safari in south africa blog

• Destinations

Wild Junket

The Perfect 2-Week South Africa Itinerary

Last Updated on June 6, 2024

Dreaming of an epic South Africa trip? Check out my detailed 2-week South Africa itinerary that brings you from the coast to the savanna.

If you think  South Africa is all about wildlife safari, think again. The country is one of the most diverse I’ve been — with cosmopolitan cities along dramatic coastlines that fringe wild savannas and rugged mountain range.

You can easily go from game-driving in the African bushveld to surfing on the beach or wine-tasting at lush vineyards in a matter of hours. Plus it’s home to many historical sites that have witnessed some major turning points in world’s history.

I love South Africa so much that I’ve been 4 times! On each trip, I’ve discovered a different side to the multi-faceted country. For first-timer visitors, I have put together this South Africa itinerary to pack in the best of South Africa in 2 weeks.

Table of Contents

Explore V&A Waterfront

Visit nelson mandela’s cell on robben island, wander around bo kaap, watch sunset at camps bay, where to stay in cape town, hike up table mountain, take the cable car down, try paragliding over table mountain, visit the townships of cape town, spend the evening at long street, visit charming fishing villages, hike along trails and boardwalks, do the chapman’s peak drive, visit spier wine farm, taste peter falke wine, ride the wine tram, visit apartheid museum, explore soweto township, dine at carnivore restaurant, where to stay in johannesburg, south africa itinerary day 7: cradle of humankind, itinerary days 8-10: welgevonden game reserve, where to stay in welgevonden, where to stay in kruger, south africa itinerary day 14: fly home, garden route, saint lucia, drakensberg mountains, how to get to south africa, travel insurance for south africa, by car rental, best time to travel south africa, how much does this south africa itinerary cost, travel independently or on guided tour, health and vaccines in south africa, enjoy your trip to south africa, travel resources, the ultimate south africa itinerary.

With 2 weeks in South Africa, you’ll barely scratch the surface of this mega-diverse country. But you will still be able to experience the best of South Africa in 2 weeks, if you follow this itinerary.

In this South Africa itinerary, we will get to explore mainly the Cape, Johannesburg and Kruger areas. I recommend hiring a car in each area and flying between Cape Town and Jo’burg.

Summary of this South Africa Itinerary:

• Days 1-3: Cape Town
• Day 4: Day Trip to Cape Peninsula
• Day 5: Day Trip to Cape Winelands
• Day 6: Fly to Johannesburg
• Day 7: Day Trip to Cradle of Humankind
• Days 8-10: Welgevonden Private Reserve
• Days 11-13: Kruger National Park
• Day 14: Fly home!

South Africa Itinerary Day 1: Cape Town

Start your South Africa itinerary in the Mother City: Cape Town, one of my favorite cities in the world . Cape Town is a stunning coastal city fringed by dramatic beaches and crowned by the magnificent Table Mountain.

Get your bearings at the V&A Waterfront , home to South Africa’s oldest harbor. If you’re lucky (like me), there are high chances of seeing sea lions swimming around the harbor or suntanning on the deck here.

With epic views of the Table Mountain and a central location, the waterfront is a popular hangout spot for Capetonians. Today it is a collection of restaurants and shops offering fresh produce and local products.

The V&A Waterfront is where you can catch the ferry to Robben Island (which departs every 1-2 hours). Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years of political imprisonment here on the island.

The Robben Island tour is led by a former political prisoner, who’ll bring you to key sites on the island whilst recounting his own personal story of imprisonment here. It gives a sobering but insightful peek into the oppression of the apartheid regime. Book your tour here!

After the eye-opening visit, head to Cape Town’s most colorful neighborhood:  Bo Kaap . This small downtown neighborhood is the Cape Malay Quarter and is famous for the multicolour single-story Cape Dutch houses.

The origins of the area date back to the 1700s when the Dutch colonisers imported slaves from Malaysia, Indonesia and Africa to Cape Town. When slavery was abolished in the 1830s, the slaves painted their homes in bright colors to celebrate their freedom.

Thanks to its location by the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town is blessed with beautiful beaches and a surfing culture. One of the best beaches to catch sunset is Camps Bay, poised along the foothills of the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range.

Camps Bay is lined with palm trees, white sand and buzzing beach bars. Do a romantic picnic with your partner or sit in one of the cool beach bars and watch the sun fade into the Atlantic Ocean with a cocktail in hand!

There are a few areas most travelers stay in: the V&A Waterfront has mostly luxury hotels, Long Street has mid range boutique hotels, while Camps Bay is great for affordable apartments with excellent seaviews.

Airbnb: Camps Bay Apartment

This beautiful 2-bedroom apartment (for 4) in Camps Bay has stunning views of the mountains and sea. It also has a pool and huge terrace. Surprisingly affordable! Check rates here.

Mid Range: The Grand Daddy

On my second trip, I stayed at this quirky boutique hotel and absolutely loved it. Its rooftop has several Airstream trailers (where you can stay in!) and an outdoor bar with cinema nights. Check rates here.

Luxury: The Table Bay Hotel

I stayed at this iconic landmark hotel (pictured) on my first trip to South Africa and it left an amazing first impression. Located at the V&A Waterfront, the 5-star luxury hotel has beautiful views of the harbor and Table Mountain. Check rates here.

South Africa Itinerary Day 2: Cape Town

What makes  Cape Town such a stunning place is not the city itself, but rather the location. Table Mountain dominates the city, looming over the City Bowl and Camps Bay area. There are two ways to summit Table Mountain – by cable car or on foot. I recommend hiking to the top and descending by cable car for the full experience.

Hiking Table Mountain is a wonderful way to explore the indigenous fynbos (type of forest), spot wildlife like the  dassies  (rock hyrax), and enjoy spectacular views.

The easiest and quickest route to the top is via  Platteklip Gorge , which leads hikers through a ravine on the face of the mountain. This route takes around 1.5-2 hours to complete and is the most popular.

At the summit, there’s an opportunity to explore the mountain top along three easy trails affording 360-degree views of the city, Atlantic Seaboard and the mountain chain stretching across the Cape Peninsula.

To get down, catch the Table Mountain aerial cableway . Tickets are around USD $20-25 per adult. They have been ferrying passengers to the top of Table Mountain for almost 90 years, and with its 360* rotating floor and epic views its definitely worth taking the ride.

If you’re an adventure seeker, there are plenty of exciting ways to explore the Table Mountain National Park. Abseil off the top of Table Mountain or go mountain biking with a group. I went paragliding off Lion’s Head and it was a surreal experience flying so close to the top of Table Mountain! Book Your Experience here.

South Africa Itinerary Day 3: Cape Town

To get under the surface of Cape Town, head out to the townships or informal settlements, or townships. These ramshackle towns that spill out for miles along the highways are the most visible scars of the apartheid era, when non-whites were forced out of their homes.

Visiting townships can be controversial, but I believe that traveling with a responsible operator can make a big difference and bring attention to people who need help.

I went on a township cycling tour through Masiphumelele , a township at the edge of Kommetjie. The tour brought us into the township, meeting locals and getting to know them. We had pap (maize porridge) and braai (barbecue) at a local eatery, and visited a sangoma (traditional healer). It was absolutely insightful and definitely worth the experience.

Running through the centre of Cape Town is Long Street, a vibrant road flanked by local eateries and bars. This is the palpitating heart of Cape Town and it truly comes alive at night.

I stayed at Long Street on one of my trips to South Africa, and had such a good time hanging out with locals here. Don’t miss Mama Africa that serves food from all over Africa, as well as Long Street Cafe , a Cape Town institution set in an old Victorian-style building.

South Africa Itinerary Day 4: Cape Peninsula

Next day, rent a car and go on a scenic drive to the Cape Peninsula , and southwesternmost point of the African continent! If you don’t drive, check out this Cape Point day tour.

The road hugs the cliff, meandering along the edge of the  Table Mountain  all the way to Cape of Good Hope. On one side, the steep slopes plunge dramatically into the Atlantic Ocean; and on the other, needle-sharp peaks soar into the sky.

Start out from  Muizenberg (known for the colorful houses on the beach) and make your first stop at  Kalk Bay , a bohemian village littered with a flurry of antique shops, flea markets and indie boutiques.

Continue down to  Simon’s Town , the third oldest town in South Africa. The town is best known for the African Penguin colony that inhabit the nearby  Boulders Beach . A wooden boardwalk weaves through the penguin’s habitat, allowing intimate encounters with the cute little animals.

After making a stop at the Cape of Good Hope, continue driving towards the Cape Point lighthouse , set dramatically against the crashing ocean. Cliff trails wind around the vegetation and lead to the lighthouse, we took just twenty minutes to hike along the trail, before we were treated to expansive views of the ocean.

Drive back via the Atlantic Seaboard through the town of Scarborough and the gorgeous surfing beach of  Noordhoek . The day trip culminates at  Chapman’s Peak Drive , where you can drink in a view of the crescent-shaped bay and spot sealions and sharks swimming beneath.

South Africa Itinerary Day 5: Cape Winelands

On your last day in Cape Town, drive out to the beautiful Cape Winelands (1 hour away) and visit some of South Africa’s most famous wine estates.   You can also book a Cape Winelands tour or winelands ebike tour that includes a few tastings.

The most popular town of the Cape Winelands is Stellenbosch , and it’s definitely worth visiting for its photogenic setting. If you have some extra time, don’t miss the equally beautiful Franschhoek just a 30-minute drive away.

This is one of Stellenbosch’s oldest working wineries, with a heritage dating back to 1692. The owners are passionate art lovers and the winery is home to one of the largest collections of contemporary South African art in the world.

Enjoy wine tasting at the Groenvlei Estate, and admire the traditional 18th century Cape Dutch buildings. The pretty winery is open for tastings from Tuesday to Sunday, 11am to 7pm.

Then, hop on the vintage Franschoek wine tram , to tour wineries without getting behind the wheel of a car. You can hop on and off whenever you want and visit up to 5 wineries in a day. You need to book your tickets in advance.

South Africa Itinerary Day 6: Johannesburg

It’s time to explore more of South Africa! Catch a domestic flight to Johannesburg, South Africa’s biggest city. Flights from Cape Town usually cost around US$70 each way.

Many people skip Jo’burg altogether, but they miss out on many insightful museums and historical sites that are quintessential to any South Africa trip. The city is now dedicated to preserving the memories of heroes who transformed the country into what it is today.

NOTE: Safety is still an issue in Johannesburg. Don’t walk around at night, and don’t leave anything visible in the car.

Rent another car and make a beeline for the Apartheid Museum, a must-see in my opinion. It is a sobering experience, but an essential one if you want to understand South Africa’s history and identity.

The museum shows the rise and fall of the apartheid system through spine-chilling film footage, photography and historical artifacts. It’s an emotional and eye-opening experience — prepare to shed some tears. Book a guided tour in advance here.

Short for “South Western Township”, Soweto is the epicenter for many important turning points throughout South Africa’s history. It’s easy and safe to explore Soweto on your own, but if you prefer to have a guide, check out this guided township tour .

The most famous spot in Soweto is Vilakazi Street – once home to Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Mandela’s former abode is now a museum, and Archbishop Tutu still resides in his Soweto home.

Another Soweto museum thats recount the struggle to end apartheid include the somber Hector Pieterson Museum that honors the schoolchildren slain in a police massacre.

One of the most famous restaurants in Jo’burg is Carnivore , located in Muldersdrift (you’ll need a car or taxi to get here). It offers authentic African braai (barbecue) and a buffet of grilled venison meat and South African side dishes. Book a table here!

Johannesburg is a lot more spread out than Cape Town — you’ll need a car no matter where you’re staying. Maboneng has some hipster boutique hotels, while Sandton (upscale residential area) offers plenty of well-priced Airbnb and luxury apartments.

Airbnb: One Hyde Park

One Hyde Park has affordable, luxurious 1/2-bedroom apartments in Sandton, perfect for couples or families. This particular Airbnb has a fully equipped kitchen and pool. Check rates here.

Mid Range: Hallmark Hotel

I’ve stayed at this hotel a few times and always enjoyed my stay. It’s a unique boutique hotel right in the heart of Downtown Jo’burg, serving excellent food in their restaurant. Check rates here.

Luxury: Odyssey Luxury Apartments

On our most recent trip, we stayed at Odyssey (pictured) as the apartment is spacious (for families) and not overly expensive. It’s also a 5-minute walk from Morningside Shopping Centre in Sandton. Check rates here.

Next, rise early for a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site: The  Cradle of Humankind . It is internationally recognised as the place where humankind began.

Discovered in 1924, the first-ever hominid fossil is on display here at the Maropeng Visitor Centre. There are13 excavation sites, including the Sterkfontein Caves. You can also catch a glimpse of pre-human skull dubbed “Mrs Ples”, and a near-complete hominid skeleton called “Little Foot”.

Also situated within the World Heritage site reserve is the  Lion and Safari Park , a 1,000ha (2,471-acre) animal sanctuary. You can book a guided game drive or go wildlife-watching in your own rented vehicle. If you’re not driving, check out this day tour.

Finally, it’s time to head into the African bushveld to see the Big Five ! There’s no shortage of national parks and reserves near Johannesburg — I recommend Welgevonden as it’s 3 hours from Jozi and it breaks down the long drive to Kruger National Park.

Welgevonden is a small, private reserve. There’s a limit on vehicles allowed in the park, so it’s not as saturated as many Kruger. I actually prefer small reserves as animals are more concentrated and easier to spot. I recommend at least 2 nights here as you’ll have only 2 game drives/day.

Welgevonden is home to over 50 different mammals, including the  Big Five , hippo, kudu, giraffe, zebra, warthog, and cheetah. The reserve also has one of the largest populations of white rhino of any of Africa’s private reserves. We saw plenty, which is a great sign of the work they’re doing against poaching!

What You Need to Know about Game Drives

Game drives are always around dawn (6-9am) and dusk (5-8pm). Each game drive can run up to three hours long, and can sometimes involve a lot of driving and no signs of animals. 

Some reserves allow self-drive safaris , while others don’t. We have done both, and recommend doing guided game drives as wildlife guides are much better as spotting animals and can share interesting info on wildlife. Read my detailed safari packing list.

In Africa, a lodge isn’t just a place to sleep — it’s where you’ll be doing relaxing and spending all your time at. When choosing your safari lodge, consider these points:

• Are game drives included? Most lodges include 2 drives/day.
• Is it a fenced property? Some lodges are not fenced i.e. you might find a zebra outside your door in the morning!
• Does the lodge have a waterhole where animals come for water everyday? If yes, you’ll get to view animals right from your porch.
• Is there a pool? It can be a great way to cool down in the afternoons.
• What facilities does it have? Don’t have expect to find WiFi at even the most exclusive safari lodge.
• If you’re going on safari with kids , check if they accept children. In South Africa, many safari lodges have a minimum age requirement — typically 6 or 8.

Unfortunately safari lodges are expensive and there are no budget options in private reserves like Welgevonden. But keep in mind that all your meals, lodging and game drives are included.

Budget: La Rive Waterberg Accommodation

At 14 miles (22km) from Welgevonden Game Reserve, this guesthouse has an outdoor pool and comfortable rooms with mountain views. Check rates here.

Mid Range: Ekuthuleni Lodge

We stayed at this lodge on our recent trip and had the best time. Read my detailed review. With only 5 suites, this intimate safari lodge is exclusive and luxurious. The 2-level bungalows are fantastic for families on African safari with kids .   Check rates here.

Luxury: Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway 

Located on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Sterkstroom River, this luxury lodge features suites with private terraces and plunge pools surrounded by the indigenous bushveld. Check rates here.

Itinerary Days 11-13: Kruger National Park

We’ve saved the best for the last — prepare for the highlight of your South Africa trip! Kruger is undoubtedly the largest and most popular national park in South Africa . Here’s where you will get the best wildlife watching opportunities.

The national park has a high density of wildlife — including all kinds of bird life and the Big Five. I had my closest wildlife experiences here in Kruger: being charged by an elephant, seeing lions mate, and watching the lilac breast roller showing off his rainbow colored feathers.

You’ll want to spend at least 3 nights in Kruger. Every single game drive is unique and you’ll get different experiences. I recommend booking guided game drives as guides are trained to spot animals from a distance.

Kruger is massive, and there are many camps within the national park itself and in the Greater Kruger area, but they are pricey. If you’re on a budget, I suggest staying in Hazyview just outside the park. However, you’ll be missing out on the chance to sleep in the bush and wake up to sounds of wildlife outside your window.

Budget: Tjimaka

Located outside of Hazyview, Tjimaka features self-catering accommodations 20 minutes’ drive from Kruger. Overlooking a small lake, rooms are equipped with cooking facilities and an outdoor pool. Check rates here.

Mid Range: Sabie River Bush Lodge

On the banks of the Sabie River, this bush lodge overlooks the river and national park. The luxury bush tents offer great value for money   with an outdoor deck, pool and playground. Check rates here.

Luxury: Hamiltons Tented Camp

Located within Kruger NP, this 5-star luxury tented lodge is surrounded by ancient trees and wildlife. Decorated in colonial style, its luxury tents feature teak floors and vintage furnishings reminiscent of safaris in the early 20th century. Check rates here.

Sadly your 2 weeks in South Africa have come to an end. It’s a 6-hour drive back to Johannesburg from Kruger National Park. Make sure to give yourself enough time to catch your flight home.

I suggest staying at an airport hotel to rest up before flying home the next day. Protea Hotel by Marriott Transit is located inside the airport terminal and is an excellent place to rest before flying.

More South Africa Itinerary Ideas

If you’ve got more than 2 weeks in South Africa, there are definitely a lot more of the country worth exploring. Here are some parts of South Africa that I’ve been and would recommend visiting.

Adventure seekers alert! Just 1-2 hour’s drive from Cape Town is the town of Gaansbaai, famous for its dense population of great white sharks. Here you can go cage shark diving , an exhilarating experience where you get up close to the great white. Learn how misunderstood these creatures are and get to know them on a deeper level.

One of the most famous road trips in South Africa, the Garden Route is a scenic and ecologically diverse region near Cape Town. It stretches 300-kilometers (190 miles) from Mossel Bay (a 5+ hour drive from Cape Town), ending in Storms River. You can definitely add this to your itinerary if you have 3 weeks in South Africa. Don’t miss the Addo Elephant National Park, one of the best national parks in South Africa .

Home to the iSimangliso Wetland Park, St Lucia is an adventure hub offering lots of outdoor activities and wildlife safari opportunities. Take a cruise in the estuary and spot hundreds of hippos and crocodiles,   or go on a whale watching excursion to see humpbacks in the Indian Ocean.

Durban is a hip, coastal city with the energy and character of an African city intertwined with British heritage and Asian influence. Stay at the iconic Oyster Box Hotel , admire colonial architecture in downtown Durban, try a dish of bunny chow that Durban is oh-so-famous for, or take a long stroll along the beachfront boulevard of Umhlanga Rocks.

Known affectionately as the Berg, the mighty Drakensberg Mountains are absolutely spectacular. The rugged mountains are often described as a ‘barrier of spears’, which runs along the border of South Africa and Lesotho. We spent a few days here when traveling to Lesotho and were absolutely floored by the dramatic landscapes.

South Africa Travel Guide

The main gateway to South Africa are the Cape Town International Airport (CPT) and OR Tambo International Airport (JNB). South African Airways is the national airline and serves many major cities in the world.

This South Africa itinerary starts and ends in Cape Town. You can find  flights from New York to Cape Town via Istanbul for around US$750 return. For those in Europe, you can fly  direct from London to Nairobi  (9hours) for around $550 return.

Regardless of how long you’re traveling, it’s important to have travel insurance. It’ll cover you in case of incidents or mishaps like theft, loss of luggage and flight cancellation. Refer to my travel insurance guide for more details.

Safety Wing is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date.

How to Get Around South Africa

The best way to get around South Africa is by car hire. Most roads are in good condition and all road signs are in English. We’ve driven South Africa several times, and never had any issue.

You don’t need a 4WD and car rental is really affordable here (prices as low as $200 for 2 weeks in South Africa).  You can even do  self-drive safari in certain national parks and reserves. I suggest hiring a car in Cape Town at the airport and another one in Johannesburg.

As the country is big, you’ll need to fly to get from the Cape Town to Johannesburg. Domestic flights are rather cheap — you can find the cheapest flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town on Mango Airlines for US$70. Mango flights are some of the cheapest you’ll find.

It’s also possible to fly from Johannesburg to Nelspruit (nearest town to Kruger NP)on Airlink for just $70 each way. Flying cuts down the travel time from 6 hours by road to just 40 minutes.

South Africa is a year-round destination. Depending on where you travel in South Africa, each region has different climate and wildlife opportunities.

In general, the best time to visit South Africa is f rom May to September. These are the cooler winter months in the northern regions (Johannesburg area), which bring superb conditions for viewing big game.

Summer in South Africa runs from November to February. During these months, the southern coast (Cape Town area) has beautiful, hot, dry weather. The average temperature is around 73-79 °F (23-26°C). The best time to visit the Cape for whale watching is between July and November.

South Africa isn’t a cheap destination compared to the rest of Africa, but it is definitely more affordable than most of US, UK and Canada. Car rental is cheap, you can find rates as low as $15/day. Accommodation is also affordable — you can find luxury apartments on Airbnb for $70/night.

However, wildlife safaris are generally expensive, with lodges charging a minimum of $250/night. Keep in mind that all your meals, lodging and game drives are included. The cheapest  3-day budget safari in Kruger you can find is $450/ person.

Expect to spend at least $2000 over 2 weeks in South Africa. This is based on midrange accommodation and hiring your own car.

South Africa is relatively easy to explore independently, especially in the area surrounding Cape Town. I recommend hiring a car and doing the South Africa trip on your own.

If you don’t drive, it might be easier to join a guided tour. Having a guide, especially in the national parks, can make a big difference as wildlife guides are trained to spot animals and have a wealth of knowledge on wildlife.

On my first trip to South Africa, I went on this 28-day Southern Africa Overland tour with G Adventures. I’ve traveled with G Adventures many times (to Antarctica, Brazil, Mongolia and Nepal) and had a blast on every single trip. For those with just 2 weeks in South Africa, check out this 10-day Cape Town to Kruger trip.

If you’re only looking for budget camping safaris, check out these budget wildlife safari that include transport from major cities:

• From Johannesburg: 3-Day Affordable Safari in Kruger
• From Johannesburg: 6-Day Classic Kruger Safari
• From Cape Town: 2-Day Safari in Aquila Reserve
• From Cape Town: 3-Day Garden Route & Safari

Certain parts of South Africa have malaria and yellow fever risks. Kruger National Park, for instance, is a malaria zone. There are a few suggested vaccinations and medications for South Africa, but none are mandatory.

For malaria, consult your doctor and bring malaria medication from home (Malarone is the most popular). Note that they might have side effects. You’ll need to start taking them a few days before your trip and continue for a few weeks after your South Africa trip.

Don’t leave this until the last minute. Check the  CDC website to see what vaccinations you need.

Suggested vaccinations for South Africa:

• Yellow fever
• Hepatitis A and B

2 weeks in South Africa will definitely allow you to experience the best of the country.  I hope this South Africa itinerary will help you plan your own adventure. Feel free to bookmark it or print it out and bring this itinerary with you on your South Africa trip.

In our opinion, this is the best South Africa road trip you can do. It’s the perfect balance of wildlife, outdoor, historical and cultural experiences. It’s not too rushed and you’ll get to see South Africa at a comfortable pace.

Here are some other articles I’ve written on Africa:

• Best Safari Parks in Africa
• African Safari with Kids
• 2-Week Kenya Itinerary
• Swaziland Travel Guide
• The Annual Migration at Masai Mara
• What to Pack for Safari
• The Ultimate Kenya Travel Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. I’ll get a small commission when you book anything through my links, at NO extra cost to you. I only recommend companies I have personally used and enjoyed.

Inspired? Pin it!

Over the years (and traveling to 140+ countries), I’ve learned a thing or two about travel planning. I’ve put together this list of travel resources that I personally use to find the best deals and book travel! For more details, check out my travel tips resource page .

• Booking Flights : Kayak is brilliant for finding the best dates to fly as it allows you to search for the lowest airfares within a 3-day period. Then I use Skyscanner as they’ve consistently given me the lowest airfares.
• Accommodations:  I always use  Booking.com   to book hotels, mainly because of the flexible cancellation policy and good customer service. You can also find short-term rental apartments there (I prefer not to use Airbnb due to the extra charges).
• Travel Insurance:  It’s important to have travel insurance, regardless of whether you’re traveling for a few days or months. Safety Wing is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their Nomad Insurance plan , which covers any healthcare expenses I may have worldwide. Refer to my travel insurance guide for more details.
• Health Advice:  I always refer to the travel guides on the   CDC website  for recommended medications and vaccines. You can get them at your travel doctor’s office or a walk-in pharmacy.
• Tours:  If you’re looking for all-encompassing tours, I recommend small-group adventure tour outfitter, G Adventures . I’ve traveled with them to Antarctica, Mongolia, Svalbard, and Nepal, and loved every single trip. For day tours, I always book with  Viator  and  GetYourGuide ; they have easy booking systems and free cancellations.
• Car Rental: I always book car rentals on Discover Cars , as they’ve consistently given us the best rates and customer service (with free cancellations). We’ve used them in Seychelles, South Africa, Spain, Peru, and Mexico.
• Transportation : Whenever possible, I book local transportation online using  Bookaway and Busbud . They’re more reliable than many local transport websites and cover trains, buses, and car hire.
• Restaurants: TripAdvisor is my go-to resource for restaurant reviews and bookings. I also make restaurant reservations on OpenTable .
• Travel WiFi: I always travel with my Travel WiFi Sapphire 2 device; it’s the most convenient way to get internet data on the go. Instead of getting a local SIM card in every country I travel, I get an internet data package online and the device works immediately when I land.

Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The Comments

Hi! My fiancé and I want to travel to South Africa for our honeymoon. I can’t find any flights for lower than approx. $1,800 per person—you mentioned that they are obtainable for approx. $750. Any advice for finding more affordable flights? Thanks in advance!

hi Savannah, prices have skyrocketed this summer. Try to avoid traveling during the holiday season. The low season in South Africa is between March to May and September to November, when airfares are lowest. Also, you can use the ‘+-3 days’ function on Kayak to find the cheapest dates to fly. Another alternative is to fly from another airport near you that might have cheaper fares. Hope this helps!

Hi Nellie A very informative and dedicated site! Everyone visits the Northern Drakensberg and no one really knows about the Southern Drakensberg and the Sani Pass into Lesotho and visiting /interacting with Basotho people! Why is this ?

hi Ray, we wanted to do the Sani Pass into Lesotho actually! But everyone recommends having a 4WD for that, so we took a different route. We drove into Lesotho and had a great time there. I think the Sani Pass is pretty famous and many people know about it!

Excellent write up!!! The way you have described each destination and the details provided will surely help any first timer to be confident about their bookings! Loved it !

You May Also Like

Skydiving gold coast australia — at 12,000 feet above ground, overlanding africa: tips and reviews, highlights of the spanish pyrenees: from the mountains through the rivers to the sea.

Going Awesome Places

Detailed itineraries + travel guides

What It’s Really Like To Safari In South Africa

Last Updated April 7, 2023 William Tang

You are here: Home » Attractions & Experiences » What It’s Really Like To Safari In South Africa

Sharing is caring!

If you’ve never been on safari – and I don’t mean one of those man-made zoo experiences that some cities have but I mean a real-life, in the bush, under the African sun type of safari, then you don’t know what you’re missing!  We got a chance to go on our first safari for our honeymoon and I was surprised how it was everything I expected but was also way different at the same time.

• Kruger National Park for first timers
• How to plan a South African safari – the 9 day itinerary
• 13 of the top things you have to see in Africa
• Shark cage diving in Gaansbai, Cape Town

Where to stay near Kruger National Park?

• Teaser alert – Our favourite part of our safari experience at the end of the day was our time at Elephant Plains in Sabi Sands .  It was simply magical.

In This Article

The safari you think you know

Is it all that different, so what about the safari experience, is there a specific way to do safari, planning for safari.

I was that someone that had never been on a safari save for that time as a kid my parents took me to African Lion Safari in London, Ontario where I have vivid memories of monkeys jumping onto the roof of our car and stripping away all the rubber moulding.  Beyond that faint experience, the only other reference I had was honestly just Nat Geo, that series called Planet Earth, and Lion King.

Laugh all you want but I think a lot of us have a certain preconceived idea of what Africa is like and what the savannah is like.  It’s that “hakuna matata” world Disney painted for me and those iconic pictures of the one tree in the distance with giraffes in silhouette.

In real life, in some ways I was almost disappointed that the African savannah wasn’t like Lion King but in other ways the safari experience exhilarated me in ways unexpected.

For me, it’s the landscape that really surprised me.  Since my experience is limited to South Africa and the area around Kruger, my experience may be different from other parts of Africa but I remember my first reaction was, it’s way less lush and way more dead-looking than I thought.  “What happened to all those trees?” I remember saying out loud.

Now this definitely changed as the weeks went on and I was able to see more of the landscape but with all the heat and dry nature of the climate, it’s really more desert than jungle.  They call it a bush for a reason and it’s that brown tall stringy grass type of bush that is what dominates the area.

That being said, I was also amazed at how diverse the landscape is as well.  While it is predominantly dry and barren, you can be driving along one road in Kruger National Park and see it go from larger oak-type trees with greener grass (typically near rivers), to barren open ground, to tall dry grasslands, to rocky outcrops.  It changes on a dime it feels like and is what makes things so interesting out there especially when you’re tracking animals.

Oh boy there’s so much to say here and I’ll reserve the “tell all” in a future ultimate guide of sorts but if I were to sum it up, it’s an experience of unpredictability and constant surprise and wonder.

Sure it’s still somewhat of a manufactured experience with human roads, camps, electric fences, and walkie-talkies but it’s almost difficult to comprehend that you’re in the natural habitat of these animals and you’re just a guest taking a small peek into their world.  Some animals will rustle away as you pass by in your car or in the safari truck but others won’t give a damn and just continue munching on whatever they were munching on or go back to staring into the distance with more purpose than our untrained eye can perceive.

As you’re watching these incredible beasts, you start picking up on the smallest nuances like how a mother treats their young, how a baby struggles with eating grass or why a bird keeps landing on its back, or how an elephant rips the leaves off of a tree, or how long a hippo stays underwater before resurfacing for air.  You can just stare and try to decode why we think an animal does what we see.  Ultimately, the most heartwarming thing is when what we see is a reflection of our own human nature.

For me, It’s really the luck aspect of it all that truly gives the biggest thrill of all.  Think of it as going on this great big hunt.  You could come up with nothing or you could come up with the biggest catch of them all.  And while you’re not really capturing anything for trophies, your mind is making its own list of catches that you make with your eyes.  Sometimes there are specific things you’re hoping to see or the best is when you are totally shocked and surprised to see something you never even thought of.

And as time goes on in Africa, that list of what you want to see grows wilder and more on the rarer side.  You’ll quickly grow tired of impala and you’ll start getting hungry to see lions making a kill or a leopard hanging from a tree.

That is the safari life.  And now I understand why people come back year after year because it is totally addictive.

This may be unique to Kruger.  I actually don’t know because I haven’t done Namibia, Kenya, or Tanzania but in Kruger there’s the wonderful option of staying inside the park itself and driving around in your own car (aka self-drive) or you can explore some of the private lands just outside of Kruger and stay at a lodge for a totally different experience (aka private reserves).

I’ve done both and I still couldn’t tell you that you MUST do one over the other.  Each is amazing in their own way and I’d say that your Kruger experience wouldn’t be complete unless you did a self-drive in the national park and also spent a few nights in the luxury of one of the private game lodges on the outskirts of the park, in say, the world-renowned Sabi Sands.

With self-drive, it’s very much a “choose your own adventure” experience.  You get to decide which road to drive, what you want to try to find, and how long you want to stick around if you do find something.  Things are a little more strict in the park as well as you have to be back by dark and you must stay on officially marked roads (makes sense if you don’t want to become viral on YouTube).

With the private reserves, it’s a more pampered experience all around with better accommodations, food inclusive, an experienced ranger, and professional animal tracker.  In the bush that means much higher chances of seeing the animals that you’re looking for and being able to go off road and drive right up to animals like when we encountered a male lion and parked literally 3 meters from him.

The last thing I’ll say about my whole experience to South Africa and Kruger is how frustratingly difficult it was to plan the trip thing.

As a complete newbie as I was, it was hard to find good resources online for a good way to approach safari planning without going the packaged route.  Perhaps it’s all a conspiracy to get people to do group tours but I kind of understand why so many people do it.  They make it seem so hard to do yourself.

Having done it myself, I can now safely say that “it’s really not that bad!”.  I luckily had the benefit of having a good friend guide me through it and hopefully I can do the same thing for you if you’re thinking about doing safari in the future.

Safari doesn’t have to be hard, it doesn’t have to be too expensive, and can be done quite easily.  I show you exactly how to plan your own safari trip .

So there you have it, my personal thoughts on safari in South Africa.  I’d love to hear from you if you have your own safari experience or are thinking about starting to plan your trip .

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Mary Boehm says

October 20, 2022 at 9:52 AM

This is so helpful! Heading to South Africa for Safari in May 2023 in the areas you talked about.

CDC recommends tons of shots, but folks I know who went to South Africa went without them. What has your experience been?

William Tang says

October 20, 2022 at 11:20 AM

For South Africa, there are a lot of recommendations but none are mandatory. For me, when we went, we made sure we had Yellow Fever although that was more because we were transiting through Ethiopia and knew that it might be requested for subsequent countries. In case, we did pills for Malaria and for traveller’s diarrhea there was Dukoral. That said, for Kruger and Cape Town, Malaria wasn’t really an issue so you can make your own judgement there. I hope that helps!

peter Cooper says

November 22, 2021 at 12:41 PM

The comment that one has to stay on the tarred roads is incorrect. There are numerous well maintained gravel roads in the park which can normally be used by self drive visitors.The exception to this would be if there had been heavy rain leaving some of these roads flooded and impassable.

November 25, 2021 at 12:13 PM

No you’re absolutely right! We definitely did follow a few side roads that were gravel and not tarred. Thanks for the correction!

Richard Lee says

January 30, 2018 at 8:43 PM

Yass! I’ve been to the Akagera National Park Safari of Rwanda twice now and I loved the experience. It’s incredible being able to get so close to the wild life.

If you are ever back in the region, definitely try to go!

Will Tang says

January 31, 2018 at 12:11 AM

Great suggestions! I feel like safari in South Africa was a great introduction. Now I need to start exploring other parks and countries for that matter to get a different perspective on wildlife.

Nancy Gormley says

January 16, 2018 at 10:45 AM

I did the self-drive in Kruger and it was amazing. It took me a good day and a half to realize that this was nature and not some Disney theme park. It gave me a greater appreciation for the circle of life. The self-drive and staying in the park is a perfect way to see these amazing sights on a budget.

January 18, 2018 at 11:10 AM

It sure is a beautiful experience isn’t it? I particularly loved how you just didn’t know what you were going to see each day.

Andrew Darwitan says

January 7, 2018 at 9:24 AM

Sounds great. I have been to safari in Tanzania and it was classic Discovery Channel. I’ve heard the environment is slightly different. South Africa has more bushes, whereas Tanzania is savannah. South Africa, when you choose a private concession, allows for off-road driving though which means you can get close to the animals!

Find us on social media

• Indian Ocean Islands
• Cape Winelands
• Garden Route
• Kruger National Park
• KwaZulu-Natal
• Gorilla Trekking
• Great Migration
• Family Travel
• Accommodation
• Traveller’s tales
• The Bucket List
• Postcards From Africa
• Cape Town Restaurant Guide
• Cape Winelands Restaurant Guide
• Johannesburg Restaurant Guide
• Special Features
• Our Home Safari
• Africa’s Photographer of the Year
• Photography & Videos
• Let’s start planning

15 Best Safaris in South Africa

Safari , South Africa

0    comments

When looking for the best safaris in South Africa , how can you possibly choose? Our beloved country has a wealth of Big 5 game reserves and national parks. Dig just a little when planning your safari, and you might find yourself lost amidst a mind-boggling array of options. But as the World's Leading Safari Company – and leading the pack since 2004 – there's no one more equipped to share the 15 best safaris in South Africa for 2022 with you. Here we go!

Get up-close to spectacular wildlife on a safari in South African safari destinations like Sabi Sand

Best Safaris in South Africa for 2022

Let's get wild and delve deep into the world of safari! From classics like Kruger National Park to lesser-known treasures, here are our favourite destinations for safaris in South Africa. 

1. Kruger National Park: The Grand Old Bull

A list of the best safaris in South Africa without the  Kruger National Park  would leave a rather large elephant in the room unnoticed. And, of course, if it's elephants you want to see, then the grandfather of all national parks should be high on your agenda. 

In fact, and no surprise, all of Africa's famed wildlife thrives in this two-million-hectare game reserve. There's so much to see, from lions, African wild dogs, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest antelope, and more. The birdlife is also positively Jurassic in abundance.

Highlights  

• The largest national park in South Africa 
• Big 5 safari destination that's easy to reach 
• Various accommodation options for all kinds of travellers 
• Vast, unspoilt territory with a high density of animals

Get lost in king-sized Kruger

2. Madikwe Game Reserve: Malaria-free Big 5 Safari

Madikwe Game Reserve  offers 75,000 hectares of classic African scenery in South Africa's North West province. Think endless open and wooded grasslands dotted with rocky outcrops beneath a gigantic sky. Straddling the Kalahari and savannah woodland biomes, Madikwe supports an impressive variety of wildlife. And this includes the Big 5 and endangered African wild dog. 

An easy flight from Johannesburg, the reserve is only open to overnight visitors, so you won't be jostling with motorists at any of your incredible wildlife sightings.

• Exclusive, malaria-free Big 5 safari destination 
• One of the largest game reserves in South Africa 
• Famous for its endangered African wild dogs
• Conservation success story uplifting the environment and local communities 

Sip on sundowners in Madikwe, Image Credit: Jamala Madikwe

3. Londolozi Private Game Reserve: The Original Luxury Safari 

Londolozi Private Game Reserve  is one of South Africa's original private game reserves and is located in the  Sabi Sand , sharing an unfenced border with  Kruger National Park . Combining ground-breaking conservation with Relais & Châteaux luxury, the game-viewing experience is immersive and deeply personalised. 

A predator's paradise, this gigantic private reserve is famous for its resident leopard population. And with luxury lodges, exclusive access, off-road safaris, night drives and walking safaris, Londolozi ranks among the very best safaris in South Africa.

• One of South Africa's original private game reserves
• Ultra-luxurious lodges for anyone from couples to families 
• Well-known for its leopard dynasties 
• Original pioneering conservation model 

A leopard leading the way at Londolozi

4. Phinda Private Game Reserve: Remote, Diverse Safari Destination

Between sea and mountain in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal,  Phinda  is a vast private game reserve that's further away from popular tourist destinations. And with seven radically different habitats, Phinda is home to some of Africa's rarer wildlife species, including the black rhino, cheetah, pangolin, and several smaller creatures unique to this area.  That's not to say the Big 5 aren't represented. Far from it. Elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, as well as hyena, giraffe and more are all here to see on safari. 

Phinda promises one of the best safaris in South Africa, and you can combine it with a visit to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and a beach holiday on the Indian Ocean coastline.

• Exclusive private game reserve with only six lodges
• Renowned for its cheetah populations and home to the Big 5
• Seven distinct habitats with plenty of wildlife and birdlife
• Sodwana Bay's reefs are nearby for a bush and beach holiday combo

Enjoy sundowners as you learn about the bush, Image Credit: &Beyond Phinda

5. Timbavati Private Nature Reserve: Kruger Without The Crowds

Timbavati  is a 53,000-hectare wilderness sharing an unfenced border with Kruger National Park's western boundary. Translation: the Kruger safari experience but without the crowds and restrictions. 

Inside the Kruger, your safari is limited to vehicles on paved roads. But in the Timbavati, your safari experience, while ecologically sensitive, is not so hindered. Here, your safari guides are allowed to take you through the African bush in open vehicles or on foot, day and night. And being in the middle of the game-rich east-west migration route, the wildlife includes the Big 5 and the rare white lion, endemic to this (relatively) tiny strip of wilderness.

• Access to all the Kruger National Park animals but offering a more exclusive experience 
• Home to the Magnificent Seven: lion, leopard, African wild dog, elephant, rhino, buffalo and cheetah
• The unusual white lion is found here, as well as large herds of elephant and buffalo
• Variety of mostly family-run safari lodge options

The white lions of the Timbavati

6. Sabi Sand Game Reserve: Exclusivity in Unspoilt Wilderness

The  Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve  is one of the finest game viewing destinations in Africa and is best known for its high density of the elusive leopard. The reserve is a central figure in the Greater Kruger National Park area, with a fenceless border along the southwestern boundary. Furthermore, with various world-class luxury safari lodges, you don't have to rough it to experience the wilderness. 

Located between the Sabi and the Sand Rivers, the game viewing is always exceptional no matter where you decide to stay. And with safari stars like Singita, Londolozi and  Silvan Safari  to choose from, it's no wonder Sabi Sand is considered one of the best safaris in South Africa.

• One of the most luxurious Big 5 private game reserves in the country
• Very exclusive with high-end accommodation yet easy to reach, with some lodges having private landing strips
• One of the best places in Africa to see the elusive leopard up-close
• Off-road, night and walking safaris offered 

Up-close sightings are a given in Kruger National Park's private game reserves like Silvan Safari

7. Kwandwe Private Game Reserve: Exclusive Malaria-free Safari

Away from the Greater Kruger National Park in the north, the Eastern Cape has its share of excellent Big 5 game reserves offering among the best safaris in South Africa. Of these,  Kwandwe  offers a stand-out conservation safari experience.

The Great Fish River forms the backbone of this undulating slice of South Africa. Black and white rhino, elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard and cheetah roam the grassy plains, and smaller rare species thrive in the euphorbia thickets, including servals, wild cats and blue cranes. Malaria-free and with just five safari lodges, Kwandwe is especially suited for both families and couples looking for an exclusive safari experience.

• Big 5 malaria-free safari with award-winning lodges and villas
• Home to several endangered species
• Sustainable conservation and renowned for their expert safari guides 
• Perfect reserve for families as the Blue Crane Conservation Club offers activities for children 

There is nothing quite like a sunset safari at Kwandwe

8. Thornybush Nature Reserve: Private Luxury Safari in the Kruger

Thornybush  is one of the original nature reserves in the Greater Kruger National Park, its first lodge dating back to 1961. The 14,000-hectare reserve is known for its leopard sightings and resident populations of wildlife such as the elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo, hyena, giraffe, hippo and plenty of plains game.

And with just five intimate, luxurious safari lodges, you won't be sharing your wildlife sightings or classic African scenery with the crowds.

• One of the original nature reserves in the Greater Kruger National Park 
• Innovative conservation and community projects 
• It has been a setting for many wildlife documentaries because it's so rich in Big 5 and other animals
• Classic Kruger savannah woodland scenery

A laid-back lion, Image Credit: Michelle Welvering

9. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park: Birthplace of Rhino Conservation

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park  is the oldest nature reserve in South Africa and is famous for its noble rhino conservation work. Today, it's a haven for black and white rhinos, Big 5, plains game, birdlife, riverine, and many more animals. 

The Umfolozi part of the park lies to the south and is typically open grassland rising up to the hillier section of the national park – the Hluhluwe.

• Oldest nature reserve in South Africa 
• Home to the biggest population of white rhinos in the world
• Renowned for its conservation efforts 
• Big 5, rare wildlife, birdlife and spectacular scenery

Unicorns with curves, Image Credit: Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge

10. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve: Malaria-free Safari in Little Karoo

An easy drive from Cape Town,  Sanbona Wildlife Reserve  features unique Karoo scenery, open grasslands and spectacular mountain ranges. The enormous wildlife reserve has just four safari lodges catering for families, small groups, adventurous nature-lovers and romantic escapists. 

The open grasslands and rocky outcrops are home to wildlife such as the elephant, lion (including the unique white lion!), buffalo, rhino, leopard and cheetah. There is also plenty of typical Karoo species such as gemsbok springbok, hartebeest, eland, kudu and zebra. Biomes include acacia woodland, renosterveld, succulent Karoo and central mountain fynbos.

• Closest malaria-free safari to Cape Town, only three hours away
• Unique Karoo scenery, p lants and animals
• Conservation-based nature safaris
• Different accommodation types serve various types of travellers, from couples to families

A male white lion in the wild, Image Credit: Tania de Kock

11. Singita: Exclusive, Ultra-luxurious Safaris 

The Singita brand is synonymous with the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity. In  Sabi Sand , they have two safari lodges in the eastern Kruger National Park and three safari lodges on the western border. In short, east or west, Singita is one of the best safaris in South Africa.

The eastern lodges feature rugged, tree-shrouded hills famous for lions, elephants and general wildlife. On the other hand, the western lodges feature open plains and woodland thicket habitats rich in Big 5 wildlife.

• Award-winning safari company with ultra-luxurious lodges and wellness offerings 
• World-famous for their personalised, all-hands-on-deck hospitality
• Dedicated to a core purpose of being an ecotourism and conservation brand
• The brand is known for their highly curated wine selection

Get to meet big cats up-close and personal, Image Credit: Singita

12. Klaserie Private Nature Reserve: Sustainable Kruger Safaris

Klaserie  is an enormous private nature reserve on the central-western border of the Kruger National Park. It shares an unfenced border, and therefore, the wildlife and landscapes of Klaserie are similar to Kruger.

Conservation and community upliftment are the bedrock of Klaserie's operations, and a great variety of safari lodge options and activities contribute to its sustainable safaris.

• One of the largest privately owned reserves in South Africa
• Home to Big 5, endangered African wild dog, southern ground hornbill, and white-backed vulture
• Focused on nature conservation and low-impact tourism.
• Known for their excellent walking safaris 

The "Big Five" (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard) are one of the great attractions of the Kruger Park, Image Credit: Baobab Lodge

13. Thanda Safari, a Private Game Reserve: Zululand Magic 

With tree-covered hills, savannah floodplains and 14,000 hectares of exclusive-use wilderness,  Thanda Safari, a Private Game Reserve  offers  one of the best safaris in South Africa.

Lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo thrive in these parts, as do over 400 bird species. Furthermore, the rich, colourful Zulu culture touches every aspect of your stay. They also offer walking safaris, an exciting way to experience the vibrant culture, landscapes and wildlife. With just three safari lodges in the entire reserve, you're guaranteed an intimate and personal Zululand wildlife experience.

• Privately owned and operated luxury private game reserve
• Committed to the local Zulu culture, people and conservation initiatives
• Big 5, cheetah, hyena, and plenty of birds and plants
• Walking safaris in spectacular scenery, rhino and cheetah tracking, and more

Watching rhino roam is a magical experience at Thanda, Image Credit: Katharina Riebesel

14. Gondwana Private Game Reserve: Malaria-free Big 5 Garden Route Safari

The Garden Route is famous for its beaches and forested mountain slopes. Throw in a Big 5 malaria-free private game reserve, and you've got the recipe for one of the best safaris in South Africa.

The  Gondwana Private Game Reserve  is an 11,000-hectare chunk of Cape Floral Kingdom with expansive plains supporting elephants, lions, rhinos, and leopards. It also includes Cape species like eland, sable, red hartebeest, Cape mountain zebra and Cape buffalo.

• Malaria-free Big 5 safari on the Garden Route just four hours from Cape Town
• Family-friendly with Junior Ranger Programme for little ones
• Walking safaris, family safaris, tented bush spa and adventure activities
• Gondwana Conservation Foundation protects South Africa's endangered and threatened wildlife and vegetation

King of the bush, Image Credit: Tania de Kock

15. Pilanesberg National Park: Scenic, Malaria-free Game Reserve

Pilanesberg National Park  is a scenic Big 5 safari destination in northern South Africa with an extinct volcano and a large lake at its centre. Combining Kalahari and classic African Lowveld habitats, the scenery, vegetation, and wildlife offer a varied and always scenic safari experience. 

There are plenty of lions, leopards, cheetahs, African wild dogs, black and white rhinos, buffalo and elephants to see here. Pilanesburg also features hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, rare antelopes, wildebeest, giraffe, zebra and many smaller creatures. Birding in the park is another drawcard, with over 350 migrant and resident species recorded.

• Malaria-free, classic Big 5 safaris
• Easily accessible from Johannesburg, only three hours away 
• Over 350 bird species and more than 7,000 animals to marvel at
• Concealed photographic hides to capture the best images of the wildlife

Pilansberg's wild offers some of the best safaris in South Africa

Ready for your South African Big 5 Safari?

So there you have it, our round-up of the 15 best safaris in South Africa for 2022.   Contact your friendly Rhino Africa Travel Expert  for the best, first-hand, tailormade safari advice on the planet.

Plan your African Safari today

Opens our enquiry form

Based on 3000+ reviews

You May Also Like

Beyond the vine: unique experiences in the cape winelands, 8 best hikes in cape town, a tswalu kalahari safari is simply delicious.

About the author 

Born in Zimbabwe and, having bluffed his way through a Journalism Degree at Rhodes, Ian turned his reluctantly nomadic life into a successful career as a travel writer. With stints in Harare, Joburg, Cape Town, Swakopmund, Port Shepstone and Greyton, he has travelled the length and breadth of southern Africa. Now living in Knysna, Ian combines his innate tendency to write for a living with a deep-rooted love of Africa’s wilderness and a keen interest in the hospitality trade.

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

Privacy Overview

South Africa

South africa travel blogs, these are all of my travel blogs about south africa. .

From safari trips and wine tasting tours, to the beauty of Cape Town, find out the best places to travel to in my South Africa travel blogs and travel guides.

Happy exploring!

9 Best Places For Winter Sun

Considering a break this winter? From the Caribbean to Dubai it’s time to reveal the best places for winter sun around the world.

Best holiday destinations in south africa.

From Cape Town to Stellenbosch and Durban to Kruger National Park, these are the best holiday destinations in South Africa. 

South Africa has been on my dream destination list for a long time now. From the country’s amazing wildlife (big five, whales and more) to the wine regions, the beautiful scenery and the food, there are plenty of reasons South Africa is a popular holiday destination.

I’ve wanted to pop a South Africa blog together for a while, as I’ve had so many messages from you guys asking if I have any posts or tips on places to visit.

So I decided the best thing to do was to hand over to some of my blogger pals to recommend the highlights from their adventures in SA. So without further ado, here are the best holiday destinations in South Africa, by those who REALLY know!

Stellenbosch

Lucy from On The Luce absolutely loved Stellenbosch, South Africa. Here’s why she thought it was so special…

South Africa’s Stellenbosch is heaven for wine lovers. Valleys full of vineyards surround the town, and along with neighbouring wine regions Franschhoek and Paarl, it’s home to hundreds of wineries. Stellenbosch is most famous for its Pinotage reds and Chenin Blanc whites, but there’s a whole range of different grapes and wine styles, including some tasty sparkling wines that give Champagne a run for its money at half the price!

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.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

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.

South Africa safaris for first-timers: 8 things to know before you book

Oct 5, 2021 • 8 min read

Get your camera charged and ready, safari vehicles make all stops, especially when the roads are blocked © WitR / Shutterstock

A lifelong dream for many, a safari in  South Africa  can take as many forms as the multitude of creatures you encounter in the wild.

From a remote escape in a bush camp to a luxurious idyll, the range of experiences can suit all tastes and budgets. And just like a giraffe picking and choosing amongst the canopy of leaves for the perfect snack, you'll be rewarded for taking the time to create a safari that's perfect for you.

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime and also be prepared. As things continue to shift with travel restrictions, make sure to check the latest travel alerts from the US State Department . From there, here's everything else you need to know prior to your South African safari to make the most of your expedition. 

1. When to go

For wildlife watching, winter (June to September) is ideal as many trees and shrubs are leafless, which aids spotting. Limited food and water also means that animals are out in the open more often foraging, hunting or grabbing a drink at a waterhole. South Africa's summer (December to February) sees the countryside at its most lush, but animals can be lost in dense shadows. Most common at this time are holidaymakers from Europe, who come in herds for the hot temps.

2. Choosing a National Park

South Africa has over 600 parks and reserves. You can find one offering any kind of experience you want, from utter desolation, to verdant savannah rich with life in all forms. You can join guided safaris, set out on your own or find serenity at a campsite far from others. They also cater to travelers on all budgets which makes them both affordable but also often crowded in parts. Most have good roads you can tour in your own rental car. For your first safari, two parks stand out:

Kruger National Park   The national park for safaris. Yes parts can get crowded, but given that it's the size of Wales, you can easily escape to a remote corner. Every iconic – and not-so-iconic – African animal is found here. You can stay in the park in everything from isolated campsites to bungalows and cottages in busy compounds, with prices that are some of the best value on the continent. Staying in the surrounding towns like Nelspruit, which have hotels, hostels and resorts for every budget, may be tempting, but they make accessing the early morning wildlife drives (the highlight of the day) difficult; the commute and park-gate traffic can eat into the best part of viewing time.

Where you should go on your first safari in Africa

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi   Combines lush scenery with all the expected wildlife. Located in the heart of Zululand, the famous culture of the namesake tribe is prevalent. Beaches along the nearby Elephant Coast are among South Africa's finest, so you can see wildlife and go for a dip. The park is especially noted for its network of hiking trails that include multi-day itineraries and camping deep in the bush.

3. Choosing a private reserve

There is only one real reason why you may not choose a private wildlife reserve: cost. These are not places for people on a tight budget, with prices reaching thousands of dollars per person per day. But for people who want the ultimate safari-experience, a lodge in a private reserve offers:

Close proximity to wildlife Not only do you avoid long drives before your safari starts but that bump you hear in the night may be an elephant looking in your window. Unlike most of the government camps, lodges here are rarely ever fenced. And when on wildlife drives, guides are usually permitted to leave the reserve's dirt tracks and head directly to sightings in the bush instead of having to watch from afar (as is the case in the national parks).  Sabi Sand Game Reserve , which adjoins Kruger National Park , is widely considered to be the best place in Africa for spotting animals.

Word class safari guides Guides working at private reserves are at the top of their game. They read the animal footprints on the dirt each morning like a newspaper and have the best chance of finding you the most incredible wildlife encounters. In the highest-end reserves, guides wear ear-piece radios and communicate with each other to let them know where any key sightings are taking place.

Fewer crowds Safari jeeps in the park may hold up to 15 guests, while those in private reserves tend to max out at six. At some high-end lodges it might actually just be your party in the vehicle. The fewer the people, the more individual time the guide has to give you; you'll also have more say in how long you stay at individual sightings. Most reserves also set a strict rule of no more than three vehicles at any one sighting, whereas there may be dozens of them in the parks.

Luxury   Some of the private reserve lodges are merely comfortable but others, such as Singita Boulders and  Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge in Sabi Sand are the retreats of the rich and famous.

Customization Since you're staying amidst the wildlife, you can easily create your own menu of activities on the fly, such as guided walks through the bush or tours that focus on particular species. At Samara Private Game Reserve in a verdant valley amidst desert in the Eastern Cape, there are treks to track cheetahs on foot. One way to save on the costs of a private reserve is to spend just a few nights at one at the start of your trip. Take advantage of the talented guides and abundance of wildlife to see a lot of animals quickly and learn a lot about South Africa's wildlife. Then, with your wildlife urges somewhat sated, try a completely different experience in a national park, where you can concentrate more on appreciating the rhythms of life and natural beauty.

4. Use a guide

The first time your guide shows you easily-missed leopard tracks crossing your path, you'll be glad you're not wandering aimlessly on your own. Although guides can keep you safe from marauding lions, their great value is simply in explaining the vast complexities and subtleties of the African bush. Animals carry the colours they do so they will be easy to miss.

Are you ready for a self-drive safari

In private reserves guides are usually part of the price but in a national park you may be tempted to go DIY. You may get lucky (like we did in Kruger one day and have several prides of lions wander past), but as a novice you'll simply miss much. And when there are not big animals about, good guides will bring the bush to life, showing you smaller species, insects and even vegetation that has fascinating properties.

5. Don't be a 'Big Five' cliché

Sure, it’s great – and a reason to go – to see lions, leopards, elephants, Cape buffaloes and rhinos. And you'll see the phrase (which was coined by white hunters in the 1920s to validate their self-proclaimed bravery) on everything from businesses to buses. But there are obviously far more critters out there: zebras, hippos and giraffes are just a few and the list goes on. Read up on the animals you're likely to see and make a list of the less famous ones and try to spot those. You can't appreciate the beguiling ugliness of a warthog until you've seen one; a herd of twitchy impalas reminds you that danger can lurk anywhere amidst the pastoral beauty.

6. Drive or fly

You can fly straight into Kruger National Park, connecting from Cape Town or Johannesburg . If you're pressed for time this is essential for having plenty of safari time. Most other parks and reserves are equally well served by local flights and you can work out itineraries where resorts or lodges handle all your transfers. But if you can afford the time, driving in South Africa is rewarding. Outside of parks and reserves there are wine regions, spectacular natural beauty and all manner of interesting small towns and cultural attractions. As an example, from Johannesburg you can reach Kruger or Sabi Sand in a full day of driving or you can break the journey at Pilgrim's Rest , a charmer of an 1880s gold-rush town that hasn't been over-restored.

7. Bring the right stuff

Dawn safaris during the winter in and around Kruger can be surprisingly cold; layers (even gloves and a warm hat) can be shed as the sun and temp goes up. Binoculars are an obvious choice and don't expect your lodge or guides to provide them. A compact pair will let you see that big cat skulking in the distance. Don't count on wi-fi in the bush, so a good book about the land and life around you is essential.

8. Just relax

Besides shivering in the cold dawn air you should be ready to simply chill out. Guides will be doing their best to hit a checklist of animals but this doesn't always happen. Take time to appreciate the land around you, the beauty of a deserted waterhole reflecting the vast African sky or the sounds of a bird far in the distance. Don't fret about picking off a checklist of critters and certainly don't spend all your time hunting for them through a tiny viewfinder. Get out of your vehicle and simply revel in the quiet. Sometimes the most magical moment on safari is when you see nothing at all.

You might also like: Where to go on your first safari in Africa Top tips to make your African safari more affordable A day on safari in Africa: what you can expect in camp and in the wild

This article was originally published in 2012.

This article was first published Mar 23, 2012 and updated Oct 5, 2021.

Explore related stories

May 17, 2024 • 14 min read

All around the world, flowers add a magical new layer to our favorite travel destinations. Here are the best places to see the most beautiful blooms.

Apr 25, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 19, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 11, 2024 • 8 min read

Feb 27, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 20, 2024 • 17 min read

Feb 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 31, 2024 • 11 min read

Dec 8, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 30, 2023 • 5 min read

South Africa Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 10, 2023

Offering amazing safaris, rugged mountains, world-class wineries, an endless coastline, and lively cities like Cape Town , South Africa is a magical destination that is often overlooked by budget travelers.

Annexed by the Dutch and British before gaining independence in 1931, South Africa struggled with apartheid from 1948 all the way until 1990. The remnants of that dark time can still be seen around the country today, however, things have been improving and the country has been moving forward in leaps and bounds.

While South Africa still struggles with corruption and petty crime (be sure to watch your stuff while you’re here) , its rich but tumultuous history, incredible natural beauty, and international culture make it a worthwhile stop on any round-the-world itinerary. It also has the most UNESCO sites in all of Africa!

This travel guide to South Africa can help you plan the perfect trip without breaking the bank to ensure you make the most of your time in this incredible country.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on South Africa

Top 5 Things to See and Do in South Africa

1. Enjoy Cape Town

Hike up Table Mountain, explore Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, tan on pristine beaches, visit Robben Island, and go on a wine tour. Cape Town has it all, so spend as much time as you can here. There’s also lots to see outside the city, including Boulders Beach ( where you can see penguins ) and Cape Point.

2. Learn about Apartheid’s tragic past

Gain a deeper understanding of South Africa by visiting the Apartheid Museum in Joburg, taking a tour of Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years in prison), and exploring Soweto (SOuth WEstern TOwnships), a township created by the Apartheid government in Gauteng. It’s a dark, eye-opening era to learn about.

3. Explore Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is the biggest, most popular, and busiest game reserve in the country. It’s a huge park with over 2 million hectares (almost 5 million acres) of space brimming with wildlife (including the Big 5). A basic three-day budget safari costs about 12,000 ZAR.

4. Drive the Garden Route

This route stretches along the Indian Ocean from Mossel Bay to St Francis, offering beautiful landscapes, serene beaches, picturesque towns, scenic wetlands, and sprawling wineries along the way. The journey is only about 200 kilometers (125 miles), but don’t rush — it’s best to spend a few days stopping and exploring as you go.

5. Day trip to Eswatini (formerly Swaziland)

Formerly called Swaziland, this tiny country was renamed in 2018 (Eswatini means “land of the Swazis”). There are several large game parks and reserves here, making it a great destination for more wildlife spotting. Be sure to visit Hlane Royal National Park. Borders can be a bit slow, so check the wait times before you go.

Other Things to See and Do in South Africa

1. partake in extreme sports.

South Africa offers over 100 extreme sports, including bungee jumping, sandboarding, skydiving, parasailing, jungle zip-lining, scuba diving, and more! Prices vary but expect skydiving to cost around 2,800-3,100 ZAR and bungee jumping to cost around 1,400 ZAR. The world’s third-highest bungee jump point, at Bloukrans Bridge, is here in South Africa (it’s 216 meters/708 feet). If you’re going to go cage diving with sharks, make sure you avoid companies that chum the waters to entice the sharks as that isn’t an ethical or sustainable practice.

2. Explore KwaZulu-Natal

People flock to the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) on the east coast to relax, tan, ride the waves, eat amazing food, drink, and spot animals. KwaZulu-Natal’s game-rich Zululand and Elephant Coast in the north provide great wildlife spotting. This is also the birthplace of so many famous and powerful South Africans, including former presidents, the founder of the African National Congress, anti-apartheid leaders, and one of the most influential monarchs of the Zulu Kingdom, Shaka Zulu (1787-1828). KZN has diverse landscapes, interesting activities, and a mix of city life and rural-tribal life. One thing that’s consistent throughout the region is the level of pride in the Zulu culture.

3. Surf the waves

Dungeons Beach, near Cape Town, is a great place to spend some time if you have experience riding gigantic waves. Really — only surf here if you’re a seasoned professional, as the cold water and unpredictable waters are dangerous for new surfers. Beginners should visit Jeffreys Bay (J-Bay), about 75 kilometers (47 miles) west of Port Elizabeth, which is famous for its awesome right-hand point breaking waves. Muizenberg on False Bay is one of the best options for winter longboarding when the north-westerly wind picks up, and Durban has waves ideal for newbies and pro surfers alike. Group surfing lessons cost around 350 ZAR, including equipment.

4. Explore the Cango Caves

These caves, located in the Swartberg Mountains in the Western Cape Province, are 20 million years old and stretch for 4 kilometers (2.5 miles). You can see the exquisite stalagmite formations during the subterranean tours and learn about its history from the Interpretive Center. The standard tour costs 150 ZAR, while a more adventurous (and longer) tour is 220 ZAR, though you should only take this tour if you’re comfortable crawling through very tight spaces. Wear sensible footwear when visiting.

5. Hike Table Mountain

One of the best things in Cape Town is hiking up Table Mountain. It’s a steep, tiring climb that takes around two hours, but the views are worth it. There’s a nice little cafe and a cobblestoned area to walk around at the top so you can relax and admire the view when you’re done. Once you successfully reach the summit, you can take the cable car back down. A one-way ticket is 210 ZAR for adults or 320-390 ZAR for round-trip tickets. Be sure to dress appropriately and bring water as the weather can change quite quickly.

6. Admire the Big Tree in Tsitsikamma National Park

Estimated to be about 800 years old, this majestic Yellowwood tree is located in the Tsitsikamma National Park along South Africa’s Garden Route. This tree of epic proportions stands 36.6 meters (120 feet) high and has a trunk circumference of 9 meters (30 feet). There is a 500 meter (1,640 foot) wooden walkway through the indigenous forest leading to this tree, and from there, you can journey onto a 3-4 kilometer (1.5-2.5-mile) walk if you follow the Ratel Nature Walk signposts. Admission is 12 ZAR. While you’re here, you can also hike many of the other trails in the park, which stretches 80 kilometers (50 miles) along the coastline.

7. Sleep in Gandhi’s house

Did you know that Mahatma Gandhi spent 21 years in South Africa? While he was there, Gandhi’s close friend and German architect Hermann Kallenbach designed and built this farmhouse in 1907, which then served as Gandhi’s South African base from 1908-09. The house is called Satyagraha House and is situated in Orchards, Johannesburg. It’s the spot from which Gandhi developed his plan for passive resistance against the British Empire. It’s been beautifully restored and provides free day visits or overnight stays in one of its seven rooms (prices from 3,080 ZAR).

8. Drive the Namaqualand Flower Route

The Namaqualand Flower Route is a 650-kilometer (404-mile) drive from Yzerfontein to Richtersveld National Park. While you can drive it in one day, most people break it up into sections and take a few days to do it. This region bursts into a sea of color every spring (mainly mid-August and mid-September, peaking in August) when over 4,000 species of flowers bloom. Head north to Springbok, and then make your way down in a southerly direction so the flowers are facing you. The flowers are best viewed on non-overcast days between 10:30am-4pm, so plan your trip accordingly. The Goegap Nature Reserve provides picnic areas and overnight facilities as well. Expect to pay between 320-1,200 ZAR per night.

9. Visit the wineries

South Africa is one of the biggest wine exporters in the world, exporting over 300 million liters (80 million gallons) of wine each year. Visit the vineyards to taste some incredibly fresh wine against a serene, mountainous backdrop. Cape Town is most popular for these tours, but there are great wine regions all over the country, including the Coastal Region, Klein Karoo, Breede River Valley, Olifants River, and Cape South Coast. Jump on an 8-hour day tour that goes from winery to winery, sampling all sorts of wine while learning all about the history of winemaking in South Africa. Tours start at 950 ZAR for a half-day tour.

10. Drive the Sani Pass to the Roof of Africa

Drive the Sani Pass Mountain route in Lesotho — the only route over the Drakensberg escarpment into the mountainous Kingdom of Lesotho. Since it first opened in 1955, the Sani Pass has offered an exhilarating journey as it twists and turns upwards through rocky cliffs that peak at 2,873 meters (9,425 feet) above sea level (hence the name “the Roof of Africa”). Only 4×4 vehicles are allowed on the road, which is treacherous and has been the site of countless accidents. As an alternative to attempting the drive yourself, several tour operators offer day tours, generally costing 940 ZAR. Afterward, bask in your victory as you enjoy a drink at Sani Mountain Lodge, known for being the highest pub in Africa!

11. See the Durban Beachfront

For decades the Golden Mile beachfront in Durban has been popular with cyclists, joggers, and leisurely strollers. You can also explore the Indian District, where dealers in traditional kurtas and saris hawk incense, ornately embroidered fabrics, and aromatic spices. Other sights in the city include visiting the KwaMuhle Museum, the Durban Botanical Gardens, the Tala Game Reserve, the Inanda Heritage Trail, or seeing a Sharks rugby game. Surfing is another popular activity here thanks to the ideal oceanic conditions.

12. Tour Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy

In 1973, under apartheid, 1,500 people were forcibly removed from this area. After the elections in 1994, they were able to return and now welcome visitors to their community. The park is located in the Kalahari Desert, making for some stark — but beautiful — landscapes, with unique rock formations and translucent green fluorite mineral deposits. There are many 4×4, hiking, and mountain biking trails here, as well as plenty of hot springs. There are small guesthouses and camping plots if you’d like to stay overnight.

13. See the penguins

The African penguin is the only penguin to breed on the continent. You can see them at Boulders Beach or Stoney Point Nature Reserve at Betty’s Bay (both locations are a short drive from Cape Town). You don’t often get to see penguins outside of zoos, so it’s definitely worth the drive to see this colony of penguins living their best lives on the beach. Try to arrive before 11am to get the best view of the penguins with the fewest crowds around. Entrance fees range from 25-152 ZAR and full-day guided tours cost 780 ZAR.

14. Surf the waves at Muizenberg Beach

Known for its iconic multi-colored huts on the boardwalk, this is a laid-back neighborhood in Cape Town with a multi-cultural vibe. If you want to hit the waves, you can rent a board for as little as 250 ZAR and a wetsuit 150 ZAR for the day (also available for cheaper by the hour). If you don’t know how to surf, you can also register for SUP or surf lessons at one of the surf shops nearby. Group surf lessons are 235-310 ZAR.

15. Safari in other national parks

While Kruger gets all the love, check out Pilanesberg National Park, Addo National Park, Umfolozi National Park, and the St. Lucia Wetlands. Without the crowds of Kruger, you’ll have ample opportunity to get up close to elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and more. From Johannesburg, the Madikwe Game Reserve, Pilanesberg Game Reserve, and the Dinokeng Game Reserve are just some of the options for nearby safaris.

16. Go whale watching

South Africa is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. If you’re visiting between June and November, there’s an excellent chance of spotting Southern right whales, Bryde’s whales, and orcas. The town of Hermanus, located 120 kilometers (75 miles) southeast of Cape Town, is the base for many of the best whale-watching companies in the country. Some reputable companies include Southern Right Charters, Hermanus Whale Cruises, and Xplora Tours. Expect to pay around 900-1,020 ZAR for a two-hour tour.

  For more information on specific cities in South Africa, check out these guides:

• Cape Town Travel Guide

South Africa Travel Costs

Accommodation – A bed in a 4-8-bed hostel dorm costs 250-300 ZAR per night, and around 215-230 ZAR per night for a dorm with 10 or more beds. A private double room costs 600-935 ZAR. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast and/or have a kitchen, as well as a swimming pool.

For those traveling with a tent, campgrounds can be found all around the country. Expect to pay between 100-400 ZAR per night, depending on the facilities and location.

If you are looking for a hotel, budget hotels range from about 850-1,200 ZAR for a twin or double in big cities and get cheaper in more rural areas. Standard amenities include Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and air-conditioning. For a hotel with amenities like free breakfast and a swimming pool, expect to pay at least 900 ZAR per night.

Generally, accommodation prices are higher in Cape Town and Johannesburg and inside of any national parks. If you want to cut your prices, think about staying away from the city center, in lesser visited towns, and outside of the national parks when you’re going on a safari.

In the low season, you can find hostels and hotels for 10-20% cheaper.

Airbnb is also an option around the country, though it’s most commonly available in larger urban areas. A private room costs 300-600 ZAR per night while an entire home or apartment costs at least 700-900 ZAR.

Food – Due to its history of colonization and immigration, South African cuisine is a mix of indigenous, Dutch, British, Indian, and Malaysian culinary traditions.

Above all, South Africa is known for its meaty meals. A favorite pastime of South Africans is the braai , an open-air barbeque that originated in the townships of Johannesburg. Often served with your plate of barbeque are chakalaka , a dish of onions, tomatoes, peppers, carrots, and beans, and pap, a maize porridge.

Other popular dishes include bobotie (a baked dish of curry-spiced minced meat with egg on top) and potjiekos (a stew with meat, veggies, and potatoes). Common desserts include melktert (a custard tart) and malva pudding (like sticky toffee pudding).

Overall, restaurants in South Africa are pretty affordable. At a café, some coffee and a small meal cost 100 ZAR. At a casual restaurant serving traditional South African cuisine, expect to pay around 150 ZAR for a meal.

In terms of traditional barbeque, prices for one person vary, but are usually between 100-220 ZAR. Be sure to try biltong (thinly sliced air-dried meat), droewors (air-dried sausage), and boerewors (farmers sausage) if you’re a meat-eater.

A delicious dish that originated in the Indian community is bunny chow, a spicy curry served in a bread bowl that can also be served vegetarian. This dish is usually found at street food and takeaway spots, costing around 65-90 ZAR. At a sit-down Indian restaurant, expect to pay 90-140 ZAR for a typical curry meal.

In terms of fast food, a meal at Nando’s or another fast-food chain costs about 60-85 ZAR per person. A Chinese takeout meal costs around 75-125 ZAR.

At a nicer restaurant, a three-course meal with wine costs 280-320 ZAR per person, though you can find some main dishes for around 120 ZAR. In the same types of restaurants, a burger is 100-130 ZAR, a whole pizza is 120-160 ZAR, and a pasta dish is 90-155 ZAR.

Expect to pay around 30-35 ZAR for a beer and 50-70 ZAR for a cocktail. A glass of wine is 45-60 ZAR, while a bottle costs 120-250 ZAR. A bottle of water is 11 ZAR, soda is 20 ZAR, and a cappuccino is 25 ZAR.

The low-cost alternative to eating out is to buy groceries. A week’s worth of basic groceries for one person costs around 400-550 ZAR. This gets you basic staples like rice or pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish. If you want to keep costs low, avoid expensive items like chicken, beef, and cheese.

Backpacking South Africa Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker’s budget of 850 ZAR per day, you can stay in a hostel, cook most of your meals, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities (walking tours, enjoying nature), and use public transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of about 1,900 ZAR per day, you can stay in a private hostel or Airbnb room, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like going on a safari or taking surf lessons.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,600 ZAR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, rent a car, do more safaris and adventure sports, drink more, and do whatever else you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in ZAR.

South Africa Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It doesn’t cost a lot of money to travel around South Africa. Except for adventure sports and tours, everything is relatively cheap. But that doesn’t mean you can’t save more money! Here are some tips for saving money in South Africa:

• Pitch a tent – Most hostels have yards that they allow travelers to pitch a tent in. It costs much less and you still have the option to use the bathroom, kitchen, and other amenities.
• Work for your room and board – South Africa has plenty of farms and an active WWOOFing community. If you’re looking to stay for a while, cut your food and accommodation costs by spending some time working on a winery or farm.
• Sleep on the train – The Shosholoza Meyl train service connects Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth, East London, Komatipoort, and Musina. Prices vary depending on where you are going, but a one-way ticket from Cape Town to Johannesburg costs around 690 ZAR and takes over 24 hours.
• Rent a car – Renting your own car is the best way to get around South Africa since the buses can be quite slow. Prices vary depending on what sort of vehicle you get, but they are generally around 500 ZAR per day.
• Drink in hostels – Most hostels have a small bar where socializing after a day of sightseeing is the thing to do. Local beer and wine can be purchased cheaper here than most bars and restaurants. If you’re going to drink, this is the place to do it!
• Cook your own food – Purchase groceries at discount supermarkets like Pick n’ Pay or Checkers to prepare meals at your hostel. This will cut down your costs significantly!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally not safe outside of urban areas so bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in South Africa

Looking for a budget-friendly place to rest your head in South Africa? Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• 91 Loop (Cape Town)
• Never at Home Green point (Cape Town)
• Curiocity Backpackers (Johannesburg)
• Kruger Inn Backpackers (Kruger)
• The Kingdom Resort (Pilanesburg)
• 1322 Backpackers International (Pretoria)

How to Get Around South Africa

Public Transportation – Public transportation is available in the larger cities, though it is notoriously unreliable (and I wouldn’t recommend taking buses or vans within the cities for safety reasons). I also definitely don’t recommend taking the metro around Pretoria or Johannesburg as they’re not safe.

If you must use public transportation, I only recommend MyCiTi buses in Cape Town, which costs 7-13 ZAR for up to 20 kilometers (12 miles), and the People Mover in Durban (6 ZAR per ride, or 16.50 ZAR for a day pass).

Taxi – Instead of buses, minibusses, or shared taxis, I suggest calling for a private taxi. Rates are generally low and vary between cities. In Cape Town, rates average 12 ZAR per kilometer, often with a minimum charge of 30 ZAR.

Ridesharing – Even safer than taxis is Uber, which is available in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, and Port Elizabeth. This is how I recommend getting around if you’ll have phone service while you’re there.

Bus – Buses are generally the most reliable public transportation between cities, with trips costing anywhere from 250-700 ZAR. The most popular operators are:

• City to City

Since Greyhound pulled out of South Africa in 2021, Intercape is now the main bus provider, with an extensive reach throughout the country. For longer distances, you can choose a more comfortable reclining seat on their overnight Sleepliner bus.

City to City offers a less expensive, no-frills service that goes to many off-the-beaten-track places, including townships and mining towns.

In terms of prices for main routes, the 18-hour bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg costs around 380-600 ZAR, while the 8.5-hour bus from Durban to Pretoria is 225 ZAR.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – Train rides are less common but more comfortable and safer than buses. Shosholoza Meyl (South African Railways) has long-distance trains that serve Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Bloemfontein, Durban, East London, Johannesburg, Queenstown, and East London. They’re comfortable and safe, making various stops at smaller towns along the way. Both tourist and economy classes are affordable options.

The overnight journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town costs around 750 ZAR and is a gorgeous ride with a dining car, showers, and accommodation in a two- or four-berth compartment (if available, couples are given coupes and single travelers and groups are put in compartments). If you are traveling alone and you want a coupe to yourself, you’ll need to buy two tickets.

The economy class is fine for shorter daytime trips; however, it doesn’t have sleeping carriages and is not a comfortable or safe option for overnight travel.

Tourist-class sleepers can get fully booked a month or so ahead, especially on popular routes, so plan ahead.

For those who are interested in luxury, the famous Blue Train , which runs from Pretoria to Cape Town, costs 38,000 ZAR for a luxury double berth. The trip lasts a few days and includes wine, cigars, great food, and comfortable compartments. It’s the fanciest way to see the country!

Flying – Depending on the route, domestic fares are generally affordable. It costs 750 ZAR from Cape Town to Johannesburg, 1,000 ZAR from Cape Town to Durban, or 600 ZAR from Pretoria to Durban. The main budget airlines are Kulula and FlySafair.

Car Rental – If you plan on exploring a lot, a small car can be rented for 500 ZAR per day. Check with your hostel to see if they recommend a certain company to book from. Otherwise, Around About Cars, Avis, Budget, Hertz, and other car rental companies exist in South Africa. Make sure you get insurance and keep all the paperwork as accidents are not uncommon.

You can use your driving license from your home country, provided it is in English (or you have a certified translation). However, if you get stopped by the police, they usually ask to see your passport too so keep at least a photocopy in your car.

When to Go to South Africa

The best time to visit South Africa’s parks is from May to September. This is the dry season and wildlife is easier to spot because there’s less vegetation around waterholes, so you can see the animals as they gather to quench their thirst. As this is winter, mornings and nights are chilly.

May and September are wonderful times to visit because it is less cold and, especially in September, the wildlife viewing is excellent. Most days are sunny, there is little to no rain, and there are very few mosquitos.

The winters are mild and produce average highs of approximately 17°C (63°F). This is the low season, so the parks are not crowded (save for Kruger during school holidays).

The wet season (summer) runs from October to April. This is after the first rain, so the scenery turns green and the country looks lush and fresh. This is the best time for bird watching because most of the migratory birds are around. When it does rain, it doesn’t rain for long so you can usually wait it out. Seeing animals is harder since there are more lush landscapes and more places for the animals to be hidden or blocked by trees and bushes.

Parts of South Africa see summer highs get up to 28°C (81°F), with averages closer to 25°C (77°F). Prepare for much larger crowds in the national parks when there are school holidays.

Generally speaking, temperatures are more consistent throughout the year at the coast, while the arid/mountainous areas of the interior see the greatest fluctuation in seasonal temperatures. Even in the Kalahari Desert, nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. It’s a good idea to pack for all occasions, as often people joke about how you can experience all four seasons in one day in South Africa.

How to Stay Safe in South Africa

South Africa requires extra vigilance because there’s a lot of petty crime here. While you’re unlikely to ever be in any real physical danger, petty crime and harassment are rampant. Avoid carrying expensive gear and lots of money, especially late at night. Always keep your valuables secure and never dress flashy. Do your best to fit in at all times so you don’t stand out as a target.

Don’t walk around alone late at night. If you have a rental car, keep your doors locked at all times to prevent theft and carjacking. Never leave anything in your vehicle overnight as break-ins can occur.

Solo female travelers will want to be cautious here. Avoid traveling alone when you can and don’t travel alone at night. Always keep an eye on your drink when out at the bar and be extra careful in crowded areas as sexual harassment isn’t uncommon.

Crime rates are higher in the townships (settlements established during apartheid for forced racial segregation), but that doesn’t mean avoid them altogether. Just visit during daylight hours, especially with a local guide.

Be extra careful in Johannesburg, where crime rates are the highest in the country (although again, it’s mostly petty crime). If you’re driving, pay attention to what’s happening behind your car as well as in the front. If someone exits a car and starts approaching you, move on quickly.

If you’re going to visit Hillbrow, Berea, Joubert Park and Yeoville make sure you do it with a local as these are riskier neighborhoods to explore on your own.

If you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 10 111 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct and make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in South Africa, check out this post we wrote that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

South Africa Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

South Africa Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling South Africa and continue planning your trip:

How to Save Money When You Visit Cape Town

The 5 Best Hostels in Cape Town

The 12 Best Things to Do in South Africa

Cape Town Itinerary: What to See and Do in 4 (or More) Days

Six of the Greatest Safaris in Africa

24 Photos from My Safari to Kruger National Park

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• Best Safari In South Africa: Adrenaline Pumping Experiences In The World’s Wildest Corner

06 Dec 2021

From intoxicating game drives, fierce wild beasts roaming free and untamed, to the most unique landforms to soothe the eyes, nothing beats the thrill of an African safari. Set out on a safari in South Africa that takes you on an unparalleled journey through the most mysterious and lethal jungles of the world. Whether you chase the Big Five in speedy jeeps, track wild animals through thick jungles on foot, ride majestic elephants, or tame the skies with a hot air balloon ride over herds of fearless fauna, you’ll encounter such joy of watching the wild in their natural habitat as never before! Scroll down and see where all you can go to enjoy the best safari in South Africa .

Wildlife Safaris In South Africa of The Big 5

Experience the thrill of tracking Africa’s  Big Five – the buffalo , elephant , rhino , lion , and leopard . Most national parks in South Africa offer opportunities for game drives wherein they allow one to get the closest possible encounter with Africa’s Big Five.

15. Addo Elephant National Park

Home to Sylvester , Addo’s celebrity lion, and an enormous herd of mighty elephants that can be easily spotted congregating near the Hapoor Dam of the park. Your safari will also take you on a game hunt in search of their elusive leopard. Other than these, rhinos and buffaloes can easily be seen in the open. The park has strict measures for monitoring behaviour patterns of the Big 5 so that it can ensure you’re able to spot all on your tour, which is why it is the among best safari in South Africa. The park also offers Marine Eco Tour for spotting whales and sharks. So you get to see all the giants of the Earth in one tour.

Location: R335 Paterson Road, Addo, 6105, South Africa South African safari cost: INR 1,200/- per person TripAdvisor Reviews

Must Read: South Africa In December: Explore The Best Of This Safari Paradise In Winter 2022!

14. Kruger National Park

Spot the Big 5 in their natural habitat at one of the renowned Kruger National Park safari in Africa. Revel in the chance to encounter an abundance of wildlife, which means you are more likely to spot lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffaloes, than in other parks around the world. So keep your fingers crossed to get lucky and spot some of them on your safari. Indulge in the immersive Wilderness Trails to get up close and personal with the park’s amazing beasts. Kruger National Park offers everything from Early Morning Guided Trails, Night Safaris, camping facilities. Night Safari is a hot favorite of all wilderness lovers who visit Kruger. In a night safari, experienced guides drive you deep into the South Africa jungles to let you sneak up on its most nocturnal animals. Get the best of South African safaris in Kruger National Park.

Location: Malalan Gate, Nelspruit 1350, South Africa South Africa Safari Cost: INR 1,500/- per person TripAdvisor Reviews

Suggested Read: Honeymoon In Africa: Top 11 Romantic Getaways For The Best And Unique Experiences!

13. Marakele National Park

Marakele is a delightful sanctuary housing an impressive variety of wildlife. Nestled in the heart of Waterberg Mountains, the park is a must visit for all who wish to spot the Big 5 of Africa. In fact, this park is an ideal getaway from those visiting the charming cities of Johannesburg and Pretoria located close by. While here, you’ll be able to spot the Tuli elephants brought into the park in 1999, other than indulging in exciting game drives in open safari vehicles across the park, or engaging in bush walks with professionally trained field guides. Strictly follow the instructions of the filed guide.

Location: Nylstroom, Limpopo, South Africa Admission Cost: INR 850/- per person TripAdvisor Reviews

Suggested Read: 10 Things To Do In Johannesburg That Bring Out Its Vibrant Charm

Camping Safaris: Night Safaris & Jungle Stay

Go one step further than witnessing the wild creatures of Africa – stay amidst the beasts in their natural habitat. Many parks in South Africa provide incredible night safari and overnight camping experiences to its visitors so that they can plunge into the ultimate thrill of being one with nature.

12. Camdeboo National Park

Other than a diverse wildlife, the Camdeboo Park offers unique landscapes, ecosystem, and tremendous scenic beauty. With surreal rock formations jutting out of the ground, the Karoo of South Africa features some of the greatest natural wonders formed millions of years ago. When here, tourists can indulge in night safaris and camping with a bonfire for an invigorating experience. The joy of camping in the fierce South Africa jungles is unmatched and a must for all adventure lovers. The best accommodation here is the Lakeview Tented Camp, which are four rustic and fully furnished tents designed to provide a relaxed nature experience to visitors. The double sharing tents have a braai unit, fridge, table, chairs, a communal kitchen with microwave, apart from comfortable bedding and towels. They have some of the best safari lodges in South Africa.

Location: N9, Graaff-Reinet, 6280, South Africa South African Safari Cost: INR 480/- per person Accommodation Cost at Lakeview: INR 1,600/- per person on double sharing TripAdvisor Reviews

Suggested Read: Safari Honeymoon In South Africa Is About Kindling Love In The Wilderness! Are You Game?

11. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Want to spot some enormous black-mane lions, swift leopards, and sneaky raptors? Then Kgalagadi is one of the best South African safari parks to be at! Sprawling with red dunes, and rare animal species like gemsbok, springbok, eland and blue wildebeest lurking around in herds, the park is a fascinating haven for wildlife and nature lovers. Other than spotting wild beasts and witnessing the marvels of nature, one can also indulge in overnight safari tour and camping while here. The Kalahari Tented Camp at Kgalagadi is perfect for night camping and for immersing in the best of what nature has to offer here at Africa. Situated high up on a red sand dune, the tents overlook a waterhole in the dry bed of the ancient Auob River. This exclusive campsite boasts 15 desert tents tastefully decorated tents with rustic finishing, offering guests complete seclusion and the best of luxury safari in South Africa.

Suggested Read: 19 Best Places To Visit In Morocco In 2022

Location: Mata Mata, Upington, South Africa South Africa Safari Cost: INR 1,400/- per person Accommodation Cost at Kalahari: 4,000/- per person on double sharing TripAdvisor Reviews

Elephant Safaris: Get close to the majestic beings

Are you too in awe of these solemn species? Then South Africa is the perfect place for you to be for a close encounter with these gentle giants.

10. Adventures With Elephants, Limpopo

A one-of-its non-profit initiative by some dedicated individuals of the Hensman family, AWE provides more than the usual ‘Touch and Feed’ elephant experience. It offers unrivalled intimate hands-on educational elephant interactions, Elephant Back Safaris, swims with elephants, and starlight safaris, the prime reason it’s renowned as one of the best safari in South Africa. Their passionate and experienced elephant handlers will let you bank on some wonderful encounters with these magnificent beings, apart from imparting in-depth knowledge about them. Lying adjacent to the Zebula Country Club, the 300-hectare facility is an hour’s drive from Pretoria and is located 35 km away from Bela Bela.

Location: R101, adjacent to Zebula Country Club, Bela Bela, Waterberg, Limpopo Timings: 7 AM to 5 PM on all days of the week Website | TripAdvisor Reviews

Suggested Read: 10 Enchanting Honeymoon Destinations In South Africa

9. Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve

At Inkwenkwezi, you can not only spot a number of wild animals like antelopes, giraffes, zebras, and other predators, but also get a chance to interact with elephants, one of the world’s most amazing animals. Elephant safaris here are more of hands-on learning experiences which includes lots of one-on-one interactions with these graceful beings, something that’s utterly enjoyable for both kids and elders alike. Cuddle and play with baby elephants, and ride the bigger ones while spending time at this sanctuary. Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve lets you to get closer to these adorable giants and know them better.

Location: Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve, Schafli Road, Cintsa, Wild Coast, Eastern Cape Safari Cost: INR 3,600/- per person TripAdvisor Reviews

Walking Safaris: Take a stroll in the Africa jungles

Explore the wondrous terrains and the fabulous diversity of wildlife in South Africa on foot! Take relaxing walks in its many national parks with professionals by your side. Walking safaris are the best way to soak in the natural goodness of Africa and spot predator tracks, insects, birds, and animals.

8. Sabi Sands Reserve

Located north-west of the Kruger National park, this enormous 65,000-hectare game reserve is home to some of Africa’s best flora and fauna, which is why it is among the most excellent places to visit in South Africa for a wildlife safari. Many lodges here daily offer travelers optional walking safaris along with bush dinners and bush breakfasts, provided the weather is suitable for the same. Leopards are the main attraction here and are so accustomed to safari jeeps and cars that they pay no heed if these vehicles follow them around. And thus, you stand a better chance to not just spot a few of them, but also to closely watch their actions.

Location: Mpumalanga, South Africa Safari Cost: INR 1,200/- per person TripAdvisor Reviews

Suggested Read: 10 Unique Places To Visit In Namibia In 2022: Home Of Hilly Dunes & Ferocious Cheetahs

7. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Discover the essence of Sanbona on a delightful walking safari with the guidance of your experienced rangers by your side Apart from afternoon and evening walks (depending on which animal is where), the park also conducts early morning walking trails where tourists can greet animals grazing peacefully or playing with their offsprings. Another reason why Sanbona is listed among the best safari in South Africa is because it’s the first private game reserve in the Western Cape to play host to free-roaming big cats like lions and cheetahs. Sanbona has initiated a unique conservation programme to save and reintroduce White Lions in the park, a rare species that was thought to have been wiped out from jungle of South Africa. The reserve is also suited for nature lovers with its undulating mountains, lush plains, gorgeous flora, rock formations, and even rock art!

Location: R62, Between Montagu & Barrydale, Montagu 6720, South Africa Safari Cost: INR 1,500/- per person TripAdvisor Reviews

Suggested Read: Head To Masai Mara National Park For An Ultimate Encounter With Africa’s Best

Bird Watching Safaris: Spot the winged visitors

6. mapungubwe national park.

Mapungubwe is home to over 400 species in a relatively small area, with a remarkable mix of woodland, grassland, and water species. Since it’s among the undiscovered South African safari parks, you’re sure to enjoy a completely secluded safari tour and spot more birds than anywhere else due to minimum human presence. Some of the birds you can spot in this craggy landscape include – Meve’s (Longtailed) Starling, Tropical Boubou, Pel’s Fishing Owl, Verreaux’s (Black) Eagle, Cuckoo Birds, Southern Pied Babbler, Crimson-breasted Shrike, Black-faced Waxbill, Black Eagles, Cinnamon-breasted (Rock) Bunting, Black-backed Puffback, White-crested Helmetshrike, White-fronted Bee-eater breeds, African Fish Eagle, and many more! Look close and be patient, bird watching is an art!

Location: Musina, 900, South Africa Safari Cost: INR 850/- per person TripAdvisor Reviews

5. West Coast National Park

This safari ensures some of the most picturesque sites on the way. Bordering the Langebaan Lagoon which attracts an enormous influx of wetland migratory birds every year, the West Coast National Park is an invigorating bliss to the bird lovers and bird photographers of the world. Summer is the best time to visit the lagoon, as most birds have just arrived, fatigued, from their transcontinental travel. While here, one can spot birds like – Osprey, Knot, Sanderling, Curlew Sandpiper, Ringed and Grey Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit, Southern Black Korhaan, Cape Spurfowl and Grey-winged Francolin, Southern Grey, Cape Penduline Tit, Ant-eating Chat, White-throated and Yellow Canary, Karoo Lark, Chestnut-vented Tit-babbler, Bokmakierie and Cape Bunting, and more.

Location: West Coast DC, South Africa Safari Cost: INR 725/- per person in flower season, and INR 362/- per person in non-flower season TripAdvisor Reviews

Suggested Read: 12 Handpicked Resorts In South Africa

Canoeing Safaris: Paddle away over scenic streams

Wade in the marshy waters of South Africa and encounter big game in the form of elephants, hippos and crocodiles. A series of set-date canoe safari options are available to tourists on the upper and lower Zambezi, also the Selinda Spillway in northern Botswana. The best part about canoe safaris is that they don’t disturb disturb buffalos, kudus, elands, and predators like lions and other large mammals as they gather near the shorelines. Other than animals, you can also spot a large variety of bird life through canoe tours.

4. Tamarind Canoe Safari

The Tamarind Canoe Safari is among the most popular South Africa tours and safaris that operates in lower Zambezi. The tour starts from the silent, deep gorges of the Kariba and takes visitors all the way down to the renowned World Heritage Site Mana Pools through the sublime Victoria Falls. The Tamarind Canoe Safari is one of the best ways to experience big game and real African wilderness. A safari through this water route lines with dense forests, gives you an opportunity to witness an altogether different side of the African wildlife.

Location: Kariba Gorge, Zambezi River, Zambia and Zimbabwe border, South Africa Packages starting from: INR 55,200 per person

Suggested Read: 3 Days In Maldives: This Picture-Perfect Honeymoon Escapade Will Make You Jealous!

3. Selinda Adventure Trail

For an unmatched adventurous canoe safari, one must try the Selinda Trail with its unique canoeing and walking combination. Indulge in exhilarating activities, starting with a thrilling helicopter flight to the starting point of the tour, then walk or paddle away on the serene and scenic river for up to 20 km, carefully monitoring the flow of the water. This exclusive guided canoe tour is an outstanding addition to safari in South Africa since the waterway’s creation recently in 2009 due to shifting of tectonic plates. Selinda canoe safari also provides opportunities for camping, birdwatching, and stargazing!

Location: Selinda Reserve, Botswana Packages starting from: INR 1,00,000/- per person Website | TripAdvisor Reviews

Hot-Air Balloon Safaris: For the aerial views of the wildlife

Fancy a balloon safari tour in South Africa? A hot air balloon ride in South Africa lets you gaze at expansive views of large volcanic landforms, rare rock formations, unique geological features, herds of wildlife, of the Game Reserves in South Africa, while you glide peacefully in your comfortable magic carpet!

2. Pilanesberg National Park

Pilanesberg figures prominently in the list of the most family-friendly South Africa safari holidays. The park is an easy 2 hours drive from Johannesburg and offers an unbearably tranquil experience of soaring in the skies to travelers. The elevated views will grant you mesmerising views of the Pilanesberg Alkaline Ring Complex (unique geological feature born from volcanic activity), and a brilliant perspective of herds of antelopes, buffaloes, and elephants. The Pilanesberg Hot Air Balloon Safari also includes welcome drinks of wine, full English breakfast, first flight certificate, and a transfer to your hotel.

Location: Bojanala, North West, South Africa Packages starting from: INR 1,00,000/- per person Duration of flight: 1 Hour (customisable) TripAdvisor Reviews

Suggested Read: 10 Best Things To Do In Africa For The Traveler Who Wants It All

1. Kafue National Park

On popular demand, hot air ballooning has now kicked off in Kafue National Park as well. The skies of Busanga Plains of Zambia are now covered in colourful balloons during daytime, which is a treat to watch! It is now one of the most exclusive hot air ballooning destinations in Africa, offering complete seclusion and mind blowing bird’s-eye scenic views to travelers of the park and its wild inhabitants. Post the ride, a delicious champagne breakfast is served to guests at the park’s vast grasslands. The park is also known for its guided walking safaris and game drives, all of which make an excellent place for safari in South Africa.

Location: D769, Zambia Duration of flight: 1 Hour (customisable) TripAdvisor Reviews

Further Read: Honeymoon In Africa: Top 11 Romantic Getaways For The Best And Unique Experiences!

Excited already? Plan your trip to South Africa right away and indulge in thrilling safaris in South Africa to experience its wild side. Know of any more of the best safari in South Africa? Let us know in the comments below!

Ever wondered why South Africa is considered as the best place for a safari experience? Watch our South Africa travel video to find out!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safari In South Africa

What is the best time to visit South Africa for safari?

The best time to visit for safari in South Africa is from May to September when the weather is just right for all kinds of safari and wildlife spotting.

How much does it cost to go on safari in South Africa?

South Africa safari prices vary from park to park and depend on what kind of safari you pick at that particular park – day, night, camping, walking, etc. The ideal price for South Africa safari tours packages starts from INR 18,500/- per person.

What animals do you see on a safari?

It would have been easier to mention what animals you do not see on a South African safari, as the list would have been extremely short! The best safari here will let you spot animals like lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, buffalo, hippopotamus, cheetah, wildebeest, gorilla, giraffe, zebra, crocodile, hyenas, and more. One can also spot numerous varieties of birds like the ostrich, vultures, bustard, eagles, broadbill, sunbird, and more.

Recent Posts

14 पांडिचेरी में साहसिक खेल जो 2024 के मनोरंजन के लिए बिल्कुल उपयुक्त हैं!

16 Meilleures activités aventureuses à Singapour pour vous faire crier de plaisir en 2024

2024 में रोमांच चाहने वालों के लिए 10 दार्जिलिंग में एडवेंचर स्पोर्ट्स

14 Spectaculaires attractions touristiques de la Suisse qui méritent une visite en 2024!

8 Facts About Kruger National Park: A Haven For Wildlife Enthusiasts

Parachutisme en Inde: 9 meilleurs endroits pour explorer le ciel en 2024

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2024 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• International
• South Africa »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Maldives Tour Packages
• Bali Tour Packages
• Dubai Tour Packages
• Singapore Tour Packages
• Thailand Tour Packages
• Europe Tour Packages
• Sri Lanka Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Thailand Tourism
• Bali Tourism
• Singapore Tourism
• Maldives Tourism
• Mauritius Tourism
• Dubai Tourism
• Europe Tourism
• Hotels in Thailand
• Hotels in Maldives
• Hotels in Mauritius
• Hotels in Bali
• Hotels in Dubai
• Hotels in Singapore
• Hotels in Sri Lanka

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.

Flights To South Africa

Search, track and book flights to South Africa, from anywhere in the world.

South Africa Accommodation

Find safari accommodation in South Africa – from budget campsites to luxury lodges.

South Africa Car Hire

Considering a self-drive safari? Research and book car hire in South Africa .

Activities in South Africa

Search and book things to do in South Africa – tours, excursions and activities.

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.

All national parks in South Africa

Use the map to locate all national parks in South Africa. Click the icons for more info.

Get Directions

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.

Other South Africa safari resources

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 .

Read safari guides to all countries

Botswana safaris , Namibia safaris , Rwanda safaris , South Africa safaris , Tanzania safaris , Uganda safaris , Zimbabwe safaris

Do you have any experience of planning or going on safari in South Africa?

We’d love to hear any feedback or tips you may have – please get in touch , or add to the comments below.

Top countries for safaris

• Botswana safaris
• Kenya safaris
• Namibia safaris
• South Africa safaris
• Tanzania safaris
• Uganda safaris

Safari basics

• Safari animals
• How to find the right safari company
• When to go on safari
• What to take on safari
• Safari clothing – what to wear
• Safari rules & etiquette
• Wildlife spotting tips

Most read articles

• All about the ‘big five’ animals
• Collective nouns for animals
• Safari movies to watch before you go
• The world’s fastest land animals
• Apex predators
• 10 Fascinating African tribes
• The biggest animals in the world
• 17 Epic hybrid animals
• The world’s ugliest animals
• Why are flamingos pink?

Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
• Etosha National Park, Namibia
• Kruger National Park, South Africa
• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
• Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
• Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

Self-Drive Safari in Kruger National Park, South Africa (Detailed Guide)

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

Home » Self-Drive Safari in Kruger National Park, South Africa (Detailed Guide)

If you’re looking for somewhere to completely indulge in the wildlife, look no further! The Kruger National Park in South Africa is one of our all-time favorite adventure spots. And it’s hard to imagine why it wouldn’t be.

With almost 8000 square miles of spectacular landscapes, you’ll have the opportunity of spotting the infamous big-5, cheetahs, wild dogs, giraffes, and over 500 bird species.

And the best way to see it all? It has to be driving through the park. There are plenty of safaris that run through the Kruger, but what enough of us don’t consider is taking our own cars.

Taking a self-drive can be leisurely, affordable and done at your own pace. Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with safari’s, we’ll share all of our secrets to a successful self-drive through Africa’s favorite game park.

Tip: Check out our ultimate guide to Travelling South Africa with Kids .

Self-Drive Safari in the Kruger National Park, South Africa

Self-drive safaris are an awesome way to explore the park if you’re looking for something to suit your own interests. It gives you the freedom to take as long as you please and enjoy some quality family time.

Self-drives offer flexibility to explore whatever region of the park you’re interested in. Some regions are known for their large rhino population, while another could be ideal for spotting wild-dogs. Depending on what animals you’re looking to spot, taking your own car makes it possible to see it all.

It’s easy to find your way around the park; the tracks are all extremely visible and the Kruger is generally a busy place. It’s made simple with guided routes and maps that are readily available at all the park entrances.

What’s also a great idea is carpooling through the park. If you’re with a big group of people, rent some walkie-talkies to make spotting the animals easier. Be sure to check the wildlife spot boards before you enter the park (and the rest camps) to see where the wildlife was last spotted during the day.

Kruger National Park Cost

What’s great about the Kruger is that your budget doesn’t stop you from experiencing the wild. Of course, Safaris can be incredibly expensive, with luxury lodges, game drives, and fine dining. But for the majority of us, something a little more budget-friendly sounds perfect.

Opting for a self-drive safari is a great way to bring down the costs, and probably allow more freedom to spend the cash on accommodation or some of your other travel expenses. So what are the costs involved for visiting the Kruger National Park?

Kruger National Park Entrance Fees

If you’re not staying at some of the park’s lodges, you’ll be paying a daily conservation fee. The entrance fee grants you access for 1 day and is priced in South African Rands.

The park has 10 different entrances that you’re able to pay the entrance fee. The Kruger National Park prices vary each year, these are the fees for 2020.

South African Citizens (with a Valid SA Passport)

Here are the South African Citizen’s entrance fees:

• $7 USD / R100 per adult
• $3,50 USD / R50 per child

Standard Conservation Fee

Here are the standard fees for overseas travelers:

• $28 USD / R400 per adult
• $14 USD / R200 per child

Gate Opening and Closing Times:

• Nov-Jan:         05:30 – 18:30
• Feb:                 05:30 – 18:30
• Mar & Oct:      05:30 – 18:00
• Apr:                 06:00 – 17:30
• May-Jul:          06:00 – 17:30
• Aug-Sept:        06:00 – 18:00

There’s considered to be 4 main activity times in the park; early morning, day-time, late afternoon and night-time. Most of the action happens early in the morning and late at night, which is when the animals start feeding.

To maximize your experience, you’ll need to get an early start, and then try to end as late as possible.

Kruger National Park Bookings

Although it’s possible to pay for your entrance once you’ve arrived at the park, it’s best to pre-book this kind of stuff. Booking online is simple and you’ll receive a 5% discount for your accommodation and camping.

The park only gives out a limited number of passes a day, and the park is usually busy no matter what the season. So put this at the top of your checklist and then there’s no need to worry about missing out.

Kruger National Park Lodges Prices

If you’re opting for a self-drive, be aware that driving takes up a lot of your time. It’s best to consider spending the night at the park; whether it’s camping or staying at a lodge. Trust us, there’s a lot to see in the park and you’re not always guaranteed to spot the animals you came to see.

To avoid disappointment, try booking your accommodation at the park. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and definitely worth the money. Prices range anywhere from USD $100 to well over USD $1000 per person per night.

Check out the current prices for family-friendly Kruger Park lodges here !

Visiting Kruger National Park

Kruger Park can get super busy, especially during the school holidays. The best times to visit the park are the dry season, from May to September. It’s South Africa’s winter and the park doesn’t get much rain during winter.

Eventually, the veld starts to thin out and the waterholes begin to dry out. The thin grass makes it easier to spot the animals, and the low water supply means the animals congregate at waterholes. Waterholes are the perfect spots to park the cars and watch the animals rehydrate.

High seasons are in December through to January, and June to August. We’d probably recommend not going during those seasons if you’re self-driving through the park. The trails can get really busy and you’ll often have to wait in long lines in your car (and trust us, that’s not always fun to do in the African sun).

October to April is when things start getting greener, with beautiful and lush scenery. Animal spotting isn’t that great though, but what is great is that it’s baby season for the animals! You might get lucky and spot some baby ellies or lion cubs.

How to Get to Kruger National Park

So where is Kruger National Park located? It’s one of the biggest game reserves in the world, which spans the Northern provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga.

Look North and South of the park and you’ll find 2 incredible rivers, the Limpopo River and Crocodile River. Rivers are worth taking a drive to because of the thriving wildlife found here which you don’t see inland.

Getting to the park is simple, whether you’re flying or driving…

Flying:  

If you’re in Cape Town, Durban or Johannesburg you’ll be able to catch a flight directly to the park. These are private scheduled flights and you’ll need to book in advance if flying is easier for you.

If you’re not flying, take the scenic route and have a road trip. Because you’re doing a self-drive, renting a car from a city and driving makes more sense.

If you’re arriving at an airport and heading straight to the park, you’ll find numerous car rental services. Be sure to rent a 4×4 to get a higher vantage point.

Here’s a guide to reaching the park’s main entrances , as well as how long the journey takes.

Driving from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park

Johannesburg is the closest big city to the park and also a great city to tour before the Kruger. The drive from Joburg is about 260 miles to reach the Southern Gate and it’ll probably take you about 4-6 hours.

Check out the current prices for car rental in Johannesburg City Centre here . Make sure to get a quote for the car with a GPS navigation system and (if traveling with little one) with a  right size travel car seat .

Leaving the city you’ll head on the main road towards Nelspruit. Along the way, there are gas stations, shops, and restaurants to keep the journey easy.

Be sure to fill up your car at the petrol stations along the way. If you’ve got some spare time stopover in Nelspruit, there are a few good adventure experiences, like cave exploring and abseiling.

From Nelspruit, you’ll drive on to White River, and while there isn’t much there, there are some spectacular viewpoints on the hills. You’re now about a 40-minute drive towards reaching one the Kruger’s entrance gate.

Final Tips and Tricks for Your Self-Drive Kruger National Park Safari

Self-driving should be experienced by us all at least once in our lives, and know you know how easy it can be. Here are some final things to remember so that you’ll have the best time possible in the park.

1. Have a Good Plan

Plan your visit around the action hours, when the animals begin to wake up and then towards the evening when the animals start getting hungry again.

2. Always Stay in the Car

Unless you’ve reached a ‘get-out’ spot, it’s important to stay in the vehicle. These ‘get-out’ spots are considered safe areas that can be used for picnics, getting some fresh air and admiring the bush’s beauty.

If you’re interested in experiencing the wildlife outside your car, consider going on a walking tour.

Click here to book your walking tour in Kruger Park to see the wildlife on foot.

3. Bring the supplies along

It’s going to be a long day in the car, and you’ll want to be prepared. Here are some of the essentials you can’t be forgetting:

• Bug spray (for the summer season)
• Self-drive routes and maps
• Warm jackets from the evenings
• Snacks for the car
• Other travel accessories
• Buy a map at the souvenir shop before entering the park

Summary for Your Self-Drive Safari

You’re convinced already, right?  The game drives are so much better than going to zoos. The experience of being able to witness animals in their natural habitat and doing their daily business can’t be compared to anything else.

It’s so good for the soul and you’ll learn so much about the wild. Share your self-drive safari travel stories with us, we can’t wait to hear about it!

Further Reading:

If you are interested in other self-drives in South Africa than you will want to check out the Garden Route and the Panorama Route for sure.

Andrzej Ejmont

1 thought on “self-drive safari in kruger national park, south africa (detailed guide)”.

Any special tips for kruger with kids please? Accomodation wise and safari-wise? My boy is 3 years old.

Comments are closed.

2024 - Wanderlust Storytellers. All Rights Reserved.

About Us  |  Contact Us  | Work with Us  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer

* Disclaimer: Wanderluststorytellers.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and other Amazon sites.

How to go on an African safari on any budget

Depending on what you’re looking for, safari can easily become the most expensive part of your trip to South Africa. So how much exactly does a South Africa safari cost? Well, it depends on a number of factors. The options and considerations for choosing an African safari are many: duration, group size, time of day, the guide, and the liklihood of seeing animals.

You don’t have to spend a fortune to go on a South African safari, but you should also be aware of what you get when you’re willing to hand out the cash. Here are three different ways to do safari in South Africa, including the pros and cons to help you pick which way works best for you – and for your budget.

How to choose a safari

TIP – In South Africa, safari is referred to as “game drive”.

Self-drive ($)

Cost: Entry to the park (R272 for Addo, R372 for Kruger) + cost of the rental car

Self-drive safari essentially means that you take your own car and drive along paved or dirt paths in the park. When you enter a park, you’ll get a map and you can drive around to different areas of the park to try and find animals. In our experience, we have had pretty good luck on self-drive safari for seeing animals – both driving around Addo Elephant Park and driving into Kruger National Park en route to our private safari lodge.

TIP – You can also do a ride along self-drive where you essentially rent a park ranger to drive along with you.

Reasons you should do a self-drive safari in South Africa

Self-drive safari can be a great option when you’re on a tight budget. You only need to pay the conservation fee and can drive around for the entire day if you want to.

Take as long as you want at a sighting. If you find an animal or herd of animals you want to stay and watch, you can stay as long as you want to. Sometimes in a group there may be people who want to move on before you’ve landed the photo you wanted, so a self-drive gives you the freedom to go at your own page.

You can drive as long as you want to. Most guided safaris last between 2-4 hours, and you’ll quickly learn when you’re out in the bush that there’s no such thing as a too-long safari. It takes time to spot animals, and you can drive around for a while without seeing anything. So being able to stay as long as you’d like is great.

Air conditioning in the car. If you’re trying to keep out of the hot sun, it can be really nice that you can do safari in air conditioning!

TIP – Be sure to bring water and snacks with you when you self-drive, as there are not many facilities inside the park and you want to be sure you can cover enough ground without going hungry or thirsty.

Have you ever wondered what to wear on safari? You're not alone. Here are the 15 most important things to put on your safari packing list so you can enjoy yourself the most and be super prepared!

Downsides of doing a self-drive safari in South Africa

That said, there is a reason why guided safaris are offered, and it’s mostly got to do with the fact that self-drive has some limitations and that people like you and me aren’t exactly wildlife experts so we don’t get the full potential out of a self-led experience.

You’re limited to the park’s public hours. If you’re staying outside the park you can only stay in the park during the permitted hours. Depending on the season, that might mean that you miss sunrise and sunset, which are some of the best hours for viewing animals – both in terms of photos but also in terms of animal activity. It is possible to stay inside the grounds, but then your costs can really increase for the trip.

You’ll miss the smaller animals. One thing I love about guided safari is that you get a chance to learn about smaller animals! Not only the Big Five are worth learning about, and the South African national parks have many interesting creatures big and small.

No chance to learn about the animals you’re seeing. That said, as a whole it can be hard to identify animals that you’re seeing without a guide. A few are obvious, but it’s always interesting to learn more about what you’re observing.

You aren’t trained to spot animals, and will likely miss some. There’s a reason why private game drives usually have both a guide and a tracker. Some people’s entire jobs is to track and spot animals which are otherwise invisible to people like you and me.

Which animals you do see is mostly left to chance. When you think about it, the parks are huge and there is only a limited space which is even visible from the road. On private reserves, rangers can share sightings with each other.

It can get very crowded with many self-drivers at popular sightnings. We did not self-drive in Kruger, but there are plenty of stories of waiting in queues for 30+ minutes for an exciting sighting, e.g. a lion or leopard.

As opposed to self-drive, private reserves limit how many cars can join a sighting at once. This means the animals are less disturbed and you get to enjoy seeing the animal in peace!

For more information on what it’s like to do a self-drive safari, check out this post on doing a self-drive safari in Kruger National Park and what pros and cons exist specifically for that park!

Public guided game drive ($$)

Cost: 25-37 EUR per person

The national parks like Kruger and Addo also offer group game drives you can join, which are guided by one of their park rangers. This is a good middle ground between self-drive and doing a private safari for a few reasons: it’s not too expensive, it’s educational, and the park ranger is probably better at spotting animals than you are.

Why you should join a public guided game drive

Interesting commentary by your guide. I’m pretty sure these guides are used to being entertainers. We really enjoyed our guide at Addo Elephant Park, who delivered information with a sense of humor and also helped you learn a lot.

Stay at the park earlier/later than self-drivers. Parks will often offer sunrise, sunset, or night time safari rides, which are sometimes at times that regular self-drivers are not permitted to drive in the park. For instance, at our sunset drive in Addo, we were able to stay long enough at the park after it closed to see the sunset which made for gorgeous photos!

Learn about smaller animals besides only the big ones. As I said, I like learning about all the animals, not just the big ones. So the park ranger knows when it’s worth stopping and showing you an animal you would’ve otherwise overlooked.

By sitting higher up you have better visibility. It’s really a different experience to be up high in a land rover, compared to being low down in a sedan. You have better visibility and can see over the first row of bushes that might otherwise obstruct your view.

Downsides of doing a public guided game drive

Groups are big. Depending on how the land rover is structured (size, number of seats) you may end up without a good view because there are simply too many people for everyone to sit with a “window seat” so to speak. Dealing with more people in the public comes with what you expect – some people are loud, some don’t follow the rules, or some obstruct your view.

They can be rather short (2 hours). As I said before, there’s no such thing as a too-long safari. The public guided game drives we saw were around the two hour mark, which is really not much time to see animals. On our four-hour self-drive in Addo we already felt we were running out of time. In private game drives, you usually have a longer duration of 3-4 hours which is much appreciated.

It’s still 100% chance what you’ll see. Rangers are not allowed to communicate with each other which animals they see. I’m not sure if it’s for safety reasons or other reasons, but it means that, as with self-driving, the actual animals you end up seeing is mostly left to chance.

Your privacy is important to us. Unsubscribe at anytime.

Private safari lodge ($$$)

Cost : 250-350 EUR per person per night (includes lodging, all food and drinks, two game drives and a bush walk per day)

Staying at a private safari lodge is expensive, and for a reason. Not only does staying at a private safari lodge include between 6-7 hours of game drives per day, but it also includes all meals, drinks, and luxury accomodation. We left our safari lodge feeling that the cost was completely justified, but it really depends on if you can find the money for such an experience.

Our intimate safari range rover with Motswari

Why you should join a private game drive

Private game drives have an advantage for a number of reasons, and it was really helpful that we did self-drive and a public guided game drive in order to appreciate the value we got from the private game drive .

Guides share sightings with each other over radio. I can say that both of the times we saw lions, it was because the guides shared a tip on the location over the radio with one another. Without this fact, it could’ve been that we didn’t spot lions at all on our drive, despite the fact that the area we were in is famous for lions! Taking a private guided game drive is one of my top safari photography tips .

Guides and trackers can focus on finding animals you’re interested in seeing. Since guides share information over the radio, they can follow up on leads for the animals you tell them you’re most interested in seeing. This means you have a better than “pure chance” of seeing the animals you’re interested in. Plus, the tracker and guide can actually get out of the car to track animals, which you simply won’t find on a public game drive owing to the tight time constraints.

It can be really hard to pick a safari lodge in South Africa with so many great options. Here is my incredible experience at Motswari, a private game reserve in part of the Greater Kruger National Park.

Smaller group of people. Being in a smaller group has a ton of benefits: the drive is less noisy, you’re more likely to get a good view, and you don’t need to fight for a “window seat”.

Easier to ask (many) questions. Plus, since the group is smaller, it’s much easier to communicate with the guide and tracker to ask questions. In our game drive group I’m sure they answered a hundred questions during the three days of safari we had together. We learned not only about the animals, but the politics around poaching, survival skills, and how guides and trackers receive training.

Longer time spent at sightings. Since the group is smaller, they will stay at a sighting as long as you want. It’s also easier for the guide to make sure everyone is finished taking photos before you move on, which is really nice if you’re on a mission to grab great wildlife photos!

Able to go off-road. Sometimes you just need to get closer, and in a private game drive, there are areas where the guides can drive off-road.

Longer duration usually means more animal sightings. In our experience, the game drives were usually between 3 to 3 1/2 hours. The guides will put effort into planning the drive so you get to see a variety of things, and may extend the drive to fit in something that will really make the drive special. They also remember what animals you’ve seen over the last days to ensure the whole group gets to see as many new animals as possible.

Recommended private safari lodge in Kruger

<a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/motswari-private-game-reserve.en.html?aid=1161054&no_rooms=1&group_adults=1&label=budget-safari-south-africa” onclick="ga(‘send’, ‘event’, ‘Affiliate Link’, ‘Click’, event.target.getAttribute(‘href’));”

rel="nofollow” target=”_blank">Motswari Private Game Reserve Timbavati Game Reserve Greater Kruger National Park Accomodation: Luxury, Safari Price Range: $$$

TIP – Do check off-season, because every private safari lodge has massive discounts during the South African winter . Besides, winter can be one of the best times for animal visibility.

Downsides of private game drives

There are some restrictions on where the guides can drive. Although we did not perceive that this affected what we saw, it is true that some areas are either off-limits for the guides to drive, or that there is a limit for how many people can be on a piece of land at once.

It’s expensive. In terms of having the best all-round experience, there is no doubt to me that the private game drive is the pinnacle. However, it seems that about 300 EUR per person per night seems to be a pretty standard rate and we had a pretty hard time swallowing the price.

One way to think about it is how much a public game drive costs per hour (37 EUR / 2 = 18.50 EUR) and multiply it by how many hours of game drives you get at a private reserve (18.50 EUR x 6 = 111 EUR, or x 7 = 130 EUR). This approaches half of the cost, but with a much better experience. 170 EUR for luxury lodging and all inclusive meals is not outrageous but it would’ve probably been beyond my means a few years ago.

You see how I justified the cost? 😉

Which kind of safari is right for you?

Ultimately, you can do African safari on a budget no matter what budget you have. Whether you can only really afford to self-drive, that doesn’t mean you won’t see any animals. You can still have an amazing and exciting time on safari by self-driving. For a little more money, you can also join a guided tour which will give you a different perspective (literally and metaphorically) on the animals that live in the African bush. And finally, if you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience and want to pull out all the stops and opt for a private safari lodge . I can tell you that for us it was totally worth the money.

Pin this post for later!

About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

Follow along on Instagram , Twitter , Bloglovin , & Facebook .

You might also like...

Staying at Motswari Private Game Reserve in South Africa

TOP DESTINATIONS

• Kruger Park
• Okavango Delta
• Serengeti National Park
• Victoria Falls

TOP COUNTRIES

• South Africa

TRAVEL DEALS

View All Travel Deals

SOUTHERN AFRICA

East africa, indian ocean islands, top experiences.

• Beach Holidays
• Family Safaris
• Honeymoon Safaris
• Desert Safaris
• Luxury Rail Safaris
• Multi-Generational Safaris
• Positive Impact Safaris
• Photographic Safaris
• Walking Safaris

WILDLIFE SAFARI

• Big Five Safaris
• Birding Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking Safaris
• Migration Safaris
• Mobile Camping Safaris
• Horseback Safaris

FEATURED EXPERIENCES

Comfort levels, property types.

• Tented Camps
• Boutique Hotels

Featured Safari Collections

• Natural Selection
• Extraordinary
• Green Safaris
• African Bush Camps
• Newmark Hotels

GET TO KNOW US

• Meet The Team
• Pricing Explained
• Traveller Reviews
• Traveller Stories
• Why Book With Us?
• HerdTracker
• Safari Cost Calculator
• South Africa In 360
• Trusted Safari Partners
• Newsletter Sign Up

What are you looking for?

• Safaris & Tours
• Destinations
• Experiences
• Accommodations
• Why book with us?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.

Alternatively, we recommend...

Schedule a phone or Zoom call with one of our safari planners

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

Five Things to Consider Before Planning Your SA Safari

Devryn Panaino

Safari Travel Planner

Author: Devryn Panaino - 24 June 2020

Last Update: 2 May 2024

South Africa is one of the world’s most exclusive safari destinations. It is also the most affordable and is particularly well-suited to families, honeymooners, couples, and single travellers.

If a  safari is on your bucket list, but you have been putting this off as you just do not know where to start and the process seems a bit overwhelming. These tips will guide you through the five top things that you should consider when planning the best SA safari.

1. When is the best time to go on a safari in SA?

This is a very important factor when planning your safari..

Just like anywhere else on the planet, South Africa has different seasons and weather patterns. One thing to remember is that there is no “bad” time to do a safari, but depending on your safari-style, there might be a time of year that suits you better.

The best time to visit South Africa for a safari is from May to September which is classified as the Dry season. Wildlife is easier to spot as there is less vegetation and game viewing is spectacular as the animals gather around rivers and waterholes. Then there is the Wet season which is between October and April . This is the best time for bird watching. Wildlife viewing can be quite slow since the bush is thicker and wildlife is more difficult to spot.

In summary, the best time to go on safari in South Africa is between March and October, depending on what you would like to experience.

2. What would you like to experience?

This is dependent on you and what interests you. There are different safari experiences to choose from. To name a few :

Big Five Safari

Being in the wild is one of the most memorable things one can ever experience. The African continent is the only place in the world where big game still roams freely. The Kruger National Park  area and neighbouring private game reserves are famous for the incredible possibilities of spotting the Big Five up close.

A Big Five safari offers amazing wildlife viewing but Mother Nature does not cater to meet our expectations. Not everyone will have the opportunity to spot the Big five, as they are also living their natural lives and are not always readily available for viewing. But your guide will always try to ensure that you see as many animals as possible on every game drive.

What does a typical day on safari look like:

Here is a rough guide on what to expect on a safari in the Kruger National Park , when staying at one of the many private lodges.

• 05h00 – Wake Up
• 05h30 – Meet your ranger and tracker for early morning tea and coffee before heading out on a morning game drive
• 09h30 – Return to lodge from game drives and enjoy breakfast
• 11h00 – Leisure time / Bush Walk
• 13h00 – Lunch
• 16h00 -Afternoon Tea
• 16h30 – Meet your ranger and tracker and head out for your afternoon game drive
• 18h00 – Sundowners in the bush
• 19h30 – Return to lodge
• 20h00 – Dinner time

Walking Safari

There are parts of Africa best explored by foot. A walking safari with an experienced guide is one of the most sought-after activities in Africa.

Get close to nature and experience the sights and sounds of the African wilderness up close. These safaris are led by gregarious, friendly and professional guides, who put your safety needs first.

What does a typical day on a walking safari look like

• 05h30 – Meet your ranger and tracker for early morning tea and coffee before heading out on your 2 – 3-hour walking safari
• 09h30 – Return to lodge and enjoy breakfast
• 11h00 – Leisure time

If the conditions are not favourable, the walk is replaced with a game drive.

Photographic Safari

Photographic safaris capture nature’s wildlife through the lens of a camera!

Lodges that offer photographic safaris have specially adapted game drive vehicles. The number of photographers per vehicle is usually limited to four which ensure that you have an unobstructed view at sightings and plenty of space for your equipment.

Game vehicles have low sides and camera mountings to stabilise your equipment. Some vehicles also have seats that can swivel. You will have an experienced guide and tracker who will position the vehicle for that perfect shot. There are quite a few lodges in the Kruger that offer exclusive photographic safaris.

3. Which Game Reserve will suit your needs

For many people going on a safari, is a once in a lifetime opportunity. But with so many Game Reserves in South Africa, how do you decide where to spend this unique experience?

You would have to ask yourself a few questions, to get your answer.

Would you prefer to stay in a Malaria-Free Game Reserve or does this not matter

One of the big advantages of travelling to South Africa compared to other African destinations is that a number of game reserves where you can see the Big Five are in malaria-free areas. This is good to know especially if you are travelling with small children or want to avoid taking antimalarials.

One of the most popular game reserves and my favourite in South Africa that is a malaria-free area is the Madikwe Game Reserve which offers classic Big Five safaris.

Madikwe offers the most consistent game viewing of the malaria-free game reserves and is only a 4-hour drive from Johannesburg.  Alternatively, you can fly in on a charter flight. Kruger National Park is South Africa’s ultimate safari destination,  but Malaria Prophylaxis is recommended when visiting the Kruger. The Kruger is truly unspoilt and is the third-largest National Park worldwide.

Kruger caters for all budgets and tastes when it comes to accommodation with some of the most renowned private concession lodges in the world adding the luxury experiences.

Getting to Kruger is easy – you can self-drive from Johannesburg, Fly from Cape Town or Fly from Johannesburg to one of the 3 main airports close to the Kruger. Charter flights also access the reserve for groups or high-end travellers.

How will you be getting to your safari destination?

The main international entry points for a SA safari is Johannesburg International Airport and Cape Town International Airport. Depending on your choice of safari destination, you could either self-drive, fly, take a scheduled flight or chartered flight to your destination.

4. What is your budget for your Safari?

Remember that you will get what you pay for!

Safaris are never an inexpensive holiday option. It is an all-inclusive experience, which means that accommodation, meals and game activities are included and at some more luxurious lodges, beverages will also be included in the cost.

Factors that could affect your budget :

How do you want to get around? The cost of your holiday will vary extensively depending on how you will get to/from your safari destination.

• Type of Accommodation – Accommodation usually makes up the bulk of your safari’s cost, so where you stay has the biggest impact on your budget. Options range widely, from a few hundred dollars to over $ 1500 a night per person. Remember to pay attention to what’s included and excluded.  A lodge with all-inclusive rates may seem more expensive, but a lower-priced lodge may charge exorbitant rates for your gin & tonic, internet or other extras.
• Travel dates and time – Every destination has a busy peak season rate, which can be as much as double the low season rates.  Sometimes there are also shoulder seasons, priced between the two.  If your travel dates are flexible, you can benefit from shoulder and low season rates.
• How many nights would you like to be on safari? The time you spend on safari has an impact on the pricing.  Reducing the length of your safari will certainly reduce what it costs.

5. MOST IMPORTANTLY –  Choosing the right Tour Operator – for example – Discover Africa

Investing a little time and energy for planning will help you ensure a smooth holiday.  Choosing the right tour operator will make the rest of your trip a breeze.

Why book with Discover Africa?

• All journeys are tailor-made to suit the client’s needs and wishlist ensuring that you have the best experience.
• We know Africa – with more than 40 years’ collective experience in the African travel industry, we have the expertise to make sure you enjoy Africa at its best.
• We have close relationships with the accommodation and tour operators we use and we have contracted the best rates and availability.  This means your safari will actually be less expensive when you book with us. When you book with us, you’ll also receive better service, you will have an expert arranging your journey, offering advice and guidance.
• We make planning easy. We know that planning your safari is part of the journey, so we’ll communicate with you in any way you feel comfortable.

• Round-the-clock advice and support – Our help and support does not end once you have booked and paid  We will be there for you every step of the way.
• Peace of Mind – Discover Africa Group is a registered member of the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA)
• We’ll send you to the right places – Depending on what you want to experience, we’ll make sure you are in the right place at the right time.
• We do things right – We’re committed to ethical travel, so you can be confident we’ve chosen properties and tour operators with outstanding environmental and social credentials.
• We’re passionate about Africa – Discover Africa is owned and managed by Africans, all of whom have a tremendous passion for Africa. We’re based in Cape Town, one of Africa’s most beautiful cities, and we have partners all over sub-Saharan Africa.

Honeymooning in Botswana

The Best Seven Day Kruger Park Safari Itinerary

Related Safari Tours

These popular itineraries can be customised to match your budget and how many people you're planning to travel with..

Best of South Africa and Botswana Safari

Southern Africa South Africa Cape Town Kruger National Park Johannesburg Botswana

From $ 7450 /USD

Bespoke Luxury Safari in South Africa

South Africa Cape Town Johannesburg Kruger National Park

From $ 13100 /USD

A grandiose journey through Cape Town, the Wine...

South Africa Cape Town Franschhoek Sabi Sands

From $ 14000 /USD

What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us, perfect tour company.

11 Day Complete Botswana Safari Package Review

Veronica, Canada 28 May 2024

Professional, knowledgeable, met all of our expectations resulting in a memorable experience.

4 Day Okavango Delta Safari Review

Brian Evans, South Africa 27 Mar 2023

The travel arrangements and accommodation all worked as planned.

7-Day Tanzania Safari Review

Richard M, United Kingdom 05 Oct 2022

Brilliant. megan was efficient, on the ball and prepared everything..

Vic Falls, Botswana & Okavango Delta Safari Review

Sally, South Africa 09 Sep 2019

Our safari dreams came true.

First Safari in South Africa Review

Diane Oliveira, Brazil 30 Nov 2018

Thank you for an amazing trip megan.

Discover Africa Service Review

Bruce and Marsha Weber, United States 01 Aug 2013

Join our newsletter.

Sign up to receive exclusive offers, safari inspiration, and expert tips straight to your inbox.

By proceeding you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions .

POPULAR DESTINATION

Popular tours.

• Luxury Explorers Safari in Botswana
• Romantic Cape Town & Luxury Safari
• Masai Mara and Serengeti Combo
• Wildlife and Gorillas of Rwanda
• Luxury Honeymoon in Mauritius

POPULAR ACCOMMODATIONS

• Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge
• Chobe Game Lodge
• Khwai Lediba
• Camp Okavango
• Khwai Leadwood

QUICK LINKS

• Safari Cost Estimator Tool
• [email protected]

Sale Now On

Nhongo Safaris ®

Arrive as strangers. leave as friends.

South African Safari Wildlife Blog

Kruger national park & beyond.

Welcome to the South African Safari Wildlife Blog, your gateway to the mesmerizing world of African wilderness! We are thrilled to have you here on the digital savanna of Nhongo Safaris, where we embark on a thrilling journey through the heart of South Africa's abundant and diverse wildlife.

At Nhongo Safaris, we've been dedicated to providing unforgettable safari experiences for over two decades. As a leading tour operator and owner of Nhongo Safaris, I've had the privilege of witnessing the awe-inspiring beauty of South Africa's natural wonders and the incredible creatures that inhabit this magnificent land. Our passion for wildlife, conservation, and sharing the magic of the African bush with adventurers like you has led us to create this blog, a treasure trove of knowledge, stories, and insights into the fascinating world of South African safaris.

Breath-taking Biodiversity

One of the reasons South Africa is a top safari destination is its unparalleled biodiversity. Our blog will take you on a virtual expedition to explore the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros), as well as the myriad of other wildlife species that call South Africa home. Learn about the unique behavior, habitats, and conservation efforts dedicated to protecting these iconic animals.

Wildlife Photography Tips: For shutterbugs and wildlife enthusiasts, the South African Safari Wildlife Blog will be a treasure trove of photography tips and tricks. We'll share insights into capturing that perfect shot of a leopard stalking its prey, an elephant in mid-trumpet, or a lioness nursing her cubs. Our guides and guest photographers will offer their expertise, helping you elevate your photography skills to the next level.

Conservation & Sustainability

At Nhongo Safaris, we believe that with great adventure comes great responsibility. Our blog will delve into the critical conservation initiatives and sustainability practices in place to protect South Africa's delicate ecosystems. Discover how the efforts of individuals, organizations, and governments are working tirelessly to ensure a future where these magnificent creatures and landscapes continue to thrive.

Plan Your Safari Adventure

Whether you're a seasoned explorer who's traversed the savannas or a novice gearing up for your inaugural safari expedition, our blog is your ultimate companion in trip preparation. Embark on a journey with us as we delve into a treasure trove of information, offering comprehensive insights tailored to all levels of adventurers. Let us guide you through the intricate nuances of safari planning

Engage &

We believe in the power of community and the shared love for wildlife. Through the South African Safari Wildlife Blog, we invite you to engage with us and fellow safari enthusiasts. Share your own experiences, ask questions, and join us in discussions about the fascinating world of African wildlife. So, fasten your virtual seatbelts, grab your binoculars, and let's dive into the untamed beauty of South Africa's wilderness.

Exploring the Safety of South Africa: Everything You Need to Know

Unveiling the Astonishing Beauty of Kruger Park Safaris: A Wildlife Adventure like No Other!

The Striped Polecat: A Closer Look at Nature's Mischievous Daredevils

Magic After Dusk: Discovering Bushbabies in Kruger's Nightlife

Top 10 Best African Safari Tours in Southern Africa

Once you’ve decided that a wildlife documentary seen on National Geographic just isn’t the same as experiencing it in person, the excitement of going on an African safari is sure to kick into first gear. This can sometimes leave you overwhelmed as you try to determine what kind of safari is right for you. Safaris in Africa are our business and as safari enthusiasts and experts we’ve put together this list of the   “Top 10 Best African Safari Tours in Southern Africa.” We have left no stone unturned, with our tours carefully selected by defining which are most popular amongst our customers and which offer the most authentic safari experiences. Each tour is perfectly packaged to include accommodation, transfers and a selection of experiences that highlight each region. Iconic destinations featured include the Kruger National Park , Cape Town , Botswana , Victoria Falls , Namibia , and Mozambique . We have also added some hidden gems namely KwaZulu Natal and the Garden Route . These tours are pre-packaged, however, should they not suit your travel needs, our team of experts will happily tailor-make a package to suit your specific needs and budget.

1. Lion Sands Sabi Sand Safari

One of Africa’s most romantic beds, Kingston Treehouse at Lion SandsRenowned for the ‘Big 5’ and phenomenal sightings of lion, leopard, and cheetah; Lion Sands Game Reserve is sure to blow you away with up-close animal encounters, fantastic photographic opportunities from open game vehicles, and exhilarating bush walks that discover both the fauna and flora and spectacular birdlife on the reserve. Lion Sands River Lodge promises 3 days of ultimate comfort and offers a unique tree-house experience in the African bush - A must for wildlife enthusiasts and honeymooners.

2. Bushveld and Beach Escape

Machangulo Beach Lodge is a secluded location on the southern Mozambican coastline. This 9-day tour offers a perfect blend of ‘Big 5’ game viewing in the famous Kruger National Park with blissful beach living on the tropical Inhaca Island in Mozambique. The tour is the ideal choice for couples and families who don’t wish to travel long distances but desire adventure, white sand beaches and warm turquoise waters.

3. Luxury Kruger, Victoria Falls and Cape Town

View of Table Mountain in Cape Town, one of the oldest and most iconic mountains in the world. Combining three of Africa’s most sought-after destinations, this 11 day tour is packed with adventure, spectacular scenery and luxury accommodation. Highlights include big 5 game drives in the renowned Kruger National Park, a humble interaction with a majestic elephant, the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, and breathtaking views of Cape Town from the top of Table Mountain. This tour is ideal for solo explorers, couples, and families wanting to experience what is true Southern Africa.

4. Luxury Victoria Falls and Chobe

Built on a dramatic bend of the Zambezi River relax fully at the luxurious Sussi & Chuma Safari Game Lodge. In only 6 days, this tour explores two iconic countries that each boast prolific wildlife and magnificent scenery. Sanctuary lodges offer profound luxury and activities that truly highlight each region, including an authentic cultural experience. You can look forward to experiencing luxurious tree-house accommodation, a sundowner cruise on the Zambezi River, and game drives in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and Chobe National Park; home to the largest population of elephants in the world.

5. Kwandwe, Garden Route and Cape Town

Enjoy an authentic South African Big 5 safari experience at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge. This 10-day tour visits landmark destinations in the Cape that offer stunning vistas, unique experiences and exquisite 5-star accommodations. This is a guided tour that guarantees a flawless vacation as you enjoy the stories and information shared with you by your guide. Perfect for solo travellers, couples and families, you can look forward to exhilarating game drives in the malaria-free Kwandwe Game Reserve, the spectacular fauna and flora of the Garden Route, golden beaches, and unique ostrich and meerkat interactions.

6. Magical Moremi and Okavango Delta

The Okavango Delta in Botswana is the only place where visitors can enjoy a mokoro safari. In only 5 days you will explore the grassy plains and waterways found in the heart of Botswana. With over 500 bird species and a myriad of animal species found in the Moremi Game Reserve and Okavango Delta, Botswana is a prime favourite amongst avid photographers, bird watchers, and safari-goers with a keen interest in seeking out the endangered African Wild Dog. Highlights on this tour include game drives, night drives, mokoro (dugout canoe) trips, game walks and motorboat cruises.

7. Diverse Namibia

The striking patterns of the dune sea in the Namib desert. Namibia is one of Southern Africa’s best-kept secrets with vast open spaces, breathtaking scenery and great contrasts. This 10-day tour explores the most beautiful desert plains and sand dunes of the Sossusvlei, the picturesque city of Swakopmund, Damaraland and the famous Etosha National Park which are home to a variety of desert-adapted animals and wildlife endemic to the area. Combining Meru-style safari tents and a photographic hide, this tour offers an extraordinary safari experience and some of the world’s most loved photographic locations.

8. A Unique Adventure to Kruger and Victoria Falls

Embark on an unparalleled journey through the heart of Africa, where the untamed beauty of nature unfolds in the most remarkable ways. The 7-day Kruger Park and Vic Falls Combo seamlessly combine the thrill of safari adventures with the tranquillity of luxurious accommodations. Whether you're marvelling at the wildlife of Kruger National Park, suspended over the Sabie River at the Kruger Shalati or experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Victoria Falls with uninterrupted views from your private balcony at The Wallow Lodge, this unforgettable journey promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

9. Luxury Rail Journeys Across Southern Africa

Travel on the world's most luxurious train, Rovos Rail. Train travel adds a unique perspective to your holiday, showcasing the finest and most unique routes. With the comforts of never having to pack and unpack or drive anywhere, rail journeys give you the freedom to do nothing but relax and enjoy the dramatic scenery. Rovos Rail is better described as a 5-star hotel on wheels and is regarded as the most luxurious train in the world; offering sophisticated facilities, service and fine dining. Epic journeys include a 2-night scenic trip from Cape Town to Pretoria, a 2-night Durban Safari, a 3-night meander from Pretoria to Victoria Falls, and a 9 day Namibia Safari.

10. Walking Safari Trails

sought-afterA guided walking safari tour is one of the most exciting safari activities in Africa. Walking safaris are one of the most sought-after activities in Africa and are perfect for travellers who wish to discover the excitement of true African wilderness. A walking safari is a highly immersive method that brings about a new way of understanding your surroundings. We offer several walking safaris including a 5 day trail in the renowned Kruger National Park. This tour offers a unique blend of ‘lodge’ and ‘tented’ accommodation and the perfect balance of game drives and guided bush walks. Spending a night in a tree house also adds new meaning to a safari in Africa with a location that promises a magical sunset, dinner under the stars, and profound calls from the African bush.

Whatever type of safari experience you prefer, one thing is certain: there’s no better way to experience Africa. Would you like to get access to our top tips and exclusive offers on trips to Africa? Sign up here to join 400,000 subscribers currently enjoying the benefit of our expert African knowledge.

More Stories from Archive

• You are here:
• All South Africa Tours
• 10-Day South Africa Tours

Your Safari

Tour length, rates in usd $ – change currency, starting from.

• Johannesburg (8)
• Cape Town (8)
• Hoedspruit (0)
• Port Elizabeth (0)
• Pretoria (0)
• Nairobi (0)
• Entebbe (0)
• Zanzibar (0)
• Dar es Salaam (0)
• Victoria Falls Town (0)
• Windhoek (0)
• Kampala (0)
• Addis Ababa (0)
• Livingstone (0)
• Mombasa (0)
• Antananarivo (0)
• Bujumbura (0)
• Diani Beach (0)
• Hazyview (0)
• Nelspruit (1)
• Lalibela (0)
• Blantyre (0)
• Upington (0)
• Bulawayo (0)

Comfort Level

• Luxury+ (0)
• Mid-range (0)

Private or Shared Tour

• Private tour (0)
• Shared tour (0)

Safari Type

• Lodge, tented camp or hotel (0)
• Camping (0)

Operator Rating

• & up (0)

Specialized Tours

• Fly-in safaris (0)
• Beach time (0)
• Honeymoon (0)
• Gorilla trekking (0)
• Photographic safaris (0)
• Mountain climbing (0)
• Walking safaris (0)
• Self-drive (0)
• Guided self-drive (0)
• Chimp trekking (0)
• Overland tours (0)
• Cycling safaris (0)
• Canoe safaris (0)
• Horseback safaris (0)
• Birding tours (0)
• Accessible safaris (0)
• Golf & Wildlife (0)

Other Tour Features

• Airport transfer is included (0)
• Itinerary can be customized (0)

Filter by Operator

Filter by accommodation, operators from.

• South Africa (0)
• Tanzania (0)
• United Kingdom (0)
• United States (0)
• Australia (0)
• Belgium (0)
• Botswana (0)
• Comoros (0)
• Denmark (0)
• Ethiopia (0)
• Eswatini (0)
• Germany (0)
• Ireland (0)
• Lesotho (0)
• Madagascar (0)
• Mauritius (0)
• Mayotte (0)
• Mozambique (0)
• Namibia (0)
• Netherlands (0)
• New Zealand (0)
• Nigeria (0)
• Portugal (0)
• Reunion (0)
• Seychelles (0)
• Singapore (0)
• Switzerland (0)
• United Arab Emirates (0)
• Zimbabwe (0)

10-Day South Africa Safari Tours

South Africa is an ideal place for a 10-day safari. With its ever-changing landscapes, it’s an incredibly varied country. It features dramatic mountains, stark deserts, lush forests, endemic fynbos, savannah woodland, a ruggedly wild coastline on the west and idyllic tropical beaches on the east. The country is dotted with 19 national parks and hundreds of other provincial and private reserves. No wonder it is one of the most popular destinations in Africa. Although the wildlife viewing here is as good as anywhere, most visitors want to enjoy some of the other attractions the country has to offer too. Tours to South Africa are therefore usually a mix of wildlife locations and other highlights.

10-Day South Africa Safari and Cape Town Splendour

$5,512 pp (USD)

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

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Timbavati NR (Greater Kruger) , Cape Town (City) , Cape Peninsula, Table Mountain (Cape Town) , Cape Town Airport (End)

Ranger Buck Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  29 Reviews

10-Day Kruger, Vic Falls & Cape Town Comfort Tour

$1,616 pp (USD)

South Africa & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (City) , Victoria Falls, Cape Town (City) , Cape Peninsula, Winelands, Cape Town (End)

MoAfrika Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  1344 Reviews

10-Day Bush to Beach Safari

$3,765 to $4,145 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Mid-range Chalet & Self Catering Accommodation

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route) , Kruger NP, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi GR, Durban (End)

Wild Planet Safari   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  212 Reviews

10-Day Best of South Africa and Swaziland

$7,700 to $8,800 pp (USD)

South Africa & Eswatini: Private tour Mid-range Guest House & Hotel

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , 3 Rondavels (Panorama Route) , Kruger NP, Ezulwini Valley (Highlight) , Cape Town (City) , Winelands, Cape Point (Cape Peninsula) , Cape Town Surrounds, Cape Town (End)

Travel your African Dream   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.6 /5  –  5 Reviews

10-Day Kruger Explorer

$2,750 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Mid-range

You Visit: Nelspruit (Start) , Kruger NP, Hoedspruit Airport (Hoedspruit) , Hoedspruit (End)

Safari Reinhardt   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  9 Reviews

10-Day Classic Cape & Kruger National Park Safari

$2,894 to $3,788 pp (USD)

South Africa: Self-drive Luxury Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Winelands, Timbavati NR (Greater Kruger) , Sabi Sand GR (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

African Welcome Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  236 Reviews

10-Day Cape Town + Victoria Falls + Safari Botswana

$5,236 pp (USD)

Botswana, South Africa & Zimbabwe: Private tour Mid-range Camping & Lodge

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Victoria Falls, Chobe Riverfront (Chobe NP) , Moremi GR (Okavango Delta) , Maun Airport (Maun) , Johannesburg (End)

Savanna Safaris and Tours

5.0 /5  –  16 Reviews

10-Day Cape Town Sabi Sand Safari and Vic Falls Honeymoon

$7,757 to $8,868 pp (USD)

South Africa & Zambia: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Sabi Sabi GR (Sabi Sand GR) , Victoria Falls, Livingstone (End)

Discover Africa Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  439 Reviews

10-Day Signature Adventure Experience

$4,915 pp (USD)

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

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Dullstroom (Town) , Panorama Route (Highlight) , Greater Kruger, Tshukudu GR, Kruger NP, Cape Town (City) , Cape Point (Cape Peninsula) , Table Mountain (Cape Town) , Franschhoek (Winelands) , Cape Town Airport (End)

4.7 /5  –  156 Reviews

10-Day Cape Town, Winelands and Kruger Luxury Tour

$3,555 to $4,306 pp (USD)

South Africa: Self-drive Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Franschhoek (Winelands) , Greater Kruger, Hoedspruit Airport (Hoedspruit) , Hoedspruit (End)

Wild Wings Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  210 Reviews

10-Day South Africa Ultra Mid-Range Tour from Cape Town

$1,490 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Mid-range Tented Camp & Hotel

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Winelands, Cape Point (Cape Peninsula) , Table Mountain (Cape Town) , Kruger NP, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Johannesburg (End)

10-Day Luxury Highlights Cape Town, Kruger and Vic Falls

$5,796 to $8,722 pp (USD)

South Africa & Zimbabwe: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Lion Sands GR (Sabi Sand GR) , Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls Airport (End)

10-Day Private Kruger Camping Safari

$2,875 to $3,150 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Budget Camping

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

10-Day Luxury, Kruger Park, Johannesburg from Cape Town

$3,085 to $3,393 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Cape Peninsula, Winelands, Johannesburg (City) , Kruger NP, Greater Kruger, Johannesburg Airport (End)

10-Day Ultra Budget South Africa Tour

$1,354 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Mid-range Tented Camp & Hotel

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

10-Day Cape Town, Vic Falls and Zambia Safari

$7,100 to $8,230 pp (USD)

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Franschhoek (Winelands) , Cape Point (Cape Peninsula) , Livingstone (City) , Victoria Falls, South Luangwa NP, Lusaka Airport (End)

10-Day Tour to South Africa and Zimbabwe

$2,528 pp (USD)

South Africa & Zimbabwe: Shared tour (max 12 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Great Zimbabwe (Ruins) , Matobo NP, Hwange NP, Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls Town (End)

Sunway Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.5 /5  –  30 Reviews

Tour Operators Offering Custom Tours

Moafrika tours, african wildlife plains, africa incoming, related searches.

• 10-Day African Safaris
• Best South Africa Tours
• Kruger Safaris From Nelspruit
• Kruger Safaris From Hoedspruit
• Safari Tours From Johannesburg
• 10-Day Kenya Itineraries
• 10-Day Tanzania Tours
• 10-Day Kenya & Tanzania Packages
• 10-Day Uganda Packages
• 10-Day Botswana Safaris
• 10-Day Namibia Itineraries
• Garden Route From Cape Town

6 Questions About 10-Day South Africa Safaris

Answered by

Ariadne van zandbergen.

Is 10 days a good amount of time for a trip in South Africa?

“Ten days is a great amount of time for a safari, but it would be quite short for a South African holiday. South Africa has a lot to offer and you can easily spend a two- or three-week holiday in this country of contrasts. Contrary to other safari countries in Africa, a typical South African holiday consists of several smaller safaris mixed in with other highlights. The most popular safari destination is Greater Kruger, which is made up of Kruger National Park and the private reserves bordering it. But there are other areas offering excellent wildlife viewing that are worth exploring too. And then there are the mountains, the cities, the scenic coastline of the Garden Route, and much more. You also have to consider that South Africa is a large country, and distances between destinations are usually long. Especially on a road trip, you might want to add a few extra days to your holiday to take in more of what South Africa has to offer.”

Can I combine my 10-day South Africa safari with a beach holiday?

“Yes, you definitely can combine a 10-day safari with a beach holiday in South Africa. After 10 days of wildlife viewing and sightseeing, you might like to end your holiday with a relaxing time on the beach. Well, South Africa, with its 2,850km coastline, has you covered. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean on the east coast of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape are perfect for a tropical beach holiday. There are many family-friendly resorts to choose from, as well as more-secluded romantic getaways. The southern beaches along the Garden Route are great in summer but cold in winter. Active visitors wanting to explore, walk or cycle as well as relax enjoy this area most. However, if you are looking for pure island bliss, you might want to hop on a plane to Mauritius or Seychelles.”

Where in South Africa should I go on safari?

“There are lots of options for a 10-day safari in South Africa. Most popular is Kruger National Park. This vast ecosystem is about the size of Israel and just a little smaller than Belgium. The south of the park is most accessible, but you could spend extra time and make your way north. As the landscapes and habitats change, so do the animals. Both guided and self-drive safaris are good options in Kruger, but you could consider a few days in one of the bordering private game reserves for a different experience. Here your expert guide will get you close to all of the Big Five in an open-top safari vehicle. Whereas you need to stick to the roads in Kruger, you’ll go off-road in the reserves, so expect some exciting close-up encounters here. This doesn’t come cheap but the whole package with luxury accommodation, gourmet food and outstanding service is worth every cent. The cluster of KwaZulu-Natal reserves is very different. This tropical area with rolling hills and lush vegetation is particularly scenic. Rhino are prolific here and the birding is outstanding. For an off-the-beaten-track safari, you should consider Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Wildlife densities are lower in this desert environment, but the wide-open spaces make for great viewing in a beautiful setting.”

What is the best time of the year for a trip in South Africa?

“The best time of the year for a 10-day safari in South Africa is from May to September. This is the South African winter, which corresponds to the Dry season in most of the country. The exception is the Cape Town area, which experiences winter rainfall. Water in the bush dries out as the Dry season progresses, and animals are easier to find as they gather around rivers and waterholes. The shriveling vegetation makes animal spotting easier too. Although this is the most productive time for wildlife viewing, you must keep in mind that early mornings and evenings can be bitterly cold in open vehicles. The shoulder month of September is perhaps best as it is the end of the Dry season, but temperatures start to increase a little. If you want to combine your safari with other highlights or time on the beach, you might prefer the warmer summer months from October to April. ”

Which animals am I likely to see?

“You are likely to see a big variety of animals on your 10-day safari in South Africa. Where the open plains of East Africa offer a chance to see huge numbers of grazers, South Africa offers more diversity. You’ve got a good chance of seeing the Big Five when spending three or four days in Kruger NP. Even more so in the adjacent private reserves where off-road driving makes sightings easier. Elephant, buffalo and giraffe are common throughout. Of the big cats, lion are easiest to see, but you need a fair amount of luck to see the secretive leopard in Kruger. However, this sought-after cat is the flagship species of the bordering Sabi Sands Game Reserve. There are lots of white rhino in southern Kruger, but the best place to see these endangered large mammals is in the KwaZulu-Natal reserves. What really sets South Africa apart is the variety in antelope species. Look out for the stately spiral-horned greater kudu or the majestic nyala, which is most common in KwaZulu-Natal. The red duiker can be seen scurrying away in coastal forests, while the diminutive steenbok, which freezes when spotted, is common throughout. The list can go on. You’ll probably get to see most animals on your bucket list and lots more.”

How much will a 10-day South Africa safari cost?

“South Africa is a relatively affordable safari destination. There are options for every budget. As a guideline, you can expect prices for a mid-range tour including a safari to start at about US$1800 per person, while luxury tours start at around US$4500 per person. As most roads and infrastructure in South Africa are quite good, the country lends itself to a self-drive safari. This is an affordable option if you like to travel independently. Then there is the choice of joining a group tour or booking a private safari. The former is usually more budget-friendly. There is a huge choice of accommodation options in South Africa. Lodges and rest camps in and outside the national parks are often moderately priced, but most private game reserves offer a luxury package and are priced much higher. Domestic flights between South African cities are well priced but high-end fly-in safaris where you fly directly to the reserve’s airstrips come with a hefty price tag. I recommend getting a few quotations before booking a 10-day South African safari. ”

South Africa Reviews

Lizzie is a reputed guidebook writer and author of the Footprint guides to South Africa, Namibia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe.

South Africa is rightly celebrated for its magnificent natural beauty and excellent choice of parks

South Africa has a wonderful range of landscapes, a near-perfect climate, and the choice of destinations, activities and itineraries is virtually inexhaustible. Aside from its beautiful coastline and cosmopolitan cities – both of which I...

Full Review

Philip is an acclaimed travel writer and author of many guidebooks, including the Bradt guides to Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya and South Africa.

A World In One Country

Marketing hype is best taken with a generous pinch of salt, but a strong element of truth underlies South Africa’s favourite tourist catchphrase: a World in One Country. This is a country of immense variety, so much so that even after 25...

Beauty personified.

We truly enjoyed our two week vacation to South Africa. Our trip started in Capetown then to Cape aguhlas Mossel Bay and Knysna on the Garden route we visited Plattenburg bay. We also visited Johannesburg. The crown jewel of our trip was...

South Africa is an absolutely beautiful country with very diverse areas and experiences!

We spent 16 days in country and we started with a Kruger National Park Safari with Endless Summer Tours. This was outstanding. Wade, our guide offered knowledgeable insight for the Safari as well as South African life in general. We...

Every day was better than the day before!

My friend & I were on a cruise that stopped in Port Elizabeth, Mossel Bay, & ended in Cape Town. We went to Addo Elephant Park & it was so beautiful! The scenery & the animals were so stunning! The next day, we did a Game Drive at...

Stunning views, awesome food, great people.

Travelling in May the weather was fair and temperatures comfortable between 22-28 degrees. Umkumbe Safari lodge was absolutely stunning and the game drives very good. Booking and confirmation with Rochelle Buys was very straightforward and...

Emergency Banner Component

England, Scotland & Wales

We hope you enjoy this Photo Journal filled with pictures of the incredible sights and unforgettable moments guests experienced recently on our England, Scotland & Wales journey.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Online checking
• High-yield savings
• Money market
• Home equity loan
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Options pit
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

South Africa's safaris struggling to switch to electric off-road cars

Many urban drivers in wealthy countries still find themselves worried about the limits of an electric car's battery, but range anxiety takes on a new meaning when out on a safari.

The risk of being stranded on a savannah in searing heat is not one that many safari tourists want to take. But that hasn't stopped South Africa's eco-safaris from trying to push electric mobility to its limits.

In the solar-powered luxury lodge Cheetah Plains in South Africa's world-famous Kruger Park, they use electric all-terrain vehicles whose batteries are recharged by solar energy. Numerous other lodges are also experimenting with battery-powered off-road vehicles.

But this is not without its problems.

Safaris usually cover long distances on rugged terrain, conditions that have been proving too much for many electric car batteries.

So far, recharging stations in the middle of the savannah are scarcely an option, reports Julie Cheetham, business manager of Weeva, a platform that supports tourism operators in the area of sustainability.

Another problem is that dust and sand also are a challenge for electric motors.

South Africa is at the forefront of ecologically minded safaris, and local experts say this tourism segment has seen a great amount of reevaluation.

Many safari companies are investing in environmental projects and seeking a balance in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, and eco-operators such as Singita are promising guests a CO2-neutral stay.

The effects of this new sustainability are making people sit up and take notice. Tswalu, a 114,000-hectare reservation, has developed into a carbon-positive protection zone. Carbon compensation now outpaces emissions.

Seeking to limit the environmental footprint of their "gentle tourism" offerings, South Africa's Tswalu reservation has invested in four smaller conventional safari vans which consume less fuel than normal-sized ones and don't have the range issues of electric vehicles.

There are other safari mobility options - for example touring on foot, saddling up a horse or hopping on a bicycle. Cheetham says all these are increasingly in demand.

Here, instead of being seated safely inside some fume-belching off-road car, guests are more in control. But they also have to depend all the more on the expertise of an experienced ranger, one who carries a loaded rifle along, just in case.

Recommended Stories

Evs are giving new owners more headaches, and tesla is a big reason why: j.d. power study.

Automotive research firm J.D. Power’s highly watched initial quality study is out — and it appears EVs are giving consumers big headaches.

Walmart's 4th of July sale is here with the best deals to shop this weekend: Save on Shark, Keurig, HP and more

Scoop up quality noise-cancelling headphones for just $20, an HP laptop for a whopping $600 off and a Keurig hot and iced coffeemaker for under $60.

Cold shipping might be the next industry that batteries disrupt

Hannah Sieber knows just how transformative batteries can be. At her previous startup, EcoFlow, she used them to replace generators, whether for powering homes after a bad storm or RVs at a campsite. The experience made her wonder what else batteries could do, especially smaller ones.

O say can you see these 'ethereal' pool lights — down to just $15 a pop

These fantastical floating solar-powered orbs shift between colors, including our faves: red, white and blue.

Kleiner Perkins announces $2 billion in fresh capital, showing that established firms can still raise large sums

Many VC firms are struggling to attract new capital from their own backers amid a tepid IPO environment. On Friday, Kleiner Perkins announced that it closed on more than $2 billion in fresh capital across two funds, a slight increase from the 52-year-old firm’s $1.8 billion previous fundraise in early 2022. Other prominent firms that successfully defied the VC fundraising slump this year include Andreessen Horowitz, which secured $7.2 billion for several of its funds, General Catalyst that is reportedly wrapping up a $6 billion fundraise and Norwest with its $3 billion capital haul.

Save 50% off a highly rated portable power station this 4th of July

Portable power stations are great for use on the road or at home, during a power outage. Get a highly-rated one for $176.12 at Amazon on sale for July 4th.

NCAA tournament breakout, Oakland sharpshooter Jack Gohlke, signs with Thunder

Oakland University sharpshooter Jack Gohlke, who led the Golden Grizzlies to an NCAA tournament upset of Kentucky, has signed a contract with the NBA's Oklahoma City Thunder.

Ready to binge? This 50-inch Fire TV is down to $190 for the first time ever

Time to cut the cord! With its built-in Wi-Fi, this beauty can liberate you from the cable company.

DEI? More like 'common decency' — and Silicon Valley is saying 'no thanks'

The tech industry's DEI allergy has hit a new low, as Silicon Valley leaders are once again waving their "meritocracy" banners high and wide. Scale AI's Alexandr Wang has decided that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are passé — and replaced them with his shiny new acronym MEI: merit, excellence, and intelligence. Of course, the ignorance inspired enthusiastic applause from tech titans like Elon Musk on X, while LinkedIn's startup crowd rolled their eyes so hard they were practically doing backflips.

These bestselling curtains, on sale for $25, 'make my room look like midnight'

More than 92,000 five-star reviewers say they'll also block noise and keep your space nice and cool on scorching sunny days.

Make your bed a no-sweat zone with these cooling sheets, pillows and more

Chill out with a Yahoo- (and Oprah-) approved bamboo bedding set and a gel-filled mattress, to name a few — prices start at $22.

FCC chair asks telecoms companies to prove they're actually trying to stop political AI robocalls

FCC chair asks telecom companies if they’re actually doing anything to stop AI political robocalls. This follows a consultant getting indicted over calls imitating President Biden.

HubSpot says it's investigating customer account hacks

Marketing and sales software giant HubSpot said on Friday that it’s investigating a cybersecurity incident. On Friday, rumors of some kind of cyberattack against HubSpot began circulating on social media. When reached by TechCrunch on Friday, HubSpot's chief information security officer Alyssa Robinson said in a statement that the company “identified a security incident that involved bad actors targeting a limited number of HubSpot customers and attempting to gain unauthorized access to their accounts.”

Teachers, nurses and Disney fans adore Hey Dude loafers — they're nearly 50% off

Save on the kicks one educator called 'the best shoes I've ever had,' thanks to their lightweight soles and comfortable stretch.

Volkswagen’s Silicon Valley software hub is already stacked with Rivian talent

The blockbuster $5 billion deal between Volkswagen Group and Rivian is just days old. VW Group’s struggling software arm Cariad has hired at least 23 of the startup’s top employees over the past several months, a TechCrunch review of LinkedIn data reveals. Cariad’s chief software officer, chief product security officer, two of its vice presidents and two principal engineers have all been hired from Rivian.

No buggin' out this summer! This indoor-outdoor zapper is on sale for just $28

It has a 1,600-square-foot range, and shoppers say it's satis-fry-ingly effective: 'All I hear is a small pop, and buh-bye fly!'

All VCs say they are founder friendly; Detroit’s Ludlow Ventures takes that to another level

VCs Jonathon Triest and Brett deMarrais see their ability to read people and create longstanding relationships with founders as the primary reason their Detroit-based venture firm, Ludlow Ventures, is celebrating its 15th year in business. Before Ludlow, neither Triest nor deMarrais had much operating experience. Triest was fresh out of school when he first stood up the firm in 2009.

'Saved my vacation': These top-selling water shoes are up to 60% off at Amazon

Comfy as a sock, protective as a sneaker — shoppers love them so much, they wear them around the house.

'Liquid gold': This popular CeraVe serum brightens, smooths and it's down to $13

Over 35,000 shoppers swear by this lightweight retinol gel. Grab it while it's nearly 40% off.

The White House will host a conference for social media creators

President Joe Biden’s administration is doubling down on its interest in the creator economy. In August, the White House will host the first-ever White House Creator Economy Conference, which will invite a group of influential social media personalities and industry professionals to discuss issues like data privacy, fair pay, AI and mental health with senior White House officials. Christian Tom, the director of the White House Office of Digital Strategy, announced the news onstage at VidCon on Friday.

Wild Encounters

LIONS: Following The Pride 11: Injured Lioness Babysitting

Posted: June 28, 2024 | Last updated: June 28, 2024

The Ximhungwe lioness with an injured back leg looks after all seven of the cubs whilst sitting on the edge of the riverbank.Filmed in the Sabi Sand Wildtuin, Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa Subscribe:​ ​https://bit.ly/30a0IRM​ ​| Merch: ​http://teespring.com/stores/robtheranger Watch the newest videos: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLLkJbMHt1booI-NVZ7lZxheEp8UMFRYEFollow">https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLLkJbMHt1booI-NVZ7lZxheEp8UMFRYEFollow</a> Rob The Ranger:TWITTER: ​http://goo.gl/U8IQGfINSTAGRAM: ​https://instagram.com/robtheranger BLOG: ​http://goo.gl/yJJ3pTFACEBOOK: ​http://goo.gl/M8pnJhSTEEMIT: ​https://steemit.com/@robtheranger TUMBLR: ​http://goo.gl/qF6sNSWatch ​more videos!Lions, Lions, And More Lions: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLLkJbMHt1bpPTGnTaR798fdsHNJ7ZNGtAfrican">https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLLkJbMHt1bpPTGnTaR798fdsHNJ7ZNGtAfrican</a> Elephant (Loxodonta africana): <a href="https://.youtube.com/playlist?v=qzINZPv7PMc&list=PLLLkJbMHt1bpUo_KWtwJ3ck3Q1-xfMmkh&playnex">https://.youtube.com/playlist?v=qzINZPv7PMc&list=PLLLkJbMHt1bpUo_KWtwJ3ck3Q1-xfMmkh&playnex</a> t=1African Wild Dogs/Painted Wolves: <a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?v=DXQc_v5qjS4&list=PLLLkJbMHt1bocK9_hokQ5Z8tpEOukHJnv&playnext">https://youtube.com/playlist?v=DXQc_v5qjS4&list=PLLLkJbMHt1bocK9_hokQ5Z8tpEOukHJnv&playnext</a> =1Hippo (Hippopotamus amphibius): [​https://youtube.com/playlist?v=nDgIt9QF_IM&list=PLLLkJbMHt1bqhsVIGpg5YgS4-prwujiKq&playnext=1 Most Popular: ​https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLLkJbMHt1bpQ4T4enPPMkf_5cK26VouwAbout Rob The Ranger Wildlife Videos:The purpose of the channel is to show what it is like to experience seeing wild animals on an African safari. Nature Documentaries are often highly edited to tell a story, wildlife safaris are not, and the idea here is to show the wildlife sightings the way they were seen. Safari tours in Africa are generally suitable for all ages and this channel can be considered an educational channel about incredible nature, some scenes in the nature videos may be more graphic than people are used to but this is the reality of nature and is what you would see if you were present on such a safari in person. Safaris in Kenya, South Africa, or any other African country are an unrivalled experience for anyone with a passion for nature, wildlife photography, and travel. Hopefully the animal videos on this channel can provide a glimpse into what the nature experience is like and encourage more people to take a wildlife safari one day. Make sure to subscribe and enable ALL notifications!#robtheranger #followingthepride #ximhungwelions

More for You

Gavin Newsom's Chances of Beating Donald Trump, According to Polls

Savannah James Gets in on the Jokes After Bronny Drafted by Los Angeles Lakers

Watch a meteotsunami strike a Lake Michigan shoreline

My Dad Belittled My Work For Years. Then I Received An Email That Told A Very Different Story.

Ignore the critics – Kevin Costner’s three-hour western is a must-watch

California's $18M Invisible Desert Home is Mystifying

Fact Check: Are Immigrants Getting Social Security?

Detroit Pistons acquire Tim Hardaway Jr., picks from Dallas Mavericks

Residents take legal action against Shell as new local facility wreaks havoc on community: 'We all knew it was going to be bad, but it's shockingly bad'

The Boys Creator Says Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki Reunion Would 'Destroy Much of The World'

Here are 5 common traits of Americans who can never, ever retire — how many do you have?

Supreme Court issues major ruling on Jan. 6

Southwest Jet Takes Off on Closed Runway, Nearly Hits Ground Vehicle

Missouri governor explains if Patrick Mahomes and Chiefs will leave Arrowhead Stadium

9 perfect picks from the 2024 NBA Draft

I live in a $250,000 houseboat in Toronto, Canada: Take a look inside

3 underrated movies you need to watch in July 2024

Supreme Court sides with fishermen in landmark case deciding fate of the administrative state

Northern Lights Alert: Here’s Where You Could See The Aurora Borealis Tonight

Gavin Newsom Strikes Back at Trump for 'Disgraceful' Debate Rumor