Enquire
Why book with us?

What are you looking for?

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...

travel-form-icon

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

ENQUIRE TODAY

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

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

What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us

star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Trustpilot review

"We really enjoyed our trip from South Africa to Botswana and Zimbabwe! Sometimes a lot of whether a trip is successful comes down to the logistics. In this case, Susan Veldman and the company took care of all details related to our accommodations, transitio..."

Martha Engber, United States22 May 2026

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon
Trustpilot review

"All advising given by Discover Africa (in our case, by Justin Van Wyk) was really helpful and the programe they have outlined was great. Everything went really smooth and professional."

Luis Cortez, Portugal15 Apr 2026

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon

"Cayleigh planned the perfect safari for us! The safari and tour following were exactly what we wanted. Rockfig was an amazing luxury experience that allowed us to see the big 5 and so much more. Our trip with Discover Africa was worth every penny!"

Alan Kane, United States01 Dec 2025

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon

"Amazing honeymoon - we had the best experience with Susan and Discover Africa in planning our honeymoon. Everything went smoothly and all the lodges / guides were incredible. She also put some special touches like a surprise dinner in the bush and a private..."

Kelly Halter, United States06 Oct 2025

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon

"Susan and the team from Discover Africa you have excelled yourself through the initial contact to the very end of our journey. We were dazzled with the views of Cape Town. Victoria Falls and of course the game parks. The animals did not disappoint the spect..."

Andrew Wales, Australia29 Sep 2025

Read More
star-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-iconstar-icon

"We booked our safari adventures in Kenya and Tanzania with Susan at Discover Africa. The trip was nothing short of amazing, one of the best safari experiences we have ever enjoyed. Susan was thoughtful and patient throughout the planning process and really ..."

Cathy Hurdle, Thailand28 Sep 2025

Read More
View All Testimonials

Our safari traveller reviews are independently verified and sourced from trusted third-party review platforms.