Top Safari Holidays in South Africa

South Africa offers some of the most diverse and thrilling safari experiences in the world, with its abundance of wildlife reserves, national parks, and private game reserves.

First off, here are some top safari spots in South Africa:

Here are some of the most well known safari destinations in South Africa:

1. Kruger National Park: This iconic park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa, spanning nearly 20,000 square kilometres. It’s renowned for its incredible diversity of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros). Visitors can enjoy self-drive safaris or join guided tours.
2. Addo Elephant National Park: As the third-largest national park in South Africa, Addo Elephant National Park is famous for its large elephant population. In addition to elephants, visitors can see lions, buffaloes, rhinos, and a variety of antelope species. The park also offers self-drive and guided game viewing opportunities.
3. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park: This historic park in KwaZulu-Natal is known for its successful conservation efforts, particularly in saving the white rhino from extinction. It offers excellent opportunities for game viewing, including the Big Five, as well as guided walks and boat safaris along the Hluhluwe Dam.
4. Pilanesberg Game Reserve: Situated in the North West Province, Pilanesberg is one of the country’s most accessible game reserves, located near Johannesburg. Visitors can spot a wide variety of wildlife, including the Big Five, and enjoy hot air balloon safaris for a unique perspective.

Here are some of the most lesser well known safari destinations in South Africa, however still equally terrific:

1. Manyoni Game Reserve: Adjacent to Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands is a private game reserve known for its high concentration of wildlife and luxurious lodges. It offers exceptional game viewing opportunities, including close encounters with leopards, which are frequently spotted here.
2. Madikwe Game Reserve: Situated in the North West Province, Madikwe is one of South Africa’s largest game reserves and is malaria-free. It’s home to a wide range of wildlife, including the Big Five, cheetahs, wild dogs, and over 300 bird species. Visitors can enjoy guided game drives and bush walks.
3. Selwane Game Reserve
4. Thornybush Game Reserve

Secondly, here are some top safari recommendations in South Africa:

Starting in Richard’s Bay (A).

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

---

Finishing in Johannesburg (I).

Made with TEP’s Route Planner

---

Some more recommendations:

These are just a few of the top safari destinations in South Africa, each offering a unique wildlife experience amidst stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari enthusiast, South Africa’s safari offerings are sure to leave a lasting impression.