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Last Updated: 30 January 2024

Safari Plains – The Perfect Getaway From The Big City

Written by  Tiffany Bowers

 • Travel Writer

Part of the South Africa Safari Collection

Planning a safari in South Africa always causes a rush of excitement – from choosing the destination to the ideal dates to suit everyone.

Once booked, marking the calendar is the final confirmation and the countdown can start. However, long holidays and far off destinations are not always possible.

Sundowners by the ocean
Sundowners by the Ocean, South Africa

But living in the big city, there are great getaways right on your doorstep.  Let me tell you more :

Taking a break from the hustle and bustle

When the world was hit with the COVID-19 virus, things changed – not all for the worst.  During the lockdown, families had more time together, homes became offices and parents teachers.

The city is undoubtedly starting to feel a little cramped, and everyone needs a break.  Longhaul vacations might not be possible at the moment, but there are amazing options closer to home to experience an authentic South African safari.

Waterberg Region

Situated in the Limpopo Province, the Waterberg Mountain Range paints a fantastic backdrop to the Waterberg region.  This area is internationally recognised as a natural heritage site and is a unique area of South Africa.

“UNESCO has awarded the area the status of World Biosphere Reserve and is the only savannah biosphere in the world.”

South African Rhino Sighting
South African Rhino Sighting

Home to the Big five and so many other species, including Sable and Roan antelope, which are rarely seen anywhere else, there is so much more to explore.

The Waterberg area has a fascinating history.  This was first home to the San Bushmen, with several archaeological sites and bushmen paintings found in the area.

Safari Plains the Perfect Option

Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or maybe a break over the festive season, there are some great options in the Waterberg Region.

The Safari Plains Lodge, the perfect choice, is only 200 kilometres from Johannesburg.  You can leave after the kids return from school on Friday afternoon and then be back before they start their new week on Monday – relaxed and recharged.

Safari Plains offers accommodation for every sort of traveller.

You have the choice of either a safari tent or a luxury tent. Each Safari Plains tent is located along a winding pathway from the main lodge and offers a fantastic retreat for guests.

Enjoy the natural bushveld of the Safari Plains.  Both tent styles options also offer family tents which allow for a second bedroom for the children – the perfect family getaway.

Morning and afternoon game drives are on the cards when staying at Safari Plains. Nothing more exciting than setting off in the early morning to spot wildlife as they wake up and start their day. Horseback safaris are also an option.

Wanting to get a little closer to nature, why not book a guided bush walk with a qualified guide.

There is also a swimming pool at the main lodge which you can enjoy between game drives.  To completely relax, there is a spa that can treat you to a massage or facial.

Your day ends with a fantastic dinner, and you can learn more about the stars. With almost no pollution or city lights, stargazing is breathtaking here.

So whether you are just looking forward to a break from daily chores and zoom meetings, or would like to enjoy some time in nature, why not book a few nights at Safari Plains.  You will not be disappointed!

Written by  Tiffany Bowers

 • Travel Writer

Discover the African Journey that’s Right for You

Discover Africa Through Travellers' Stories

These stories capture the real magic of Africa – where every journey becomes a chapter worth sharing.

The true magic, though, is with the people. They’re not just staff; they’re my friends, my family.

JJ Towler

United States

Matthys Van Aswegen

JJ Towler's journey was crafted with the expertise of Matthys Van Aswegen

I went to Africa to help my parents check a box, but I returned with a new perspective on my own life. Africa is no longer a "someday" destination for me; it’s a "must-return".

Steven

United States

Vihann Van Wyk

Steven's journey was crafted with the expertise of Vihann Van Wyk

We trusted our guide implicitly as we sat mere metres from elephants, lions, and hippos.

Cathy & Debb

Canada

Vihann Van Wyk

Cathy & Debb's journey was crafted with the expertise of Vihann Van Wyk

The Serengeti offered us sights we had never witnessed before, such as the surreal image of lions lounging high in the trees

Cathy & Nat

Canada

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"Chrizaan was wonderful. She took our requests to heart and created a once in a lifetime trip for us. The transportation was arranged flawlessly and the safaris were breathtaking. We saw so much and did so much but it didn’t feel rushed. I would recommend Ch..."

Jacqueline Berkebile, United States28 May 2026

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"We booked our safari trip through Justin van Wyk from Discover Africa, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience. He organized and booked everything from A to Z, so we didn’t have to worry about anything at all. Throughout the entire trip, we stayed..."

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"From start to finish, every phase of our trip was seamless. From the man who greeted us at Nairobi airport when we arrived to the woman who assisted us at our departure, we were taken care of perfectly. Our lodges at Saruni Samburu and Saruni Mara were beau..."

Lynne Calero, United States20 Nov 2025

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"We booked a safari through Discover Africa for Botswana and Zambia and it was fantastic! Chrizaan was super helpful and accommodating, especially when we had to change our dates of travel slightly. She worked with the lodges to accommodate us and found a so..."

Alice & Ross, Monaco09 Sep 2025

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"Adelle at Discover Africa helped to plan our first safari and everything went so smoothly from our internal flights to the game reserve and the booking at the lodge. Couldn’t fault them and wouldn’t hesitate to use them again in the future :)"

Amy MacDonald, United Kingdom01 Sep 2025

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