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South Africa Safaris

Find out all you need to know about South African safaris and tours

Imagine the thrill of a South Africa safari, the sun warming your skin as you set off on a game drive through the iconic Kruger National Park. Picture the breathtaking moment your eyes meet those of a prowling leopard or the awe-inspiring sight of a pride of lions bathed in the golden hues of dawn or the bright crimson evidence of a recent hunt. Back in the city, South Africans proudly carry the weight of struggles gone by, filled with a sense of unity admired the world over. South Africa safari tours can bring these experiences to your reality.

Discover Africa safari experts craft tailor-made South African safari packages that take you deep into the heart of wilderness. From witnessing the Big Five on exciting game drives to watching a wild dog pack on the hunt, your safari in South Africa will be full of spectacular and unforgettable moments.

South Africa’s allure extends far beyond its wildlife. From the rolling vineyards of the Cape Winelands, where world-class wines await, to the Drakensberg Mountains’ dramatic cliffs and the Wild Coast’s untouched beaches, this country is a tapestry of natural wonders waiting to be explored. And, as you delve deeper into the country’s difficult past, you begin to appreciate exactly why it’s one of the most remarkable nations in the world.

That’s why South Africa isn’t just a destination. It’s a place where every traveller can find their own unforgettable connection with the wild and with themselves, all while savouring world-class cuisine, wines, and safari experiences.

Dive deeper into what makes South Africa a top safari destination. To plan your dream South African safari, one of Discover Africa’s safari experts can curate an itinerary tailored to your unique vision. Enquire now.

Why Visit South Africa?

  • Diverse Safari Options: From the iconic Kruger National Park to private reserves like Sabi Sands, a South African safari comes with a range of safari experiences for all types of travellers.
  • Big Five & Beyond: South Africa is home to an astonishing variety of wildlife, from the famed Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) to elusive predators like cheetahs and African wild dogs, which makes an African safari in South Africa one of the best wildlife experiences on the continent.
  • Luxury & Accessibility: World-class lodges and easy access via major airports make South Africa a top-tier safari destination.
  • Malaria-Free Reserves: Several regions, such as Madikwe Game Reserve and Addo Elephant Park, offer family-friendly, malaria-free safaris.
  • Renowned Winelands: South Africa’s Cape Winelands, particularly Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, boast some of the world’s finest wines and offer picturesque vineyard landscapes and gourmet food experiences that perfectly complement a safari adventure.

Where To Go In South Africa

Wondering where to go on safari in Africa? Discover the top South Africa safari destinations, from the iconic Kruger National Park to the vast Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Explore the best South African wildlife safari parks and reserves.

Addo Elephant National Park

One of South Africa’s largest parks, Addo is famous for its massive elephant population and diverse ecosystems. Not only is this national park home to the Big Five, but also...

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Balule Game Reserve

Forming part of the Greater Kruger Park in the Limpopo Province, the Balule Game Reserve offers unfenced borders with Kruger, allowing free movement of wildlife and authentic safari experiences. A...

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Cape Town

Also known as the Mother City, a Cape Town holiday offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, all set against the iconic backdrop of Table...

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Hermanus and Grootbos

Acres of undisturbed wilderness meet the ocean in the Hermanus and Grootbos regions.  Just 30 minutes away from each other, these two destinations are prime for nature lovers. Imagine watching...

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Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park

Just a three-hour drive from Durban is Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, Africa’s oldest proclaimed nature reserve and a Big Five safari destination renowned for rhino conservation. Once the personal hunting grounds of...

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iSimangaliso Wetland Park

A massive protected area along the coast of KwaZulu-Natal, iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is made up of a mosaic of ecosystems. Visitors here can...

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Johannesburg

Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa, is also known as the City of Gold, as it was built upon one of the world's wealthiest gold deposits. While it's often...

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Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Imagine red sand dunes and scrub stretching out into the horizon; looking out, you feel as if you're the only person exploring this wilderness – there isn't another game vehicle...

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Kruger National Park

There are many reasons why Kruger National Park is among the most famous parks in Africa. From the extensive biodiversity and numerous safari options to the large numbers of Big...

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Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Imagine walking through the African bush - rolling grasslands that seem to go on forever with pockets of thick forests - in search of one of the most endangered animals...

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KwaZulu-Natal

The diverse landscapes, abundance of available activities, and rich local culture all merge to make KwaZulu-Natal a premier destination during a trip to South Africa. Go on an adventure along...

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Madikwe Game Reserve

If you’re looking for a Big Five game reserve that’s also malaria-free and offers luxurious accommodations, Madikwe is one of the best options. Going beyond the famous Big Five members,...

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Makalali Private Game Reserve

A 26,000-hectare reserve committed to wildlife rehabilitation, Makalali Private Game Reserve is set in pristine bushveld and offers Big Five safaris. Once a cattle farm, Makalali underwent a restoration process...

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Manyeleti Game Reserve

Meaning "Place of Stars", Manyeleti offers a tranquil safari experience with exceptional stargazing opportunities and fewer crowds. Manyeleti shares unfenced borders with Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, and Timbavati, so...

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Namaqualand

Imagine spending days walking among blooming flowers for as far as the eye can see. At night, your multicoloured floral views are exchanged for an incredible display of stars, thanks...

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Phinda Private Game Reserve

If you want to witness the grace of a cheetah crossing the African plains while on safari, Phinda Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is the perfect choice. This...

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Pilanesberg National Park

The landscape of Pilanesberg National Park was partly formed from volcanic activity millions of years ago, which has left this area with diverse paths to explore. Game drives and walking...

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Sabi Sand Game Reserve

At Sabi Sands, Africa's big cats reign supreme. The reserve shares an unfenced border with the Kruger National Park, fostering an ecosystem that allows big game to thrive. Stylish, luxury...

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Samara Karoo Private Wildlife Reserve

A South African safari at Samara isn't just about spotting the Big Five; it's about contributing to something so much bigger. Since the reserve was founded in the 1990s, every...

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Stellenbosch and the Winelands

As South Africa’s premier wine region, Stellenbosch offers world-class vineyards, charming Cape Dutch architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere in which to unwind. Explore the many different wine farms in this...

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The Garden Route

One of the most iconic journeys in South Africa, the Garden Route is a picturesque stretch of coastline that takes travellers through lush forests, stunning beaches, and charming towns. There...

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The Panorama Route

The Panorama Route in Mpumalanga is known for its dramatic scenery, including waterfalls, canyons, and historic towns. One of South Africa’s most scenic drives, you’ll pass iconic spots including God's...

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Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

The home of ghost-like white lions, Timbavati – extending over Mpumalanga and Limpopo – has a special place in the world of South African safari destinations. Timbavati is part of...

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Tswalu Kalahari Private Wildlife Reserve

Imagine a land of vast savannah, golden grasses rippling in the wind, and dunes extending into the horizon - this is where Tswalu is focusing on unhurried safari adventures, conservation,...

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Best Time To Visit South Africa

Peak Season

Low Season

Shoulder Season

Our Recommended Activities In South Africa

Explore our recommended safari experiences in South Africa and find the perfect way to connect with its diverse beauty and culture. These activities can be included in South Africa safari packages for the perfect adventure in the wilderness.

Who Is Travelling To South Africa With You?

Your safari in South Africa can be tailored to you, whether you’re travelling solo or with family, or you’re planning a romantic honeymoon safari.

What You Need To Know About South Africa Safari Tours

Find everything you need to know to plan your South Africa safari, from travel tips to essential insights for an unforgettable trip.

Not sure what to pack? Discover Africa has created a detailed guide to clothing, gadgets and so much more, but if you want to find out more - speak to us.


Packing List for a South African Safari

So, you’ve settled on southern Africa as your ideal safari destination, but you can’t choose between two of the world’s most famous wildlife havens: South Africa and Botswana. One is home to Kruger National Park, a game reserve that’s bigger than some countries, and the other boasts the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site...


South African Safaris vs Botswana Safaris

During a South Africa safari trip, you can see a diverse range of animals, including the famous Big Five. Find out more about South Africa wildlife here.


South Africa Wildlife Safari Trips

So, you’ve decided to experience the safari vacation of a lifetime in South Africa, but there’s one thing making you a bit apprehensive: crime. While it’s true that crime rates are relatively high in South Africa, the overwhelming majority of visitors have hassle-free holidays. Generally speaking, the vast majority of crime in South Africa is...


Is South Africa Safe?

Are you going on a holiday in South Africa? With 12 official languages, there are a variety of ways to communicate with the locals.


Languages in South Africa

South Africa’s safari options are as varied as its landscapes, from the expansive plains of the Kruger National Park to the exclusive, game-rich areas of Sabi Sands and the family-friendly, malaria-free safari reserves. Our carefully curated safari packages are designed to accommodate a range of comfort levels while ensuring that every journey is underpinned by responsible...


Cost of a South African Safari

Going on a South Africa safari and unsure about tipping practices? This is your guide to tipping in South Africa, including your safari guides and lodge staff.


Tipping in South Africa

South Africa is one of Africa’s top safari destinations, offering pristine wilderness areas and abundant wildlife. If you’re planning a safari, knowing how to get there by air is essential. Here’s a guide on flying to South Africa from around the world and an overview of its main airports. International Flights to South Africa Most...


Flights to South Africa

When thinking about LGBTQ-friendly countries to travel to, unfortunately African countries aren’t often thought of. While there are some African nations that have laws against the LGBTQ community, there are others that are safe and extremely welcoming. One of these LGBTQ-friendly travel destinations in Africa is South Africa. Is South Africa LGBTQ Friendly? Yes! South...


LGBTQ Travel in South Africa

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South Africa Safari Reviews

Read what other travellers have to say about their unforgettable safari to South Africa.

Highly professional and experienced tour operator

17 Day Kenya, Tanzania & Zanzibar Family Safari Review

Melanie, United Kingdom
20 Oct 2024
Best vacation experience of a lifetime!

11 Day South African Safari & Cape Town Holiday Review

Stacey, United States
20 Sep 2024
Best itinerary, best price, best customer service.

Letaka Northern Highlights & Cape Town Safari Review

Susan, United States
19 Sep 2024
Outstanding

10 Day Cape Town, Kruger & Victoria Falls Review

Dean, United States
10 Sep 2024
Victoria Falls and Botswana Safari

7 Day Victoria Falls, Chobe & Moremi Safari Review

Hind, United Kingdom
01 Jul 2024
Discover Africa delivered to us the Adventure of a Lifetime - an...

15 Day Kruger Park and Botswana Safari Review

Karen & Bill, United States
04 Jun 2024