Safari with lions in South Africa
Safari with lions in South Africa available in Kruger National Park, KwaZulu Natal, Limpopo, Madikwe Game Reserve, Mpumalanga, Pilanesberg National Park, Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa, Thornybush Game Reserve, WaterbergCustom designed Lion safaris in South Africa
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If you are looking for the total safari experience and would like to explore the lions of South African, then choosing one of South Africa's top reserves is a good place to start. Take a look at some of the camps that offer an unparalleled safari experiences in South Africa.
Popular Lion safaris in South Africa
These popular itineraries can be customised to match your budget and travel dates
Kruger to the Mozambican Coast (7 days)
Combining the bush and the wildlife found in the famous Sabi Sand in the Kruger National Park with a tropical stay in one of the sublime lodges of Mozambique's Ponta Mamoli
per person
7 days
South African Bush to Mozambican Beach Holiday (8 days)
In this exciting safari holiday, you'll get to experience both Southern Africa's bush and beach beauty
per person
8 days
More on Lion safaris in South Africa
Introduction
South Africa is a large country with so much to offer avid travellers. But one of the most loved tourist attractions are the safari experiences - especially with lions involved. From budget options to the more luxurious, South African game reserves offer a bird's eye view of some of the world's most prolific wildlife.
Being the third most diverse country in the world makes the options to explore a wide array of natural landscapes, wildlife and climate that much more accessible. The top game reserves in the country are equipped for the most discerning of tastes and in most instances no expense has been spared to ensure an authentic luxury safari in South Africa.
Know before you go
Visas: Many countries do not require a visa for South Africa. As long as you are not visiting for more than 90 days then you should be good. Be sure to verify this though.
Currency: You will use South African Rand. Compared to the USD, Euro and Pound, you should receive a favourable exchange rate. Important to note is that if you are travelling to remote areas, ATM’s may be unavailable, so bringing extra cash with is advisable.
Getting around: South Africa’s public transport system is not ideal in some instances, unless you are travelling on a luxury passenger rail. However, Uber is popular and there are a number of metered taxi operaters throughout the country.
Language: South Africa has 11 official languages, but English is predominantly spoken in all regions. The more remote the region, the less this rule may apply.
Vaccinations: You don’t need any, unless you have been traveling through other countries in the “Yellow Fever Belt” in which case you will be required to show proof of a yellow fever shot.
Malaria is only prevelant in a very small part of South Africa, around the Kruger National Park and KwaZulu Natal. The three main areas for excellent game viewing are Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West, KwaZulu Natal and the Eastern Cape. However, before deciding that you need to go down the malaria-free route, remember that in South Africa, mosquitos are not usually a year-round concern. There are a number of months (May to mid-September) when it is too cold at night for mosquitos to survive.
When to go
Visit during the winter months when the bush or savannah is sparse and dry. This makes for easier animal spotting.
What to pack
Comfortable, muted clothes.
A good pair of walking shoes
Sandals
Hat
Long pants
Shorts
A light jacket/jumper (for mild summer evenings)
Warm clothing for winter months - the evenings can get cold.
Weather and Climate
Being a subtropical location, moderated by ocean on two sides of the triangle-shaped country, South Africa’s climate is generally warm and temperate. Winters experience snowfall in some regions, but this is typically isololated to high-lying areas. Summers are characterised by a lot of sun and warm to hot conditions, depending on the region.
Safari / Holiday Styles
A safari-style holiday: casual and adventurous.
Where to stay
Kruger National Park
Madiwe Nature Reserve
Pilanseberg Nature Reserve
The Waterberg
Karoo National Park
Addo Elephant Park
West Coast National Park
Our Recommended Accommodation
RockFig Safari Lodge, Timbavati Game Reserve
Located in the Timbavati Game Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park, this cool, contemporary lodge creates a contrast between the 30…
Riverdene Family Lodge, Shamwari, South Africa
Shamwari Game Reserve, believes in providing guests with the full African experience. In addition to being malaria-free and under the…
Savanna Private Game Reserve, Sabi Sand Game Reserve
Situated in the internationally famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve, this exclusive five-star lodge boasts nine beautifully appointed, thatched…
nThambo Tree Camp, Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, South Africa
nThambo Tree Camp is located in the Klaserie Private Game Reserve which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park. The reserve shares…
Frequently Asked Questions about Lion safaris in South Africa
Although wildlife viewing is good throughout the year. The warmer months from October to March are more pleasant - the scenery is greener and this is also the time most of the animals are born. However, the park is mostly about its scenery… go there.
The best time to visit Ithala Game Reserve is during the dry winter months, from May to September. During this season it is easier to spot the wildlife since the grass is eaten by herbivores. Expect to encounter and sight birds - such as… go there.
The best time to visit Tankwa Karoo National Park is from autumn through winter to early summer of April to September. However, this is a perfect place to indulge in blessed idleness. If you want to see the landscape and animals, you'll… go there.
The best time to visit Marakele National Park is during May to September. Since animals tend to seek for reliable waterholes and stay close by during the dry winter months. However, this is the best time for wildlife viewing. Marakele is a… go there.
Augrabies Falls National Park is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between April and September. When the popular three-day Klipspringer Trail is open. However, the waterfall is particularly impressive when in flood -… go there.
You may visit Wolhuterskop Game and Nature Reserve all year around - winter (during the months of June and August) are chilly, and summer (during the months of November and January) are hot. Enjoy horse rides, mountain bike and game drive. go there.
You can visit Durban any period of the year - whether it’s winter or summer - the temperature in Durban always remain warm and sunny. go there.
October to March is the best time to visit Zebra National park - It is easier to spot the wildlife, since there is less vegetation and the wildlife congregates around the waterholes - as well as migratory birds are present. go there.
Reviews on our Lion safaris in South Africa
Perfectly tailor-made tours that take all your wishes and requests into consideration. All my expectations were beyond fulfilled.
Henrik Wetterstrand
from Sweden
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