal setting to relish in the untamed wilderness, and unparalleled wildlife encounters.

from ZAR 33,869 per person per night

Umkumbe Safari Lodge

lodge style Affordable elementary Bush

Umkumbe Safari Lodge is owner-managed and run; ensuring guests enjoy a personal, rustic and real South African safari experience. The lodge consists of six chalets with most overlooking the Sand River.

from ZAR 5,145 per person per night

Mala Mala Game Reserve

lodge style Classic family owned reserve

Many years of superb service -and experience- has resulted in the satisfaction of many guests. Relax in the unpretentious elegance and style of one of the finest safari experiences in Africa at Mala Mala Private Game Reserve.

from ZAR 19,664 per person per night

Simbambili Game Lodge

lodge style moroccan style Lakeside

Simbambili Game Lodge is a destination for the discerning traveller. Sophisticated yet simple, each suite has spectacular views whether from the unique en-suite bathrooms and salas or individual plunge pools.

from ZAR 18,895 per person per night

Sabi Sands Video

The best way of getting an idea what the Sabi Sands Game Reserve is about is by seeing some incredible footage from the area. We went out with our video camera and spent a lot of time outdoors to get you some of the most beautiful shots of the reserve imaginable.

Visit our Sabi Sands videos overview page for more videos and get inspired for your Sabi Sands safari.

We were off road and moving with the animals or quietly sitting watching them playing or feasting....magical.

The staff went out of their way to make our wedding and honeymoon as special as it could ever be. We were blown away.

Great place for viewing big cats!

Send your enquiry

We hope you have found all information needed to decide that the Sabi Sands Game Reserve is the perfect place for your next travel adventure. Still have questions? Or perhaps you would like more specific information about one of the topics on this page? Please fill in the contact form and we will get back to you soon!

• Sabi Sands Game Reserve
• Mpumalanga, South Africa
• [email protected]

South Africa Must-See Places: Safari Parks, Reserves, Top Destinations

With so much to see and do, South Africa is perfect for your first trip to Africa! Safari parks throughout the country offer unbelievable wildlife viewing and a full range of safari lodges, from great value options to all-out luxury.

On the western tip, Cape Town draws tourists from around the world with its sunny climate, beautiful beaches, and cosmopolitan feel. Just a short drive from Cape Town are beautiful winelands and outdoor adventures galore. South Africa truly has it all!

Here are our must-see places in South Africa, from world-famous attractions to hidden gems. Give us a call at (888) 367-0933 if you’d like to learn more!

Explore Our 10 Best African Safari Tours

Best Safari Parks & Game Reserves

1. Kruger National Park and Surrounds

Kruger National Park is the most famous safari destination in South Africa, perhaps even the entire continent! The Big 5 and countless other wildlife are found in abundance, making this the perfect place for your first safari.

Within the park itself, you cannot go off-road or do night game drives. However, several private concessions share an unfenced border with Kruger. These private concessions offer the same great wildlife viewing as Kruger with more freedom and fewer vehicles at each sighting.

Some of our favorite private reserves in the Great Kruger area include Sabi Sands,  MalaMala,  Timbavati, Manyeleti, Thornybush, and Kapama.

2. Madikwe Game Reserve

This malaria-free Big 5 reserve is perfect for families, with plenty of luxurious safari lodges and camps to choose from. Madikwe presents a more affordable alternative to the Sabi Sands. The area is famous for its large packs of African wild dogs —one of the continent’s rarest and most photogenic predators!

3. Phinda Private Game Reserve

Phinda is the best game reserve in the KwaZulu-Natal area. It is home to some exceptional luxury safari lodges, and is famous for its cheetah sightings.

4. Tswalu Kalahari Reserve

This private reserve offers a different game viewing experience than Kruger and other northeastern parks, with a diverse ecosystem including mountains and red-hued grasslands.

Tswalu has abundant meerkats (even a habituated family you can see up close!) and is one of the best places in South Africa to see the elusive, highly endangered pangolin.

5. Eastern Cape Safari Parks

If you want to combine a Big 5 safari with the Garden Route, we recommend one of the parks in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. The area is malaria-free, making it safe for young children. Our favorite private reserves in the area include Kwandwe (renowned for sightings of rare black rhino) and Shamwari.

Beyond Safari: Places to Visit in South Africa

1. Cape Town

Cape Town is a thriving cosmopolitan center that’s blessed with natural beauty, flanked by Table Mountain on one side and sweeping coastal views on the other.

Explore beaches, art, history, a thriving food scene, boutique shopping, and much more in town. Wine tasting and shark cage diving are easily accessible on day trips. See our list of the Top 11 Things to See & Do in Cape Town .

2. Cape Winelands

South Africa’s world-class wines are finally starting to get the international attention they deserve. Sample some of South Africa’s best wines and soak up gorgeous mountain views in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and beyond. You can tour the area on a day trip from Cape Town or stay a few nights to get a true feel for South Africa’s culinary capital.

3. Simon’s Town/False Bay

Take a day trip from Cape Town to see African penguins on the beach, go shark cage diving in False Bay (February to September), and even see Great White Shark breaching.

4. Hermanus

Head to Hermanus for beautiful ocean views, whale watching, nature walks, and more. If you’re planning to go cage diving with Great White Sharks in Gansbaai, you’ll save time by staying overnight in Hermanus versus departing from Cape Town.

5. Garden Route

If you have the time, we certainly recommend self-driving the scenic Garden Route from Cape Town to Tsitsikamma National Park. The route abounds with beautiful views, beaches, and hiking trails. Popular stops along the way include Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and Nature’s Valley.

6. Johannesburg

Johannesburg is South Africa’s major metropolis and an international gateway. Explore vibrant street art, the Apartheid Museum, and the bustling Maboneng neighborhood.

4-Day Fly-in Safari all-incl. Lion Sands Game Reserve

Big 5 off-road game viewing, 5-star luxury take advantage of the current paystay deal - stay 3 nights and pay for 2 ** free domestic flights to skukuza (szk) from jnb for a limited period.

Best of the best ‍ Unparalleled safari adventure, bridging the majestic wilderness of South Africa's Sabi Sands and the iconic Kruger National Park.

Discover Lion Sands: Four lodges, endless adventure, and the luxury of the wild at your doorstep.

LION SANDS RIVER LODGE The soul of Lion Sands, River Lodge offers a tranquil retreat along the Sabie River. It's known for its warm hospitality, luxurious rooms, and exceptional game viewing. The lodge blends traditional African design with contemporary luxury, featuring expansive decks for wildlife watching, relaxing lounges, and an inviting spa. ‍ LION SANDS IVORY LODGE Renowned for its modern and sophisticated design, Ivory Lodge provides an ultra-luxurious experience with individual villas offering complete privacy. Each villa boasts its own plunge pool and viewing deck, providing an intimate setting for observing the wilderness. The lodge emphasizes personal service and exceptional comfort, catering to those seeking an exclusive safari experience. ‍ ‍ LION SANDS TINGA LODGE & NARINA LODGE ‍ These sister lodges, located in a private concession in the Kruger National Park on the banks of the Sabie River, offer an intimate and serene safari experience. With only a few suites at each lodge, guests enjoy privacy and personalized service. The suites are designed to blend into the surrounding nature, with large windows and outdoor showers that allow guests to feel connected to the wild. Both lodges are celebrated for their romantic ambiance and exceptional game viewing opportunities.

Lion Sands Game Reserve holds a unique position as the only reserve that spans both the renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve and the iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa. This distinctive placement provides guests with an unparalleled safari experience across two of Africa's most prestigious wildlife sanctuaries. Each lodge within Lion Sands leverages its location to offer a distinct connection to the wild. ‍ RIVER LODGE & IVORY LODGE These lodges are nestled within the Sabi Sand part of Lion Sands, capitalizing on the intimate and exclusive wildlife encounters for which Sabi Sand is famous. These lodges offer luxurious accommodations with exceptional views of the surrounding wilderness, where the dense concentration of wildlife, including the Big Five, roam freely. The lodges' proximity to the Sabie River enhances game viewing opportunities, as many animals are drawn to this vital water source. ‍ TINGA LODGE & NARINA LODGE ‍ These two lodges are situated within the Kruger National Park boundary of Lion Sands, offering guests a safari experience immersed in one of Africa's largest and most diverse game reserves. The Kruger setting allows for expansive game drives across vast landscapes, showcasing a wide variety of ecosystems and the chance to observe a broader spectrum of wildlife in their natural habitats. The lodges' locations on the banks of the Sabie River provide a serene backdrop and contribute to the rich biodiversity of the area.

Experience the essence of the African wilderness at Lion Sands Game Reserve, where the majesty of the Big 5 and the allure of untamed nature converge with luxury and exclusive adventures across our four unique lodges in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Kruger National Park. ‍ WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS & SAFARI ADVENTURES ‍ ‍ Dive into the heart of the bush with our expert-led game drives, offering intimate encounters with Africa’s most iconic wildlife. For a closer connection with nature, embark on guided bush walks or serene river tours along the Sabie River, revealing the hidden wonders of the ecosystem. ‍ IMMERSIVE EXPEIRENCES ‍ Elevate your safari with our treehouse sleepouts under the star-studded sky, specialized photographic safaris capturing the spirit of the wild, and engaging cultural visits that offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of the local communities. ‍ DINING UNDER THE AFRICAN SKY ‍ ‍ Our bush dinners and breakfasts blend exquisite cuisine with the breathtaking beauty of the wilderness, making every meal a moment to remember.Join us at Lion Sands Game Reserve for a safari experience that marries the thrill of adventure with the tranquility of nature, all set within the spectacular backdrop of South Africa’s most renowned wildlife reserves.

Location and getting there

Firstly, we'll handle everything including your lodging, flights and transfers! The most convenient lodges to travel to are Tinga Lodge and Narina Lodge which are a mere 5-minute drive from Skukuza Airport (SZK), making them the most easily accessible luxury lodges in South Africa.  Have breakfast at your hotel in either Cape Town or Johannesburg and arrive at Lion Sands in time for lunch and an afternoon game drive. The other lodges are also nearby commercial airports. Feel free to reach out for more details.

Our 5-star service

1 ‍ Place your enquiry. Be sure to include number of travelers, dates and whether you require flights and/or transfers

2 ‍ Our resident expert will liaise with you directly to coordinate all the details of your trip.

3 ‍ You'll receive a provisional booking via email. Complete payment and you're ready to travel!

Rates and Promotions 2024

4-day lion sands tinga lodge fly-in package, all-inclusive ** with free domestic flights, 4-day lion sands river lodge fly-in package, all-inclusive ** with free domestic flights, 4-day lion sands narina lodge fly-in package, all-inclusive ** with free domestic flights, 4-day lion sands ivory lodge fly-in package, all-inclusive ** with free domestic flights, meet dolan, our resident expert, dolan has extensive knowledge of all the lion sands lodges in south africa. he'll help you book your trip at the same rate as going direct and will also manage all flights and transfers required for your safari. he's available on whatsapp for fastest response..

March 25, 2024

Very prompt in reply and provided good…

Very prompt in reply and provided good advise re safari lodges. Smooth process throughout.

March 24, 2024

Great service from Dolan

Dolan sorted everything for us so efficiently (working in our timezone!) and made the process really smooth for us. It was a great customer experience!

Thanks Dolan for arranging the best…

Thanks Dolan for arranging the best safari experience for us!

Fantastic service

Dolan is an awesome and helpful person. Super good service!

Good job Dolan

We are a big group of 12 travelling together and it’s not an easy task to arrange Safari lodge. Dolan tried his best and booked two amazing lodges. We enjoy the stay, game drive and food. Dolan is also responsive with answering our queries and pleasant to deal with. If we ever come back South Africa again, we surely will engage his service. Keep in touch!

Dolan the best Safari planner!

Dolan has been so helpful and he made our first-time Safari experience to be so memorable. He planned our trip really well, giving useful suggestions to our itinerary in switching safaris to try different lodges so as to maximize our experience. We also made last-minute requests to change flights and he was able to accommodate and is responsible to message with us and follow up with our changes even late into the night. Great service and planning!! Thanks Dolan :)

Intimate luxury at Lion Sands Private Game Reserve

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Safari in Kruger National Park

The best safaris in kruger national park.

Stuart Butler

• In this guide

Kruger National Park

• Sabi Sands Game Reserve
• Kwazulu-Natal
• Parks of the North West Province
• Safari in the Eastern Cape
• Safari in the Western Cape
• Where to stay
• Need to know
• Where to go

The showpiece of South African safari , Kruger National Park is one of the world’s most famous protected areas, and for good reason.

This huge (19,485 sq km) park in the far northeast of South Africa is home to tens of thousands of mammals and birds including large numbers of all your African favourites.

The scenery is classic Africa, with the diversity of safari activities the equal of anywhere and there are endless accommodation options and safari styles available, from tented camps to luxury lodges. The park is readily accessible and, thanks to an impressive road system, easy to travel around.

Here's my rundown on the best safaris in Kruger National Park.

Kruger's best safari reserves, lodges and camps

Thornybush Game Reserve

Best for: Luxury lodges and the Big Five

For many years, Thornybush was a fenced reserve which meant the management could guarantee the presence of many large mammals, but it also prevented the wildlife from moving freely between the reserve and Kruger itself. It also meant that the reserve lacked a little of the wilderness feel. The good news is that the fences have come down and, with its top-end lodges, acclaimed guides and a better than average chance of seeing cheetah (as well as many other flagship animals), Thornybush can now rightly hold its head up high as one of the best of the Kruger area’s private reserves.

Timbavati Game Reserve

Best for: The Big Five and photography

This magical private reserve borders the main Kruger park and, with no fences to block access, it hosts all the main mammal and bird species that Kruger is famed for. What really puts Timbavati on the map is its very rare population of naturally white lions. Lions with such a genetic mutation can only be found in one or two other places in Africa. In 2017, the last white lion in the region died. However, in March 2018, a cub was born with the pigmentation, meaning the legend lives on.

Timbavati is known for its high-quality guides, wide range of safari activities, and superb, high-end lodges with a heavy dose of romance.

Balule Nature Reserve

Best for: The Big Five and luxury lodges

Sprawling across 250 sq km, the unfenced Balule Nature Reserve sits on the edge of the greater Kruger ecosystem with the Drakensberg escarpment as a memorable backdrop. The reserve is home to the Big Five as well as large numbers of hippo. There is also excellent birding with more than 260 recorded species including hobby falcon and harlequin doves. There are several quality lodges in different price ranges and activities include guided game drives and walking safaris, fishing, wine tasting and visits to a wildlife rehabilitation centre.

Kapama Game Reserve

Best for: Family friendly holidays and birdwatching

Kapama makes for a good first-time safari destination in the greater Kruger region. A few years ago, the fences that had for so long separated it from Kruger and the surrounding (unfenced) private reserves were taken down. This has done a lot to increase the wilderness feel of the place. There is a good range of safari activities on offer and it’s child-friendly (as child-friendly as anywhere with wild lions can be). One unique feature of a safari here is the reserve’s elephant experience. The reserve has a number of elephants (rescued from elephant-back safaris) and the elephant interaction experience allows you to get close to these not-so gentle giants while a guide explains elephant biology and conservation.

Manyeleti Game Reserve

Best for: The Big Five and family friendly safari

Covering 230 sq km and with an unfenced border with Kruger, Manyeleti, which means Place of the Stars in the local Shangaan language, was the only wildlife reserve that black people were permitted to visit during the apartheid era. Today it welcomes everyone, yet retains an exclusive atmosphere thanks to having only four excellent lodges and camps with accommodation suitable for budget, mid-range and luxury travellers. The reserve hosts all the so-called Big Five and a whole range of Kruger’s other stars.

Klaserie Nature Reserve

Best for: Luxury lodges and photography

Covering some 60,000 hectares, the spectacular Klaserie Nature Reserve is one of the largest privately-owned nature reserves in South Africa. The reserve is also deeply committed to environmental education for local children and supports a number of long-term scientific studies. For the tourist, Klaserie combines memorably diverse scenery, including glittering waterways, and an impressive range of wildlife such as rhinos, elephants, lions, hippos and some massive buffalo. The birdlife is equally impressive and one of the scientific projects the reserve supports focuses on the prehistoric-looking ground hornbill. There’s a wide selection of accommodation within Klaserie, all of it very luxurious and intimate in scale, and the sheer size of the reserve means that Klaserie never feels busy — except with wildlife.

Karongwe Game Reserve

Best for: Birdwatching and the Big Five

Known for offering some of the highest chances of spotting the elusive leopard, Karongwe is a moderately-sized private game reserve hemmed in between four rivers with views of the Drakensberg Mountains. This gives it an unusually lush, green landscape, in contrast to some of Kruger’s drier regions. Other highlights are the superb guided bush walks and exceptional birdwatching (again, thank those rivers). Since there are just five unashamedly luxurious and very small camps, crowds are never an issue here and the quality of the guiding and accommodation is almost unsurpassed in the Kruger area.

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Safari in Kruger National Park: Need to know

Everything you wish you'd known before you booked.

This is safari made easy — perhaps too easy. A park as good and easy to visit as Kruger attracts a lot of visitors and in high season main routes can be busy. The park’s highly-developed infrastructure also means that it doesn’t always feel all that wild. If this sounds off-putting, fear not.

The park is surrounded by a number of superb private reserves with limited numbers and no self-drives allowed, which means that wild Africa comes growling right up to you. Taking all this into account, whatever sort of safari you’re looking for, Kruger usually comes out on top.

Where to go in Kruger National Park

There’s a massive amount of accommodation in and around Kruger National Park. The park itself caters to all budgets, from hardcore bush campers to lodges with a luxury royal seal (and a price tag to match). In general, the finest accommodation and best safari guides can be found in the exclusive private reserves bordering Kruger itself. The prices quoted by such places might appear steep but keep in mind that they generally include all activities including guided safaris in state-of-the-art vehicles, meals and most drinks, plus the conservation fees that help maintain such wilderness areas.

Some suggested top-end places include Singita Lebombo Lodge and the Rzoyal Malewane, both of which are in the Kruger National Park itself. You can’t really go wrong with any of the accommodation in the private reserves but some worth building your safari around include Thornybush Waterside Lodge in the Thornybush Game Reserve, Kapama River Lodge in the Kapama Game Reserve, and the Klaserie Sands River Camp and Makumu Private Game Lodge, both in Klaserie.

Safari by foot

For the ultimate in Kruger adventures, try a short bush walk led by an expert walking safari guide in one of the private reserves or, for something even more thrilling, set out to hike one of the multi-day wilderness trails established by park authorities. There’s no better way to get to know wild Africa than by walking, which gives you the ability to touch, smell, taste, hear and sense the African bush in a way that’s never possible in a vehicle safari.

Kruger wildlife

One of the great parks of Africa, Kruger and the surrounding private reserves are home to all of southern Africa’s iconic mammal species including the famed Big Five — buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard and rhino. This is also a great park for giraffe, zebra, cheetah and even wild dogs. The sheer quantity of animals seen on a safari trip here can be mind-boggling.

There are tens of thousands of impala and blue wildebeest and, despite sustained recent poaching, there are still thousands of white rhino (plus some black rhino). The lion population is somewhere around thousand and elephants are doing exceptionally well, with some 13,000 present (which is about double the park’s real carrying capacity). In total, some 140 mammal species are known to live in and around the Kruger eco-systems, which makes it one of the most mammal-rich parks in the world.

The diverse habitats, which include thorn tree woodlands and shrub mopane veld, river valleys lined by tropical forest and searing granite kopjes (hills), supports an even more impressive array of birdlife. More than 500 different species of birds have been recorded in Kruger.

Kruger's hidden gems

Anthony Ham

Kruger may be busy, but it’s so big that you can still spend time alone with a lone leopard wandering along a quiet riverside track. As a general rule, I enjoy Kruger the further north I go: in the wild north, I’d happily live out my safari days looking for birds and lions that still seem surprised to see a vehicle.

When to visit Kruger National Park

Key wildlife viewing times are between June and September when the drier winter weather causes animals to congregate around water sources, and the March to May rutting season when male wildebeest, impala and other antelope butt heads over the ladies. Overall, June is probably the best month to visit. Wildlife activity is intense, but with school holidays yet to begin, human activity remains light and accommodation is cheaper.

When to go on safari in South Africa

Blessed with incredible geographical diversity, South Africa is truly a year-round destination…

Kruger safari FAQs

Your questions, our expert answers, can you recommend any mid-luxury accommodation in kruger we don't need top luxury but happy to splurge a bit..

Most of the accommodation actually within Kruger National Park is run by the park authorities - great locations, but the accommodations are fairly basic and very busy. If you want to splash out, this is probably not what you're looking for.

Consider instead one of the private reserves (conservancies) that sit alongside Kruger - they have much the same wildlife, but way more choice when it comes to accommodation, and fewer visitors and vehicles. I've always enjoyed Timbavati Nature Reserve and Shindzela - I saw all the big five in one afternoon here!

The best safaris in Sabi Sands

About the author.

Stuart is an award-winning travel journalist covering safari, trekking and conservation in Africa for the Lonely Planet, Rough Guides, BBC, Bradt Travel Guides, amongst many others. He is the author of Walking With The Maasai , a journey through some of Kenya's lesser-visited Maasai lands.

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Hluhluwe Game Reserve - Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park

Experience one of the finest game reserves, south africa has to offer....

 Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve, Is a Big 5 Game Park in the KwaZulu Natal Regine Of South Africa. The oldest proclaimed reserve in Africa. Still Wild, With 96000 Hectares of Wilderness Awaiting you. 4x4s Dusty Roads Rolling Hills Of Sunsets, Magnificent Big 5 Sightings & Photographs Everywhere. Time To Safari, In The Bush Felt Of  Zululand...

Is it time to visit the Hluhluwe Game Reserve ?

Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park

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Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, Open Game Drive Big 5 Safari's Departing Daily

From R1150 p/p

Hluhluwe Game Reserve

All Big 5 Safaris are conducted in Open Game Drive Safari Vehicles. Home to the African Big 5, Cheetah, Wild Dogs and many other wildlife species. Departing Daily

Full Day Big 5 Safari

Departing Daily Open Game Drive Safaris, From R1400 p/p

Half Day Big 5 Safari

Departing Daily Open Game Drive Safaris, From R1150 p/p

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Half-Day Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Safari and iSimangaliso Wetland Park Boat Trip, From R1350 p/p

Full-Day Big 5 Exclusive Safari

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Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park Overview

Where is the Hluhluwe Game Reserve located? The Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve is located in the province of KwaZulu Natal. The nearest town is known as Hluhluwe 13 Km from the Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve. The nearest city is Durban approximately 236 km. Accessing the game reserve from Durban take the N2 (national toll road) and travel in a Northerly direction. For all of the gate, access points click here .

Our Most Popular Overnight South Africa Safari Packages

Into the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park

All Packages include and highlight the very best that KwaZulu Natal has to offer. Visit Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park.

Enjoy iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa's very first world heritage site. Elephant interaction, Zulu Culture, Cheetah Rehabilitation center and more.

South Africa, KwaZulu Natal

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From R2800 p/p

Our Top Safari Overnight Packages

1 Night Bush, Boat & Night Drive

From R3100 p/p

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From R5350 p/p

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From R7100 p/p

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From R9100 p/p

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Adventurous and Exciting

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From R20400 p/p

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For the very best of KwaZulu Natal

Accommodation & Safari Specials

@ heritage house.

Most Popular - Hluhluwe Hilltop Camp

Hluhluwe-imfolozi park accommodation.

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Hluhluwe Hilltop Camp

Accommodation

The Best Trip Ever!!! John & David 5 Out Of 5 Stars

Reviewed 2019 Thank you very much for a great time,

We spent with Heritage Tours & Safari.

Special thank you to Vusi and our safari guides,

John and David. All three days were amazing!

Excellent Trip Ngcebo 5 out of 5 star

Reviewed 1 week ago

Well done on the service of the staff at Heritage Tours from the office staff to guides.

Went on a half day safari with Ngcebo as a tour guide who was very informative and knowledgeable about the game.

Was a pleasure to have him as a tour guide.

Visited February 2019

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Hluhluwe Combo Safari

Bush & Boat Big 6 Safari Whats App Us: +27 64 037 6415 Email Inquiries Hluhluwe Combo Safari What has to be one of our most popular Day Safari Combos that includes both the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park and the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Set out early morning into the world-acclaimed Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park on a Half-Day Big 5…

Why Visit Hluhluwe Game Reserve

Why Visit Hluhluwe Game Reserve For Starters its the oldest proclaimed game reserve in Africa and also home to the African Big 5 What is without a doubt the very best Game Reserve in KwaZulu Natal, the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park never disappoints. 96000 Hectares of Bush, Wildlife, Hides, and Magnificent Views awaits you. This game reserve…

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Big 5 Safari Packages Like to Visit and Enjoy sightings of the Big 5 on Safari, why not browse some of our magnificent Big 5 Safari Packages. South Africa, KwaZulu Natal is home to some of the most amazing bush and savannahs on the continent. With easy access, incredible people, and of course marvelous Packages…

Big 5 Safari Holiday

Big 5 Safari Holiday Discover & Witness Africa’s Big 5 on a Safari Holiday, Visit the oldest Proclaimed game reserve in Africa, the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park and South Africa’s first World Heritage site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park. When one imagines the Mighty Big 5, one can but only think of African Sunsets, Wildlife, and Magnificent Savannahs as…

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Other- info you may be looking for, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Accommodation , Hluhluwe Maps , Hluhluwe Umfolozi Weather, Park Entrance Fees. st, Lucia South Africa Activities & Cape Town Day Trips/Safaris News about the park and its animals...

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Did you know that the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is the oldest proclaimed nature reserve in Africa. Set in the heart of Zululand (KwaZulu Natal) a mere 2.5 hours north of Durban. This Big 5 Park offers some magnificent scenery of wildlife.

The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is truly an amazing park to visit while in KwaZulu Natal. Various entry gates makes for easy access and also eliminates congestion. One may enter the park via 3 gates namely the Nylazi Gate, Memorial gate and Cengeni Gate.

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is 96000 hectares (960 square kilometers) in size. Small in comparison to the Kruger National Park which is 1948500 hectares (19485 square kilometers).

This however makes the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park more accessible and manageable while out on a full or half day safari. The park offers visitors numerous Hides, Loop roads, picnic areas, shops and restaurant. Make sure should you be doing a self drive that you purchase a map at one of the entrances as the park is large and may become a bit confusing should you not have a map. It is advisable to enter the park as early as possible and always keep to the speed limit (40km/h) at all times please. Do not leave ones vehicle unless in a designated area.

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is a Big 5 Park, one may encounter Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhino (black and white) and Elephants. Some other wildlife species that one may also encounter while in the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park include:

And many more species

Set in the heart of Zululand, KwaZulu Natal South Africa. The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve is located 2,5 Hours (236 km) North of Durban, KwaZulu Natal's capital.

From South Africa's capital city, Johannesburg to the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve it is 550km. Other interesting areas include South Africa's very first world heritage site the iSimangaliso Wetland Park which is approximately 54km from Imfolozi Park to St Lucia.

Co-Ordinates for Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is, 28.2198° S, 31.9519° E

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park Gate Co-Ordinates:

• Nylazi Gate:     28.250506 S, 31.990149 E
• Cengeni Gate: 28.190968  S, 31.886181 E
• Memorial Gate: 28.068431 S, 32.141565 E

A Safari into Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park costs are dependable on the type of Safari that one may opt for these include:

• Half Day Safari
• Full Day Safari

Their are numerous hides scattered between the Hluhluwe and the Imfolozi Park. What is a hide? A hide is exactly what it says a hide (hideaway) so that the animals can not see you.

The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is situated in the KwaZulu Natal Province. Warm tropical weather year-round. Situated on the North-Eastern side of South Africa.

The park is a national public park and one of the largest in Natal. The governing body is Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife

Home to the African Big 5, the park also boasts numerous other species such as Cheetah, Wild Dogs, and many others. This includes 1200 plant species, 84 mammals, and 350-400 bird species

Where is the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park?

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South African safaris: Lions, leopards and luxury lodges

Roxanne de Bruyn

South Africa

• South African safari: know before you go

Planning on booking a safari tour in South Africa? This 4-day tour of the Kruger National Park starts and finishes in Johannesburg and gives you the best chance of seeing South Africa's Big Five up close.

Seeing wild animals in their natural habitat during a safari is easily one of the most magical travel experiences. While you may have seen these animals at the zoo, watching them in their own space is a completely different experience.

You can watch the big cats lazing in the sun, cheater cubs rolling around together as they play, and giraffes wandering through the savannah. Crocodiles and hippos submerge themselves in murky rivers, and predators chew on the remnants of last night's dinner.

Going on safari brings a fresh perspective to life, travel and humanity - if you're thinking about going, you won't be disappointed.

South Africa is a wonderful destination to have a well-rounded safari experience with the comforts of everyday life. The game parks are large and well-maintained, and it's possible to see a huge variety of animals while you're there.

In short, South Africa is particularly well suited to travellers heading on their first safari. Here's what you need to know to plan your trip.

The Big Five and other animals

So, what animals can you expect to see on safari in South Africa? Well, a huge range, to be honest. South Africa is home to over 500 bird species, 100 species of reptile and 150 mammal species, including the Big Five and the endangered African wild dog.

Seeing the Big Five - lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and Cape buffalo - is the ultimate safari challenge. These animals were historically thought to be the most difficult to hunt and catching them was an accomplishment. You'll find your game rangers do their best to track them down and you're likely to see all of them if you visit the Kruger National Park.

You'll probably see a range of other animals too, including zebra, giraffe, cheetahs, kudu (deer with large ears and impressive, curling horns), springbok (South Africa's national animal), warthogs, crocodiles, hippos, various birdlife and many more.

Is it worth booking a safari tour in South Africa?

It's very easy to travel in South Africa independently and many game lodges will help you organise game drives and other safari experiences. It's also possible to go on a self-drive safari - just hire a car and drive through the game park - however, you're likely to see many more animals if you go on game drives. The rangers know the reserves very well and communicate with each other about where specific animals have been seen.

You don't need to go on a safari tour to go on a game drive. It's very possible to book your accommodation and game drives separately and, if you stay at some lodges, a couple of game drives will be included. Saying that, booking a multi-day safari tour does give you the ability to see multiple game reserves and enjoy the experience without dealing with any of the logistics yourself.

Safari tours can also be a good way to travel between destinations (e.g. Victoria Falls to Johannesburg) and see other points of interest along the way. Just keep in mind that they are often more expensive than organising your trip yourself.

Some popular safari tours in South Africa:

Garden Route and Addo Elephant Park - 5 nights

Kruger National Park and Blyde River Canyon - 4 nights

Kruger safari from Johannesburg - 3 nights

Private South to North Kruger tour - 5 nights

Game drives in South Africa

The best way to see wildlife is by going on a game drive. You'll usually be in a jeep with a small group of travellers, a ranger and a tracker. The rangers usually know the game park very well and can find animals which you may not spot if you're driving by yourself.

Going on a game drive also lets you see larger animals up close. Animals are accustomed to seeing vehicles in their territories and often perceive the jeep as a single, large animal. Just remember to follow the ranger's advice and stay in the vehicle at all times, including your car if you're self driving.

Full-day safari

Spend a full day driving through the game park looking for animals. These are especially popular in the Kruger National Park and usually include a stop at a café for lunch. Just keep in mind that it can be a long day and animals usually sleep during the middle of the day, when it's warmest.

Book a full day safari in the Kruger National Park

Book a full day safari from Johannesburg

Book a full day safari from Cape Town

Sunrise game drive

Mornings are a beautiful time to go on safari. It's not too hot, you'll often see the animals out and about and there's something magical about seeing the bush first thing in the morning. The downside is that it leaves very early in the morning and it can be cold, so dress appropriately.

Book a morning safari in Kruger National Park

Book a sunrise game drive in the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve.

Night game drive

These are often also called sundowner or afternoon game drives. Head out in the evening and enjoy a drink while you watch the sunset in the bush. Then watch the nocturnal animals coming out. It does get cold, so be sure to dress in layers and wear and jacket.

Book a sunset safari in the Kruger National Park.

Self-drive safari

Drive yourself through the game parks and see animals as you go. Depending on the day, you may see many animals as you drive through the park, other times not so many. Try to go at cooler times, and wait by the water holes to see what comes out.

One of the challenges of self-driving is that you don't know the reserve as well as the rangers and you don't get tips on where the animals are. Some people try to follow the jeeps, however that isn't necessarily a good way to find animals. If you do decide to self-drive, stay in your car at all times - the animals aren't as friendly up close as they can seem from further away.

Walking safari

Leave the jeep behind and wander through the bush on foot. This is a particularly good option if you're interested in bird-watching and seeing some of the local insects up close and learning more about animal life-cycles and the ecology of the area.

Book a walking safari in the Kruger National Park

Book a giraffe walking safari in the Addo Valley

Book a walking safari in iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Safari lodges in South Africa

There's a wide range of accommodation if you want to go on safari. You can camp in the Kruger National Park and some other reserves and there are often bungalows or hotels available outside the reserves. However, if you want the quintessential safari experience, staying at a lodge is the way to go.

Lodges are usually located within private game parks or wildlife sanctuaries, meaning you can see animals up close and personal during your stay. Some of the private reserves won't have the big cats near the lodge, while others will have several rangers on hand. The lodges range from comfortable to luxurious and usually offer a pool and bush views. They are generally all inclusive with breakfast, dinner and sometimes a couple of game drives included.

Staying at at a safari lodge is a remarkable experience. You may find yourself visited by animals during your stay - I've personally turned around to see zebra, warthogs, kudu, giraffes and bushbabies wandering by. Many have panoramic views over the bush, often with animals visible in the distance. It's peaceful and serene and the modern world and everyday life seems very far away. You'll find a few recommendations for safari lodges in the sections below.

Visiting the Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is one of the largest national parks in the world. Almost the size of Belgium, visiting Kruger gives you a sense of how much space the animals need and the size of their territories. It's vast and you won't be able to see the entire park in a day. Due to the size, it also takes longer to find the animals, so expect to spend a lot of time driving.

A popular destination with well-maintained roads, it's easy to visit the Kruger National Park by yourself. It's a good option for a self-drive safari, although finding animals can be a bit hit and miss due to the size. It can also get busy, especially during holiday periods, so you may want to time your visit accordingly.

There are also a number of private reserves on the outskirts of Kruger National Park. If you stay at a lodge in the private reserve, you can also go see the animals or see the game drives within the smaller reserve. Popular options are Sabi Sands, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Thornybush Private Game Reserve and Kapama Private Game Reserve - see the next section for more information on these.

For more affordable accommodation, you can stay in the campgrounds in the Kruger National Park itself, or in the nearby towns of Hazyview (near the Panorama Route and Sabi Sand) or Marloth Park (near the southern entrance of the park). Accommodation options range from hotels and game lodges to self catering options, suitable for the whole family.

One of the great things about visiting the Kruger National Park is that there's also a lot to do in the wider Mpumalanga area. If you're driving from Johannesburg, the Panoramic Route is beautiful and you can stop at the Blyde River Canyon, Bourke's Luck Potholes and Berlin Falls. Plan to spend around 6-7 hours on the route, including stops to admire the stunning views.

Kruger National Park game drives and tours:

Morning safari

Sunset safari

Safari tour from Johannesburg

Private game reserves in South Africa

If you're staying at a game lodge, there's a good chance it'll be situated in a private game reserve. Private game reserves are smaller than the larger game parks, which means the rangers will have a much better idea of where the animals will be. If you are short on time or if you have small children, a private reserve could be a good option.

Private reserves are usually reserved for guests staying in the reserves, and they are also much less crowded at peak times. The lodges at these reserves are also very expensive, particularly the ones bordering the Kruger National Park. They usually offer luxury accommodation and amenities, with daily game drives and all meals included. Visiting a private reserve is an excellent splurge trip for a special occasion.

Saying that, you don't get quite the same appreciation for space and scale in the private reserves as you get when travelling through the Kruger National Park. They are still well worth considering, particularly if you're travelling during the school holidays or want to be sure to see the Big Five in a day or two.

Private reserves near the Kruger National Park

Sabi Sands Game Reserve : Stay at Elephant Plains Game Lodge with views of the waterhole

Thornybush Private Game Reserve : Stay at KwaMbili Game Lodge offering chalets or glamping

Kapama Private Game Reserve : Stay at Kapama River Lodge in the middle of the bush

Timbavati Private Nature Reserve : Stay at Simbavati River Lodge in 2-bedroom family suites or safari tents

Manyeleti Private Game Reserve : Stay at Buffelshoek Tented Camp in the middle of the bush (no fences).

Makalali Private Game Reserve: Stay at aha Makalali Private Game Lodge in private camps or hotel suites.

Klaserie Private Nature Reserve : Stay at Klaserie Drift with suites overlooking the garden or river.

Safaris near Cape Town

If your travels in South Africa are focused around Cape Town, it's still possible to experience a safari during your trip. There are several excellent wildlife reserves near Cape Town, which are perfect for a short break out of the city. While a couple of them are close enough to visit as a day trip, it's definitely worth spending a day or two overnight to take your time, see all the animals, and relax in the bush.

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

About 3.5 hours from Cape Town, Sanbona is famous for its white lions, which can be spotted in the wild. You'll also be able to see cheetahs, elephants, and zebras and there are four lodges on-site to choose from.

Stay onsite at the luxury lodge or at the Whitehouse in nearby Barrydale for a more affordable option

Aquila Private Game Reserve

Just two hours' from Cape Town, you'll find the Aquila Private Game Reserve which offers visitors the chance to see the Big Five. Visitors can also spend time with rehabilitated animals at the on-site Animal Rescue Centre.

Stay onsite at the Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa or visit on a day trip from Cape Town .

Gondwana Private Game Reserve

Gondwana Private Game Reserve is about four hours out of Cape Town and makes a wonderful stop of the scenic coastal Garden Route. Again, you can see the Big Five and you can choose between staying at Kwena Lodge, in bungalows or glamping.

Stay onsite in a luxury bush villa with a spa and infinity pool.

Best time to go on safari in South Africa

The best time to go on safari in South Africa is from June to October, during the dry season. If you're heading to the game reserves in the northeast of the country (including Kruger), you'll find temperate temperatures. The drier weather conditions mean shorter grass and fewer watering holes, which makes wildlife easier to see.

How long should I spend on my safari trip?

How long you spend on safari depends on how many game parks you want to go to and the number of animals you want to see. Most people will find 3-5 days plenty - staying three nights means you'll have two full days at the reserve and there's a good chance you'll do an evening safari the day you arrive.

If you're interested in wildlife safari or want the opportunity to do a few nature walks, you may want to stay a bit longer.

• Introduction
• The animals
• Safari tours
• Game drives
• Safari lodges
• Kruger National Park
• Private reserves
• Near Cape Town

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Author - Roxanne de Bruyn

Roxanne is the founder and editor of Faraway Worlds. She is a freelance writer and guidebook author and has written for several travel publications, including Lonely Planet, TripAdvisor and The Culture Trip. With a background in communications, she has studied ancient history, comparative religion and international development, and has a particular interest in sustainable tourism.

Originally from South Africa, Roxanne has travelled widely and loves learning the stories of the places she visits. She enjoys cooking, dance and yoga, and usually travels with her husband and young son. She is based in New Zealand.

Last Updated 12 September 2023

• Addo Elephant National Park

A DIVERSE WILDLIFE CONSERVATION PARK SITUATED IN SOUTH AFRICA'S EASTERN CAPE, WITH NUMEROUS LUXURY LODGES IN THE SURROUNDING AREA

Addo Elephant National Park is the third largest game reserve in the country after recent incorporation of further adjoining land.

The South African game reserve is famous among tourist for its large elephant herds that graze on the vegetation and parade in a calm manner.

You can witness these marvellous creatures by simply travelling to one of the waterholes, which is a hot spot for elephants. The game reserve is also famous for viewing the Big 5.  Due to its close proximity to the coast, travellers can visit Algoa Bay for an opportunity to see Southern Right Whales and White Sharks.  The area has a range of Safari Game Lodges  for the discerning traveller.

Excellent Wildlife

Game Drives

Superb Safari Lodges

Night Game Drives

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Experience You Can Trust

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• Kwantu Private Game Reserve

Kwantu Private Game Reserve is a 6010-hectare safari destination in the malaria-free Eastern Cape, only 85km from Port Elizabeth.It 2019s home to the village of Sidbury, built by the British...

• Lalibela Game Reserve

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• Pumba Private Game Reserve

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• Gorah Elephant Camp

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Activities Spotlight

Night Safaris

Photographic Safaris

Gym Facilities

Spa Treatments

Boma Dinners

Bush Dinners

Wine Tasting

In terms of wildlife, The game reserve is renowned for its elephant population along with the Big Five. Visitors can witness lions roaming the landscape early in the morning. Black rhinos are also present in the region, but due to their shy nature, they tend to stay in the thickets.

Addo Elephant National Park is home to interesting species of antelope and they are found in abundance, along with red hartebeest, eland, and kudu. Game viewing is always in abundance in the game reserve. However, during the dry-summer seasons, you can witness a concentration of animals at the waterholes.

White Rhino

Black Rhino

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South Africa Safari - Compare 802 Tours

South Africa is one of the world’s most varied holiday destinations. From the classic safari country of Kruger National Park to the stately ‘mother city’ of Cape Town; from the snow-sprinkled heights of the Drakensberg to the parched red dunescapes of the Kalahari; from the gorgeous Winelands around Stellenbosch to the idyllic beaches of the Garden Route – South Africa is a true all-rounder that attracts more than its fair share of repeat visitors. It is also the most affordable and well equipped of African safari destinations, particularly well suited to family holidays, to those seeking a malaria-free holiday, to dedicated foodies and wine-lovers, and for combining a foray into Big Five country with a beach holiday and/or city break.

4-Day Classic Kruger Park Safari

$958 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Wildlife Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  259 Reviews

5-Day Luxury Kruger Park and Sabi Sand Safari

$2,921 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Chalet

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Sabi Sands (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

Safari.com   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.7 /5  –  186 Reviews

11-Day South Africa & Mauritius Family Safari & Beach

$7,006 to $7,707 pp (USD)

South Africa & Mauritius: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Resort

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Madikwe GR, Bel Ombre (Town & Beach) , Mauritius (End)

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

4-Day Kapama River Lodge Game Safari

$2,053 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury+ Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kapama GR (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

Ranger Buck Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  28 Reviews

4-Day Unforgettable Kruger Park Safari & Panorama Tour

$855 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Luxury Hotel

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Southern Kruger, Kruger NP, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Nelspruit (End)

Elephant Herd Tours & Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.8 /5  –  90 Reviews

3-Day Kruger Park and Manyeleti Reserve Bongan Lodge

$683 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Manyeleti GR (Greater Kruger) , Central Kruger, Johannesburg (End)

Bongan Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  21 Reviews

4-Day Ultra Budget Glamping Kruger Safari

$522 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Budget Tented Bush Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Johannesburg Airport (End)

MoAfrika Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  1166 Reviews

4-Day Luxury Greater Kruger to Canyon Safari Adventure

$1,355 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Balule NR (Greater Kruger) , Central Kruger, Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route) , Johannesburg (End)

Shinzelle Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  63 Reviews

5-Day Tremisana/Treehouse Kruger Park Safari

$917 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Balule NR (Greater Kruger) , Kruger NP, Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route) , Johannesburg (End)

Viva Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  262 Reviews

5-Day Safari with Night Drive and Panorama Route Tour

$1,349 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Panorama Route (Highlight) , Kruger NP, O.R. Tambo Airport (Johannesburg) , Johannesburg (End)

Khalanga Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  63 Reviews

10-Day Kruger Private Reserves & Cape Town

$4,142 to $4,252 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Klaserie NR (Greater Kruger) , Sabi Sands (Greater Kruger) , Cape Town (End)

Safari Online   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  115 Reviews

3-Day Big 5 Budget Safari, Kruger National Park

$372 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge

Safari With Us   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  217 Reviews

5-Day Greenfire Game Lodge Safari

$1,488 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Balule NR (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

The Kruger Safari Co.   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  125 Reviews

4-Day Kruger Safari, Soweto & Apartheid Museum

$869 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Soweto (Johannesburg) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg Airport (End)

Nhlalala Travel   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  34 Reviews

3-Day Johannesburg to Kruger National Park Safari

$598 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Budget Camping

Mbombela Experience Tours & Transfers   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  32 Reviews

4-Day & 3-Night Kruger National Park Budget Safari

$583 to $649 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Mid-range Guest House

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Southern Kruger, Kruger NP, Johannesburg Airport (End)

The Mzansi Experience   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.8 /5  –  63 Reviews

7-Day Classic Eco-Safari in Kruger (Transfers Incl)

$4,093 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Klaserie NR (Greater Kruger) , Kruger NP, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route) , Johannesburg (End)

5.0 /5  –  42 Reviews

3-Day Zula Lush Private Reserve Pilanesberg

$1,583 to $1,876 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Soweto (Johannesburg) , Pilanesberg GR, Cradle of Humankind (Highlight) , Johannesburg (End)

Zula Zula Adventure Bus   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  2 Reviews

3-Day Lux Bakubung Bush Lodge Pilanesberg National Park

$265 to $318 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Pilanesberg GR, Johannesburg (End)

Gems of Africa Safari and Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  98 Reviews

3-Day Greatest Kruger Park -4 Star Lodge & Joburg Return

$747 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Mid-range Hotel

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Greater Kruger, Johannesburg (End)

Southern African Tours    Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.7 /5  –  65 Reviews

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8 Questions About South Africa Safaris

Answered by

Philip briggs.

When is the best time to visit South Africa?

“There is no bad time to take a South African holiday. But certain parts of the country are far better at specific times of the year. If a safari will be the main event of your South African tour, most of the country’s key parks and reserves are at their best in the southern hemisphere winter months of May to September, when daytime temperatures are cooler, the bush is less dense allowing for better visibility, and wildlife tends to gather around limited water sources. For beach-lovers, by contrast, the main coastal resorts are at their best in the southern hemisphere summer (November to March). Special interest groups such as bird-watchers and photographers may also prefer to undertake a safari in summer, when resident bird populations are boosted by large numbers of migrant birds, and the clear sky and greener countryside make for a more photogenic backdrop.”

Why visit South Africa, what are the major attractions?

“Variety is the keynote of South African holidays. The country boasts one of the continent’s finest safari destinations in the form of Kruger National Park and nearby private reserves, while other key Big Five safari reserves include Hluhluwe-iMfolozi and malaria-free Madikwe and Pilanesberg. Safaris aside, South Africa is renowned for its fantastic beaches, limitless hiking opportunities, wonderful outdoor climate and good-value dining and wining scene. The main focus of non-safari sightseeing is Cape Town, which is gracefully perched below Table Mountain on a scenic stretch of Atlantic coastline, close to the whale-watching hub of Hermanus and the historical Winelands around Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.”

How much does a South African safari cost?

“South African safari prices will depend greatly on the level of comfort you expect. At one extreme, self-drive camping safaris in somewhere like Kruger might work out at under US$100 for a couple per day. At the other extreme, all-inclusive safari packages at one of the country’s more exclusive private safari lodges might be 10 or 20 times more expensive. A good compromise between comfort and cost is a safari using the well-run rest camps that can be found throughout Kruger and in many other key national parks and provincial reserves. Accommodation aside, extras such as food, wine and other drinks are very cheap by international standards.”

How is the wildlife viewing?

“Excellent. Kruger National Park and neighboring private reserves host large populations of all the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo), and rank among the top African safari destinations when it comes to spotting white rhino, as well as the rarer black rhino, leopard, cheetah and African wild dog. All these safari favorites are also likely to be encountered in Madikwe and Pilanesberg Game Reserves, as well as in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi and the various small private reserves of the Eastern Cape. Outside of the major Big Five reserves, many parts of the country are still home to a variety of antelope, monkeys and small predators, all of which might be encountered by hikers and ramblers. Bird watching is consistently excellent throughout the country, while locally conspicuous marine wildlife includes penguins, whales and giant turtles.”

How safe is South Africa for tourists?

“Crime is a genuine issue in the larger cities, especially Johannesburg, but not so much in the game reserves, smaller towns and beach resorts that form the focal points of most South African safari trips. Follow local advice about safety, avoid walking around cities at night, and you should be fine. Malaria is absent from most parts of the country, the one major exception being Kruger National Park and its immediate environs, but even here the risk is far lower than in most other African safari destinations. Madikwe and Pilanesberg are Africa’s premier malaria-free safari destinations. Many reserves in South Africa offer guided walking safaris in areas inhabited by potentially dangerous animals such as elephant, black rhino and lion, but the risk of an incident is minimal provided that you listen to your guide at all times, and treat wildlife with respect. Possibly the biggest risk to life and limb in South Africa is a car accident, so self-drivers should adopt a more defensive and cautious approach than they might at home.”

How do I select a reliable tour operator for a South Africa trip?

“It’s worth doing a bit of research into operators before you book a South Africa tour. Look for reviews of any given operator on SafariBookings.com and possibly other online portals; the more reviews an operator has received, the more confident you can be of its reliability. If you have friends who have visited the country, or who live there, ask for word-of-mouth recommendations before booking any South African safari packages. Check out the company’s website too – as a rule its level of professionalism will reflect that of the company it represents. Once in South Africa, hotels and guesthouses can usually point you to tried-and-tested operators for day outings and other short local tours.”

What type of accommodation can I expect?

“South African safari accommodation ranges from no-frills campsites to exclusive upmarket lodges offering the last word in safari chic. In between these extremes, most national parks and provincial reserves have at least one well-run rest camp offering camping facilities and self-catering chalets (usually en suite but occasionally using shared bathrooms). For those who don’t want to immerse themselves in the bush, a selection of mid-range hotels can be found within easy driving distance of many national park and reserve entrance gates. Exclusive lodges are generally associated with private reserves and concessions that offer all-inclusive safari packages incorporating guided game drives and walks.”

What can I expect from South African safaris?

“Generally South Africa has a more developed feel than other African safari destinations. Most national parks and other reserves can be reached via good, surfaced roads, which certainly isn’t the case in many other parts of Africa. Some, such as Kruger, actually have an internal network of surfaced roads, and it is the only major African safari destination where a 4WD would be a luxury rather than a necessity, and the most suitable one for self-drive safaris. Likewise, most national park rest camps are well equipped for self-caterers, and many have well-stocked grocery shops. Further, the wildlife in South Africa is as wild as it is in most parts of Africa, the standard of guiding is unusually high, and people on organized safaris can expect excellent close-up sightings of everything from the Big Five to smaller animals such as birds and lizards.”

South Africa Safari Reviews

Emma is an award-winning travel writer for Rough Guides, National Geographic Traveller, Travel Africa magazine and The Independent.

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Anthony is a photographer and writer for travel magazines and Lonely Planet, including the guides to Kenya and Botswana & Namibia.

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Top 10 Safari Parks in Africa

C an't decide where do you want to start your next (or first) safari in Africa? We collected the top 10 safari parks in Africa places to see wild African animals in their natural habitat. If you want to know what to be on the lookout for, read our article on the top 10 safari animals you can spot on your travels!

There's always more to explore so feel free to check out our article on the top 10 countires for safaris! For some Safari fun you can check our blog post on how a Family Safari completely errupted into chaos!

Read ahead or jump to any section that interests you:

Introduction

A safari (Swahili: journey) in one of Africa's national parks is an exciting thing: many people can observe a larger number of wild animals and even have the oppurtunity to see the famous Big 5 of africa. 

The focus is on the savannah and bush landscapes, where savannah elephants , lions , buffalos , and other well-known wild animals feel at home. 

Whether it's Africa for the first time or safari connoisseurs, there should be something for everyone. And it attracts attention: There is no best destination in Africa, but there are the best destinations. 

So, where should the next safari lead?

10th place: Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Where else can wild animals be observed in front of one of the most famous mountains on earth? The Amboseli National Park at the foot of Kilimanjaro in Tanzania serves both as a postcard motif for Africa and as a photographic object. Giraffes, elephants and all sorts of other wild animals strut in front of the snow-covered summit of the "Kili" and give great photo motives.

Ancient elephants still live in the park. This allows visitors to observe the almost intact social behavior of the pachyderms in their herds.

The Kilimanjaro usually wraps itself in thick clouds during the day. The chances of seeing it are best in the morning and evening.

9th place: Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa

Number 9 on the top 10 safari parks in Africa is Addo. Known for, as the name suggests, its elephants, the Addo is more than a convenient destination near South Africa's Garden Route. The park is home to lions again after a resettlement program; black rhinos and leopards are also found here. Due to the extension to the south, the coast with its sharks and whales is also part of the park, which now advertises with the "Big 7".

In conclusion, the park is ideal for exploring with your own (rental) car. Please make sure to ask in advance what you have to consider for the self-drive safari.

In addition, holidaymakers in their cars should ensure they do not run over pill turners (African dung beetles), hundreds of which run across the roads depending on the weather.

8th Place: Etosha National Park, Namibia

Namibia's most important park is home to countless wildlife, including the white and black rhino who are critically endangered, something you can read more about in one of our other articles about these ancient and disappearing creatures. There are also several predatory cat species and many antelopes. "Etosha" means "big white square," which describes the landscape well. The vegetation is extremely sparse; in the dry season, many animals gather at artificial waterholes.

In the dry season, many animals can easily be observed at the park water holes and camps. 114 different species of mammals live in the park.

Every coin has two sides: The park is completely fenced in and cuts the animals off their original routes in search of water in the Kuene region. The waterholes are not comparable to the actual environment and natural migration behavior for true lovers.

7th place: Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

The Tarangire National Park is one of the most underestimated parts of the continent. Many visitors only make a short stop at the Serengeti or do not ebaobabven include the national park in their travel plans. But the park is home to large herds of elephants and many other species in a remarkable landscape of boabab trees.

The park is known for its elephant herds, which run through a prehistoric landscape along the Tarangire River.

The park is home to the tsetse fly, which transmits sleeping sickness. Visitors should urgently pay attention to consistent protection.

6th place: Chobe National Park, Botswana

"Land of the Giants" is written on the sign at the park entrance and already announces the park's main attraction: Elephants, one of the savannah's most social creatures . Between 80,000 and 100,000 pachyderms are estimated to live in the park and adjacent areas, where they migrate depending on the season.

Botswana pursues an exemplary animal and species conservation policy and no longer kills elephants if they become too numerous for the ecosystem. Instead, fences were dismantled to create more space for the animals. Kaffir buffalos and warthogs are also common. As a result, always check the weather forecast before you go.

A safari with the boat on the Chobe river belongs to the experiences, which holiday-makers surely do not forget so fast.

During the high season the Chobe River can be very narrow.

5th place: South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

On the Luangwa River, the wilderness awaits: no fences, no radios to communicate with the rangers. Those who travel to the South Luangwa National Park will experience the bush unadorned, without much traffic and wild. It is not uncommon for your own jeep to be the only one at a spectacular sighting, giving visitors more time and peace to enjoy the encounter with the animals. Night safaris and bushwalks, i.e. safaris on foot, are allowed in the national park.

Pure wilderness. The park is known for its hippos and leopards . Many camps are not fenced and often wild animals run through the lodges. The park is also home to numerous endemic species and subspecies, i.e. animals that can only be found here. Sometimes you can even see the endangered Pangolins and the even more threatened Rhinos . Two species of Animals we explore in more detail in another article.

These include the Cookson gnu, the Crawshay zebra and the Thorneycroft giraffe.

The season plays an important role in the South Luangwa National Park. While in the dry season many large wild animals gather at the water and are so easy to discover, during the rainy season bird lovers get their money's worth.

4th place: Kruger National Park, South Africa

For most vacationers the Kruger National Park is the first safari experience in the African bush . It is one of the largest national parks on the continent and is home to a wide variety of wildlife. In contrast to the open savannahs in East Africa, the landscape is bushy and the animals are harder to spot.

This may be described as the best South African Safari.

In the Kruger National Park live some very rare animal species like wild dogs. Another animal worth further exploration in another one of our articles.

Animals in Vermont

The good infrastructure, the developed roads and the fences around the national park make it clear that the park is used and marketed commercially.

This partly causes a lot of traffic in the park and has at some corners only little to do with the real wilderness feeling.

3rd place: Ngorongoro Nature Reserve, Tanzania

While driving over the edge of the burglary crater into the nature reserve, visitors can rarely suppress the "wow" that involuntarily comes over their lips. The view can take your breath away. The safari through the crater, which has the highest predator density in Africa, becomes the photographic highlight of many Africa journeys.

The wildlife hike through Masai Mara and Serengeti also touches on the protection of the wildlife.

Overall, the high density of animals naturally attracts many visitors and some have the feeling of driving through an open-air zoo.

Some of the jeeps obstruct the way of the animals or hinder cats of prey during the hunt. Tell your driver that you don't approve of such behaviour.

2nd place: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Hardly any other national park in Africa is as famous as the Serengeti. This is of course due to the diverse fauna and one of the largest animal migrations in the world .

On the other hand, the Serengeti is almost always threatened: Many people have an interest in the place and in the fertile savannah, on which millions of wild animals cavort and planned large-scale projects would probably mean the end of the national park. The battle for the Serengeti has been fought for decades and culminated in the documentary "Serengeti must not die" by Michael Grzimek and his father Bernhard in the 1950s.

Really one of the Top 10 Safari Parks in Africa.

The migration of wild animals, where millions of wildebeests, zebras and antelopes travel in a large circle through the Serengeti and the adjoining Masai Mara in Kenya during the course of the year. This is known also as one of the great wilderbeast migration , a topic you can do further reading on with another one of our articles .

The Serengeti is exposed to constant threats. The plans to build a highway through the area are not over yet. There are also frequent conflicts between wildlife and humans.

In addition, organizations are now warning that too many tourists are coming to the park. It is best to drive in the low season and avoid facilities that require a lot of water (swimming pools etc.).

1st Place: Masai Mara Nature reserve, Kenya

Number one on the top 10 safari parks in africa list! When tears shoot into the eyes of the viewers of a lion documentary because the pictures are so overwhelming, the reportage is mostly shot in the Masai Mara (or Maasai Mara).

Wide landscape with green hills as far as the eye can see. The view is interrupted only by Wildebeest , zebras, giraffes, Elephants ,, antelopes , lions , hyenas… The Masai Mara could pass for an African cliché if it were not real.

Word has got around of course that the Masai Mara is a paradise on earth. It is therefore frequently overcrowded and the many cars already have influence on the behavior of the wild animals. Some cars leave the tracks in search of the best view. If this happens to you, it's best to tell the driver that you don't want them to.

The park also serves as a Rhino sanctuary and is home to some 60 white and black rhinos, who are guarded around the clock by armed rangers. An absolute must for rhino fans, who are almost guaranteed to meet some of the animals here.

The impressive Murchison waterfall, where the Victoria Nile plunges over 43 metres into the depths, is also a must see. The park is home to the endangered Rothschild Giraffes (also Uganda giraffe or Nubian giraffe). To the south of the park is the Budongo chimpanzee forest.

The park is in some places tsetse fly high area. Be sure to take care to protect yourself against insects.

When to go on a Safari

The best time is always present, but if you are looking for the most enjoyment from your trip, the best time to go is from July through October, when the animals are easy to find and in substantial numbers. However, deciding when to go on a safari depends on  what  country you want to visit and when you can plan your trip. As well as the type of wildlife you hope to encounter.

The best months for an African safari are therefore varied.

What to pack/ best luggage for African safari

Some of the most recommended basics:Here's the "must-haves" to  pack  for your  safari :

• T-shirt, shirt or blouse – long sleeves and collars help to protect from the sun and mosquitoes
• Fleece or warm jacket.
• A pair of  safari  trousers – those that zip off at the knees are very handy, too.
• Comfortable walking shoes (or boots) and socks.

Above and beyond the comfortable basics, there are niche items which could enhance your experience on safari. We've researched the best of these items to take with you.

Best insect repellent for African safari: Natrapel 8  Hour insect repthatellent: this is a CDC recommended product based on 20% Picaridin formula and is  DEET  FREE. It is safe to spray on your skin and clothing.

Best binoculars for African safari : Celestron 71347 Outland x | 10×25 |  Best compact Binoculars  for Travel.

Best camera for African safari : Best -buy cameras for  safari  in Africa: At Canon, it would be the Canon EOS Rebel series. Often you can get a kit ( camera  + lenses + accessories). Best for travelling and easy shots.

Best shoes for African safari :  light trail  shoes  and hybrid  shoe /sandals (Keen, Teva, Merrel, North Face, HiTec, Garmont, Salomon etc) are adequate for regular travel and normal  safari  conditions. Even fly-camping trips and walking trails on fairly rough terrain don't warrant hiking boots when conditions are dry.

It is important to find out what you need for specific areas as well as administrative documents and permits.

Summary on Top 10 Safari Parks in Africa

The landscape is very bushy and visitors often only see the animals when they are standing directly in front of or next to the car. Slow driving is therefore all the more important.

How did you like the article on the top 10 safari parks in africa? In conclusion, we hope to give you some ideas and inspirations on the best african safari tours, animal encounters and holiday trips.

• Masai Mara Nature Reserve, Kenya – Overcrowded but abundant wildlife, including rhinos.
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania – Famous for the great wildebeest migration.
• Ngorongoro Nature Reserve, Tanzania – High predator density, popular tourist destination.
• Kruger National Park, South Africa – Large park with diverse wildlife, commercialized.
• South Luangwa National Park, Zambia – Unspoiled wilderness, known for hippos and leopards.
• Chobe National Park, Botswana – Land of the Giants, home to a large elephant population.
• Tarangire National Park, Tanzania – Underrated park with large elephant herds and baobab trees.
• Etosha National Park, Namibia – Sparse vegetation, artificial waterholes attract many animals.
• Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa – Known for elephants, self-drive safari recommended.
• Amboseli National Park, Kenya – Elephants near Mount Kilimanjaro, observe intact social behavior.

Tips for Safari:

• Best time to go is from July to October for high animal sightings.
• Pack essentials like long-sleeved shirts, hat, fleece, comfortable shoes, insect repellent.
• Recommended binoculars: Celestron 71347 Outland x | 10×25.
• Canon EOS Rebel series for safari photography.
• Check specific requirements, permits, and administrative documents for each park.

Be advised that those are subjective ideas and of course every safari park, whether big or small can be beautiful and present you with awesome wildlife.

There's always more to explore so feel free to check out our article on the top 10 countires for safaris!

Frequently Asked Queastions (FAQs)

Safari experiences are generally safe, but it's important to follow guidelines and instructions provided by your guides or tour operators. Wildlife should be observed from a safe distance and never approached or provoked. It's also recommended to stay within designated areas and camps, especially during night hours. Adhering to these precautions ensures a safe and enjoyable safari experience.

Many safari operators and lodges prioritize sustainability and conservation efforts. They work to minimize the ecological impact by implementing responsible practices such as supporting local communities, conserving natural resources, and participating in wildlife conservation initiatives. When choosing a safari operator, it's advisable to opt for those with strong environmental ethics and credentials.

Interacting with or touching wildlife is strongly discouraged and, in most cases, prohibited during safaris. The well-being of the animals and the safety of visitors are of utmost importance. Safaris promote responsible wildlife viewing, which involves observing animals from a safe distance and respecting their natural behaviors. Touching or disturbing the wildlife can cause stress or potentially dangerous situations for both humans and animals.

Several ways to contribute to conservation efforts during a safari include supporting eco-friendly lodges or tour operators that actively participate in conservation initiatives. Additionally, you can choose to visit parks and reserves that allocate a portion of the entrance fees to conservation projects. It's also encouraged to learn about and respect local customs, traditions, and wildlife protection regulations while engaging in responsible tourism practic

The post Top 10 Safari Parks in Africa appeared first on Animals Around The Globe .

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The 11 best game parks for a safari in south africa.

Your trip to South Africa is not complete without a safari in a game park. But which should you choose? Here I have compiled an overview of the best safari parks in South Africa.  At the end of the post you can find a map to situate all these game parks.

1. Kruger National Park

Of course, when you hear the word safari, everyone immediately thinks of a safari in SA in the Kruger Park. This 2-million-hectare park was named after Paul Kruger, the 5th president of the South African Republic and is worldfamous for it's African safaris . The surrounding private game reserves are no longer isolated from the Kruger Park, which means that the animals have an even larger domain. There is a good chance to spot the Big Five here.

There are many asphalt roads in the Kruger Park, one of the best national parks in SA, making it easy to drive yourself around (but I also feel that there is a lack of "atmosphere"). Nevertheless, I would recommend doing your first safari with an experienced ranger . They will show you what you should look out for when you are spotting animals. With the tips & tricks of a ranger in mind, you will undoubtedly see more animals during the next safari in your own car.

Personally, I am in favour of doing all safaris with a ranger. During one of our safaris, the ranger pointed out a crocodile to me. I spent a good bit of time looking around with my binoculars, but he gestured that I didn't need them at all. After 10 minutes of “searching” I finally saw the crocodile, it was lying so close that I could have tripped over it.

Practial info Kruger Park

• 4WD: you don't need a 4WD in Kruger Park.
• Malaria: yes
• Entry fee adults: 400 Rand (+/- 25 euro)
• Entry fee children: 200 Rand (+/- 12.5 euro)

Staying in Kruger Park

There is a selection of places to stay in Kruger Park, and in all price categories. They range from very basic to fairly luxurious. There are campsites, huts, safari tents, lodges, guest houses and bungalows.

Jock Safari Lodge is a luxury lodge and seen as one of the best safari lodges in South Africa.  Avid golfers even get the chance to tee off during their safari.

Lukimbi Safari Lodge is located in the southern part of Kruger National Park and has beautifully furnished lodges.

Traveling from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park

There are different ways to travel from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park.

1. From Johannesburg to Kruger National Park by plane

This is by far the fastest way to reach Kruger National Park.   You can fly in 50 minutes from Johannesburg to Skukuza Airport.  From the airport it's only a 20 minute transfer to Kruger Gate - Skukuza Road.  Depending on the place where you are staying, it might take a bit longer.  

You can arrange a transfer from the airport to your lodge or you can hire a car at Skukuza airport.  

Total transfer time from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park: less then 2 hours

2. From Johannesburg to Kruger National Park by car

You can drive from Johannesburg to Kruger National park in about 6 hours.   If you want to split the trip, you can drive the first day to Sabie, Graskop or Hazyview in about 3 to 4 hours.  From here you van drive the Panoramaroute (about 1 day) and enter Kruger National Park at Orpen Gate.  From Sabie or Graskop it's a 1.5 hour drive to this gate.   

Total transfer time from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park: 6 to 7 hours

3. From Johannesburg tot Kruger National Park by bus

If you have lots of time and want to save some money, you can consider taking a bus.  There are no direct busses from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park.  Choose the right route depending on the part of the park that you want to visit:

Visit Northern park of Kruger: take the bus to Nelspruit

Visit Southern park of Kruger: take the bus to Malelane

From Nelspruit and Malelane you need a private transfer to your lodge.

Be aware: traveling in South Africa is nog always safe.  Make sure to travel during daylight.

Total transfer time from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park: up to 10 hours

Traveling from Cape Town to Kruger National Park

1.. from cape town to kruger national park by plane.

As Kruger National Park is almost 2000 kilometers from Cape Town, taking a plane is by far the fastest way to reach Kruger National Park.   You can fly in about 2.5 hours from Cape Town to Skukuza Airport.  From the airport it's only a 20 minute transfer to Kruger Gate - Skukuza Road.  Depending on the place where you are staying, it might take a bit longer.  

Total transfer time from Cape Town to Kruger National Park: less then 4 hours

2. From Cape Town to Kruger National Park by car

It's possible to drive from Cape Town to Kruger National Park.   You need at least 2 days to get there. 

You can also consider making it a roadtrip and drive the Garden Route, than head over to Durban, Drankensbergenn, Saint Lucia, Swaziland,....    To enjoy this trip to the fullest, you need about 3 weeks.    You can also fly from Cape Town to Durban and start your roadtrip over there.

Total transfer time from Cape Town to Kruger National Park: at least 2 days.

2. Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Sabi Sands is probably the best-known private reserve near the Kruger Park and it's easily accessible if you want to make a safari near Johannesburg. There are no fences between Sabi Sands and Kruger so the Big Five and other animals move freely from one park to the next.

The original Sabie Reserve was founded in 1898 and became the Sabi Private Game Reserve in 1934. Cattle farmers inhabited the area originally, and they drilled water holes to provide their cattle with sufficient water. Because of these water holes, there is always enough water for the animals in Sabi Sands, which means that large herds like to linger here.

The land is still managed by the 6 families who are descendants from the original owners of the land.

You are not allowed to drive yourself here, the rangers of the lodge where you are staying will take you on safaris in one of the best game parks of SA. The roads are unpaved, and the rangers go to great lengths to provide their guests with an unforgettable experience while respecting the animals. It is strictly forbidden to leave the road in Kruger. In Sabi Sands, your ranger can follow the wildlife into the bush.

And Sabi Sands is an excellent place for seeing leopards , they are regularly spotted here. We encountered one a few times during our safari.

Sabi Sands also guarantees a luxurious experience. They offer some of the best safari lodges in South Africa and they strive to employ the best rangers.  The safari lodges are not cheap but do offer an all-inclusive package which means all meals and safaris are paid for. You head into the bush with the best drivers and renowned rangers. It is not open to day tourists .

Practical info Sabi Sands

• 4WD: your safari is included in your stay so you don't need your own car.  Safaris with your own car are also not permitted.
• Entry fee: not applicable since no day touristm is allowed

Staying at Sabi Sands

There are many luxury lodges at Sabi Sands. We stayed at Notten’s Bush Camp , which is still run by one of the original families. This luxury lodge, without electricity and without a fence around it, is the perfect location for the spoiled traveller as it is one of the best safari lodges in South Africa.  The lodge is located in the northern part of Sabi Sands and is easily accessible via Skukuza Airport. The lodge provides transfers from the airport.

Ulusaba Game Reserve is owned by Richard Branson, Lion Sands is the only lodge on the Sabie River, and Leopard Hills is top of the bill.

3. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi

If you want to go on safari in Kwazulu Natal, close to eSwatini  (the former Kingdom of Swaziland) then Hluhluwe-Imfolozi is a good choice. The park is 50 km from Durban and not far from the border with Mozambique.   If you want to go on a safari near Johannesburg it is best to fly to Durban first.  Hluhluwe was the second game reserve in South Africa. You have a good chance of seeing the Big Five here.

The reserve was one of the major drivers of Operation White Rhino . The number of white rhinos rose from a few dozen wild specimens to around 1500. Currently they also strive to protect the black rhino.

Difference between the white and black rhino: they are both grey, but the white rhino is much larger. It has wide lips and weighs up to 3500 kg. The black rhino has a pointy lip and weighs up to 1500 kg.

Hluhluwe and Imfolozi used to be 2 separate reserves, but they have now been merged. With an area of 960 km², Hluhluwe-Imfolozi park is quite small, but it nevertheless has a very varied landscape . Thanks to the savannah and surrounding mountains, it is regarded as one of South Africa's most beautiful game reserves . And statistically you are more likely to spot the Big Five due to the limited surface area.

You can drive yourself in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi, but you really need a 4WD. The roads are often unpaved and quite steep.

Practical info Hluhluwe-Imfolozi

• 4WD: if you want to go on safari with your ow vehicule, you need a 4WD.
• Malaria: low risk area.  Malaria risk during the wet months from September till May
• Entry fee adults: 210 Rand (+/- 13 euro)
• Entry fee children: 105 Rand (+/- 6.5 euro)

Staying in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi

If you are looking for a luxury experience you should definitely choose Thanda Luxury Game Reserve , member of The Leading Hotels of the World and one of thee best safari lodges in South Africa.

4. iSimongaliso Wetland Park

Another one of the best game parks in South Africa, this park is located near St Lucia and 275 km from Durban and is especially worth a visit because of the varied landscapes over an area of more than 3000 km². Lakes and marshes are interspersed with dunes, mangroves and subtropical forests . And in addition, the underwater world is also worth a visit because of the coral reefs.

Be sure to take a boat trip on Lake St Lucia or spend a few hours on Cape Vidal beach .

The crocodiles were once almost extinct here, but thanks to the work of Crocodile Centre , among others, their number is rising again. A visit to Crocodile Centre is therefore highly recommended.

iSimangaliso was the first South African park to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

You can only enter the park with a 4WD.

• 4WD: you can only enter the park with a 4WD
• Malaria: yes  (There are also many ticks and leeches)

The park consists of many different parts and therefore uses many different prices. Below you will find the prices for the parts that are suitable for game drives.

Eastern Shores and Cape Vidal

• Entry Fee adults: 51 Rand (+/- 3 euro)
• Entry Fee children under 12: 37 Rand (+/- 2.5 euro)
• You pay between 61 and 213 Rand per car, depending on the number of people (between +/- 4 en 14 euro).   
• Community tax; 5 Rand pp.
• If you are staying in the park you only pay 8 Rand per day.ls je in het park logeert betaal je maar 8 Rand per dag.

Western Shores and Charters Creek

• You pay between 61 and 213 Rand per car, depending on the number of people (between +/- 4 en 14 euro). 

In this area you will find elephants, rhinos, leopards, giraffes and much more.

Logeren in iSimangaliso

Thonga Beach Lodge is located on the beach and is surrounded by dunes. This luxury lodge is the ideal place to enjoy the beach in South Africa and it is a paradise for divers and snorkelers.

Makakatana Bay Lodge is a luxury lodge that offers standardrooms, familyrooms and a romantic honeymoonsuite.

5. Madikwe Game Reserve

Madikwe lies on the border with Botswana and is also a good location for spotting the Big Five .  It's also a great option if you are looking for a safari near Johannesburg as it's only a 3 hours drive away.

There were few profitable livestock farms in this region before 1991. They looked at how the country could be better used and a study showed that the development of wildlife tourism would be beneficial for all parties. Operation Phoenix became the largest reintegration project in the world. More than 8,000 animals (28 animal species) were brought to Madikwe. Even the African wild dog was brought back to Africa for the first time. The project was so successful that Madikwe can now even sell game to other South African game parks to get a better distribution. Their breeding program to protect the African wild dog is also a great success.

Madikwe Game Reserve is malaria free so it's a great destination for a trip to South Africa with kids .

Praktical info Madikwe Game Reserve

• 4WD: your safari is included in your stay so you do not need your own car here. Safaris with your own car are also not permitted.
• Malaria risk area: no
• Entry fee: not applicable since no day tourism is allowed

Staying in Madikwe Game Reserve

In Madikwe you absolutely must stay at Jaci’s Safari Lodge . This special lodge is mentioned in National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World and is one of the best safari lodges in South africa.

If you are traveling with a group or family, the River House of the Morokuru family i s an interesting option. Your own house (all-inclusive) in the middle of the bush.

6. Thornybush Game Reserve

Thornybush is located in the Lowveld Savannah and borders the Kruger Park. You reach this private reserve with a flight to Eastgate Airport (daily flights available). If you are a big spender, you can also book a flight with a private jet to one of the landingstrips in the reserve.  It's perfect for a safari near Johannesburg as it  is only an hour drive up north.

As there are no fences between Kruger and Thornybush it's possible to spot the  Big Five .

Praktical info Thornybush Game Reserve

• Malaria risk area: yes

Staying in Thornybush Game Reserve

Accommodation is available in all price categories. You can stay in an adventurous tented camp or a luxury lodge such as the award-winning Waterbuck Game Lodge, one of the best safari lodges in South Africa.

7. Timbavati Game reserve

This small-scale (533 km²) private game park in South Africa is close to Hoedspruit, north of Sabi Sands and west of Kruger Park.

The park was created in 1956 through a collaboration between 50 local farmers. Intensive farming meant that most native plants had disappeared and all game had been driven away. The landscape has been restored thanks to the efforts of the Timbavati Association. Since the park borders on Kruger Park, you can find the Big Five here.

Practical info Timbavati Game Reserve

Staying in Timbavati Game Reserve

Here, too, you will find lodges in all kinds of price ranges. The Waterbuck Private Camp is a villa with 4 bedrooms, ideal for families or friends. Your safari activities are adapted to your needs as you have a private vehicle and guide at your disposal.

8. Balule Private Game Reserve

Balule is 40,000 hectares in size and borders the Kruger Park so there is a good chance that you will encounter the Big Five here.

This game park in South Africa was created in the 1990s when a number of farmers decided to take down their fences to give the animals more space to roam and prevent overgrazing. By prohibiting hunting, the game became easier to approach, which is of course ideal for a safari. Because Olifants River runs through this park, there is almost always enough water, which means that there is a lot of wildlife in the vicinity. Of course you can also expect many hippos and crocodiles here.

The game park in South Africa also borders the Drakensberg, so you can enjoy beautiful views from the park.

Practical info Balule Private Game Reserve

• 4WD: your safari is included with your stay so in principle you do not need a 4WD.
• Entry fee: yes

Staying in Balule Private Game Reserve

Pondoro Game Lodge is a romantic tented camp on the edge of the river. From your terrace you can view the area where the hippos take their daily bath. Pondoro was voted the best Boutique Hotel in Africa in 2013 and scored high in the Romantic Retreat category, among other things.  Definitely one of the best safari lodges in South Africa.

9. Pilanesberg Game Reserve

The creation of Pilanesberg Game Reserve is one of the most ambitious projects in the world when it comes to the reintroduction of wildlife . Thanks to Operation Genesis in 1979 , the reserve was fenced off, and long-lost animal species were brought back to the park. There are currently around 7,000 animals, including the Big Five.

Pilanesberg lies to the northwest of Johannesburg and is the fourth largest game park in South Africa with an area of 572 km². It lies between the dry Kalahari and the wet Lowveld, making it a transition zone with mixed vegetation.

Praktical info Pilanesberg Game reserve

• 4WD: you can drive yourself around the park. There is a network of 200 km of roads. 4WD is not required.
• Entry fee: 65 Rand per person and 20 Rand per car

Staying in Pilanesberg Game reserve

Here, too, there is a wide range of accommodation available, from basic to luxury. Tshukudu Bush Lodge on the slopes of the Pilanesberg has 6 beautifully decorated lodges. You will lack nothing in this luxury accommodation.

10. Kalahari

The Kalahari is semi-desert that spreads across large parts of Southern Africa. It lies on the border with Botswana and Namibia.

The area is not a real desert because too much rain falls here on average. However, it is still very dry here, with the exception of the areas along the river bed, the so-called Green Kalahari .

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, Augrabies Falls National Park and the lesser-known Witsand Nature Reserve and Tswalu Kalahari Reserve are located in the Kalahari in South Africa. The city of Upington is the gateway to the Kalahari and some of the best game parks in SA.

If you have been to South Africa before, you can consider driving up here from Cape Town. During your journey you will encounter less well-known natural beauty and you can combine your journey with a safari.

Practical info Kalahari

• 4WD: only the main roads are paved, so a 4WD is recommended.
• Entry fee Augrabies: 224 Rand for adults and 112 Rand for children
• Entry fee Kgalagadi: 384 Rand for adults and 192 Rand for children

Staying in the Kalahari

The Falls Guesthouse  has charming rooms, a nice swimming pool and a playground for children. It is the ideal base for your safari in one of th best safari lodges in South Africa.

11. Shamwari Private Game Reserve.

If you are looking for a safari near Cape Town, this might be a possibility.  You can fly to Port Elisabeth from which it is less than an hour by car.

In this game park in South Africa  you can make game drives accompanied by a ranger.  You can also make bush walks.

Shamwari has one of the most advanced anti-poaching units of South Africa.  They also work with the Born Free Foundation to rescue big cats from impoverished situations.

Practical info Shamwari Private Game Reserve

4WD:  your safari is included in your stay and you are not allowed to drive on your own Malaria risk area: no Entry fee  is included in your stay.

Staying in Shamwari Private game reserve

Eagles crag is the best safari lodge in Shamwari in South Africa.   But you can also choose to stay in Bayethe, a luxury tented camp.  Kids 4 years or older are allowed to join you on your safari.  For families Shamwari Riverdene of Sarili are a good choice.

How many game parks are there in South Africa?

There are incountable game parks in South Africa.  Here you will find the most famous game parks by province:

Eastern Cape

You can find the big five in most of these game parks.  These game parks are the right choice for a safari near Cape Town

• Addo Elephant Park: Perfect for first-timers.  Easy to navigate roads and malaria-free.
• Mountain Zebra National Park
• Camdeboo National Park
• Shamwari Game Reserve
• Amakhala Game Reserve

Here you will find wide open spaces and raw beauty.  You can stay i the capital city Bloemfontein and visit the parks from there or you can stay in one of many lodges.

• Golden Gate Highlands National Park: You don't find the big five but you might see caracal, silver fox, or other wild African cats.
• Gariep Dam Nature Reserve
• Sterkfontein Dam Reserve
• Maria Moroka Game Reserve: this game park is perfect for hikers as they have many hiking trails.

Garden Route

These game parks in South Africa can easily be combined with your roadtrip along the Garden Route .  Most of them ara malaria free and are great for a safari near Cape Town.

• Gondwana Private Game Reserve: find the big fee and stay in luxury lodges
• Garden Route Game Reserve
• Robberg Nature Reserve : see great white sharks in the wild
• Birds of Eden

These parks are great if you are looking for a safari near Johannesburg.

• Lion and Rhino Park
• De Wildt Cheetah Research Station
• Hartbeespoort Dam
• Tswaing Nature Reerve: go so the immense crater, caused by the impact of a meteor
• Dinokeng Game Reserve

Kwazulu Natal

In Kwazulu Natal you will find some of the best game parks in South Africa.  As it a coastal region, you can combine your safari with snorkeling, diving and fishing.  

• iSimangaliso Wetland Park
• Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park has the largest population of white rhino's.

Discover the wild side of South Africa thanks to the amazing bushvelds and thrilling landscapes.  Only a four hour drive from Johannesburg so perfect for a safari near Johannesburg.

• Mapungubwe National Park: go find the incredible sandstone formationss.
• Kruger National Park
• Marakele National Park
• Entabeni Game Reserve

A series of private game reserves bording the westers side of Kruger National Park.  There are no fences between these game parks and Kruger Park.  These are the best places to spot the big five.

• Sabi Sands game reserve
• Mjejane Private gam reserve
• Skukuza 
• MalaMala game reserve

North West Province

Combine a safari with a visit to Sun City.  It's also possible to make an safari from Johannesberg or Pretoria as these cities are only 4.5 hours away.

• Madikwe Game Reserve
• Pilanesberg National Park
• Magaliesberg biosphere Reserve
• Barberspan bird Sanctuary
• Mafikent Game Reserve

Northern Cape

Thanks to the unique climate you will find different flora and fauna over here.  Combine you safari with some diamond digging.

• Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: situated in the Kalahari Desert
• Augrabies Falls National Park.  Combine a safari with a roadtrip along South Africa's West Coast  and discover picturesque fishing villages and enjoy the best restaurants in the world in Paternoster.
• Mokala National Park: great to spot rhino's
• Richtersveld National Park

Western Cape

You haven't been to South Africa without visiting Cape Town and the national parks surrounding this magnificant city.

• Table Mountain National Park: this includes Table Mountain, Cape of Good Hope, The Boulders,...
• West Coast National Park: small wildlife, waterbirds and scenic view over the ocean.  
• Agulhas National Park
• Karoo National Park

What is a game park in South Africa?

A game park is also called a game reserve.  It's a large, mostly fenced area where you can spot wildlife.  The wildlife is protected so there is no hunting allowed.  Kruger National Park is the most famous Game Park or Game Reserve in South Africa.

What are the best game parks in South Africa?

All the game parks in South Africa are great.   Everything depends on your own preference.  Do you want to see leopards? Chances are big in Sabi Sands.  Do you want to see wild dogs? Go to Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve.   Do you want to drive yourself? Kruger Park is a great choice.  Do you want to make a safari near Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban or any other place.   Just think what you like and choose the best game park.  You can always contact me for advice: [email protected]

As you can see South Africa has to much more game parks to offer besides Krugerpark.  Choose the park that suites your wishes most and enjoy an amazing safari in South Africa.  

What's your favourite safari park in South Africa?

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Cape Town and what else? 5 more must-visit spots in South Africa

It's summer — where else in the world would you like to visit?

South Africa is growing quite popular among Filipino travelers, who joining the rest of the world in visiting the country located in the southern tip of the African continent. It has plenty to offer: preserved safaris, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture.

You may have seen your favorite celebrities and travel creators visiting South Africa’s famous Cape Town where Table Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located. But there is so much more to see and experience in South Africa than that.

In an exclusive interview with GMA News Online, South African Tourism’s Hub Head for the Middle East, India, and Southeast Asia Neliswa Nkani shares her recommendations when visiting The Rainbow Nation.

Read on, day dream, and manifest that trip to South Africa with us!

Kruger National Park

South Africa is home to some of the most preserved safaris, such as the Kruger National Park. Here you may see “The Big Five” animals: Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhinoceros, and Elephant.

Established in 1898 and named after former South African president Paul Kruger, the Kruger National Park is one of the largest national parks in South Africa, spanning 19,000 square kilometers.

The park serves as a protected area for South Africa ’s wildlife, where visitors can enjoy activities such as game drives, guided walks, and animal watching.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Kruger National Park (@krugernationalpark)

God’s Window

For nature lovers looking to go on a guided hike, the God’s Window located in Mpumalanga is the place to be. It has panoramic views of the Blyde River Canyon, as well as South Africa’s breathtaking natural scenery. 

God's Window also has picnic areas as well as several accommodations in case you want to revel in nature for more than a day.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Explo (@tuks.exploratio)

Oribi Gorge Swing

Adrenaline junkies will surely love South Africa’s Oribi Gorge Swing. Located along the Oribi River, the Oribi Gorge Swing offers visitors with exhilarating experience by jumping off a platform to experience the thrill of flying through the air through a securely fastened rope and harness.

For those who are afraid to try this activity, fret not, as there will be briefing and training before the activity, and trust that all the instructors are highly skilled for a smooth and unforgettable tourists' experience. 

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Wild 5 Adventures (@wild5adventures)

Augrabies Falls

The Augrabies Falls, located in the Northern Cape province of South Africa, is known for its breathtaking waterfalls and stunning natural beauty. It’s also home to the Orange River, where guests can try canoeing, rafting, and fishing.

Aside from river activities, tourists can also witness a diverse range of animals at Augrabies Falls, including a variety of birds, such as eagles, vultures, and kestrels.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Dundi Lodge Augrabies Falls (@dundilodge)

Northern Cape

Camping under the stars in South Africa’s Northern Cape is for those who enjoy basking in the beauty of the skies and nature. The Northern Cape region offers several camping destinations. Among the best ones include the KgalagadiTransfrontier Park, Kgalagadi National Park, Namaqua National Park, and the Ai-Ais Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, among others.

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Bouwer Bosch (@bouwerbosch)

Pro tip: Prepare well in advance by checking the weather forecast for your selected dates as well as packing essential camping supplies and pre-packing meals to ensure a smooth and enjoyable camping experience.

— LA, GMA Integrated News

We will take you on a Safari to experience Africa's nature and beauty away from the beaten paths. We will show you the hidden gems of southern Africa and how you can immerse yourself into nature and african wildlife. We this is Arthur a highly experienced Guide in South Africa who has worked in many different parks and reserves and Mathias, some guy that loves Africa and travelling to Africa. Let us take you along on you journey to your personal safari experience.

Spirit of Madikwe - Africa's Majesty Spirit of Madikwe

• 27 APR 2024

Episode 6 - Buffalos

In this episode Arthur and I are talking about buffalos, why they are part of the Big 5 and the currently most expensive buffalo bull.

• 20 APR 2024

Episode 5 -Wildlife conservation and the Hunting industry

In this Episode Arthur and I are talking about Management of wildlife in National parks in Southern Africa. We also discuss about the hunting industry and its ups and downs.

• 12 APR 2024

Elephant Management and Conservation

In this Episode we answer some questions that came up about how elephants are managed in different reserves and how this plays into conservation

Kruger National Park and Lowveld

In this Episode Arthur and I are discussing the Kruger National Park, the events that led to the foundation of the park and the Lowveld including some nice stories about gold

• 28 MAR 2024

Episode 2 -#elephant personalities

In today's episode Arthur and I are talking about the different behaviour of elephants throughout different reserves and parks of southern africa. Also we will discuss the recent incident at Pilanesberg Nationalpark. If you want to see the full Video: Full video in Car https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INNrT7HwjZU Outside + Inside Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-hCENXgwh8 Amarula having some fun with another Safari Truck: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=quQ2BX0wHMg

• 22 MAR 2024

Spirit of Madikwe - Episode 1 Introduction

In our first episode we will run through the "soap opera of the Western Pride Lions in Madikwe Game reserve. Doing so we are going to introduce ourselves and the idea behind Spirit of Madikwe.

• © Spirit of Madikwe

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