safari tour operators south africa

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South Africa Luxury Safari Tours

South Africa’s luxury safari tours take in some of the highlights of what is arguably the continent’s most diverse and developed tourist circuit. A trip might include the impressive cities of Cape Town and Stellenbosch, the fossil sites of the Cradle of Humankind, the ancient rock art of the Drakensberg mountains and the spring flowers of Namaqualand. The country’s 2,700km/1,680mi coastline is varied and scenic. As if that were not enough, South Africa is also a fabulous wildlife-viewing destination – from the vast Big Five country protected within the Greater Kruger, malaria-free Madikwe and Pilanesberg and the desert landscapes of Kgalagadi to the seasonal whale-calving grounds below Hermanus.

4-Day Madikwe Safari at Thakadu River Camp

$1,275 to $1,451 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Madikwe GR, Johannesburg (End)

Indigo Safaris

4.8 /5  –  128 Reviews

5-Day Luxury Kruger Park and Sabi Sand Safari

$2,921 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Chalet

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Sabi Sands (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

Safari.com   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.7 /5  –  186 Reviews

7-Day South Africa Luxury Tour

$3,134 to $3,642 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Franschhoek (Winelands) , Timbavati NR (Greater Kruger) , Hoedspruit Airport (Hoedspruit) , Hoedspruit (End)

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

4-Day Kapama River Lodge Game Safari

$2,072 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury+ Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kapama GR (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

Ranger Buck Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  28 Reviews

4-Day Kapama River Camp Fly-in Safari from Cape Town

$2,313 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Luxury+ Lodge

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Kapama GR (Greater Kruger) , Cape Town (End)

MoAfrika Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  1178 Reviews

5-Day Greenfire Game Lodge Safari

$1,501 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Balule NR (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

The Kruger Safari Co.   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  125 Reviews

5-Day Luxury Safari Big Five

$1,955 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Waterberg Biosphere, Johannesburg (End)

4.5 /5  –  154 Reviews

11-Day Luxury Garden Route Honeymoon - Whales and Safari

$8,427 pp (USD)

South Africa: Self-drive Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Hermanus (Whales) , De Hoop NR, Plettenberg Bay (Garden Route) , Kwandwe GR, Port Elizabeth (End)

5.0 /5  –  42 Reviews

3-Day Zula Lush Private Reserve Pilanesberg

$1,598 to $1,893 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Soweto (Johannesburg) , Pilanesberg GR, Cradle of Humankind (Highlight) , Johannesburg (End)

Zula Zula Adventure Bus   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  2 Reviews

4-Day Lux Ivory Tree Lodge in Pilanesberg National Park

$888 to $1,027 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Pilanesberg GR, Johannesburg (End)

Gems of Africa Safari and Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  99 Reviews

4-Day 3 Nights Luxury Fly in Safari Kruger National Park

$3,571 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Sabi Sands (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

African Welcome Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  230 Reviews

6-Day Sabi Sands and Kruger Park Safari

$4,212 to $4,621 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Sabi Sands (Greater Kruger) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg Airport (End)

Discover Africa Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  420 Reviews

3-Day Madikwe Luxury Safari

$1,454 pp (USD)

Safari With Us   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  217 Reviews

5-Day Luxurious Greater Kruger Safari

$1,623 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Hoedspruit (Town) , Johannesburg (End)

Safari Reinhardt   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  8 Reviews

5-Day The Best of Both Worlds-National and Private Parks

$1,809 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Luxury Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Balule NR (Greater Kruger) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Wildlife Encounters   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  20 Reviews

5-Day 4 Star Panorama Route & Greater Kruger Park Safari

$1,939 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Panorama Route (Highlight) , Greater Kruger, Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Mmilo Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  124 Reviews

6-Day Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park

$2,877 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

BST Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.8 /5  –  30 Reviews

6-Day Kruger Package Bush and Elephants

$2,292 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Olifants West NR (Greater Kruger) , Kruger NP, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Johannesburg Airport (End)

Ku Sungula Safari Lodge   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  10 Reviews

4-Day Kruger Park, Game Drive & Safari Walk Tour

$2,681 pp (USD)

Knap Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

3-Day Private Kruger Park Safari and Panorama Route

$858 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 20 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Hazyview (Town) , Kruger NP, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Johannesburg (End)

Steinbock African Safari   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

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6 Questions About South Africa Luxury Safari Tours

Answered by

Philip briggs.

Why should I choose South Africa for a luxury trip?

“South Africa has many private reserves and concession lodges that cater specifically to the luxury market. All the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) are present in good numbers in the major private reserves. On luxury safaris, game drives and walks are generally guided by knowledgeable and experienced guides and trackers. A bonus of most private reserves and concession lodges is that night drives are permitted, as is a certain amount of off-road driving. This enhances the likelihood of close encounters with lions, leopards and other carnivores. As a bonus, South Africa has a very organized and efficient tourist infrastructure by African standards. This, combined with a luxury safari, makes it a reliable holiday choice for nervous first-time visitors to the continent.”

What is included in a South Africa luxury safari?

“A South Africa luxury safari usually operates on an all-inclusive basis. This covers four- or five-star accommodation, all meals, and expertly guided activities such as game drives in open 4x4s. Some top-end lodges also include laundry and drinks in their prices. Booked directly through the lodge, prices are unlikely to include transportation there and back. However, any package price quoted by a tour operator should include road or air transfers from the specified starting point. Tips are not included in either case, and these can add up.”

What parks do you recommend for a South African luxury safari?

“There are plenty of choices. In my opinion, the first choice for general wildlife viewing and Big Five sightings is a cluster of private reserves on the western border of Kruger National Park. These reserves are collectively managed and marketed as Sabi Sands. The only drawback to Sabi Sands is that some (not all) properties share traversing rights with several neighbors. The strict rules limiting vehicle numbers often result in a long wait to join a sighting or being hurried off to make space for another lodge’s clients. A better option, from this point of view, is Timbavati Nature Reserve, which borders Kruger, and has a scattering of exclusive concession lodges. A trip to Greater Kruger carries a low but genuine risk of contracting malaria, in particular during the hotter, wetter months of November to April. Many safari-goers, particularly those with young children, prefer to head to malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve for this reason. Madikwe boasts some superb luxury lodges and fine Big Five wildlife viewing. Convenient for those whose South African holiday includes the Western and Eastern Cape is a cluster of malaria-free private reserves situated in Addo Elephant National Park, inland of Port Elizabeth. The pick of the private reserves in KwaZulu-Natal is Phinda. It offers great Big Five viewing and is also maybe the most reliable place in South Africa to spot cheetah.”

Can you describe a typical day on a South Africa luxury trip?

“Most lodges set in private reserves or concessions are exempt from the restrictions on driving between sunset and sunrise enforced in most national parks and public reserves. This has an impact on a typical day, allowing for a schedule that makes the most of the wildlife-viewing hours when predators are active. A typical day starts with a pre-dawn wake-up call and a pot of tea or coffee, before heading out on an early morning game drive. Return to the lodge mid-morning for brunch or late breakfast. Then plan on a long and relaxed lunch break, especially during the southern hemisphere summer when days are longer and temperatures higher. Following a nap or swim and a light afternoon tea, you head out on an evening game drive. This usually incorporates a sundowner drink and a night drive, where the tracker will use a spotlight to pick out wildlife ranging from chameleons and nightjars to genets and bush babies. After this, it’s back to the lodge for a three-course bush dinner and a drink around the campfire. Some lodges offer guided game walks to see birds and smaller wildlife, either first thing in the morning or – more commonly – after breakfast. These provide a welcome change of pace for those people spending more than two days on safari. Ideally, a game walk is undertaken in the morning cool rather than the heat of the afternoon.”

What type of accommodation can I expect?

“Your South Africa luxury safari will almost certainly be based at exclusive small lodges offering the safari equivalent variation of a three- to five-star city hotel. Most of these lodges are designed to make the most of their African bush surroundings and are constructed from a combination of stone, canvas, wood and thatch. Some pricier lodges offer even more ambitious designs and facilities. Wherever you stay, accommodation will likely be spacious, comfortable freestanding units with en suite showers and private verandahs. Many lodges also have swimming pools, spas and/or quality gift shops. World-class cuisine is usually complemented by carefully selected Cape wines. The service is top-notch. The upmarket lodges in South Africa’s numerous private wildlife reserves are scattered all around the country. The most important and best of them are clustered in three areas: along the western border of Kruger National Park, in northeastern KwaZulu-Natal close to iSimangaliso and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, and in the Eastern Cape in the vicinity of Addo Elephant National Park. In addition to the private reserves, similarly exclusive lodges can be found in various concessions set within public reserves such as Kruger National Park and Madikwe Game Reserve.”

How much will this safari cost?

“The price of the safari leg of a South Africa luxury tour depends on which part of the country you choose and how much luxury you want to experience. You’d be lucky to pick up an all-inclusive luxury safari package for less than US$250 to US$300 per day per person sharing. At the absolute top end of the range you might be looking at an all-inclusive daily price of US$700 to US$1,000 per person. Safaris in Sabi Sands and Phinda are more costly, while the concession lodges in Kruger and Madikwe are somewhat cheaper. Most lodges offer discounted low-season rates and special one-off packages during the southern hemisphere winter (May to September). This is the best time of year for Big Five sightings in most parts of the country.”

South Africa Reviews

Lizzie is a reputed guidebook writer and author of the Footprint guides to South Africa, Namibia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe.

South Africa is rightly celebrated for its magnificent natural beauty and excellent choice of parks

South Africa has a wonderful range of landscapes, a near-perfect climate, and the choice of destinations, activities and itineraries is virtually inexhaustible. Aside from its beautiful coastline and cosmopolitan cities – both of which I...

Full Review

Anthony is a photographer and writer for travel magazines and Lonely Planet, including the guides to Kenya and Botswana & Namibia.

South Africa: World-class Safaris

South Africa is one of my favourite places to go on safari, with all the necessary ingredients for a wildlife experience that will begin your enduring love affair with the continent. Primary among these ingredients is the wildlife....

Wonderful nature, hibitants and guides

I had a wonderful 4 days safari where I was blessed with meeting 4 out the big 5. Some of them multiple times. This is because of the fantastic guides who walks an extra mile to give you memorable moments. Can highly recommend.

OUTSTANDING

If you are contemplating booking an African Safari, just do it, you will experience the best Africa has to offer! My husband and I booked a five day Kruger Park Safari with Endless Summer and we were totally impressed. Our guide, Wade, was...

Stunning diverse natural beauty

Cape Town has so much to offer, stunning sea views, beautiful beaches, mountains, vineyards and wildlife nearby. Our experience of penguins, whales, dolphins and baboons was amazing . Then the big 5 at Aquila Game Reserve was a hit. A...

Far exceeds your expectations

Really enjoyed my safari with Viva Tours in South Africa; the 6 day safari was a luxury because I had time to do 2 full days in Kruger Park and numerous game drives in their private reserve to ensure I saw all of the big five animals as...

South Africa Safaris Companies

Browse the best safari tour companies in south africa.

Find the best South African safari company for your trip using our directory below. South Africa is a large and incredibly diverse country, and the number and standard of South Africa safari tour companies reflects this.  The list of South African safari companies below contains a range from budget safaris to luxury safaris in South Africa.

One very useful resource before you book a South African safari package is  South Africa National Parks (SANParks) , a national organization that can help you confirm how reputable your chosen tour company is.

Before booking, be sure to confirm your safari package in detail – what’s expected and included for each stage of your trip – particularly meals, transfers, accommodation, and game drives. Make sure that you get written confirmation of the number of game drives and all other information, along with start and end dates and times before you make any payments.

Below is a list of our pick of the very best South African safari tours, listed in order of the number of votes our website visitors have given them.

Search South Africa’s best safari companies:

Moriti Private Safaris

We specialise in privately guided tours into Greater Kruger Park, which is a collection of private reserves on Kruger Park’s western boundary, with no fences to impede the movement of the animals. We have private access to over 37 000 acres of big 5 bushveld which allows you the opportunity to go on the most private safari offered in southern Africa! Our tours are innovative and very competitive and we believe that our safaris are so unique you will not find anything else like them on the web!

Nhongo Safaris

Join one of our South African Open Vehicle Safaris into the world-renowned Kruger National Park on either an overnight safari experience or even a Kruger Park day safari. If you’re staying on the perimeter of the Kruger Park this will give you the opportunity of seeing the Big 5 and experiencing the natural wonders of this magnificent game reserve. All our overnight safaris are conducted in our own safari vehicles and include all transfers, accommodation, dinner and breakfast, entrance fees and daily game drives.

Kurt Safari Co

Kurt Safari Co is one of the Kruger’s leading tour operators, with over 20 years spent welcoming guests from all over the world to experience the ultimate Kruger Park safari. We have a diverse selection of fantastic Kruger safaris for our clients to choose from. Each safari is carried out in an open safari vehicle and in the company of one of our professional guides, each of whom has years of experience guiding tours through the Kruger.  Our tailor-made safaris as well as our standard safari packages, offer something for everyone. Whether you are looking to spend a single day, 3, 4 or even 5 days in the Kruger, we have the tour for you.

Bushbaby Adventures

We specialize in Safaris, Transfers, overnight tours & special occasions like small weddings and engagements in Kruger Park. If you feel like a tour through Kruger Park and the surrounding areas, we can cater for you and show you all the beautiful places close to Kruger Park. We cater traditional South African meals and drinks and let you experience the bush in a way you will never forget. Birding tours also on our activity list.

Wild Wings Safaris

Looking for an unforgettable South African safari? Our team of destination experts will help you plan a tailor-made safari experience that is perfect for you. We’ve travelled all over South Africa and beyond, and have been designing custom safari itineraries since 2005. We have offices in the UK and South Africa, and offer full financial protection for your peace of mind. Whatever your dream safari – we can make it come true!

Crossroads Safaris & Tours

Crossroads Safaris is one of the leading tour operators in the Hoedspruit area. Our main focus is on wildlife and game viewing in the Kruger National Park. We offer full day and half-day safaris into the world-renowned Kruger National Park in an open safari vehicle as well as extended safaris into Southern and Northern Botswana and overnight safaris in Kruger. Please have a look at our website for more information.

Other South African safari companies:

• African Routes : www.africanroutes.co.za Specialize in camping and overland tours for both youngsters and older travelers.
• Bird Watch Cape : www.birdwatch.co.za Cape Town based twittching outfit, offering day trips and overnight tours.
• Bundu Safaris : www.bundusafaris.co.za Budget yet high quality overnight safari tours with a focus on backpackers.
• Thompsons South Africa : www.thompsonssa.com A company focusing on high end multi-day safaris across most of South Africa’s national parks.
• Viva Safaris: https://www.vivasafaris.com A leading South African Tour Operator offering value-for-money Kruger Park safari  packages and tours in open game vehicles. 27 different packages and daily departures, 365 days a year.
• Wilderness Safaris : www.wilderness-safaris.com A luxury lodge and safari operator who offer a selection of niche wildlife viewing tours, including cycling safaris, bird watching and a specialized botanical tour.
• Wildlife Safaris : www.wildlifesaf.co.za Johannesburg-based safari operator specializing in small, customized trips to the nearby Kruger.

Have a recommendation for a good safari tour operator in South Africa? Let us know .

View  safari companies in other countries.

National Parks Guide

Known for their natural beauty and diverse wildlife, Africa’s national parks are the world’s premier safari destinations.

When To Go On Safari

Time of year can play a big part in what animals you’ll see on safari, and how accessible certain National Parks are. When’s the best time to go ?

Wildlife Spotting Guide

Read our  beginners guide to spotting wildlife to help you truly make the most of your time on safari.

African safari companies

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Kenya safari companies

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South Africa Accommodation

Find safari accommodation in South Africa – from budget campsites to luxury lodges >>

South Africa Car Hire

Considering a self-drive safari? Research and book car hire in South Africa >>

Activities in South Africa

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Top countries for safaris

• Botswana safaris
• Kenya safaris
• Namibia safaris
• South Africa safaris
• Tanzania safaris
• Uganda safaris

Safari basics

• Safari animals
• How to find the right safari company
• When to go on safari
• What to take on safari
• Safari clothing – what to wear
• Safari rules & etiquette
• Wildlife spotting tips

Most read articles

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Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
• Etosha National Park, Namibia
• Kruger National Park, South Africa
• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
• Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
• Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

• Accommodations

8:00am - 17:00PM

Top Destinations

South africa, east africa.

• Destinations 8 African Countries
• Safari Packages Recommended Itineraries
• Victoria Falls Best Tours & Activities
• Houseboats Excitement Of Exploring
• Overland Expeditions Self-Reliant Adventure Travel
• Let's Plan Journey
• Destinations
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• Victoria Falls
• Overland Expeditions

Let Us Be Your Guide

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In south africa.

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Cape town tours.

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South africa tours.

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Our african story.

Dream Makers

For more than five decades we’ve been refining our craft, driven to over-deliver. An almost impossibly all-inclusive safari, as this list tries to show. Falcon Safaris the #1 World’s Best Safari Outfitter an unprecedented ten times. No other company comes close.

Itineraries perfected by our large in-country staff’s generations of experience and local knowledge. Extensive safety protocols perfected by 55 years of on-the-ground expertise. Luxurious camps and lodges – obsessively, continually evaluated on the ground by our Safari Directors.

Travelling With Falcon Safaris

The start of a legacy

The falcon safaris story began in 2004, on a piece of land in victoria falls, zimbabwe, owned by hamilton mandizvidza..

He, along with the rest of the Falcon Team, are available to consult with you at any time about whatever you may want or need. And the Family’s long history and established standing throughout Africa enables “only with Falcon” access to extraordinary people, places, and experiences. Only Falcon Safaris offers a wonder-working Concierge Team on safari, available in person or phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from just about anywhere a Falcon Safaris will take you, from deep in the bush to downtown.

Journeys & Places

We think you’ll love.

We offer private access to nearly two and a half million hectares (over five million acres) of Africa’s finest wildlife and wilderness areas, through some 40 luxury camps and safaris across seven countries.

Best Safari Packages

Hand-picked safaris & destination in africa.

Kenya, Africa

10 days bush and zanzi beach safari.

Johannesburg, Africa

10 day luxury sun city, victoria falls and joburg golf safari.

Namibia, Africa

10 day namibia highlights safari, stay at luxury camps & lodges, we think you'll love.

Situated in Hwange National Park

Amalinda Collection

Mountains, plains and waterways.

Bomani Tented Camp

Camelthorn Lodge

Camp Hwange

Download Our Top Most Company Profile

Falcon Safaris is an African safari specialist and tour operator, offering a full service for arranging and booking safaris, mountain climbing expeditions, and beach holidays throughout Africa. Designed by our safari specialists, this Company Profile covers Africa’s most famous parks and exciting experiences. This is just a glimpse of what we offer - our team is fiercely proud of being a luxury tailor-made travel company!

"Leaving your holiday in our hands today will leave it in your memories forever."

55 day best of africa north.

The Ultimate Getaway

Our Curated Packages

Designed overland expeditions packages, 42 days southern circle.

Home is where the family goes

20 Days Cape To Victoria Falls

Finding the beauty together

Conservation. Our Passion, Our Purpose

Falcon safari helping people, child to live more.

South Africa Community

East Africa Community

Zambia Community

Zimbabwe Community

Botswana Community

Namibia Community

Mozambique Community

Houseboats experience.

A Million-Star Experience

An ideal getaway for young couples or honeymooners looking to get away, houseboat safaris are a great option for the whole family to spend some quality time together in new surroundings. Sit back and watch as the wildlife come to you, while you float away underneath the glow of the African sun.

Start Planning Your Tailored African Safari

Expert safari knowledge.

With decades of expertise, we're your trusted safari guides, ensuring every moment exceeds your expectations.

Tailor-made African Safaris

Tailored to your preferences, our African Safaris guarantee an adventure perfectly suited to your desires.

Long-term Relationships

Our enduring partnerships across Africa provide exclusive access and authentic experiences.

Carefree Travel

Leave your worries behind and accept carefree travel with Falcon Safaris, where every detail is handled to perfection.

Our Travelers Say

We travelled with Falcon Safaris in Zimbabwe and Botswana for 16 days. Falcon designed a wonderful trip with private guide to the most interesting sites in both countries. The organization of the whole trip was excellent, flights within the country, accommodation and activites. The guides were very knowledgable and told us a lot about the countries, their history, people, economy and much more. We visited the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, the Victoria Falls Tour and a number of national parks in both countries. Rhino tracking was a real adventure! We had tremendous further game drives and saw very many animals - we did the Big Five. We had much more Victoria Falls Activities than planned and enjoyed very much.We strongly recommend Falcon Safaris to everyone planning a trip to Southern Africa and East Africa.

Wonderful trip to Zimbabwe and Botswana with excellent organization and very competent guides

Our Consultant Vimbai was very helpful and accommodating. We stayed at the Elephant hills hotel which was nothing short of amazing.Our activities included a helicopter flight, dinner cruise as well as a morning game drive. All the activities were absolutely amazing.

Exceptional!

We worked with Gertrude to schedule and organize everything and she did an excellent job. I asked a lot of questions via e-mail and she answered everyone in a timely helpful manner. Our guide at Victoria Falls was also great. He met us at the airport, provided a thoughtful tour of the Falls and got us to our next guide in Botswana. Our lodgings at River View Lodge were just as described- very comfortable and excellent food. All the staff were so pleasant and helpful. If I had to do it again I would arrange a morning boat ride as well. We only did the sunset boat rides and they were the high point of our entire trip- we saw so many animals and our guide was very knowledgeable. Just a great experience. Our lodgings at Oddball's Enclave was rustic and we loved it. So great to disconnect from the world for a bit. Leo, our guide, was the best - got us out and about, saw fantastic wildlife and got back to camp safely each time. Doc manages the camp so well. This whole trip was planned and organized by Falcon Safaris and we could not have been happier.

Fabulous, well planned trip

Falcon safaris have given my the correct advice with excellent service. The only suggestion will be to work closer with the lodges to confirm bookings as soon as possible. We have booked and pay our deposit a year in advance. We have only receive our final convermation from Chobe Safari lodge a week before departure. I do realize its not within your controle but with limit alternatives and a group of 14 people it becomes an issue to find alternative accomodation if the booking was cancelled.

Excellent and efficient service

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The Top 10 South Africa Safari Tours

South Africa is a land of breathtaking beauty and extraordinary wildlife. It is one of the best countries for a safari. And there are many South Africa safari tours to choose from.

From vast savannas to lush wetlands, this diverse country offers you an array of magnificent landscapes. This is your backdrop to thrilling encounters with the world’s most iconic animals.

Jump straight to the Top 10 South Africa Safari Tours

Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. Witness iconic lions prowling the grasslands, graceful giraffes grazing under the African sun, and mighty elephants roaming freely across the horizon.

We will mention these South Africa Safari Tours below – and we will include short video guides, tour summaries and the differences between experiences.

Where to go for the best safari experience?

South Africa is a land of extraordinary diversity and abundance. It’s truly fortunate to possess an exceptional amount of wildlife and incredible landscapes.

This captivating country offers you remarkable safari encounters. You have almost unparalleled opportunities to immerse yourself in nature.

With many different protected areas, including national parks and incredible private game reserves, you can enjoy an unforgettable journey in this remarkable country.

But where do you go to make the most of your safari experience? We will mention our recommendations below.

There are some celebrated areas for wildlife in South Africa. And these include fantastic private reserves. The best reserve have comfortable lodges to enjoy fantastic spectacles from the comfort of your suite.

The following South Africa safari destinations have been thoughtfully selected to ensure you make the most of your safari experience.

These tours offer luxury or comfort level accommodation and expertly guided expeditions into the reserves. Your safari is then accompanied by delicious cuisine and personalized service.

We have selected the top places for:

• Wildlife-rich Safari Experiences: These tours guarantee unforgettable encounters with South Africa’s abundant and diverse wildlife. From the iconic “Big Five” to the smaller wildlife of colorful birds and honey badgers, prepare to be captivated by fantastic animals.
• Comfortable Suites: Each tour offers accommodation that seamlessly blends comfort with a harmonious connection to nature. Immerse yourself in the exquisite comfort of carefully designed lodges, ensuring a restful sleep after exhilarating safari adventures.
• Professional and Experienced Guides: Expert guides accompany you throughout your safari, sharing their extensive knowledge of the local wildlife and ecosystems. Their passion and expertise enhance your understanding and appreciation of the remarkable biodiversity surrounding you.
• Environmentally Responsible Practices: Environmental conservation is at the core of these tours. They respect the environment they work in and contribute to the preservation of South Africa’s natural habitats.

The luxury safari tours in South Africa for the best wildlife

South Africa is home to an incredible assortment of African animals.

For example, the Dulini Moya Lodge , in the heart of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, offers one of the highest chances in Africa to see elusive leopards.

The Dulini Moya offers you luxury accommodation, delicious cuisine and personalized service in this incredible reserve.

The Sabi Sand Game Reserve will be mentioned my most safari professionals as a top option for South Africa safari destinations.

The Sabi Sands, as the reserve is affectionately known, joined the private game reserves surrounding the famous Kruger National Park into one wildlife paradise of a protected area.

This incredible region is in fact part of the Great Kruger National Park region.

The Sabi Sands shares an unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park. The difference, however, is that a limited number of guests at the few lodges in the Sabi Sands have exclusive access. Also, the safari operators can venture off-road to give you the best wildlife sightings.

Not only this, but because of sensitive viewing practices and the high protection, some animals (notably leopards) are far more easily observed than in other South African areas.

Click the short video below for an introduction to the Dulini Moya .

In addition to the Dulini Moya , there are some other lodges offering the same high standard of comfort, service and guiding. These include the Dulini River Lodge and Leadwood Lodge .

You can find these in the same wildlife-rich Sabi Sand Game Reserve offering almost incomparable experiences of the Big 5.

The Dulini River Lodge , as the name suggests, is positioned a little closer to the Sand River, which gave the name to the reserve. Designed with couples, solo adventurers, and small groups in mind, this is another recommendation for your South Africa safari tour.

And if you’d like a little more exclusivity, there is the Dulini Leadwood Lodge .

You will find the Dulini Leadwood Lodge in the same region as the Dulini River Lodge . However, this luxury safari lodge offers only four spacious and exclusive suites. This gives you a little more privacy and exclusivity in the Sabi Sands.

The Dulini Moya Lodge

Positioned in the world renowned Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, the Dulini Moya Lodge offers you the romance and sense of ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, two daily game drives, house wines, local brand spirits, beers, soft drinks, refreshments on game drive, bush walks, transfers from the lodge airstrip (Ulusaba) | 3, 4, 5 days+

The Dulini River Lodge

Experience luxury in the heart of South Africa’s most wildlife-rich region with a safari from Dulini River Lodge. Perched over ...

The Dulini Leadwood Lodge

The Dulini Leadwood offers you a luxurious safari lodge at the confluence of Sand and Mabrak rivers in the wildlife-rich ...

For a comfort-level option with the same incredible wildlife, game drives and wilderness walks there is the Inyati Game Lodge .

Click the video below for a quick introduction.

Nestled in the heart of Sabi Sands, Inyati Game Lodge offers an unforgettable African safari experience that goes beyond the iconic Big 5.

Venture into the untamed wilderness and spot magnificent cheetahs, graceful giraffes, striped zebras, elusive wild dogs, and a myriad of antelope species. Your stay at Inyati is characterized by comfort and warmth, with cozy family chalets and standard chalets providing a peaceful sanctuary.

Each chalet boasts tasteful decor and mesmerizing views of the African bush and Sand River, ensuring that every moment is steeped in natural beauty. Immerse yourself in a range of activities, from guided bush walks and stargazing to fishing and cultural encounters.

Of course, exhilarating game drives remain the highlight, where you can witness the wonders of the wild up close. And after a day filled with adventure, unwind by the lodge’s inviting pool or in the relaxing lounge area. Savor mouth-watering meals complemented by excellent South African wines, completing a truly enchanting safari experience at Inyati Game Lodge .

The Inyati Game Lodge

Experience an unforgettable African safari at Inyati Game Lodge. Nestled in the western section of Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, enjoy ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, two daily game drives, house wines, local brand spirits, beers, soft drinks, refreshments on game drive, walking safaris, transfers from the lodge airstrip (Ulusaba) | 3, 4, 5 days+

Top Safari Tours for the Madikwe Reserve

Madikwe is a fantastic 80,000 hectare Big-5, wildlife-rich reserve in South Africa. And there are 3 safari tours we recommend for your experience.

Jaci’s Tree Lodge

Jaci’s Tree Lodge is a remarkable destination that seamlessly blends with the natural beauty of the Madikwe Reserve.

Click the video above for a quick introduction.

The lodge itself is part of the experience. The elevated design makes it seem like you are part of the surrounding forest. This creates a fantastic contrast after your day-time experiences exploring the grasslands.

From the comfortable lodge, you will explore this incredible reserve on captivating twice-daily game drives. You will be scouting for the reserve’s incredible animal sightings. In addition to game drives, you can enjoy walking safaris for a more immersive experience.

As well as iconic lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and rhino, you can find African wild dogs, cheetahs, brown and spotted hyenas, giraffes, hippos, and numerous antelope species. There are also porcupines, warthogs, servals, baboons and over 350 bird species to find.

As a point of note, you will find the rhinos in the Madikwe all have their horns intact, which you will find in few other South African reserves. This is due to the less invasive (but effective) protection methods in the Madikwe.

Jaci’s Tree Lodge is a stunning elevated lodge blending seamlessly into the surrounding environment. With indoor and outdoor dining spaces, ...

Jaci’s Safari Lodge

Offering the same exciting experiences of the reserve as Jacis Tree Lodge above, including the walking safaris and game drives, the Safari Lodge is located in a more open area on the grasslands.

In addition to your comfortable suite, enjoy a spacious and open-plan lounge, beautiful copper fireplace, a bar and dining areas. The Thutlwa Lookout then provides a comfortable place to watch iconic animals in comfort in addition to your safaris.

At Jaci’s Safari Lodge, you will enjoy an authentic safari from a comfortable space to relax between activities. Head out ...

Jacis Starbed Suites

For an incredible romantic getaway in the reserve, you can choose the Starbed Suites .

Located in the same location, the suites offer two beds, with one in the open to sleep watching the incredible star-studded African sky. Enjoy the same delicious cuisine as the other lodges, the twice-daily Madikwe Reserve game drives and the immersive walking safaris.

Your stay at Jaci’s Starbed Suites offers an extraordinary and exclusive safari experience. This has been designed for couples seeking ...

Top Safari Tours for the mFulaWozi Reserve, South Africa

The mFulaWozi initiative started when several Zulu chiefs from the Shaka dynasty agreed to open up 16,000 hectares of pristine African bushveld to visitors to share this incredible region.

The incredible destination offers tourists rich culture, wildlife and history. And the strong attractions visitors have had to the region has helped local communities through infrastructure, education, and employment. This ultimately helps to preserve the wildlife and wilderness for future generations.

mFulaWozi is home to roughly 1,200 plant species, 84 distinct mammal species, and over 400 bird species. It is a nature lover’s and wildlife photographer’s paradise.

You can find all the favorites of elephants, lions, rhino, buffalo and leopards. With these famous Big 5, you can find Nile crocodiles, giraffes, African wild dogs, spotted hyenas, honey badgers, mongoose and more.

There are two very comfortable lodges to enjoy this region. These are:

The Biyela Lodge

The mthembu lodge.

Both experiences include guided tours to take you out on two daily game drives, as well as walking safaris to enjoy the region and wildlife. Enjoy delicious meals, comfortable accommodation and spectacular views of the mFulaWozi region.

Check availability for your travel dates by sending the lodges a request using their tour bubbles below.

You will find the Biyela Lodge in the middle of the wildlife-rich mFulaWozi Reserve. Offering you a comfortable and exciting ...

Includes: all meals, accommodation, two daily game drives, house wines, local brand spirits, lagers, soft drinks. | 3, 4, 5 days+

At Mthembu Lodge, you will discover the awe-inspiring history and natural beauty of a region and culture with over five ...

A coastal lodge in South Africa

For a different type of lodge experience, if you’re traveling on the Garden Route or would like a coastal experience in addition to your safari tours, we recommend the Mosaic Lagoon Lodge .

Enjoy beautiful views and guided tours from this comfortable lodge. The view from your suite has to be seen to be believed. And being positioned on the Cape Whale Coast, you can enjoy the included whale watching tours. Other activities offered at the lodge include boat cruises, shark cage diving, and quad biking tours.

The Mosaic Lagoon Lodge

You will find the Mosaic Lagoon Lodge between the magnificent mountains and the sparkling ocean of the Cape Whale Coast. ...

The Top South Africa Safari Tours – Summary

And here is our selection of the top Safari Tours in South Africa:

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African Safari Packages

Escape the every day with our vacation deals in the dusty African haze, admiring wondrous animals freely roaming in their natural habitat. Our best African safari adventure packages put you centre stage in your own Attenborough documentary.

Best African safari tours based on 7,495 reviews

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Big Five Luxury Safari in Tanzania **Sustainable Approach to Travel

I had the most amazing experience! Willy, our guide, was wonderful and made sure to make every day special. Each day was a new and exciting adventure. I couldn't recommend this tour enough.

14-day Kruger to the Delta, Chobe & Victoria Falls (Accommodated)

All was great except the village walk in Maun( I believe) was a holiday so our guide took us to a political church service! Singing was good but was not what we paid to see. Very disappointed!

8 days: Best of Zambia, Botswana (Chobe) and Zimbabwe (Zambezi) Wildlife Safari Tour

We enjoyed the experience. The only negative place was the lodge in Hwange, totally substandard, we were supposed to be there 2 nights but moved out after the first night. Must mention Mark, Fines, Peace and the other 2 guides that went over and above their duties to satisfy our needs.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

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Masai Mara & Gorilla Adventure

7-day Okavango Wilderness Trail (Accommodated)

The trip was excellent. I loved traveling throughout Botswana and getting to know the people and landscape.

Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire (with Materuni waterfalls, coffee tour) - 6 Days

Perfect Safari Lovely Safari with perfect help with the booking, before arrival and perfect help from our Guide. We visited Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire in 4 days. Many hours in the car but ohhhhh what lovely scens with a lot of beautiful animals and lovley surrondings. Perfect help from the office before arrival wiht helpful informatin regarding Visa, what to bring and how to act in Tanzania. Also great help to change the accomodation so we could have the hotels/tents we wanted. Picked up at the airport in Arusha and after that we were taken care of in a perfect way until the end of our Safari Highly recommended this company

6 Days Kenya Budget Tours (with FREE NIGHT at Nairobi Hotel)

It was an astonishing safari.I really enjoyed my 6 day trip to serengeti, i saw the big 5 for the first time and everything was perfect.I highly recommended Bon Voyage Safari kenya.

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10 Days Uganda's Gorillas Encounter, Wildlife & Kigali City Tour ( Private tour)

There are no words for how incredible this tour was. I had high expectations and a lot of excitement for this trip and I was nervous I was setting myself up for disappointment, but no such thing. Richard reached out several times ahead of the trip to help us prep and ensure we had what we needed. When we arrived, the tour accomodated our arrival time to Uganda. We had an incredible experience at every park. Veronica was an amazing guide sharing her love of Uganda and passion in what she does. Sam, our driver, he kept us safe and entertained especially on those long drives. We saw everything we were hoping to and more and were able to experience some of the culture. The accommodations were great and the food was excellent. I cannot recommend this tour and this tour company more. We were told that Mukisa means blessing, and that they were. Thank you for making a memory to never forget.

16 Days of Intensive Adventurous Safari through Magical Uganda and Rwanda ( Private tour)

At the beginning of December 2018 we decided to make an East-Africa-Trip and bought flight tickets to Entebbe via Addis Ababa and Zanzibar. We had the challenge to organize our trip to Ethiopia (7 days), Zanzibar (5 days) and to Uganda (16 days) in only 2 weeks before departure. Fortunately I discovered the website www.safaribookings.com which enabled us to get offers from three tour operators in Uganda whithin 24 hours. Thanks a lot for this really good service. Biggest thanks to Mukisa Safaris with Richard who made all our dreams come true. He fullfilled all our whishes and modificatiins in case of planning the 16-days-route and also to include a five-day-trek to the awesome Rwenzori Mountains. Every requests were answered promptly with good guidance. At the Entebbe-Airport we were really warm welcomed by our two guides Joane and John and all of the Mukisa-Members. Then we started directly our trip with our 4x4 Toyota Van across the country to Kidepo Valley NP, to Murchison Falls NP, to Rwenzori Mountains and finally via Queen Elizabeth NP to the unforgettable Bwindi Impenetrable NP. Thank Joan and John we had a lot of fun, learned a lot about nature, have seen all the great nature and animals and people, we felt very safe and had most of the time a good wlan-collection. :) The accomodations at lodges or tented lodges were clean, nice and comfortable, the meals also were fine and delicious. Uganda is characterized by a very big variety of beautiful landscapes, unbelievable nature and very friendly people. From the awesome Rwenzori Mountains, to the great Bwindi Rainforest, from animals at river Nile to remote Kidepo Valley. We loved it very much. So thank you so much Mukisa Safaris for this unforgettable yourney with deep impressions and long lasting memories. We wish you all the best, Joan, John and Richard.

11 DAY COMBINED KENYA & TANZANIA WILDLIFE SAFARI

It was a great and unforgettable stay. Very well organised

15 DAYS ESSENTIAL KENYA & TANZANIA EXPEDITION

We Cannot rate this company high enough. Our experience from inquiry point was first class, very quick to respond to questions and help accommodate our requirements. Very friendly staff and great communication throughout. Assistance with visa application information provided in correspondence and also over the phone. We had a brief the day before our safari which was thorough and gave us the opportunity to ask any questions, our guide Norton was waiting for us the following morning and all though our 15 day safari was extremely knowledgeable of the areas we visited and on flora, fauna and wildlife. Norton wanted to ensure we had the best experience possible trying to locate as many different animals as possible, we managed the big 5 and many many more, thank you. We chose a luxury package at Neptune Ngorongoro which made our trip extra special. All in all we would not hesitate to use this company again, such an amazing experience, from inquiry, booking, actual trip and feedback after. The staff at Steppe Dogs Adventures work so hard to make your trip so special, thank you:)

16 Days Best Of Kenya & Tanzania Luxury Safari

Our 14-day Kenya and Tanzania Migration Lodge Safari was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived in Nairobi to the final farewell, every day was filled with awe-inspiring moments and unforgettable experiences. Our adventure began with a warm welcome in Nairobi,Transfer to hotel Ole Sereni where our knowledgeable guide briefed us on the journey ahead. The luxurious accommodations provided a perfect blend of comfort and immersion in the African wilderness.African Brekafast was great!!! Amboseli National Park in Kenya was our first stop, and the sight of majestic elephants roaming against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro took our breath away. We witnessed thrilling wildlife encounters during our game drives, including close encounters with lions and cheetahs.Sopa lodges so magnificient. Crossing into Tanzania,border abit slow but was well organized with changing guides from Zack the genius to John M. Lake Manyara National Park enchanted us with its diverse landscapes and abundant birdlife. Spotting tree-climbing lions was a highlight, and the boat safari on Lake Manyara offered a serene perspective of the park's beauty. The Serengeti National Park was the epitome of safari magic. Witnessing the Great Migration firsthand was a dream come true as we watched thousands of wildebeests and zebras thunder across the plains. Our lodge perched on the edge of the Serengeti provided uninterrupted views of the vast savannah and unforgettable sunsets.Serena lodges are super ! Descending into the Ngorongoro Crater felt like entering a lost world teeming with wildlife. We marveled at the sheer abundance of animals in this natural amphitheater, from graceful gazelles to mighty rhinos. The grand finale awaited us in the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The Mara River crossings were the highlight of our safari, as we held our breath watching the dramatic spectacle unfold before our eyes. Our expert guide John , ensured we had front-row seats to nature's greatest show. Each evening, we gathered around the campfire under the starlit sky, sharing stories of the day's adventures and listening to the sounds of the African night. The hospitality of the lodge staff made us feel like family, and the delicious cuisine was a delightful surprise. As we bid farewell to Kenya and Tanzania, we carried with us memories that will last a lifetime. This safari exceeded all expectations, thanks to the impeccable planning and personalized service. It truly was the journey of a lifetime, and I cannot wait to return to Africa's wild embrace.Masai Mara crowned all the taste of an Africa Photo Safari - Sopa Lodges tastifully located at great views of sunset thank you Zack again for picking us from the other border point for this gtreat encounter with wildlife . I would recommend thsi tour to many who really want to see the great diverse landscape and lakes plus plains in Africa - Serenegeti and Mara plains.

African Safari Tour Reviews

The tour was very well organized. Everything worked up quite well and everyone took good care of us. It was a magnificent time in Tanzania's wild nature. Also the tour company took care of all changes online (one day early arrival and extra shira tour booking) in a flexible and timely manner. Our Safari guide and driver Israel did really a great job. He worked hard to find all the animals for us as good as possible. This wasn't an easy job as we were there during rain season. He kept us safe and well informed all the time. We saw many wild animals such as cheetahs, lions, giraffes, buffalos, elephants, hippos, hyenas and of course tons of Gnus, zebras and all kinds of antilopes, monkeys and birds. We could even see some of the big five like the lion from eye to eye, roaming around less than 1m from our vehicle! Of course there's no guaranty of which wild animals you'll see as we're talking about natural parks, but you can rest assured the guides are doing their best to show you what nature is offering during your visit. All the staff in the hotels, parks and people in general were very kind and very welcoming! The food was always good and safe. FYI, the actual safari is 5 days + 2 days arrival and departure. Nevertheless within these 5 days we saw so many places and had a unique nature experience. "Luxury" as mentioned in the title is a bit too much said, especially when it comes to accommodation. On the other hand all the hotel names/ratings and the exact itinerary were mentioned clearly so no surprises. The luxurious part was actually that we were only on our own since it's low season :) Our guide Israel was flexible and fulfilled every possible wish we had. The Maasai village tour in the way to Serengeti costs an extra 50$ which is a fair price but they will also offer you some overpriced hand-made souvenirs to buy. The tour itself was very interesting and nice including a welcome song and dance basically from the whole village :) The Serengeti Safari lounge was quite spacious and had a big balcony to enjoy the endless view of the Serengeti. That was definitely the best accommodation of the trip. We woke up to a great show of a huge group of Gnus and Zebras directly in front of our balcony. The very ones who were singing for us all night :) Last but not least: if you're wondering about the prices even for a day tour, you should know that the park fees including conservation fees are quite high. So you're basically contributing to the well-being of these parks as well as the many wonderful people protecting them.

A bit late with the review... The trip was November 2019 and it was the best trip ever!!! Simon best guide, stunning places, welcoming locals and amazing experiences! the flight over the Okavango Delta is highly recommended.

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Day trips and Adventures

South Africa Safari Holidays

South africa and southern africa is open to travellers on vacation and business read our latest tripadvisor reviews and safari booking reviews by mmilo tours recent clients..

Our competitively priced and well-designed packages are designed to give inbound visitors effective and enjoyable itineraries and to include most of the major attractions in Southern Africa, such as Cape Town, Table Mountain, Cape Peninsula, Wine Routes, the Garden Route, Victoria Falls, The Panorama Route, Kruger National Park and many other game reserves.

We also however endeavour to introduce less known attractions, local secrets, often off the beaten track,such as ancient San rock art, hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains, visit the world’s oldest mountain range, Africa’s only absolute monarchy, pony trekking in Lesotho, tour down a 3 km deep operating gold mine, nights in the open desert !

Day Trips, Adventure and other Activities

Go diving, hiking, hot air ballooning, white-water rafting and engage in many other adventure holiday activities for young and old. Visit the astoundingly scenic Cape Peninsula, hip and historic Cape Town, the vineyards in the valleys of the Cape Winelands the verdant Garden Route and springtime flowers on the Cape west coast. Go shark cage diving, whale watching. seal and dolphin spotting.

With our Day Tours go to Soweto township and visit Nelson Mandela’s home, the “Garden City” of Pretoria the country’s capital, the “Golden City” of Johannesburg our financial capital Africa’s richest city. Seek excitement and adventure in our Big 5 Game Reserves, just for a day or stay a while to absorb the bushveld magic and go for a safari bush walk with an armed ranger. Be met and delivered to your hotel or destination, with safe, punctual and friendly service.

Booking Direct saves money and gets better service!

You can save as much as 30% on your holiday costs by booking directly with Mmilo Tours when visiting Southern Africa. This is because your home country tour operator adds on commission and then gets a local operator like ourselves to manage your tour anyway! So deal direct with a South African Tour Operator, save money and get best value and service!

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Tours and Safaris

• 2-Day Pilanesberg National Park Safari
• 2-Day Panorama Route Tour – Africa’s ‘Grand Canyon’ – Add on to your Mmilo Tours Kruger Park safari
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• 3-Day Luxury 5-Star Pilanesberg Safari
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• 2-Day Add-on – Visit to Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre From the Panorama Route or Kruger National Park
• 3-Day 4-Star Chobe Safari from Victoria Falls
• 3-Day 4-Star Victoria Falls Tour
• 3-Day Cultural and Scenic Tour of Lesotho
• 3-Day Eswatini (Swaziland) Tour – Add to Kruger Park Safari
• 3-Day 4-Star Shishangeni Private Lodge Safari – Kruger National Park
• 3-Day (2 Night) Crocodile River and Kruger National Park Safari
• 3-Day Leisurely Pilanesberg Safari from Johannesburg or Pretoria
• 4-Day Historic City and Idyllic Beach Tour of Mozambique
• 4-Day 4-Star Cape Town Tour
• 5-Day Garden Route Tour – Port Elizabeth to/from Cape Town
• 5-Day Panorama Route and Kruger Park Safari at Mjejane River Lodge
• 5-Day Pestana Panorama Route Tour and Kruger Park Safari
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• 3-Day Eco-Friendly Pilanesberg Luxury Safari at Tshukudu Bush Lodge
• 3-Day 5-Star Victoria Falls Tour (Zambian Side)
• 3-Day Luxury Kruger Park Safari at Lukimbi Safari Lodge
• 4-Day Top Class Luxury Safari at a Sabi Sabi Lodge – Kruger Park
• 5-Day Luxury Cape Town Tour
• 11-Day South Africa Luxury Safari, Cape Town and Victoria Falls
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• Hot Air Balloon Flight over the Cradle of Humankind
• Magaliesberg Canopy Tour
• Balloon Safari in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve
• Lesedi Cultural Village Tour
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10 Days - From Johannesburg

10 Day Ultra Budget South Africa Tour

Do you dream of exploring South Africa’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cities and diverse wildlife, but worry about the cost?

Don’t worry, we have the perfect solution for you! Join us on a 10 Day Ultra-Budget tour that covers Cape Town, Johannesburg and the Kruger National Park, and discover the best of this amazing country without breaking the bank. Book now and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

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SOUTH AFRICA TOURS – THE ULTIMATE GUIDE

Brief overview of south africa.

South Africa is the powerhouse of Africa with a vibrant economy and an abundance of rich natural resources. It’s had turbulent history dominated by the apartheid era but the country has settled into a period of growth and transformation since it became a democracy in 1994.

The country offers travellers an endless array of attractions; from the rugged protected wilderness areas in the northern region, to the breathtakingly-scenic wonders of the southern and eastern coastline and the vast uninhabited landscapes of the western and central regions. There’s something for everyone on a tour of South Africa.

The cities and towns of South Africa are vibrant with world-class infrastructure; the country towns are quaint and unique in their own way. Throughout, the people of South Africa are warm and welcoming, although crime in South Africa is an issue and travellers need to take the usual precautions to make their safety a priority. Moafrika is proud to offer the best South African tours.

Where is South Africa located?

South Africa is situated at the southern tip of Africa. The icy Atlantic Ocean lies on the west coast and the warm Indian Ocean lies on the east and south Coast, meeting at Cape Agulhas which is officially the southernmost tip of Africa. Most people think the two oceans meet at the Cape Point and for publicity reasons, tourist attractions in the region play on the marketing appeal of the Two Oceans.

South Africa shares a boundary with 6 countries; Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Swaziland and Lesotho. The Kingdom of Lesotho has the status of an enclave, which means it’s entirely surrounded by South Africa. It’s an independent state and part of the Commonwealth of Nations, although almost entirely dependent on South Africa.

How big is South Africa?

South Africa’s total surface area is 1.22 square kilometres. It’s the 24 th largest country in the world and the 9 th biggest in Africa, which is made up of 54 countries. To give you an idea, South Africa is twice the size of France and five times bigger than the United Kingdom. It’s also bigger than any country in Europe, except for Russia.

South Africa has 9 provinces:

• KwaZulu Natal
• Eastern Cape
• Western Cape
• Northern Cape

How many people live in South Africa?

In 2019, the estimated size of the population of South Africa was just over 58 million inhabitants.

South Africa covers an area of 1.2 million square kilometres and the population density is about 48 people per square kilometre.

South Africa’s population is regarded as young; where the medium age is 26.3 years.

When did South Africa become a democracy?

1994 was a turning point for South Africa when the first ‘free and fair’ elections were held and the country for the first time ever became a democracy. The ruling party that was voted in was the African National Congress (ANC), led by the iconic Nelson Mandela. The country’s constitutional law was re-established with the hope that the people of South Africa would never again experience such struggle and division.

Leading up to that milestone election, South Africa was a divided nation and many of its inhabitants had suffered unbearably under the tyrannical rule of the apartheid government. Firstly, it was under British and Dutch rule that many suffered discrimination and inequality; and then under the National Party (NP).

The National Park was the governing party of South Africa from 1948 until 1994, and was disbanded in 2005. Its legacy included apartheid, the establishment of a South African Republic and the promotion of Afrikaner culture. When FW de Klerk became South African president in 1989, he set about dismantling apartheid, lifted the ban on the ANC and ordered the release of Nelson Mandela from prison.

Mandela led the ANC in its negotiations to end apartheid rule and establish a democratically-elected government. Both Mandela and de Klerk were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 in recognition of the role they played in this tumultuous period to facilitate a smooth transition to democratic rule.

Mandela was elected South Africa’s president after the country’s first free elections and served as head of state until 1999. He retired from politics after serving only one term but remained a global advocate of peace and social justice until his death in December 2013. The ruling party of South Africa is still the ANC under the leadership of Cyril Ramaphosa, who successfully unseated Jacob Zuma who left behind a legacy of gross corruption and economic mismanagement.

Why do they call South Africa the Rainbow Nation?

The Rainbow Nation is an affectionate term for South Africa that was coined by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a fellow Noble Peace Prize winner. Tutu used it to describe post-apartheid South Africa after its first fully democratic election in 1994.

Rainbow Nation captures the unity of a multi-cultural nation that was once divided down the lines of White and Black. The Rainbow symbolism is also associated with hope, peace and a bright future, taken from the Xhosa culture.

Although not intentional, the Rainbow Nation is represented in the colours of the flag of South Africa. When it was designed and adopted in 1994, the bright and instantly-recognisable flag stood to represent unity with its 6 different colours:

• the red, white and blue colours were taken from the colours of the old Republic flag
• the yellow, black and green were taken from the ANC flag

Black, white and red symbolises the people of South Africa; green the fertility of the land; blue the surrounding oceans and mighty rivers; and gold the mineral wealth beneath the soil.

According to the latest census, the population of South Africa comprises:

• 9% Coloureds

The Black population consists of Zulu, Xhosa, Basotho, Bapedi, Venda, Tswana, Tsonga, Swazi, and Ndebele.

The White population are typically descendants of Dutch, German, French, and British immigrants.

The Coloured people are a mixed race descending mostly from the indigenous Khoisan, Blacks, Whites, Malay, and Indian.

The Asian population are mostly Indian and some Chinese.

As a result of its diverse population, South Africa has 11 official languages. They are English, Afrikaans, Ndebele, Northern Sotho, Southern Sotho, Swati, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa, and Zulu.

How strong is the South African economy?

South Africa has the strongest economy in Africa and is the powerhouse of the continent; thanks largely to its mineral wealth, incredible natural resources and tourism. Its GDP represents about 30% of the GDP of the entire Africa. South Africa is renowned for its well-developed financial, legal, communications, energy and transport sectors and the Rand is the world’s most actively traded emerging market currency.

However, South Africa has many challenges, mostly brought on by corruption and economic mismanagement that is the legacy of the ousted president. The country officially entered into a recession in the latter quarter of 2018, its first since 2009.

What challenges does South Africa face?

Challenges that the new head of state will have to address for the country to recover its growth potential include amongst others, declining agricultural and mining output as well as rampant corruption and mismanagement in government and parastatal enterprises.

Another significant challenge is poverty and unemployment, particularly amongst the younger section of the population. Declining healthcare and education standards are a concern, and high crime levels which is the knock-on effect of unemployment.

South Africa has one of the highest crime rates in the world. Murder, carjackings, violent domestic crime and rape are the ugly scourge of what is otherwise a vibrant and cosmopolitan country. Most violent crimes happen in communities that are deeply neglected and impoverished, and these are not areas that tourists enter into unless taken on a tour with a reputable tour operator.

Is South Africa safe to visit?

The international media often represent South Africa in a negative light and describe it as a dangerous place to visit. This is entirely justified if you look at the high crime statistics in the country. However, violent crime is more often a function of poverty and unemployment and is largely restricted to impoverished and neglected townships in South Africa where gangsterism and lawlessness is rife.

These are not areas that your average tourist visits on a trip to South Africa. In particular, if you’re travelling with a reputable tour operator like MoAfrika Tours, your safety is a priority and you should never visit the no-go areas and experience the ugly side of South Africa.

Poor neighbourhoods, informal settlements and derelict inner cities are no-go areas for tourists; you’ll only visit parts of them on a day tour with a reputable tour operator such as MoAfrika Tours who has been taking clients into places like Soweto and Joburg CBD for many years. A township tour is fascinating and a wonderful way to experience South Africa’s rich cultural heritage; however, it’s not advisable to visit these areas on your own.

Political and service protests are common during an election period and often turn violent; but again, tourists will never be put in harm’s way by avoiding these public hotspots. A reputable tour operator in South Africa should keep up-t- date with latest developments if there is political unrest and will make alternative plans to avoid those areas.

Most tourists visiting South Africa head straight to the game reserves in the northern region or head south to the beautiful coastal towns and cities. As long as you’re travelling with a reputable tour operator in a reliable luxury vehicle, you’ll be safe. The most important thing about a holiday to South Africa is that you practice common sense; as you would anywhere else in the world where you may fall victim of petty crime and tourist scams.

Is there malaria in South Africa?

Yes, there is malaria in South Africa but it’s restricted to certain regions in three provinces: parts of Limpopo and Mpumalanga and north-eastern KwaZulu Natal. These regions lie at a low altitude and experience summer rainfall and hot and humid summer temperatures which are the perfect weather conditions for malaria-carrying mosquitos to exist.

Not all mosquitos carry the malaria parasite. The ones that do belong to the anopheles group. The risk of contracting malaria is highest between May and September, but it’s advisable to take anti-malaria tablets on any holiday to South Africa regardless of the time of year.

Mosquitos are most active – bite more – between dusk and dawn so take the necessary steps not to be bitten. Wear long pants with socks and closed shoes and a long-sleeved shirt in the evening and liberally spray mosquito repellent on yourself and in your room. Always sleep under a mosquito net if provided.

If you experience any flu-like symptoms within 10-15 days of first arriving in a malaria area, go to a doctor immediately and insist on being tested for malaria. The disease is life-threatening and fatal if not diagnosed and treated early.

Do I need travel and medical insurance for a tour of South Africa?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for South Africa. It should cover theft, loss and medical emergencies and evacuations. Check the small print when taking out travel insurance as some policies don’t cover dangerous activities such as paragliding, scuba diving, helicopter rides and even motorbiking, cycling and hiking.

Medical insurance for South Africa is very important. You can take it out as part of your travel insurance cover or request extra cover from your existing medical aid company. If you need medical treatment in South Africa, you’ll be taken to a private hospital or clinic. State hospitals are not recommended unless it’s an absolute emergency.

Private hospitals in South Africa expect upfront payment in cash from foreigners. Find out from your insurance company if they make payments directly to a medical provider or reimburse you when you return home.

One of the crucial things to cover is transport for an emergency evacuation. This might be an ambulance or helicopter. If you need urgent medical help when you are far from a city or town, sometimes the only option is to have you evacuated by air.

Where do most tourists go when they visit South Africa?

The list of places to visit and things to do in South Africa is exhaustive. It’s a vast country that offers something for everyone; whether it’s diving with sharks, going on a Big 5 safari tour or drinking some of the world’s best wines in the beautiful Cape… the choices are endless by our leading tour operators .

Ask MoAfrika Tours to recommend a perfect tour package to suit your individual needs. Most South Africa tours are a combination of ‘safari and scenery’; with the best that the northern and southern regions have to offer.

South Africa is divided 6 main regions and each area has something unique to offer travellers.

If you draw a line across South Africa; the vibrant city of Johannesburg and the majority of the popular safari destinations fall into the northern region. In the south, you’ll find South Africa’s bucket-list destinations which include the glorious Cape Peninsular, Cape Winelands and magnificent Garden Route.

On the western side of South Africa, you’ll find quirky towns and fascinating nature reserves that look out over the icy Atlantic Ocean. And on the eastern side, you’ll find the tropical splendour of the Kingdom of KwaZulu Natal and the magical Drakensberg Escarpment a bit further inland.

South Africa is the gateway to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and the splendid national parks in Zambia and Botswana. It’s also a friendly neighbour of Mozambique, Swaziland and Lesotho which offer fun adventures and beach holidays for outdoor enthusiasts.

The choice is endless but MoAfrika’s list of places to stay and things to do are good place to start if you’re planning a holiday in South Africa.

MoAfrika offers the 20 Best South Africa tours for you to choose from.

What are the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa?

The Big 5 and Cape Town draw the most amount of tourists to our shores but there are many more places to visit in South Africa and exciting adventures to experience. If you have to narrow it down, these are the most popular places in South Africa that most tourists visit.

1. Johannesburg & Pretoria ǀ Located in Gauteng

Most tourists arrive in South Africa via the state-of-the-art OR Tambo International Airport and are whisked off to the popular game reserves in the north or down to the Cape. If you give yourself enough time to stop over in Johannesburg, you’ll discover what a vibrant city it is and how much it has to offer.

Pretoria is not really a tourist destination but it’s rich in history and a particularly beautiful city in Spring with flowering jacaranda trees as well as beautiful historic buildings. If you have time, Pretoria is worth a visit on an informative day tour.

In Johannesburg and Pretoria, you’ll find be surprised by the first-world infrastructure and facilities. There are a number of massive shopping malls that impress even the most ardent shoppers as well as an abundance of world-class restaurants, vibey bars and delis, art galleries, entertainment centres and quality accommodations to suit every budget.

To get between the two cities and OR Tambo International Airport, you can use the Gautrain. This is a state-of-the-art high-speed train service that links Johannesburg, Pretoria, Ekurhuleni and OR Tambo International Airport.

The best thing to do while staying in the ‘City of Gold’ – or what locals call Jo’burg – is a day tour of the Gauteng Province’s historic destinations. The best day tours offered by the leading tour operators in the city include:

• the inner city of Johannesburg which stood at the centre of the gold mining era
• Soweto, the largest city in South Africa and the birthplace of South Africa’s democracy
• Apartheid Museum, a stark reminder of the horrors of the apartheid era
• Constitutional Hill, a symbol of hope and freedom
• Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa and rich in history
• Voortrekker Monument and Heritage Site, a symbol of Afrikaner heritage

An opportunity not to be missed while staying in Johannesburg is a tour of the Cradle of Humankind which is a UNESCO Heritage Site. Regarded by scientists as the birthplace of humankind, you’ll enjoy a fascinating tour of the Maropeng Visitors Center and Sterkfontein Caves.

Johannesburg and Pretoria are the gateway to the majority of South Africa’s most popular Big 5 safari destinations. The most convenient for a quick trip is the Pilanesberg Game Reserve and Madikwe Game Reserve in the North West Province; both are a scenic 2-hour drive from Johannesburg and located in a malaria-free area so there’s no need to worry about taking anti-malaria tablets.

Interested in a historic and cultural tour of Soweto ?

Moafrika tours is the leading day tour operator and has been taking international visitors to soweto for more than two decades., 2. pilanesberg game reserve ǀ located in the north west.

The popular Pilanesberg Game Reserve is located in the North West Province of South Africa, a comfortable 2-hour drive from Johannesburg. It’s lies tucked between the dry, arid Kalahari Desert and the lush, tropical Lowveld region in a malaria-free ecosystem.

Covering an area of 55 000 hectares, it’s a small Big 5 safari destination if you compare it to the Kruger National Park but you’re guaranteed to see great wildlife sightings on a safari tour of the Pilanesberg because of its high concentration of game. It’s home to in excess of 10 000 animals including elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard which is known as the Big 5.

The Pilanesberg Game Reserve was once neglected and unhealthy farmland which was rehabilitated and restocked through one of the most ambitious animal translocation projects, known as Operation Genesis. Launched in the 1970s, the project re-introduced an abundance of wildlife to the area which had long since vanished from the region.

The geology of the Pilanesberg is fascinating as it’s the site of an ancient volcano, although it didn’t erupt. The ancient mountainous landscape that dominates the game reserve was formed by three concentric ridges or rings of hills which is actually a very rare formation called a ‘ring dyke complex’. There are only three ring dyke complexes in the world and the Pilanesberg mountain is the best preserved of the three by far.

The centre of the inactive volcano did collapse at some stages which formed the crater that the Pilanesberg Game Reserves lies in; and the base creates Mankwe Dam in the heart of the reserve. The area is also rich in cultural heritage and archaeological finds. In fact, the Pilanesberg is a dream destination for archaeologists.

Pilanesberg Game Reserve offers travellers a wide choice of accommodation ranging from camping and caravan sites at two large holiday resorts to luxury accommodation in 5-star safari lodges. Avoid the large holiday resorts in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve such as Manyane Resort and Bakgatla Resort because they get very busy with local holidaymakers and the standards of upkeep have deteriorated in recent years.

The best places to stay in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve are:

Bakubung Bush Lodge

Bakubung means the ‘place of the hippo’ and the resident hippo pod is a tourist delight. The resort offers the best of both worlds; the solitude of the bush and the luxury of modern amenities that make it an unforgettable holiday for the whole family. The resort offers guided safari tours, flood-lit tennis courts, a stunning swimming pool and panoramic views from every room. A shuttle service takes visitors to and from Sun City and the local airport.

Black Rhino Game Lodge

This luxury lodge is nestled in a thicket of Tamboti trees on the private Black Rhino Reserve. A ‘fence drop’ initiative with the North West Park & Tourism Board allows guests traversing rights throughout the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. The Tamboti trees attract the elusive black rhino and a wide variety of bird species which makes it a game and birding paradise. The sweet veld vegetation of this low-lying reserve complements the Pilanesberg predominately mixed sour veld and sightings of elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard are common.

Buffalo Thorn Lodge

The exclusive use of this fully-serviced intimate, five-star lodge comes complete with a private safari vehicle, a personal game ranger, outdoor boma and housekeeper. A swimming pool at the edge of the bush offers a glimpse of the Big 5 poolside. Buffalo Thorn Lodge can accommodate up to 10 guests in spacious suites.

Ivory Tree Game Lodge

This spectacular lodge lies snuggly in a natural amphitheatre and is known for its award-winning Amani African Spa. The lodge is surrounded by foothills and immersed in riverine woodlands that are dissected by ancient elephant trails. A large pool, spa, outdoor dining and luxurious suites make this an ideal tourist destination for the discerning traveller.

Kwa Maritane Lodge

This hotel and timeshare resort is a mixture of relaxation and adventure. The lodge has a game viewing hide situated on a private waterhole, with hippos in residence. Bush braais are organised for a spectacular dining option under the African night sky at the resort’s popular Bush Boma.

Morokolo Game Lodge

Morokolo Game Lodge is situated on the northern slopes of the Black Rhino Reserve portion of the Pilanesberg, in one of the most remote and exclusive areas of the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Guests have the choice of two camps; each with 8 luxury double suites with modern bath, en-suite facilities, a private courtyard and outdoor showers.

Pilanesberg Private Lodge

This private lodge sits on the western border of the Pilanesberg National Park with access limited to paying guests only. It’s a private retreat that has recently been established in the Black Rhino Reserve and lies at the foot of the majestic Pilanesberg mountain. The lodge has 5 luxury units connected via paved pathways and bridges to the communal area, each designed to offer spectacular views of the surrounding bush.

Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge

This state-of-the-art establishment is located in a private concession adjacent to the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Private game viewing, gourmet dining under the African skies and magnificent views combine with the luxury of an award-winning health and beauty spa. The featured architecture and interior design are the hallmark of the whole lodge, and flawless finishes leave no detail overlooked. The lodge offers commanding views of the distant bushveld amphitheatre and offers guests exciting walking trails in this untouched environment.

Tamboti Game Lodge

Contemporary elegance combined with the ultimate in safari luxury makes this a much sought-after lodge in a private concession adjacent to the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. You have the choice of dining under the stars around a raging fire in the boma or you can have a delicious meal brought to your private suite. This intimate lodge promises luxury and every occasion is thoughtfully planned and memorable. The luxury suites are surrounded by striking Tambuti trees and offer spectacular bush views.

Tshukudu Bush Lodge

Tshukudu Bush Lodge offers unforgettable luxury and is one of the most romantic settings in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Nestled high within the crater of an ancient volcano, visitors enjoy spectacular views of the ancient volcanic crater. Tshukudu Bush Lodge overlooks a waterhole with the savanna plain stretching out in the distance; sightings of the Big 5 are common from your private suite.

Looking for a romantic breakaway in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve ?

Moafrika tours wants you to enjoy every minute of your excursion. enquire today about your next trip to this spectacular destination., 3. sun city ǀ located in the north west.

Sun City is an artificial city that’s located in the North West Province of South Africa, in a region that was originally an independent state known as Bophuthatswana. It’s the next door neighbour to the Pilanesberg Game Reserve and an easy 2-hour drive from Johannesburg. It’s located in a malaria-free area and offers a world of entertainment for the whole family.

This incredible holiday destination in South Africa was developed by a visionary hotel magnate, Sol Kerzner, during the height of apartheid when world sanctions has been imposed on the country. Sun City Resort & Casino was opened in 1979 with the dream of offering South Africans and international tourists a fantasy escape and the freedom to play and relax in a top-quality environment. It included the extravagant Palace of the Lost City which was a masterpiece in architectural design in its day.

The best attractions at Sun City are:

• Sun Central: the central entertainment hub where you’ll find the food court and an action-packed kid’s entertainment centre
• Sun City Superbowl: hosting live performances by local and international performing artists
• Sun City Casino: offers hundreds of exciting slot machines and over 40 popular table games; exclusive access to Salon Privé and VIP gaming facilities
• Valley of the Waves: the major outdoor attraction at Sun City and regarded as one of the most exciting water parks in the world; includes a 6 500 square metre wave pool, artificial beach, Temple of Courage with a 17-metre slide and tube rides on the Lazy River
• Palace of the Lost City: an out-of-this-world luxury hotel that’s the brainchild of Sol Kerzner; inspired by the myth of a lost African Kingdom
• Maze of the Lost City: resembles a half-ruined Mayan stone maze and offers visitors a challenging and exciting experience; covers an area of 2 200 square metres and reached by crossing a 90-metre long suspension bridge that in itself is an engineering masterpiece
• Gary Player Country Club golf course: one of two magnificent 18-hole golf courses designed by the golfing legend, Gary Player; rivals some of the best golf courses in the world and hosts international competitions
• Waterworld; offers thrill seekers and adrenalin junkies a wide choice of water activities which include parasailing, jet skiing, wakeboarding and tube rides
• Adrenaline Extreme: offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities; from 3-wheel drift trikes and 4×4 quads to hovercrafts, a giant human catapult and dirt buggies
• Kwena Gardens: a crocodile sanctuary that is both highly educational and exciting; get up close to some of the biggest crocodiles you’ll ever see in your life
• Predator World: the ideal family destination for a whistle-stop wildlife safari; guided tours take you to well-kept enclosures that are home to an array of indigenous animals including lions, cheetahs, leopards and hyena

Places to stay in Sun City range from budget-friendly self-catering chalets at the Sun City Vacation Club to high-end luxury hotels. There are four stunning hotels; all designed to the highest architectural standards with fantasy themes and mystical garden surrounds. Choose accommodation at Sun City that is located close to the entertainment hub or something a bit more private away from the busy crowds.

• Soho Hotel: the first hotel built in Sun City and often called the main hotel; offers guest 4-star exquisitely-decorated accommodation in the heart of the resort
• Cascades Hotel: named for the spectacular waterfalls and crystal-clear natural pools that create a fantasy moat around the hotel; offers 5-star accommodation and an array of facilities in the heart of Sun City
• The Cabanas: situated on the banks of the Sun City Waterworld Lake and positioned next to the Gary Player golf course; offers guests a contemporary twist and a delightful base to explore the magical botanical gardens of Sun City and the outdoor activities centre
• The Palace of the Lost City: an architectural masterpiece and part of Sun International’s premier collection; offers guests 5-star accommodation that’s both awe-inspiring and surreal

Looking for the best shuttle service to Sun City ?

Moafrika tours can help. they also offer bus tours and transfers from pretoria, johannesburg, durban, cape town and port elizabeth., 4. the cradle of humankind ǀ located in gauteng.

The Cradle of Humankind is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with one of the richest concentrations of early human fossils in the world. There are 15 major fossil sites in the Cradle of Humankind with Sterkfontein Caves being the most famous attraction to visit.

Sterkfontein Caves is the home of Mrs Ples and Little Foot; fossils of the earliest human ancestors known to man. In addition, there are thousands of fossils of hominids, plants and animals. More hominid fossils are found in the Cradle of Humankind than anywhere else in the world.

The protected heritage site spans an area of 47 000 hectares, lying on a bed of dolomite deposited around 2.5-billion years ago. Similar fossils have been found at other sites in south and east Africa but the Cradle of Humankind has produced more than 950 hominid fossil specimens.

The Maropeng Visitor Centre is located in the heart of the Cradle of Humankind and showcases the development of humans over millions of years with exceptional exhibits that transport visitors back in time. The most impressive is an underground boat ride that takes you on a tour of 2 500 square metres of exhibits.

The main exhibition is housed in a state-of-the-art facility called Tumulus building. The pathway to the entrance passes an archaeological excavation of a Stone Age site where geologists found early stone tools belonging to the Acheulean period. These tools belonged to the early hunter-gatherer tribes that used the local rocks to make their tools. Some of these tools have been dated back to between 1.0 and 0.5 million years; an era before the appearance of modern Homo sapiens.

5. Kruger National Park ǀ Located in Mpumalanga

The Kruger National Park is an iconic destination in South Africa. It’s Africa’s largest protected wildlife reserve and the flagship of national parks in South Africa. The vast wilderness region stretches 352 kilometres from north to south with Mozambique lying on its eastern border and Zimbabwe lying on its far northern boundary.

The Kruger Park is home to the Big 5 which includes elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion and leopard and is a protected refuge for an abundance of animals as well as 500 recorded bird species. The region is also rich in history and renowned for its San rock art paintings and significant archaeological sites such as Masorini and Thulamela. You’ll discover the best that Kruger Park has to offer on glorious early morning and late afternoon game drives.

Other things to do in Kruger Park include guided wilderness trails, 4×4 adventure trails, photographic safaris and golfing tours. The national park boasts 6 diverse ecosystems and 17 biospheres with vegetation, wildlife and birding changing from one ecozone to the next. Where you go in the Kruger Park depends on what interests you and what safari experience you prefer.

Accommodation in the Kruger Park ranges from the popular rest camps which are affordable and comfortable but somewhat dated, to ultra-luxury 5-star safari lodges located on the private concessions. You can pitch your tent in one of the popular caravan and camping sites in the Kruger Park or you can sleep under the stars as part of a magnificent wilderness trail in a remote corner of the Park. The choice of places to stay in the Kruger Park suits all travel budgets.

The Kruger National Park is managed by SANParks which is a governing body that was established in the early 1920s. The organisation is responsible for 21 national parks in South Africa which combined add up to some 4 million hectares of the most incredible precious land in the country. The Kruger Park is the oldest national park in the SANParks portfolio and the most popular tourist destination in South Africa, together with Table Mountain National Park in the Cape.

Luxury accommodation for the discerning traveller is offered by the safari lodges built on the private concessions in the Kruger National Park. They offer guests a more authentic and intimate safari experience as well as outstanding wildlife sightings on daily game drives.

The private concessions in the Kruger National Park include:

• Singita Private Concession: 15 000 hectares located in the remote and mountainous eastern region close to the Mozambique boundary and at the confluence of two mighty rivers; home to the ultra-luxury Singita Lebombo and Singita Sweni safari lodges
• Imbali Private Concession: 10 000 hectares located in the heart of central Kruger Park and home to 3 outstanding luxury lodges which includes Hamilton’s Tented Camp
• Jock of the Bushveld Private Concession: 6 000 hectare concession located in the southern Kruger’s Big 5 country where the Mitomeni and Biyamiti rivers meet and home to 2 luxurious safari lodges
• Lukimbi Private Concession: 15 000 hectares located in southern Kruger and bordered by three rivers; it’s the largest private concession in the Kruger Park although there is only one luxury safari lodge in the area, Lukimbi Safari Lodge
• Tinga Private Concession: 5 000 hectare located in southern Kruger with the Sand and Sabie rivers passing through the concession; renowned for its high population density of Big Cats which include leopard, lion and cheetah as well as large numbers of spotted hyena and wild dog

Looking for an affordable tour package for the Kruger National Park ?

Moafrika tours offers 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 night breakaway packages., 6. greater kruger national park ǀ located across mpumalanga and limpopo provinces.

The Greater Kruger National Park adjoins the Kruger National Park but are entirely different entities. The Greater Kruger is an extension of the national park where 180 000 hectares comprising 18 unfenced private game reserves located to the west of Kruger Park were added to make up a massive protected wilderness region in the north-eastern region of South Africa.

Game is free to roam between the two magnificent Big 5 wildlife areas. However, the same cannot be said for travellers. Visitors staying in the Kruger Park may not freely drive across the private lands in the Greater Kruger which is home to a collection of some of the finest private safari lodges in southern Africa. Guests staying on a private game farm in the Greater Kruger travel a short distance to one of the main gates into Kruger Park and pay the standard entry fee.

The Greater Kruger National Park forms part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park which in turn forms part of the Kruger2Canyons Biosphere which is designated by UNESCO as an International Man and Biosphere Reserve.

The safari lodges in the Greater Kruger Park are exclusively marketed to the high-end traveller. You pay a premium to stay at these ultra-luxury safari lodges and are guaranteed outstanding wildlife sightings with no traffic congestion on game drives. One of the main differences is safari vehicles operating on the private game reserves in the Greater Kruger are allowed to go off the park roads into the bushveld to get closer to game sightings. This is not allowed in the Kruger Park.

The standard of guiding is exceptional on the private reserves in the Greater Kruger and guests enjoy unparalleled safari tours in pristine bushveld; particularly in reserves such as Sabi Sands which is known as the “Leopard Capital of South Africa”.

The best known private game reserves that make up the Greater Kruger National Park are:

• Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve: 65 000 hectares of pristine wilderness lying on the eastern unfenced boundary of the Kruger Park and home to home to some of southern Africa’s most famous safari reserves such as Singita, Londolozi, MalaMala and Sabi Sabi
• Thornybush Private Game Reserve: 11 000 hectares of open savanna bushveld and home to 6 privately-owned luxury lodges that offer 5-star luxury safari accommodation in spectacular bushveld settings
• Timbavati Private Game Reserve: 53 000 hectares of outstanding wilderness that is home to the Big 5 and some of the most exclusive safari lodges in southern Africa
• Balule Private Game Reserve: 40 000 hectares of unrivalled bushveld and outstanding wildlife sightings and home to only a handful of ultra-exclusive luxury safari lodges
• Kapama Private Game Reserve: 13 000 hectares of open woodland and lush riverine forest and home to a collection of Kapama safari lodges that offer guests an exclusive safari tour as well as unique experiences such as hot-air balloon safaris, elephant-back safaris and sleep-outs under the stars
• Klaserie Private Game Reserve: 60 000 hectares of magical bushveld surrounds and home to the Big 5 and a collection of magnificent private luxury safari lodges
• Makalali Private Game Reserve: 22 000 hectares of acacia scrub, rocky hills and open savanna grasslands and the lush riverine forests that flank the magical Makhutswi River with only a handful of luxury safari lodges in the reserve
• Manyeleti Private Game Reserve: 23 000 hectares lying between the Timbavati Private Game Reserve and Sabi Sands; home to the Big 5 and 3 exclusive safari lodges
• Nkomazi Private Game Reserve: 15 000 hectares on the banks of the Komati River, offering Big 5 safari tours and a collection of tented accommodation close to the Kruger National Park
• Mjejane Private Game Reserve: 4 000 hectares with 10 kilometre river frontage on the southern boundary of Kruger Park between the Malelane and Crocodile Bridge gates; unfenced boundary with the Kruger Park, offering Big 5 safari experience and ultra-luxury accommodation

The exclusive nature of the private game reserves in the Greater Kruger Park means that guests on safari don’t experience the “queue to view” issue that’s sometimes a problem in the busy sections of the Kruger Park. The whole safari experience is authentic and unashameably the domain of the discerning traveller.

The tourist hub of the Greater Kruger National Park is Hoedspruit, which is serviced by the Eastgate Airport. You’ll be astounded at what you’ll find in Hoedspruit which is fast turning into a tourist destination in its own right. Hoedspruit is vibrant and warm-hearted with a fantastic restaurants, pubs and delis as well as a great selection of shops and a wide range of accommodation.

Looking for the best holiday package for Sabi Sands in the Greater Kruger National Park?

Moafrika tours has a wide selection to choose from. from budget to luxury packages including lodges and luxury safari tents (glamping)., 7. panorama route ǀ located in mpumalanga.

Most safari tours that take guests to the Kruger National Park or the private game reserves in the Greater Kruger Park usually travel back to Johannesburg taking the scenic Panorama Route. It takes guests on a breathtakingly-scenic drive that winds its way along the edge of the forested escarpment through the historic towns of the gold mining era to end in the lush Lowveld city of Nelspruit. Stop along the way for pancakes at the famous Harry’s Pancake restaurant, look out of God’s Window, relax at Bourke’s Luck Potholes and gaze down at the incredible Blyde River Canyon.

There’s no rush to get back to Johannesburg because the Panorama Route is a tourist destination on its own; with an enormous amount of things to do in the area which range from gorgeous forest hikes to toboggan rides, the Big Swing and venturing down into the Graskop gorge for a delicious lunch.

The most popular tourist destinations along the Panorama Route include:

• Blyde River Canyon: situated in the Greater Drakensberg Escarpment, this impressive green canyon is the third largest canyon in the world, covering an area of 29 000 hectares which includes famous landmarks such as God’s Window, Pinnacle Rock, the Three Rondawels and Bourke’s Luck Potholes
• Pilgrim’s Rest: a small tourist town with a colourful history that dates back to the gold mining era; founded in 1873, fortune seekers descended on the rudimentary village in search of their fortune
• Graskop: a century-old town that sits on the edge of the Drakensberg escarpment, it’s the closest village to the main attractions of the Panorama Route; the most popular thing to do is visit the Graskop Gorge Lift which takes you 51 metres down into the gorge valley where there are boardwalks that lead you along the valley floor
• Sabie: a popular holiday town that attracts nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with loads to do from hiking, fly-fishing, mountain biking, horse riding, white water rafting, rock climbing and sightseeing; the town lies nestled in one of the largest man-made forests in the world with panoramic views of the Lowveld region

Looking for adventurous tour packages to the most popular safari destinations in South Africa?

Moafrika tours has a wide selection to choose from to suit your travel needs., 8. cape town ǀ located in the western cape.

Cape Town is affectionately known as the Mother City. It’s the oldest city in South Africa, rich in history and one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world. It’s also the legislative capital of South Africa and capital city of the Western Cape.

Standing sentry in the heart of Cape Town is the iconic Table Mountain which falls within the Table Mountain National Park. This iconic biosphere straddles the Cape Peninsula which is a rugged stretch of land that runs some 52 kilometres from Mouille point in the north to the Cape Point in the south.

Highlights of a tour of Cape Town include:

A natural amphitheatre created by the mountains of Signal Hill, Lion’s Head, Table Mountain and Devil’s Peak; where you’ll find the central business district, Port of Cape Town, the Company’s Garden, District Six and Bo-Kaap.

Atlantic Seaboard

The Atlantic Seaboard lies on the western side of the Cape Peninsula, running north to south from Green Point, Mouille Point, Three Anchor Bay, Sea Point, Fresnaye, Bantry Bay, Clifton, Camps Bay, Llandudno and Hout Bay. A great way to take in the beauty of this area, is with a Cape Town helicopter tour .

A gorgeous scenic drive winds its way through the suburbs of the Atlantic Seaboard, running parallel to the glistening Atlantic Ocean. The area is renowned for its beautiful Blue Flag beaches, seafront promenades and a cosmopolitan mix of restaurants, bars and delis. It also boasts the highest number of high-priced mansions in South Africa.

To explore what the locals call Cape Town’s ‘Riviera’, start at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Green Point; it’s the entertainment hub of Cape Town and part of the historic harbour. Don’t miss an opportunity to catch a ferry across to Robben Island; it’s an island in Table Bay that’s rich in history and now a UNESCO World Heritage. It was famously where Nelson Mandela and other struggle veterans were incarcerated during the apartheid era.

Continue southwards to the Cape Point at the tip of the Cape Peninsula, stopping at the beaches along the way and lunch at the historic Hout Bay harbour. The magnificent slopes of Lion’s Head and the Twelve Apostles are on your left and the splendid Atlantic Ocean radiantly bright on your right.

Southern suburbs

The Southern Suburbs of Cape Town lie in the shadow of Table Mountain National Park on the eastern side; running north from Rondebosch, Newlands and Bishops to Wynberg, Constantia and Hout Bay in the south. This verdant belt of suburbs is the gateway to the quaint and hugely popular coastal towns situated along the route to Cape Point.

The two most popular tourist attractions in the Southern Suburbs are Constantia which is renowned as a notable wine-growing area and for its rich Cape Dutch heritage; and Kirstenbosch Gardens which is acclaimed as one of the great botanic gardens of the world. The Constantia Wine Route takes you to historic wine estates which were originally established by Simon van der Stel, the first governor of the Dutch Colony.

You’ll find an excellent choice of accommodation, restaurants and world-class shopping centres in the Southern Suburbs as well as the famous Newlands Cricket Grounds and the Newlands Rugby Stadium. It’s the oldest rugby stadium in South Africa and the second-oldest rugby stadium in the world.

Places you’ll love to visit if you’re staying in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town include:

• Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens: a UNESCO World Heritage Site that lies on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain; covering an area of 528-hectares of protected nature reserve, more than 20 000 native South African plant species have been collected, grown and studied for decades in the different sections of the beautiful botanical gardens
• Groot Constantia: the oldest wine estate in South Africa and provincial heritage site in the suburb of Constantia; noted for its production of high-quality red wines, including Shiraz, Merlot and blended red Governors Reserve
• Wynberg’s Village: previously a military station that was established in the late 1700s and now a picturesque village known as Little Chelsea
• Hatfield Village: known for its rambling maze of Victorian and Edwardian semi-detached and detached cottages and side streets, as well as an avenue of trendy shops, coffee bistros and restaurants.
• Constantia Valley: apart from being the heart of the wine growing region, this valley is one of the most beautiful in the Cape with an array of rolling hills, forests and stately homes that lie in the shadow of the Constantia Mountain. You’ll find a selection of fabulous shopping markets, restaurants and delis in the valley as well as excellent guest houses and B&Bs.
• Hout Bay Mariner’s Warf: travel over Chapman’s Peak to spend the day at the historic Hout Bay harbour and enjoy the best fish & chips in town. You can book a boat ferry out to Duiker Island to see the seals and the sharks that follow in their wake.
• Newland’s Forest: this is a much-loved destination for hikers and dog walkers with a number of trails and a contour path that takes you to Kirstenbosch Gardens and the grounds of the University of Cape Town. Don’t miss a chance to stop for tea and scones or a delicious meal at the park’s restaurant or pop down to Foresters Arms Pub & Restaurant for excellent pub grub and great vibes.
• Cavendish Square: an award-winning shopping destination in Claremont offering exclusive fashion, cinemas and premium restaurants and coffee shops. It’s the shopping hub of the Southern Suburbs and spreads across a few blocks, all within easy walking distance of many of the best hotels and B&Bs in the Claremont area.

What to do in Cape Town today ?

Moafrika tours will make sure that your day is filled with sightseeing and adventure., 9. cape peninsula ǀ located in the western cape.

The Cape Peninsula is a rocky peninsula that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean at the south-western tip of the African continent. At the very southern end, you’ll find Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope. At the northern end, you’ll find the iconic Table Mountain. It stretches 52 kilometres in length, and has been an island on and off for the past 5 million years when sea levels fell and rose with the ice age and global warming cycles.

The Cape Peninsula has exceptionally rich biodiversity. Its vegetation consists predominantly of several different types of Cape Fynbos (meaning fine bush), including the critically endangered Peninsula Granite Fynbos, Shale Renosterveld and Afromontane forest.

The Cape Peninsula is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an estimated 2 200 species of plants that are confined to the Table Mountain National Park. They are endemic to these mountains and are not found anywhere else in the world.

To explore the Cape Peninsula, book a day tour with MoAfrika Tours which will take you on a circular route starting and ending in the Cape Town City Bowl. You’ll stop at the main attraction along the way on a spectacular route that’s regarded as one of the most scenic in southern Africa.

The main destinations on a Cape Peninsula day tour are:

• Llandudno: lies between Camps Bay and Hout Bay; renowned for its magical beaches and some of the most exclusive real estate in Cape Town
• Hout Bay: a popular tourist attraction and enchanting residential suburb; renowned for its beautiful beach, busy marina, art galleries, restaurants and a working harbour where you can get the best fish and chips in town
• Chapman’s Peak: the name of the mountain on the western side of the Cape Peninsula with a breathtaking road known as the Chapman’s Peak Drive that hugs the near-vertical face of the mountain that drops sharply hundreds of metres into the Atlantic Ocean and links Hout Bay to Noordhoek
• Noordhoek: a laid-back coastal village on the other side of Chapman’s Peak which is known for its incredibly long beach, vibrant artists market and festive pubs and restaurants as well as wine tasting at the award-winning Cape Point Vineyards
• Scarborough: a designated conservation village where development is restricted; surrounded by perfectly-preserved natural landscapes and overlooking the icy Atlantic Ocean
• Cape Point: falls within the southern section of the Table Mountain National Park; renowned for its incredible natural vegetation which comprises the smallest but richest of the world’s 6 floral kingdoms as well as it rugged rocks and sheer cliffs that tower more than 200 metres above the sea and cut deeply into the Atlantic Ocean
• Boulders Beach: known for its striking granite bounders and home to the largest population of African penguins; with wheel-friendly boardwalks which were constructed to accommodate nearly 60 00 visitors that visit the beach each year
• Simon’s Town: one of South Africa’s oldest towns and home to the South African Naval Base; it’s a popular coastal town to stay in with a selection of excellent restaurants and guest houses which overlook the historic naval harbour and warm Indian Ocean
• Kalk Bay: a vibrant coastal town known for its historic working harbour, bohemian shops and vintage bookstores as well as a selection of popular restaurants and guest houses
• Muizenberg: a lively beachside town known as the “Surfing Capital of Cape Town”; also rich in history and a popular summer holiday destination for local and international tourists

10. Cape Winelands ǀ Located in the Western Cape

The Cape Winelands is located in the Boland region of the Western Cape and home to a selection of the finest wine estates in the world. The largest towns in the winelands district are Paarl, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Robertson, Worcester and Wellington.

In addition to being the place to visit if you’re a wine fundi, you’ll also be impressed by it’s incredible scenery, rich cultural history, Cape Dutch architecture and vibrant city life. It’s renowned for its world-class restaurants and is also the “Culinary Capital of South Africa”. Combine wine tasting with cheese tasting and enjoy the delicious olives, export quality fruit and organic produce that’s produced in the area.

The most popular wine routes in the Cape Winelands are:

• Stellenbosch Wine Route: boasting nearly 200 wine and grape produces, it’s the first region in South Africa to establish an official wine route; where tourists have the choice of 148 wine farms to visit located on historic wine farms
• Helderberg Wine Route: includes the premier wine estates in and around the Somerset West area; offering a diverse array of wines and a selection of outstanding restaurants on the various wine farms along the route
• Durbanville Wine Route: less well-known than the Stellenbosch wine route but equally impressive; the area produces excellent wine
• Franschhoek Wine Route: this region has exploded in popularity; known for its breathtakingly-beautiful scenery and rich French Huguenot heritage, you can take the Wine Tram for a combination of fine wines, delicious cuisine and a fascinating history lesson

Looking for the best tour itinerary for the Cape Winelands ?

Explore the cape winelands with moafrika tours., 11. cape west coast ǀ located in the western cape.

The busy coastal towns of the West Coast lie north of the Cape Town City Bowl, hugging the Atlantic coastline and looking across Table Bay. These include Bloubergstrand, Milnerton, Tableview and Big Bay. It’s a popular weekend destination for locals who enjoy windsurfing, long walks on the beach and eating out at a selection of great restaurants.

Taking the ‘road less travelled’, you’ll continue northwards on what is marketed as the ‘Cultural & Foodie’ Route of Cape Town. It’s the perfect road trip to take at a slow pace; renowned for its outstanding biodiversity, warm and friendly locals and quaint seaside towns.

Popular places to visit on a West Coast roadtrip include:

• Melkbosstrand: a popular seaside village that attracts watersport lovers; the long Main Beach is the perfect picnic spot, otherwise taste your way through a selection of friendly restaurants and delis serving typical West Coast cuisine. Melkbosstrand was where the invading troops landed in 1806.
• Witzand Aquifer Nature Reserve (Atlantis Sand Dunes): a protected conservation area made up of the Silwerstroomstrand Conservation Area and the Atlantis Dunefields; known of its perfect sandy beaches, rocky shorelines and vast dunes which are popular for sand-boarding and 4×4 adventures.
• Silwerstroomstrand: a popular Blue Flag beach that’s safe for swimming, with a small rocky point that provides protection from the swell. There’s a lovely tidal pool for younger beachgoers, a picnic area, caravan park and bungalows if holidaymakers.
• Blaauwberg Nature Reserve: known for its spectacular fauna and flora and view over Table Bay of two iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Table Mountain and Robben Island. It’s also the site of the 1806 Battle of Blaauwberg.
• Koeberg Private Nature Reserve: popular weekend destination for walking trails, offering panoramic views over the West Coast and a rich array of fauna and flora.
• Mamre Mission Station: the town of Mamre is rich in history; where you’ll find the Moravian Mission Station which was established in 1808 as well as the original church and parsonage which are now national monuments. The old watermill was restored and converted into a museum and the church is still used for Sunday services.
• Groote Post Wine Cellar: part of the famous West Coast Flower Route, Groote Post is a historic 18 th century farm where find the West Coast’s popular vineyards. The West Coast climate is perfect for growing grapes and the area produces excellent wines from the Darling Hills.
• Darling: a thriving West Coast town that lies in the heart of the wildflower region; the Darling Wildflower Show is held on the third weekend in September and draws hordes of nature lovers to the area.
• West Coast National Park: a magical protected conservation area which stretches from Yzerfontein to Langebaan; it’s a popular destination for nature lovers and birdwatches, with over 200 species of land and sea birds in the area and strong numbers of springbok, gemsbok, kudu ad the rare mountain zebra.
• Yzerfontein: a pretty coastal village that’s popular with watersport enthusiasts and nature lovers; it’s also famous for having the longest stretch of beach in South Africa.
• Langebaan: the bustling town borders the West Coast National Park and famous as a birding destination. It’s an internationally-acclaimed Ramsar Site which is a wetland area that’s been designated to be of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.

Did you know?

A Ramsar site is a wetland site designated to be of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. The Convention on Wetlands, known as the Ramsar Convention, is an intergovernmental environmental treaty established in 1971 by UNESCO, which came into force in 1975.

• Saldana: an historic naval and fishing port that’s located overlooking South Africa’s largest natural bay; famous as one of the best places to see the Southern Right Whale in calving season.
• Paternoster: one of the oldest villages on the West Coast, Paternoster is now a thriving holiday destination, particularly popular with kite surfers, kayakers, hikers and cyclists.
• St Helena Bay: one of the world’s prime fishing areas and one of the best place to see dolphins and the Southern Right Whales in calving season. Traversing a total of 18 bays and fed by the nutrient-rich Benguela Current, it’s a popular destination for local fisherman as well as surfers.
• West Coast Fossil Park: popular with mountain bikers and hikers, this area is a National Heritage Site where mining in the 1950s exposed one of the richest fossil deposits ever discovered in the world. Guided tours provide fascinating insight into the background of the fossils and the climate change that happened.

12. Boland ǀ Located in the Western Cape Province

The Boland Mountain Complex falls within the Cape Floral Region which is one of 6 formal botanical kingdoms on the world. It’s renowned for its rich biodiversity and is home to hundreds of endemic fynbos species that are not found anywhere else in the world.

The Berg River and Breeder River are two main rivers which run through the catchment area. The incredible mountain ranges, beautiful rivers and rolling landscapes makes the Boland a popular holiday destination for South Africans who love hiking, nature walks, cycling and photography.

The Boland Mountain Complex comprises a number of superb nature reserves:

• Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve: nestled between the scenic towns of Elgin, Villiersdorp and Grabouw; with towering mountain peaks, plunging valleys, and the Palmiet River winding through it
• Kogelberg Nature Reserve: located south of the Hottentots-Holland Mountains, it’s made up of forests, valleys and steep ravines, and boasts 1 800 different plant species, of which 150 are endemic
• Jonkershoek Nature Reserve: located just outside Stellenbosch, the reserve includes the Jonkershoek Mountains and the Jonkershoek Valley which are popular for hiking and for picturesque picnic spots
• Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve: part of the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, its known for its massive oak trees, beautiful fynbos, leopard, mongoose, and raptors
• Limietberg Nature Reserve: located close to Paarl and Franschhoek, it offers hikers and walkers a collection of gorgeous trails and excellent fishing with the Breede and Berg rivers flowing through it

13. Garden Route ǀ Located in the Western-Eastern Cape Province

The Garden Route is an breathtakingly-beautiful region that stretches some 300 kilometres from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to the Storms River in the Eastern Cape. It’s aptly named because the verdant region is one of the most ecologically diverse in the country. In 2017, the Garden Route was added to UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

The Garden Route is sandwiched between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean. The landscape is a magical blend of indigenous forests, inland lakes, wetlands and ocean bays as well as a selection of some of the finest beaches in Africa.

The popular coastal towns of the Garden Route include:

• Plettenberg Bay
• Great Brak River
• Little Brak River
• Nature’s Valley

Inland, you’ll find the quaint towns of the Klein (Little) Karoo which includes Oudtshoorn, the “Ostrich Capital of the World” and home to the famous Cango Caves. You take the historic Swartberg Pass to reach Knysna from Oudtshoorn.

Apart from being mesmerisingly-beautiful, the Garden Route is hugely popular for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The choice of things to do on a holiday in the Garden Route is endless; from nature walks and hiking to bungy jumping, river rafting, fishing, surfing and scuba diving. It’s rich in fauna and flora and paradise for nature lovers and birders.

The most popular destinations on a Garden Route tour are:

• Addo Elephant National Park: located an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth, this is the third largest national park in South Africa; it was founded in 1931 to save the last 11 bush elephants in the region from extinction but has since grown in popularity as a Big 5 safari destination for international travellers
• Birds of Eden, Monkeyland and Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary: located a short drive from Plettenberg Bay, it’s a favourite holiday destination for the whole family with more than 280 species of birds, over 11 species of rescued primates and a selection of rehabilitated white lions, cheetahs, tigers and black leopards to view on a day tour of the Garden Route
• Bartolomeu Dias Museum: a piece of maritime history captured at a museum complex in the town of Mossel Bay; it celebrates the 500 th anniversary of Bartolomeu Dias’s landing in Mossel Bay in 1488
• Bloukrans Bungy: for an adrenalin rush, throw yourself off the Bloukrans Bridge in what is the world’s highest commercial bungee jump; dive 216 metres into the dazzling deep gorge below
• Cango Caves: located a short drive from Oudtshoorn at the foot of the Great Swartberg, the dripstone caverns are part of a deep cave system; the main cavern is renowned for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites that are beautifully illuminated
• Cape St Blaize Lighthouse: completed in 1864, the lighthouse is one of only two along the South African coast that still maintains a 24-hour watch; erected on a striking rocky outcrop jutting out into the Indian Ocean, located close to the harbour town of Mossel Bay
• Featherbed Nature Reserve: a daily ferry shuttle takes tourists on a cruise over the Knysna lagoon to the tranquil nature reserve on the western section of the Knysna Heads; enjoy a short, scenic guided hike, followed by a sundowner cruise on the Knysna Lagoon
• Garden Route Botanical Garden: located in George, the protected wilderness area borders the Outeniqua Nature Reserve; it houses a fine collection of plants native to the southern region in the Southern Cape Herbarium; also popular for idyllic hiking trails
• Goukamma Nature Reserve: located a short drive from the Wilderness National Park, the estuary straddles the Goukamma River and is renowned for splendid rolling dunes, prolific birdlife and a collection of wonderful walking trails
• Knysna Heads & the Knysna Forest: paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts; the lush forests and pristine waters that surround the popular town of Knysna are perfect for long hikes, boat cruises and photographers, with panoramic viewpoints looking out over the Indian Ocean
• Knysna Waterfront Quays: situated on the banks of a magical lagoon with a panoramic view of the Knysna Heads, it’s the most popular shopping and meeting place for tourists with a great selection of restaurants, pubs and delis as well as designer clothing and jewelry stores, curio shops and art galleries
• Knysna Elephant Park: home to orphaned and rehabilitated elephants, the centre offers tourists the opportunity to interact with these gentle giants and learn more about their incredible intelligence and behaviour
• Outeniqua Transport Museum: located in George, the museum houses a variety of steam locomotives including the first narrow gauge steam locomotive as well as the impressive GL Garret from the Royal Train of 1947; as well as an outstanding collection of steam locomotive number plates, model trains, old motor vehicles and a private vintage car collection
• Plettenberg beaches: endless sandy beaches with panoramic views of the Outeniqua Mountain and Indian Ocean, the beaches of Plettenberg Bay are spectacular; the main swimming beaches are Central Beach, Robberg Beach and the beach on Keurbooms Lagoon
• Robberg Nature Reserve: a national monument and a hiker’s paradise located a short drive from Plettenberg Bay; it sits on a 4 kilometre-long peninsula at the foot of the Mountain of the Seal with rocks and caves that date back to prehistoric times
• Seabird and Penguin Rehabilitation Centre: located outside of Mossel Bay, the bird centre is responsible for saving and rehabilitating thousands of African penguins, gulls, gannets and other important seabird species
• Storms River Suspension Bridge: located in the magical Garden Route National Park; stretching 77 metres across the churning waters of the Storms River mouth that washes out into the Indian Ocean
• Swartberg Pass: an historic route that takes you over the magnificent Swartberg Mountains from the Little Karoo to the Garden Route, rising up to 2 326 meters in some places and zig-zagging through the towering mountain pass with a spectacular view around every corner
• Tenikwa Wildlife Rehabilitation & Awareness Centre: one of the largest wildlife rehabilitation centres in the Cape taking care of some 250-450 injured and orphaned wildlife with the goal being to release them back into the wild; popular attractions include the African wild cats, serval, caracal, cheetah, leopards and lions
• Tsitsikamma National Park: the protected wilderness region sits on a 200 metre high plateau that stretches from the Bloukrans River in the west to the Tsitsikamma River in the east; popular for nature lovers and hikers, it contains a vital marine reserve, deep gorges and thick indigenous forest where you’ll find the Big Tree and towering yellowwood trees
• Wilderness National Park: a gorgeous national park that lies between the towns of George and Knysna and extends to the mouth of the Trouw River, it offers nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts a combination of beautiful lakes, wetlands and estuaries to enjoy; popular for canoeing, fishing, windsurfing and sailing as well as bird watching and magical nature walks

Looking for the best holiday package for the Garden Route ?

Contact moafrika tours for the latest 2019/2020 rates and prices., 14. wild coast ǀ located in the eastern cape.

The Wild Coast is a rugged and splendidly-scenic stretch of coastline on the eastern side of South Africa that stretches north of East London to the Great Kei River in the south. It’s renowned for its striking sea cliffs, wind-swept deserted beaches, lush subtropical forests and rolling hills cloaked in green grasslands.

It’s located in the Eastern Cape Province which is the ancestral grounds of the Xhosa people. During the apartheid era, the Wild Coast was part of the Transkei which was one of four territories which were declared independent states.

You need a 4×4 vehicle to explore the Wild Coast as the terrain is rugged and the infrastructure is not well developed or neglected. To truly appreciate the beauty of the Wild Coast, you can join a guided hike that takes you on a journey that hugs the coastline and passes through the coastal villages of Coffee Bay, Port St Johns, Chintsa and Morgan Bay.

The Wild Coast is paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the things to do on a holiday on the Wild Coast include:

• Hole in the Wall: enjoy a leisurely hike to the Hole in the Wall, departing from Coffee Bay; it takes you along the rugged coastline, over rolling hills and past local villages with panoramic views of the brilliant Indian Ocean to reach the famous Hole in the Wall which is one of the most impressive landmarks in the Cape, after Table Mountain
• Mapuzi trail: this trail is for the adventurous at heart; tackling rugged goat paths and steep coastal hills before you reach the end where you jump 8 metres into the water below
• Xhora River: a local lodge takes guests on a canoe trip down the beautiful Xhora River which is renowned for its crystal-clear water and lush riverbanks
• Xhosa village tour: don’t miss an opportunity to visit a local Xhosa village with a tour guide and enjoy a mug of their finest brew in the village shebeen (traditional bar); it’s a chance to learn more about the Xhosa culture and there way of life on the remote coastal hilltops
• Auckland Nature Reserve: enjoy a pleasurable hike in this gorgeous coastal forest which is untouched by commercial development and idyllically tranquil
• Madonna & Child Waterfall: join a combination a guided tour to the Madonna & Child Waterfall where you can abseil from the top into the crystal-clear water below
• Kitchen Windows: the best surf spot on the east coast of South Africa
• Jeffrey’s Bay: the “Surfing Capital of the Cape”, JBay as the locals call it is a laidback coastal town that attracts hordes of surfers, holidaymakers and outdoor enthusiasts

15. Great Karoo ǀ Spanning the Eastern Cape, Western Cape and Northern Cape

The Great Karoo is located in central South Africa and is a vast semi-arid region that covers an area of some 400 000 square kilometres. It stretches over the provinces of the Eastern, Northern and Western Cape. It’s renowned for its endless landscapes, magical mountains, crisp air and picturesque towns as well as its famous Karoo lamb.

The Karoo is divided into two regions; the Succulent Karoo Biome to the west, and the Nama Karoo Biome which covers most of the interior. The Succulent Karoo stretches along the coastal strip of southwestern Namibia and the Northern Cape Province in South Africa. It’s regarded as the world’s richest site of succulent plants and harbours about one-third of the world’s approximate 10 000 succulent species.

The Nama Karoo is predominantly farming land with little urbanisation. The main agricultural activity in the area is sheep and goat farming. Irrigation is restricted to the Orange River valleys. It’s a desolate and arid region but spectacular in its own way; providing photographers with endless sunrises and sunsets to photograph.

The top 4 attractions in the Karoo are:

• Karoo National Park: this vast and unforgiving region is dominated by the grand Nuweveld mountains and rolling semi-desert plains which are home to a wide variety of endemic wildlife, including black rhino, buffalo, the Cape mountain zebra and over 20 breeding pairs of black eagle
• Camdeboo National Park: a unique ecosystem that was formed hundreds of millions of years ago and regarded as one of the great natural wonders of the world; gateway to the Valley of Desolation, the 14 500 hectare park is surrounded by the picturesque town of Graaff-Reinet which lies at the foothills of the Sneeuberg mountain range
• Tankwa Karoo National Park: situated on the southern boundary of the Northern Cape, this unique national park is situated within the Succulent Karoo Biome and renowned for its incredible variety of endangered plant species, prolific endemic birdlife and breathtakingly-beautiful landscapes; ranging from the sheer cliffs of the Roggeveld Escarpment to the moonscapes of the Tankwa Desert
• Witsand Nature Reserve: an unbelievably scenic nature reserve that is renowned for its incredible birdlife, including the endangered Namaqua sandgrouse, sociable weaver and the pygmy falcon; towering white sand dunes are surrounded by copper-red Kalahari plains, acacia woodlands and the Langberg mountain range

16. Durban ǀ Located in KwaZulu Natal

Durban is the capital city of KwaZulu Natal and the third largest city in South Africa. It’s known as the “Playground of South Africa”, offering holidaymakers a wide choice of gorgeous beaches, nature reserves and cosmopolitan coastal suburbs. It’s also an important industrial centre with the Port of Durban servicing the country’s import and export industry.

Forged on a turbulent history with clashes between the British traders, the Boers (Afrikaans farmers) and Zulu tribes; Durban is rich in cultural history. It’s the heart of Zululand and also has a strong Indian population who arrive in droves decades ago to work in the sugarcane plantations.

The list of places to visit and things to do in Durban are endless but the most popular attractions are:

• Golden Mile: a bustling beachfront promenade which is lined with high-rise hotels and apartments, entertainment complexes and a selection of popular restaurants; the oceanfront path is busy with walkers, joggers, cyclists and skateboarders as well as surfers on their way to the popular beaches situated along the Golden Mile
• Mini Town: a popular Durban destination for the young at heart; established in the 1980s, it’s a replica of a mini city with buildings scaled down to 1:24 of their size; kids can walk through what looks like a little toy land which includes a miniature harbour with ships and an airport
• Port of Durban: commonly called Durban Harbour, this is the largest and busiest shipping terminal in sub-Saharan Africa and the fourth largest container terminal in the southern hemisphere; recently widened, the harbour entrance depth is now 19 metres in the approach channel, decreasing to 16 metres within the harbour and with a navigation width of 220 metres
• uShaka Marine World: a hugely popular water-themed wonderland packed with attractions such as Sea World, the Dolphin and Seal Stadium, Penguin Rookery and the Wet ‘n Wild complex which offers holidaymakers a collection of splash pools, slides and super tubes
• Moses Mabhida Stadium: the newly-constructed world-class sporting area located on Durban’s Golden Mile; a tour of the stadium takes you in the Sky Car to the top of the towering stadium roof or you can climb the 500 steps, thrill-seekers can freefall 220 metres of the top on the Big Rush Big Swing
• Durban Botanic Gardens: established in 1849 and one of the oldest surviving botanic gardens in Africa, these beautiful gardens are set on the slopes of Berea Hill; the main plant collection includes cycads, orchids, bromeliads and palms and you’ll spot at least 50 different bird species that are resident in the gardens
• Umgeni River Bird Park: located on the north bank of the Umgeni River, the bird park is home to over 200 bird species that you can view walking along a network of paths that wind through lush landscaping and past gushing waterfalls; the daily bird show is the main highlight of a tour of the Umgeni River Bird Park
• Indian Quarter: spread across Victoria Street Market and Juma Masjid Mosque, it’s a multi-cultural feast of sights, sounds and exotic aromas with Indian, Pakistani, Chinese and Somali street vendors selling their wares along narrow pavements; popular restaurants in the busy CBD offer some of the most delicious, authentic Indian meals in Durban
• Umhlanga Rocks: a thriving coastal suburb lying north of the main business centre of Durban, offering holidaymakers a selection of excellent accommodation and entertainment that ranges from kid’s animal parks, great restaurants, golf courses, nature reserves, the KZN Sharks Board and long, powder-white beaches; the Gateway Theatre of Shopping is located in Umhlanga Rocks and is the largest shopping mall in the southern hemisphere
• Ballito: a popular residential and holiday destination in Durban, located 40 kilometres north of Durban; packed with high-rise beach apartments, excellent restaurants and greenbelts, Ballito is much-loved by locals for its superb beaches, tranquil tidal pools, subtropical climate and outdoor lifestyle

Looking for a fun-filled holiday itinerary for Durban ?

Moafrika tours has a long list of activities to choose from to suit your adventure needs., 17. zululand ǀ located in kwazulu natal.

This is a malaria-free region located north of the Dolphin Coast, extending up to Richard’s Bay along the north coast of KwaZulu Natal and inland into the rural heartland of the Zulu Kingdom. It includes Pongola in the north and the towns of Ulundi and Vryheid that lie on the border of the Battlefields Route.

The lush tropical region is renowned for its gorgeous game reserves and wetland parks which are home to the Big 5 and abundance of wildlife and birds. The Zululand Birding Route boasts over 650 species of birds with 70 popular birding spots situated along 14 local birding routes.

The most popular tourist attractions in Zululand include:

• Dlinza Nature Reserve: this protected forest reserve lies just outside the town of Eshowe and is paradise for bird lovers in search of a number of highly endangered bird species found in the reserve as well as an incredible array of butterflies; numerous forest trails and a 10-metre high aerial boardwalk plus lovely picnic facilities make is a popular destination for locals looking to escape the Durban city life
• Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park: established in 1895, this is the oldest game reserve in Africa and one of only a few in KwaZulu Natal where you can see the Big 5; it lies deep in the heart of Zululand and was once the royal hunting grounds of King Shaka
• iSimangaliso Wetland Park: located an hour’s drive from Durban, this magnificent wetland park is a World Heritage-listed site (formerly known as the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park); it protects the largest estuarine system in Africa with 8 interconnected ecosystems which includes coral reefs, rivers, lakes, swamplands, savanna plains and coastal dunes
• Siyaya Coastal Park: 42 kilometres of pristine, unspoilt coastline that stretches from the mouth of the Mlalazi River to the southern boundary of the Amatigulu Nature Reserve; it includes two nature reserves as well as a magical coastal dune forest, mangrove forest, swamp forest, grasslands and ilala palm bushveld
• Sodwana Bay National Park: located on the Elephant Coast and a 2-hour drive from Durban, the national park is renowned for its spectacular coral reefs which are home to an array of colourful tropical fish as well as lionfish, crayfish, moray eels, manta rays and many species of sharks; it’s most popular with scuba divers and snorkelers as well as nature lovers and hikers
• Thula-Thula Game Reserve: located in a malaria-free area 2-hours north of Durban, the private game reserve is home of the late Lawrence Anthony, an avid conservationist and author of the bestselling book “The Elephant Whisperer”; Lawrence dedicated his life to providing a sanctuary for elephant, leopard, rhino and buffalo in the Zululand wilderness region
• Umlalazi Nature Reserve: located a short drive from the town of Mtunzini, the nature reserve is home to the Palmnut vulture which is one of the rarest birds of prey in South Africa

18. Drakensberg ǀ Located in KwaZulu Natal

Located in the heart of KwaZulu Natal, the Drakensberg is a world-acclaimed mountainous region that’s breathtakingly beautiful and one of the most popular outdoor destinations in South Africa. The word Drakensberg means “Dragon Mountains” in Afrikaans which aptly describes the regions jagged peaks and deep valleys.

The magical mountain region includes the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the Royal National Park which is famous for its natural amphitheatre, 5 kilometre-long rock wall and one of the highest waterfalls in southern Africa. The 3 282 metre-high Mont-aux-Sources rises in the background which is the source of many of South Africa’s mighty rivers.

Not only is it incredibly scenic and rich in cultural history, the Drakensberg is a favourite destination for local holidaymakers who flock to the area for mountain biking, fly-fishing, hiking, wilderness trails, rock climbing and abseiling and river rafting. The majority of popular holiday destinations in the Drakensberg are a scenic 3-hour drive from Durban.

The main natural attractions in the Drakensberg include:

• Nambiti Private Game Reserve: located in the shadow of the magnificent Drakensberg mountains and close to the KwaZulu Battlefields, the private reserve offers guided Big 5 safari adventures in beautiful bushveld surrounds; day visitors are welcome or you can stay in a choice of self-catering or 5-star luxury safari tented lodges
• Sani Pass: one of the most spectacular and daring mountain passes in southern Africa, which connects KwaZulu Natal with the Kingdom of Lesotho; the 8-kilometre mountain path climbs to a height of up to 2 900 metres and travels on through the Mzimkulwana Nature Reserve which is renowned for its towering rock outcrops and green-cloaked mountains and steep ravines

19. Midlands Meander ǀ Located in KwaZulu Natal

The Midlands Meander lies in the heart of KwaZulu Natal and is a collection of arranged routes that offer travellers an assortment of excellent accommodation, conferencing and wedding venues, historic landmarks, fun local events, fabulous restaurants and an assortment of arts and craft destinations. It’s an easy 2-hour drive from Durban and the perfect retreat for an idyllic weekend away in idyllic lush surrounds.

The Midlands Meander was created over thirty years ago by a group of craftsman in the area who wanted to put the small businesses in the lush, sleepy valley on the map. It’s grown to over 150 members and offers local holidaymakers and international tourists an endless list of places to go to and quality handcrafted goods to buy; from sheepskin and leather shoes and handbags to woven baskets, pottery and ceramics, woodwork, batik prints and bronze sculptors.

The Midlands Meander is also famous for its great food and excellent accommodation; ranging from rustic B&Bs on country farms to 5-star guest lodges on country estates. The meander is divided into 5 routes and there’s not enough time to see everything; which is why people keep coming back year after year to enjoy the Midlands hospitality.

The main attractions along the Midlands Meander include:

• Karlkoof Canopy Tours: located outside Howick in a beautiful lush valley, the canopy tours take you on a spectacular journey on ziplines above the tree canopy; flying along at speeds of 70 km/hour and reaching heights of 35 metres
• Nelson Mandela Capture Site: located on the R103 just outside Howick, this historic site is where Nelson Mandela was finally captured while on the run during the apartheid era; it’s an artistic masterpiece with striking steel columns that are cleverly designed to depict the face of Madiba at certain angles, and symbolise his time spent behind bars on Robben Island
• Nottingham Road: this picturesque destination lies at the heart of the Natal Midlands on the R103; it’s hugely popular as a weekend getaway with a fantastic collection of pubs, restaurants and arts & craft shops as well as a popular golf course
• Piggly Wiggly: this popular tourist destination is a place to gather with friends and family for excellent food and shopping; it was established to collectively showcase the many arts and craft businesses found on the Midlands Meander
• Swissland: located high up on a lush rolling hill like a traditional Swiss farm, this is the perfect place to take kids to see the Saanen goats that roam the rolling hills of the family-run farm; and perfect for a picnic and cheese tasting; the farm produces a fine collection of goat cheeses that are free of antibiotics and colourants
• Zulu Mpophomeni Township Experience: KwaZulu Natal is rich in cultural history and home to one of most traditional populations in South Africa; don’t miss an opportunity to visit this cultural community centre to learn more about the Zulu traditions and way of life

20. Kgalagadi (Kalahari) Transfrontier Park ǀ Located in the Northern Cape

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is the most popular tourist destination in the Northern Cape Province, otherwise as known as the “South African Outback”. It’s the largest province in the country and the most sparsely-populated. The region itself is known for its endless arid landscapes, russet red dunes and startling blue skies; as well as the carpets of kaleidoscopic wildflowers that appear in the Spring.

Formerly known as the Kalahari National Park, the Kgalagadi Transfrontier was established in 2000 when the protected wilderness region merged with the Gemsbok National Park in Botswana. This created one of the largest conservation areas in the world, covering an area of some 3.6 million hectares.

The Kgalagadi is most famous for its black-maned Kalahari lions as well as strong numbers of leopard, cheetah, gemsbok, meerkats and a vast array of birds. This includes the sociable weavers which construct giant nests in the stark trees that grow in the dry, arid surrounds.

Other popular destinations in the Northern Cape region include:

• Goegap Nature Reserve: located in an area called Namaqualand which spans Namibia and South Africa, this outstanding reserve is renowned for its collection of rare succulents and desert-adapted shrubs and trees; it’s also home to the endangered Hartmann’s zebra, aardwolf, honey badger and over 94 species of birds
• Augrabies Falls National Park: situated on the frontier with Namibia, it’s one of South Africa’s most impressive natural wonders; it’s where the might Orange River plunges in a series of cascades almost 150 metres into an 18-kilometre granite gorge
• Mokala National Park: located an hour’s drive south-southwest of Kimberley, the national park was created to protect some of South Africa’s most endangered species; including the white and black rhino, roan and sable antelope, aardwolf and oryx

INTERESTED IN A TOUR?

Moafrika Tours specialises in day and long-stay tours to the major destinations and tourist attractions in Southern Africa which includes South Africa, Lesotho, Swaziland, Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana. We offer a wide array of affordable tour packages created to suit your travel budget and needs. Contact us today for our 2019/2020 rates and prices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best south african tours and safaris.

Some of the best South African tours and safaris include: Kruger National Park, Garden Route, Cape Town and the Winelands, the Big Five wildlife experiences, and cultural tours in Johannesburg and Soweto.

What should I expect on a South African tour and safari?

Expect to experience breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and the opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife, including the Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinoceroses.

How long should I plan for a South African tour and safari?

A South African tour and safari can be planned for anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on your interests and the areas you want to visit.

What is the best time to book a South African tour and safari?

The best time to book a South African tour and safari is from April to September, which is the low season for tourism in South Africa and offers more affordable prices and smaller crowds.

What is included in the cost of a South African tour and safari?

The cost of a South African tour and safari can vary depending on the type of tour and the level of luxury you want. However, many tours and safaris include transportation, accommodation, meals, and guided tours or game drives. Be sure to clarify what is included in the cost before making a booking.

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MoAfrika tours and the Kruger Safari Co. are destination management companies (DMC) and are not entities of the South African National Parks Board (SANparks).

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The Top 10 African Safari Tours in 2021

Scott Bay is a magazine editor specializing in travel, architecture, and gear. He was previously an assistant editor at Travel + Leisure . His work has also appeared in Wired , Architectural Digest , Wallpaper , Robb Report , Saveur , Daily Beast , and more.

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

A safari tops most of Travel + Leisure readers' bucket lists — a trip that many spend a lifetime daydreaming about , saving for, and eventually splurging on. On this type of adventure, travelers pull out all of the stops and have high expectations. One of the best ways to have that dream trip live up to expectations is to hire one of the best safari outfitters, as voted by the discerning readers of T+L.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey , T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated tour operators and safari outfitters based on their staff and guides, itineraries and destinations, activities, accommodations, food, and overall value.

The safari companies favored by T+L readers owe much of their success to the talented advisors, who get to know their clients so they can create truly customized trips. "We couldn't have worked with a better group of people," one reader said of No. 5 winner Travel Beyond. "They were friendly, efficient, informative, and made sure our entire trip went smoothly. We never had a care."

Each safari outfitter also displays a deep connection to the national world and conservation efforts . Readers felt that No. 10 andBeyond particularly excelled in this area: "They have an excellent commitment to local communities, protecting wildlife and the environment." Another reader said of No. 9 Wilderness Safaris, "Their commitment to local communities and protecting wildlife is outstanding."

Read on to see the full list of T+L readers' picks for the best safari outfitters — all of which not only make spotting the Big Five easy but also arrange unparalleled perks and accommodations.

1. Micato Safaris

This company has been voted onto T+L's list of the world's best safari outfitters every year since the awards' inception — and for good reason. The family-run business has deep roots in Kenya, and its owners' love for the country (and continent) is evident in the way they operate. Each itinerary, whether private or with a group, is tailored to be the most luxurious, comfortable, and exciting adventure possible. Readers couldn't say enough kind words about their recent trips. "Never met tour guides or staff that were so friendly and knowledgeable about the animals and the locations and the culture," wrote one reader. "They seemed to have a sixth sense for anticipating our needs. It was really something." A few more touted Micato's reputation, with one saying, "Simply the best safari outfitter in Africa. Bar none."

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 98.88 More information: micato.com

2. Extraordinary Journeys

Score: 98.21 More information: extraordinaryjourneys.com

3. Dazzle Africa

Score: 98.08 More information: dazzleafrica.org

4. Thomson Safaris

Score: 97.73 More information: thomsonsafaris.com

5. Travel Beyond

Score: 96.82 More information: travelbeyond.com

6. Volcanoes Safaris

Score: 95.78 More information: volcanoessafaris.com

7. Alluring Africa

Score: 93.26 More information: alluringafrica.com

8. Rothschild Safaris

Score: 92.81 More information: rothschildsafaris.com

9. Wilderness Safaris

Score: 92.80 More information: wilderness-safaris.com

10. andBeyond

Score: 90.20 More information: andbeyond.com

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021 .

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African Sky South African Tour Operator

African Sky Safaris & Tours is a small, independent South African tour operator. We are committed to providing quality individual travel adventures in Southern Africa. Since 1998 our offering has focused on personal service, private tours , and bespoke (tailor-made) travel . Independent reviews of our services are available on Tripadvisor and Google Reviews.

African Sky strives to bring you a unique and memorable tour , safari , or honeymoon in our part of the world. We do this through our expertise and commitment. From the office staff to our guides, we ensure our clients depart Southern Africa with memories of an incredible travel adventure in one of the world's most remarkable areas.

African Sky has been a SATSA(Southern Africa Tourism Services Association) member for many years and subscribes to its code of conduct. Look no further for an operator of quality private tours and manager of fly-in safari and honeymoon packages in Southern Africa. Contact us today, and let the adventure begin.

Independent Tour Operator

• Over 25 Years Experience
• Proudly South African
• Local Staff With Hands-on Insight
• Exceptional Guides
• Committed to Clients
• Quality personal Service
• Confidentiality and Discretion are Guaranteed

What We Are

A Tour Operator

The mainstay of our services is private guided tours in South Africa and Namibia. We will conduct your tour experiences on the ground in Southern Africa. Our tours are all private and operated solely for the party reserving the service.

Small and Knowledgeable

The modest size of our company and the experience of the individuals employed means attention to detail and very personal service. You are not just another 'number' to African Sky.

Provider of quality services

Whether personal or exclusive top-end, our services are exceptional; glance through our client testimonials to affirm our quality safaris, tours, and honeymoons.

Committed to our clients

The entire African Sky team is committed to ensuring that your travels to our part of the world are unforgettable. You're in our attentive care from the moment you step off the plane.

What We Are Not

A Travel Agent

We are not an agent who has never set foot in Africa and rely on second-hand accounts of hotels, lodges, and local conditions. Conditions on the ground when advising clients.

Large and impersonal

We love getting to know our clients and ensuring that their travels complement their particular needs. Our service is very personal. You will be dealing with individuals, not a faceless corporation.

Reseller of others' tours

We do not sell tours for other companies - we only sell our private tours. If you are an agent, however, you are welcome to reach out to us to assist you in creating an itinerary for your prospective clients.

A travel directory

While we list various accommodations and offer useful information on travel in Southern Africa, this is all in lieu of our primary function - offering the best safaris, honeymoons, and tours to discerning travelers.

Why Book With Us?

When booking a safari or tour with African Sky, you secure the operator's services handling all your on-the-ground operations - not a third-party operator. We are based in South Africa and share the inherent knowledge and years of experience that only locals can offer.

Knowledge & Experience

As a company, we have more than twenty-four years of experience. As individuals, however, we have spent many more years exploring the length and breadth of southern Africa to provide only the best advice regarding a southern African travel experience.

Commitment to Clients

At African Sky, you are more than just a client. We are passionate about our slice of paradise and sharing it with all who travel to Southern Africa. We will go out of our way to ensure that the experience exceeds your expectations and makes you want to return for more adventures with us.

Flexibility

Our flexibility is one of our proudest characteristics. This trademark extends from our tailor-made itineraries to our on-the-ground operations. When traveling with African Sky, you can have a flexible schedule with no limited time window at any particular attraction. Sit back, take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Sales, Admin and Systems Team

The African Sky Sales, Admin, and Systems Team creates and maintains our online offerings and systems required to manage the services we conduct effectively. They design itineraries that meet each traveling party's specific needs and manage the logistical arrangements of all safaris & and tours to the highest standard. Each team member has many years of experience and is passionate about ensuring your holiday in our part of the world is the most unique and memorable experience it can be.

Riaan Viljoen General Manager

Riaan is a graduate of the University of Pretoria's School for Economic and Business Sciences. He founded African Sky Safaris & Tours in 1998 and has been privileged to meet people from all corners of the world who enjoyed a holiday hosted by African Sky. His commitment is to ensure a quality experience when dealing with African Sky, from initial contact (Normally via the Website) to the last day of your southern African Vacation.

Andrew Harvey Sales Manager

Andrew spent around ten years as a tour and safari guide before taking an office position, first as a sales consultant and then as the Sales Manager of African Sky Safaris & Tours. Andrew has extensive knowledge of photographic safaris and tours in Southern Africa. He can expertly assist with all questions relating to your tour or safari. Wildlife photography is his hobby and passion.

JP Pretorius Webmaster

JP is responsible for the African Sky website and social media sites, including our official Facebook page and YouTube channel. In addition to these tasks, he works with video content relating to safaris, tours, and wildlife. He has spent much of his work life doing graphic and website design, HTML, CSS, and animation. He joined the office team at African Sky in 2012 as the Webmaster.

Dean Kuhn Bookkeeper

Dean has been with African Sky from the very beginning. He is a perfectionist by nature and ensures all payments and arrangement confirmations are made and received timely. Though he operates in the background, Dean contributes significantly to our services' success.

Tour & Safari Guides

Your guide will be one of the most significant contributors to the overall enjoyment of the experience. These professionals will ensure you depart from Southern Africa with memories to last a lifetime.

Amanda Hamann

Amanda has been a national guide for more than fifteen years. She is a highly knowledgeable and experienced guide. She can shed light on any topic, from the region's history to the cultures of the various tribes and the habits and behavior of mammal species. Amanda will enrich your experience in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia. She is an exceptional hostess.

Andre Hamann

Andre is an experienced tour guide who has been leading safaris and tours for African Sky for more than twelve years. The depth of his knowledge of southern Africa is nothing short of astounding, as any client who has toured with Andre will bear testimony. He is registered as a national guide with the relevant authorities and is an expert in all areas involving travel in South Africa and Namibia.

Mary Anne Finlay

Mary-Anne's experience in the Southern African tourism industry spans a decade. She has a three-year travel and tourism management diploma and has extensively escorted tours in Southern Africa. Her experience leading tours extends to South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia. Photography is a hobby, and she loves to share her knowledge of capturing images of wildlife and birds.

Annah Ngenda

Annah is based in Victoria Falls. She holds a bachelor's degree in commerce from the Tourism and Hospitality Management department. Her experience in the industry spans more than 15 years. During this period, she has gained vast experience and insight, combining her passion for people and travel to make her an indefensible part of the team that focuses on Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Chobe in Botswana, and Livingstone in Zambia.

Alida de Villiers

Alida grew up on a farm in the African country of Zimbabwe. She accompanied her family on numerous safaris in Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Zambia from a very young age, fostering a love and understanding of nature. She has since turned her love for Africa into a tour guide career- a position allowing her to share her passion and knowledge of the beautiful countries in Southern Africa.

Clouds Nyoni

Clouds is one of the most energetic and resourceful tour guides leading tours in Botswana's northeastern part, the northwestern part of Zimbabwe, and the southern part of Zambia. He has over a decade of experience guiding foreign clients in these parts. Extensive knowledge of the area's wildlife, attractions, and history enables Clouds to add value to your tour or safari.

Suzette Erasmus

Suzette started part-time in the industry in 1998 and completed all the relevant courses to become a national tour guide. She has been a national guide since 2000 and is passionate about traveling. Suzette grew up in Limpopo but now resides in the Overberg region, not far from Cape Town. Suzette is an excellent hostess and knowledgeable guide who greatly adds to your enjoyment of South Africa.

Ludwig van der Westhuizen

Ludwig has been a tour guide for seven years and comes from the service industry, where he worked as an assistant manager at a hotel. Here he discovered his love for people and tourism. Ludwig is qualified to tour the Western Cape and enjoys the Garden Route region very much. He is particularly passionate about the wine and food of the Cape, especially wine tourism.

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Exploring africa together, african safari tours, tailormade packages & guided group tours.

We at JENMAN African Safaris take immense pride in our position as one of the leading tour operators, dedicated to delivering world-class safari experiences in Southern Africa , East Africa , and Madagascar . We specialize in providing tailormade packages, private tours and small guided group tours throughout Africa.

Uganda Gorilla Adventure • 4 Days

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We offer a wide range of safari packages, including luxury safaris, family-friendly safaris, self-drive safaris, and adventure tours..

Our itineraries cover a diverse range of destinations like Mana Pools, Kruger National Park, Serengeti, Okavango Delta and Etosha National Park, to name a few. What sets us apart is our commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism. We work closely with local communities and conservation organizations to ensure that our tours have a positive impact on the environment and local economies.

We also promote eco-friendly practices and support wildlife conservation efforts in the areas we operate. Our experienced and knowledgeable tour guides ensure that guests have a safe and memorable experience while exploring the beauty and diversity of Africa. Let us get you there!

Great Migration

Serengeti national park & masai mara.

The Wildebeest Migration of the Serengeti is not only great – but simply phenomenal, so much so that it can be seen from space! Every year over a million of these ungulates move across the plains of the Serengeti from Tanzania’s  Serengeti National Park  to the  Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya in a breathtaking journey of sheer determination. It is an expedition filled with dramatic tension with up to 8,000 births a day over a distance of 2,896 km covered, and a death rate of around 250, 000 animals. The migration patterns are also affected by the rainfall, the animals flowing clockwise through the Serengeti in search of lush green grass. Discover the wonders of  Tanzania   with our expertly crafted custom travel itineraries.

South Africa

Cape town, garden route, kruger national park and more.

From rugged coastlines, astonishing flora, spectacular national parks and cityscapes filled with arts and culture, a South Africa safari will satisfy a wide range of bucket list experiences. Start discovering South Africa with a visit to  Cape Town , the ‘best city in the world’, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, wildlife reserves and golf courses. Our luxury Cape Town villas offers a luxury experience like no other. Prepare for an adventure like no other as you embark on a journey to the world-renowned Kruger National Park in South Africa. With its unparalleled wildlife diversity and untamed beauty, this extraordinary wilderness gem spanning nearly 20,000 km² is a safari seeker’s ultimate dream. 

Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Mana Pools and more

Ecologically diverse and unique, and varied in landscape and culture, a Zimbabwe safari will satisfy a wide range of bucket list experiences. ​​Zimbabwe’s charm stretches from one side of the country to the other as its rich scenery offers an irresistible lure for safari seekers. Including wildlife havens like Hwange National Park and Mana Pools National Park and the astonishing sight of the mighty Victoria Falls  in your Zimbabwe holiday itinerary are sure to create a memorable excursion. Both Mana Pools and Victoria Falls have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites, together with the Great Zimbabwe Monument, the Khami Ruins and Matobo Hills.

Tsingy de Bemaraha, Isalo National Park, Nosy Be and more

Experience the most magical of journeys with a Madagascar safari expertly planned by JENMAN African Safaris. The breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife and pristine beaches make Madagascar the perfect place for the safari of a lifetime. At Tsingy de Bemaraha  you will come across rare lemur species, and the cave-dwelling crocodiles in Ankarana National Park , will turn your safari into an exceptional experience. A picture-perfect phenomenon with rows of baobabs shooting up on either side of a natural path. The Avenue of Baobabs is a natural phenomenon where rows of Baobabs shoot up on either side of a natural path.  Nosy Be , located off the northwest coast, is a gem of a destination that will take your breath away. 

• Kruger National Park
• Hwange National Park
• Mana Pools National Park
• Maasai Mara
• Okavango Delta
• Victoria Falls
• Serengeti National Park
• Best Walking Safaris in Africa
• African Safaris for Seniors
• Wildebeest Migration Tour
• Group Tours to Zimbabwe
• Group Tours to South Africa
• Group Tours to Botswana
• Safari Insights

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South Africa Safaris

SOUTH AFRICA.

South Africa is best known for its beautiful landscapes, amazing wineries, spectacular beaches, a diversity of wildlife, cosmopolitan cities and its lively people.  Covering an area of about 1700 miles this beautiful country is home to more than 57 million people and you could spend months and months exploring amazing South Africa. This is among the largest countries found on the African continent and offers a very large number of activities to do and places to visit while on Safari. Below you have highlighted some of the top things to do when in South Africa.

Tour Packages

• Visit Addo Elephant National Park

This amazing National Park is considered to be one of the best places to visit in the country especially if you are organizing a family Safari and it also is located in a malaria free area. This is the third largest game park in the country and it is situated within the southern part of South Africa near Port Elizabeth and a couple of hours drive from the well known garden Route.

• Enjoying Wine tasting in the cape wine lands

The wine lands region is located close to Cape Town with several vineyards and wineries. Thanks to the amazing climate of South Africa, grapes grow well here and today South Africa produces a variety of award-winning sparkling wines, red and white wines. it’s alleged that the wine industry in this country goes back to the 17th century and looking at the small area of Stellenbosch alone has more than 150 wineries and yet when you explore further to Franschhoek there are more than 50 vineyards. during your tour you will get an opportunity to taste the wine and if you wish you can spend a night or two as there is very good range of accommodation.

• Visit iSimangaliso Wetland Park

This remarkable wetland Park is among the UNESCO world heritage sites and offers so much to its visitors despite the fact that it is not among the less famously known tourist sites in South Africa. it offers beautiful white sand beaches, breathtaking scenery and unique landscapes with different types of wildlife to see as well as amazing opportunities for diving. This is one of the best places to see crocodiles and hippos while in South Africa. Large numbers of baboons, rhinos, elephants, wildebeests, zebras and buffalos can be seen here.

• See the amazing African penguins

A few kilometers from Cape Town is the Boulders penguin colony where you will find many thousands of African penguins. Sadly these are considered as an endangered species because of human activities such as destruction of their habitat pollution as well as oil spilling that have affected their survival. During your visit you will begin at the boulders visitor center and walk along the raised broad walkway which will give you an up-close encounter with the penguins. As a caution, despite their beauty don’t mistake them to be pets, remember they are wild animals so keep your distance.

• Explore Pilanesberg National Park

Pilanesberg National Park is located about 2 hours drive from the city of Johannesburg and it is among the easy to accessible wildlife destinations in the country. This game park is found within a crater of an extinct volcano and there is a man-made lake that serves as a drinking hole to a large number of different animals making it easy to see species like lions, rhinos, leopards and elephants during your visit. Because of its small size this park can be visited during your day tours in South Africa

• Hike the spectacular Drankensberg Mountain

The highest mountain ranges in South Africa are found within Drankensberg region close to the eastern coast and it comprises of green rough peaks, deep valleys and Sandy-Stone cliffs. Different types of walks or hikes can be enjoyed on this mountain range varying from the casual walks to the very challenging hikes that can take several days. Among the popular routes followed on this mountain ranges include the rainbow Gorge route, the Chain Ladders Hike, the Giants cap trail, the cathedral peak and ploughman’s cup.

• Hluhluwe National Park

The Hluhluwe National Park is a list visited Safari destination as compared to other Superior game parks like the Kruger but offers a very amazing experience especially for those with limited Safari time while visiting South Africa. The park offers a very rewarding experience considering that it is home to a great diversity of wildlife including the big five animals. this destination is better recommended for people exploring Durban area.

• Visit Robben Island

Until 1996, Ruben Island found four miles off Cape Town’s coast served as a maximum detention prison where many politicians were imprisoned during the times of the apartheid. It is here that legendary Nelson Mandela spent 18 years imprisoned. Today this prison is listed among the UNESCO world heritage sites and it’s among the most significant cultural sites found in South Africa. You will find that majority of the local guides at this site were formally prisoners here and they will be able to give you an insight of how life behind the bars during the apartheid time was like on this island. During your tour you will also see the cell in which Nelson Mandela was being held during your tour, you will have a bus ride to see the quarry where prisoners including Nelson Mandela forcefully worked as well as the graveyard where the prisoners were buried.

• Explore the West Coast national park

West Coast National Park is among the commonly visited game parks in South Africa especially in the warm season when the number of tourists is really high. it offers very beautiful beaches amazing hiking trails different wildlife a beautiful coastline uncivil wildflowers for persons interested in seeing the colorful flowers in this park you are recommended to visit during the spring time the transfer from August to September however expect large number of tourists at that time

• Visit the apartheid museum to learn about the horrific apartheid

The horrific apartheid cast darkness over South Africa from back in the 1940s until the 1990s. This is a history worth learning about when you visit today. in the apartheid museum founded in Johannesburg which will give you a great insight of the history and legacy of the apartheid. This museum is found on a site that was previously a political prison so during your visit you will get an opportunity to see some of the prison cells and even learn about the different politicians that were imprisoned there unjustly

• Explore the city of Durban

Durban is one of the major cities in South Africa and one of the most fascinating things you can do while here is to enjoy the beautiful beaches as it offers several miles of the golden coastline. you can visit the Durban botanical gardens as well as that was Ushaka Marine world. In addition, this is a good place to base especially if you are visiting isimangaliso national Park and Hluhluwe game reserve for day trips.

• Enjoy surfing adventure on Jeffrey’s Bay

South Africa is special in its own way because it’s boarded by two huge water masses that include the Indian Ocean as well as the Atlantic Ocean. These two offer top notch surfing opportunities, And Jeffrey’s Bay found on the south coast close to Port Elizabeth is the best destination to enjoy a surfing adventure. it experiences huge waves plus several  breaks offering the ideal surfing conditions

• Visit Namaqua National Park and Namaqualand

These two sites are considered to be among the hidden treasures in South Africa with very few people ever talking about them. In springtime the distant valleys transform into a magical wildflower Paradise and the entire area is covered in a vivid carpet of wildflowers that attracts holidaymakers from different parts of the world. This please can best be visited from August to September especially by people who wish to have an off-the-beaten-path experience.

• Visit Cape Town

Cape Town is the oldest settlement within South Africa established back in the 1652 and it’s for that reason that it is called the Mother City. It prides in a blend of cultures that include the African influence and European influence with a fusion of both modern and the tradition ways of life. The town offers museums, local markets, several restaurants with fine cuisines and a great diversity of shops. this is one of the must visit places while in South Africa.

• Kruger National Park

this is the most popular as well as one of the frequently visited tourist sites in South Africa it is not only the largest national park in the country but the oldest as well covering about 20,000 square kilometers in size. Ideally this park can best be visited on a two to three day game drive adventure. Kruger National Park is home to a very large number of different animals and it is best visited for its big 5 animals which includes the Cape buffalo, lion, rhino, leopard and elephant. It offers a number of amazing safari accommodation ranging from budget to luxury facilities.

• Stand at Africa’s most southern point on the continent

Cape Agulhas is the most southern point on the entire African continent and it’s at this point that the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean meet. The two large water masses crash against each other at this point offering a very much remarkable experience to be standing at the southernmost point of the African continent

• Explore the Garden Route

The garden route is it among the most spectacular places to see during your visit in South Africa. It stretches for more than 200 kilometers between Storms River and Mossel Bay and it is among the most scenic routes in the whole world. For you to best enjoy it, you will be required to spare a number of days of your safari to explore and see its amazing features. Among the highlights found within the garden road is Storms River as well as Tsitsikamma National Park.

• Visit the valley of desolation

The spectacular valley of desolation is an unbelievable geological phenomenon found in Graaff-Reinet. It is comprised of vertical cliffs and free-standing columns that are towering several hundreds of meters high. It is a very breathtaking site and a good place to watch the African sunset.

• Explore Soweto a town great history to South Africa

Soweto the southwestern township of the city of Johannesburg is most popular for its amazing contribution during the fight against apartheid. When you visit you will get a chance to experience the lively street life of these people and even get an insight of the disturbing political history of this place especially during the apartheid era.

• Visit the Twelve Apostles Mountain Ranges

There are twelve (12) outstanding sandstone cliffs which make the twelve apostle mountain rain a very spectacular site and one of the major land marks in South Africa. The mountain ranges stretches from the Table Mountain, over Camps Bay to Llandudno and Hout Bay

Frequently asked questions on South Africa

The questions below are among the commonly asked by holidaymakers visiting South Africa. They have been carefully answered with the intention of guiding you as you plan for your visit to this amazing country.

Do I need a visa to go to South Africa?

All foreign visitors going to South Africa are required to have a passport valid for a minimum of six months from the duration of their intended stay. it is also recommended that you have two blank consecutive pages within your passport.

• Important information for people traveling with minors into South Africa

In case you are a guardian or parent traveling with any minor (that is anyone of 18 years of age or below, you are required to have a certificate or letter that is certified as consent from the non accompanying guardian or parent.  The department of home affairs in South Africa recently released a number of important amendments

• Immigration guidelines related to children below the age of 18 years in South Africa

All persons traveling with minors will be necessitated to show to the immigration officials of South Africa a long form birth certificate that shows the two birth parents of the child so as to be allowed to take a child into the country. Other guidelines apply to a child who will be traveling and accompanied with just a single birth parent. Nonetheless you are recommended to make a comprehensive research on the website of the department of home affairs to get all the necessary information required.

Is it safe to travel to South Africa?

Generally South Africa is considered to be a safe destination however you are advised to take extra care especially when moving in the large cities. You are recommend to always move with your travel guide to guarantee your safety and enable proper guidance as you explore the different cities. Do not expose your valuables items like laptop, cell phone or wallets while moving because most of South Africa’s large towns are similar to any major towns in the world with incidences of petty theft.

Can I drive while in South Africa?

To be able to drive in South Africa you will be require to have an international driver’s license and in this country they drive on the left-hand-side of the road. The speed limit is 60 kilometers per hour especially within the busy areas and then when you move to the highways or the freeways it can be up to 120 km per hour. It is mandatory that all occupants within the car wear their safety seat belts at all times. Persons having a passport from the United States will not need an international driver’s license to be able to rent or even drive in South Africa. People coming from other countries are recommended to check with their respective embassies about the different requirements of what it takes to drive in South Africa.

While driving you are not allowed to use your cell phone as this can get you a traffic ticket. fueling or gas filling up stations are found in most parts of the country with unleaded fuel easily available .majority of the gas stations work 24 hours a day making the service easily available. These only accept cash payment and not credit cards so remember to have some cash on you when driving

What is the local currency used in South Africa?

The South African rand (ZAR) also denoted as R is the local currency used in South Africa

Are credit cards used in South Africa?

Yes MasterCard and Visa are widely used and accepted across most parts of South Africa. American Express as well as Diners club is not commonly used.

Where can I change my money to the local currency in South Africa?

To exchange foreign currency you can visit the Bureaux de change or the local banks. In addition majority of the major cities across the country have ATMs meaning that it is easy for you to access your money.

Can I visit South Africa with a dietary need/ requirement?

majority of the dietary needs or requirements are catered  for in South Africa however you are advised to inform your tour  operator and the hotel(s) you be staying at in advance. For those going on game drives or visiting the remote national parks this is a very important aspect to remember keeping in mind that the Safari lodges and game reserves / national parks are situated within remote areas so prior engagements will be needed. In addition you should also remember to inform them of any allergies to any foods say peanut, gluten or lactose.

Is English spoken in South Africa?

Yes English is widely used across most parts of the country. in fact when you visit the large cities you will realize that English is used by all government officials, for  commerce and trade, in banking and within the hospitality industry. In addition all the road signs are clearly marked in English and all official forms have been documented in English. When you get to your hotels or lodges the stuff will be communicating in very fluent English. On the other hand there are 11 officially used local languages in South Africa

Can I do my laundry in South Africa?

Yes South Africa hotels and lodges offer laundry services at a very friendly price. Therefore you are advised to consult at the concierge desk of your accommodation facility.

 Is there luggage restriction in South Africa when going on Safari?

Well luggage restrictions differ from one airline or aircraft to another therefore always check with your travel agent regarding the luggage weight restriction. The thumbs rule however is not to pack anything that you want to see again or that you consider very valuable to you personally. You are recommended to carry with you at all times all personal items like medication, passport, eyeglasses, laptops, cell phones, camera, sunglasses, jewelry ,wallet and camera

Majority of the airlines used internally offer a luggage restriction of up to 20 kg a person. it is better to use soft bugs than those with wheels or a rigid frame as a number of them may not be able to fit within the smaller aircraft. In case you have additional luggage above the stipulated weights you can easily patches additionally additional weight I must aircraft give a maximum 70 kilograms. Persons who are above 100 kilogram body weight can also purchase additional weight as the aircraft overs a maximum of 70kg of purchase able weight per person

Can I take a camera on my Safari to South Africa?

Yes cameras are highly recommended as this country is also known as a photographer’s Paradise. However we recommend that you carry with you all your camera chargers, several memory cards and additional spare battery to avoid any disappointments during your trip.

You can also carry a pair of binoculars especially if you are going on a bird watching tour. As you plan for your camera equipment and lenses don’t forget to bring a waterproof bag to protect it from dust or in case it rains.

What is the electric current used in South Africa?

South Africa’s electrical appliances run on 220 volts. The outlets are a 3 pin with a 15 amp plug. Majority of the hotels and lodges offer adapters but as a general rule we recommend that all visitors come with their personal adapters. In case you bringing equipment for hairstyling such as flat irons or hair dryers we recommend that you bring dual voltage gadgets and don’t forget to change or adjust the voltage once in South Africa or else you stand the chance of losing them.

 What is the time zone for South Africa?

The local time GMT + 2

Are there tipping guidelines when on Safari in South Africa?

Tipping is looked at as a way of appreciating one’s good service to you for that reason how much and who you tip surely depends on you. below we have offered you just a few guidelines to help you estimate how much to tip.

Airport transfer driver: US $3 per person

Your guide or driver on a city tour: US $5 to US $7 per person on half day tours and for full day tours US $10 to US $12

Your Safari guide or ranger guide at your lodge: US $10 each guest per day

Trackers at the lodge: US $5 per person per day

Staff at your lodge or hotel: US $5 per guest each day

Porters: US $3 per movement per person

Restaurant Staff: 10% of your bill which is customarily deducted.

Is tap water safe for drinking in South Africa?

No, please do not drink tap water you are highly advise always to drink bottled water despite the fact that in most parts of the country the tap water is safe for bathing as well as brushing your teeth.

What vaccines do I need when visiting South Africa?

There are no particular formal vaccines needed to enter South Africa however in case you plan to visit an area that is infested with malaria you are highly advised to take serious precautions especially when visiting in the summer months. Visit your physician before traveling and share with them your travel plans so that they can recommend to you any necessary medication that you will need as well as an anti-malarial prophylaxis. Ensure that all your medication is well labeled and done forget to carry a copy of the prescription with you.

How to avoid malaria in South Africa?

Malaria can be avoided through the following simple ways

• Always take your anti malarial drugs as prescribed by your doctor
• Wear long sleeved shirts and long pants as well as use an insect repellent to guard yourself against insect and mosquito bites
• Always sleep under a mosquito net over your bed or in an air-conditioned room

Yellow fever in South Africa

It is a requirement by the South African government the all people traveling from countries having a risk of yellow fever should present evidence of a yellow fever vaccine. people who are traveling from the USA when not be required for this proof however you are advised to visit the corresponding websites to find out more on which countries needs proof of a yellow fever vaccination

People who has contraindications and cannot be vaccinated against the yellow fever should have a waiver letter from an authorized travel physician that properly states the reason why. Persons who are unable to present a medical waiver or a valid certificate for yellow fever vaccination risk being denied entry into the country, or you will be forced into quarantine until your travelers certificate becomes valid.

To be safe, you are highly recommended to visit your health provider at least four to six weeks prior to your travel in order to maximize the benefit of immunization and allow enough time for the vaccine to take proper effect

What to pack on a safari in South Africa?

as the principal guidelines for anyone going on a safari in any part of the world it is important that you pack light; refrain yourself from packing too much

Wash and wear comfortable clothing are highly recommended for your Safari adventure

In case you plan on visiting the urban cities such as Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town you could throw in some clothing that is a bit formal especially for the evening dinners

for the game drive and adventures in the national parks you are advised to park neutral colored clothing like khaki, Gray, brown or stone.

Carry a warm sweater especially when going on the early morning and evening game drives since it is normally very cold especially in the winter time, and then as the day progresses and the sun comes out you can layer down.

Clothing for Safari

Lightweight blouses or shirts preferably with long sleeves to protect against insect bites and the sun

Safari trousers or jeans

Enough underwear

Cotton stockings

Comfortable walking shoes preferably with ankle support

A hat with a wide brim and having an under chin tie to refrain it from flying away during windy conditions

A lightweight waterproof jacket

Flip flops for moving around your lodge and during the warm day time

Things to pack for the winter season: persons visiting during this time are recommended to pack:

A warm scarf

A warm jacket that is windproof

Cotton gloves

A Polo neck shirt

Essential equipment for your Safari

A pair of sunglasses

A camera with its lenses, spare batteries and spare memory cards

A small umbrella that can easily be carried around

Travel alarm clock

A flashlight with extra batteries

A small backpack to carry personal items

Charges for your electrical such as cell phones camera, laptop and iPads

A USB cable with several ports

Several Ziploc bags to protect your delicate equipment like cameras from dust or rain

What to include in your personal first aid kit box

Small Kleenex packets

Antiseptic cream

A sunscreen having high SPF factor

Pain tablets

Itchy spray to use in case of bug bites

A heartburn relief and insect repellent

When is the best time to visit South Africa?

South Africa is considered to be an all-year-round destination. When we talk about the best time to visit the country, it will all depend on what part of the country you wish to visit as well as your particular interests. Looking at Cape Town for instance it is warm with dry weather in the summer months that run from November to February however the best time to watch whales in South Africa is from September to October. In case you are interested rather in game watching the cooler winter months from May to September offer excellent conditions. In this article, we give you a guide on each season and what activities can best be done when.

Generally South Africa can be considered a dry Sunny country but when it becomes cold you will surely feel it. The mid-winter within the southern hemisphere starts in June and July with temperatures dropping sometimes to as low as zero degrees. When visiting places like Johannesburg be prepared for a minimum temperature of 4 degrees Centigrade, Durban an average of 11 degrees Centigrade and in Cape Town 7 degrees Centigrade. On the other hand, Mid-Summer which begins in December to the end of January is warm and very favorable and most of the country takes it’s a new year’s holiday and many of the inland resorts and coastal areas are filled up with holidaymakers. It is very important for any holiday makeup planning a safari to South Africa to take into account the different climatic zones experienced in the different parts of the country.

The Garden Route Coastal belt as well as Cape Town experience a warm mild but unpredictable summer but during the winter days it can turn out to be extremely cold and the rain can fall at any time. In these areas The Kwazu Natal which is more subtropical experiences warm winters whereas the city of Johannesburg and Pretoria are found on a high plateau and experience almost a perfect climate. The summer days are normally interrupted with thunder showers whereas the winters are characterized with very cold nights.

The rainy season in South Africa

Well in South Africa the rainy season varies basing on the location and the rain falls at any time throughout the year especially in the capes. The western cape and Cape Town receive rainfall from June to the month of August. The northern area receives rain from November to February whereas the dry season comes in from May to October which is actually a good time to have your Safari in South Africa.

To answer the question of the best month to visit South Africa it will depend on whether you are going east or west. The western part of the country is perfect during the summer months from November to April whereas the Eastern part can best be visited during the cooler months that run from May to October.  Your interests or activities you are going to engage in on your safari also highly determine the time you will be visiting the country.

Places like the Garden Route can be visited from November to February when it’s warm however for those interested in watching the whales, you are advised to visit from September to October.

persons looking forward to enjoy bird watching tours in South Africa are advised to visit the northern region of the country from the month of November to February especially if you don’t mind some occasional rains.

Game viewing and game drive expeditions can best be done during the cooler winter months from May to September.

In summary , September is considered to be the best month to visit South Africa on a Safari. You can easily combine a number of tour activities in this month across most of the country for instance, besides seeing the different animals with their young ones you will be able to see the breaching whales

The winter season of South Africa

From December to January South Africa is experiencing its midsummer and during this time majority of the top tourist destinations are swarmed with high numbers of holidaymakers. In case you are going to Garden Route or Cape Town for instance you are advised to book your accommodation a couple of months earlier to avoid any disappointment.

December to February

The days are generally hot and dry making it the best time to visit the national parks and the coastal areas of South Africa. The challenge however of visiting during this time of year is that the cost of safaris is generally high and most of the accommodation is filled with tourists. Holidaymakers are advised to book their tours a couple of months in advance. Cape Town and the garden Route can also be easily explored during this time of the year since it’s warm and dry.  In February the Mercury arises along the coast however there is an ocean breeze that blows along the coast that cools it off. Kwazulu-natal and Kruger National Park are also dry and can be easily visited during this time with occasional rain storms falling.

The springtime of South Africa

During this time schools are taking their Easter holiday and it is a very busy time for the tourist industry in South Africa which makes the overall cost of a safari very expensive. Majority of the accommodation facilities are filled up which makes the demand of accommodation very high.

March to May

In South Africa from March to May it is generally warm and sunny despite the fact that the Northern Cape receives occasional rain showers. March is a good time to enjoy a safari within Kruger National Park as the rivers are full and vegetation is lashing. The month of April is however drier making it easy for you to combine a wildlife safari with an adventure in Cape Town. from May the days are warm but the evenings and early morning are extremely cold

Summer time in South Africa

June to August is considered an appropriate time to visit especially if you are interested in game viewing. The month of July marks the beginning of the whale watching season despite the fact that the weather can be cool with occasional drizzles. The eastern and northern parts of the country remain warm and dry so Addo elephant National Park as well as Kruger National Park can be visited with great views of animals around the water holes.

Spring time starts in the month of August as many of the wild flowers start to blossom across the northern and western capes coloring the dusty arid landscape with vibrant colors. This month also marks the start of the sport season offering holiday makers an opportunity to watch international football, rugby and cricket games.

June to August

In the month of June the Western Cape and Cape Town become cooler with the nights becoming extremely cold but once the sun is out it is very pleasant although occasional light rain showers might be experienced.

The fall time in South Africa

The month of September and October are best for persons interested in watching whales as a number of migrant species from the Antarctica are arriving.  The best places to see whales are Plettenberg Bay and Hermanus. In the month of September wildflowers are beautifully blooming and you can visiting namaqualand for the best views. During this time persons interested in the sports like cricket will get an opportunity to watch some live matches in the country

September to November

Generally the months of September and October are considered to be generally sunny and temperatures tend to increase as the year progresses. by November areas like Kwazul natal and Kruger National Park begin to receive rain especially in the early mornings offering very spectacular afternoons. it is during this time that persons interested in visiting the dry areas like Karoo whose heat is very unbearable should do so.

Best time for a game watching safari in South Africa

Game watching can best be done during the dry season that is in May to October. During this time the grass is thin and visibility is generally better. Water is generally scarce in the national parks meaning that most of the animals will be seem congested around the few remaining permanent water holes. During this time the temperatures are cooler as compared to the hot summer.

On the other hand the hotter summer months are considered a cheaper time to visit especially if you can bear with the hot temperatures there are fewer tours due to the unbearable weather conditions which in fact increases chances of getting discounted accommodation rates.

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Top 10 Safari Parks in Africa

C an't decide where do you want to start your next (or first) safari in Africa? We collected the top 10 safari parks in Africa places to see wild African animals in their natural habitat. If you want to know what to be on the lookout for, read our article on the top 10 safari animals you can spot on your travels!

There's always more to explore so feel free to check out our article on the top 10 countires for safaris! For some Safari fun you can check our blog post on how a Family Safari completely errupted into chaos!

Read ahead or jump to any section that interests you:

Introduction

A safari (Swahili: journey) in one of Africa's national parks is an exciting thing: many people can observe a larger number of wild animals and even have the oppurtunity to see the famous Big 5 of africa. 

The focus is on the savannah and bush landscapes, where savannah elephants , lions , buffalos , and other well-known wild animals feel at home. 

Whether it's Africa for the first time or safari connoisseurs, there should be something for everyone. And it attracts attention: There is no best destination in Africa, but there are the best destinations. 

So, where should the next safari lead?

10th place: Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Where else can wild animals be observed in front of one of the most famous mountains on earth? The Amboseli National Park at the foot of Kilimanjaro in Tanzania serves both as a postcard motif for Africa and as a photographic object. Giraffes, elephants and all sorts of other wild animals strut in front of the snow-covered summit of the "Kili" and give great photo motives.

Ancient elephants still live in the park. This allows visitors to observe the almost intact social behavior of the pachyderms in their herds.

The Kilimanjaro usually wraps itself in thick clouds during the day. The chances of seeing it are best in the morning and evening.

9th place: Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa

Number 9 on the top 10 safari parks in Africa is Addo. Known for, as the name suggests, its elephants, the Addo is more than a convenient destination near South Africa's Garden Route. The park is home to lions again after a resettlement program; black rhinos and leopards are also found here. Due to the extension to the south, the coast with its sharks and whales is also part of the park, which now advertises with the "Big 7".

In conclusion, the park is ideal for exploring with your own (rental) car. Please make sure to ask in advance what you have to consider for the self-drive safari.

In addition, holidaymakers in their cars should ensure they do not run over pill turners (African dung beetles), hundreds of which run across the roads depending on the weather.

8th Place: Etosha National Park, Namibia

Namibia's most important park is home to countless wildlife, including the white and black rhino who are critically endangered, something you can read more about in one of our other articles about these ancient and disappearing creatures. There are also several predatory cat species and many antelopes. "Etosha" means "big white square," which describes the landscape well. The vegetation is extremely sparse; in the dry season, many animals gather at artificial waterholes.

In the dry season, many animals can easily be observed at the park water holes and camps. 114 different species of mammals live in the park.

Every coin has two sides: The park is completely fenced in and cuts the animals off their original routes in search of water in the Kuene region. The waterholes are not comparable to the actual environment and natural migration behavior for true lovers.

7th place: Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

The Tarangire National Park is one of the most underestimated parts of the continent. Many visitors only make a short stop at the Serengeti or do not ebaobabven include the national park in their travel plans. But the park is home to large herds of elephants and many other species in a remarkable landscape of boabab trees.

The park is known for its elephant herds, which run through a prehistoric landscape along the Tarangire River.

The park is home to the tsetse fly, which transmits sleeping sickness. Visitors should urgently pay attention to consistent protection.

6th place: Chobe National Park, Botswana

"Land of the Giants" is written on the sign at the park entrance and already announces the park's main attraction: Elephants, one of the savannah's most social creatures . Between 80,000 and 100,000 pachyderms are estimated to live in the park and adjacent areas, where they migrate depending on the season.

Botswana pursues an exemplary animal and species conservation policy and no longer kills elephants if they become too numerous for the ecosystem. Instead, fences were dismantled to create more space for the animals. Kaffir buffalos and warthogs are also common. As a result, always check the weather forecast before you go.

A safari with the boat on the Chobe river belongs to the experiences, which holiday-makers surely do not forget so fast.

During the high season the Chobe River can be very narrow.

5th place: South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

On the Luangwa River, the wilderness awaits: no fences, no radios to communicate with the rangers. Those who travel to the South Luangwa National Park will experience the bush unadorned, without much traffic and wild. It is not uncommon for your own jeep to be the only one at a spectacular sighting, giving visitors more time and peace to enjoy the encounter with the animals. Night safaris and bushwalks, i.e. safaris on foot, are allowed in the national park.

Pure wilderness. The park is known for its hippos and leopards . Many camps are not fenced and often wild animals run through the lodges. The park is also home to numerous endemic species and subspecies, i.e. animals that can only be found here. Sometimes you can even see the endangered Pangolins and the even more threatened Rhinos . Two species of Animals we explore in more detail in another article.

These include the Cookson gnu, the Crawshay zebra and the Thorneycroft giraffe.

The season plays an important role in the South Luangwa National Park. While in the dry season many large wild animals gather at the water and are so easy to discover, during the rainy season bird lovers get their money's worth.

4th place: Kruger National Park, South Africa

For most vacationers the Kruger National Park is the first safari experience in the African bush . It is one of the largest national parks on the continent and is home to a wide variety of wildlife. In contrast to the open savannahs in East Africa, the landscape is bushy and the animals are harder to spot.

This may be described as the best South African Safari.

In the Kruger National Park live some very rare animal species like wild dogs. Another animal worth further exploration in another one of our articles.

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The good infrastructure, the developed roads and the fences around the national park make it clear that the park is used and marketed commercially.

This partly causes a lot of traffic in the park and has at some corners only little to do with the real wilderness feeling.

3rd place: Ngorongoro Nature Reserve, Tanzania

While driving over the edge of the burglary crater into the nature reserve, visitors can rarely suppress the "wow" that involuntarily comes over their lips. The view can take your breath away. The safari through the crater, which has the highest predator density in Africa, becomes the photographic highlight of many Africa journeys.

The wildlife hike through Masai Mara and Serengeti also touches on the protection of the wildlife.

Overall, the high density of animals naturally attracts many visitors and some have the feeling of driving through an open-air zoo.

Some of the jeeps obstruct the way of the animals or hinder cats of prey during the hunt. Tell your driver that you don't approve of such behaviour.

2nd place: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Hardly any other national park in Africa is as famous as the Serengeti. This is of course due to the diverse fauna and one of the largest animal migrations in the world .

On the other hand, the Serengeti is almost always threatened: Many people have an interest in the place and in the fertile savannah, on which millions of wild animals cavort and planned large-scale projects would probably mean the end of the national park. The battle for the Serengeti has been fought for decades and culminated in the documentary "Serengeti must not die" by Michael Grzimek and his father Bernhard in the 1950s.

Really one of the Top 10 Safari Parks in Africa.

The migration of wild animals, where millions of wildebeests, zebras and antelopes travel in a large circle through the Serengeti and the adjoining Masai Mara in Kenya during the course of the year. This is known also as one of the great wilderbeast migration , a topic you can do further reading on with another one of our articles .

The Serengeti is exposed to constant threats. The plans to build a highway through the area are not over yet. There are also frequent conflicts between wildlife and humans.

In addition, organizations are now warning that too many tourists are coming to the park. It is best to drive in the low season and avoid facilities that require a lot of water (swimming pools etc.).

1st Place: Masai Mara Nature reserve, Kenya

Number one on the top 10 safari parks in africa list! When tears shoot into the eyes of the viewers of a lion documentary because the pictures are so overwhelming, the reportage is mostly shot in the Masai Mara (or Maasai Mara).

Wide landscape with green hills as far as the eye can see. The view is interrupted only by Wildebeest , zebras, giraffes, Elephants ,, antelopes , lions , hyenas… The Masai Mara could pass for an African cliché if it were not real.

Word has got around of course that the Masai Mara is a paradise on earth. It is therefore frequently overcrowded and the many cars already have influence on the behavior of the wild animals. Some cars leave the tracks in search of the best view. If this happens to you, it's best to tell the driver that you don't want them to.

The park also serves as a Rhino sanctuary and is home to some 60 white and black rhinos, who are guarded around the clock by armed rangers. An absolute must for rhino fans, who are almost guaranteed to meet some of the animals here.

The impressive Murchison waterfall, where the Victoria Nile plunges over 43 metres into the depths, is also a must see. The park is home to the endangered Rothschild Giraffes (also Uganda giraffe or Nubian giraffe). To the south of the park is the Budongo chimpanzee forest.

The park is in some places tsetse fly high area. Be sure to take care to protect yourself against insects.

When to go on a Safari

The best time is always present, but if you are looking for the most enjoyment from your trip, the best time to go is from July through October, when the animals are easy to find and in substantial numbers. However, deciding when to go on a safari depends on  what  country you want to visit and when you can plan your trip. As well as the type of wildlife you hope to encounter.

The best months for an African safari are therefore varied.

What to pack/ best luggage for African safari

Some of the most recommended basics:Here's the "must-haves" to  pack  for your  safari :

• T-shirt, shirt or blouse – long sleeves and collars help to protect from the sun and mosquitoes
• Fleece or warm jacket.
• A pair of  safari  trousers – those that zip off at the knees are very handy, too.
• Comfortable walking shoes (or boots) and socks.

Above and beyond the comfortable basics, there are niche items which could enhance your experience on safari. We've researched the best of these items to take with you.

Best insect repellent for African safari: Natrapel 8  Hour insect repthatellent: this is a CDC recommended product based on 20% Picaridin formula and is  DEET  FREE. It is safe to spray on your skin and clothing.

Best binoculars for African safari : Celestron 71347 Outland x | 10×25 |  Best compact Binoculars  for Travel.

Best camera for African safari : Best -buy cameras for  safari  in Africa: At Canon, it would be the Canon EOS Rebel series. Often you can get a kit ( camera  + lenses + accessories). Best for travelling and easy shots.

Best shoes for African safari :  light trail  shoes  and hybrid  shoe /sandals (Keen, Teva, Merrel, North Face, HiTec, Garmont, Salomon etc) are adequate for regular travel and normal  safari  conditions. Even fly-camping trips and walking trails on fairly rough terrain don't warrant hiking boots when conditions are dry.

It is important to find out what you need for specific areas as well as administrative documents and permits.

Summary on Top 10 Safari Parks in Africa

The landscape is very bushy and visitors often only see the animals when they are standing directly in front of or next to the car. Slow driving is therefore all the more important.

How did you like the article on the top 10 safari parks in africa? In conclusion, we hope to give you some ideas and inspirations on the best african safari tours, animal encounters and holiday trips.

• Masai Mara Nature Reserve, Kenya – Overcrowded but abundant wildlife, including rhinos.
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania – Famous for the great wildebeest migration.
• Ngorongoro Nature Reserve, Tanzania – High predator density, popular tourist destination.
• Kruger National Park, South Africa – Large park with diverse wildlife, commercialized.
• South Luangwa National Park, Zambia – Unspoiled wilderness, known for hippos and leopards.
• Chobe National Park, Botswana – Land of the Giants, home to a large elephant population.
• Tarangire National Park, Tanzania – Underrated park with large elephant herds and baobab trees.
• Etosha National Park, Namibia – Sparse vegetation, artificial waterholes attract many animals.
• Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa – Known for elephants, self-drive safari recommended.
• Amboseli National Park, Kenya – Elephants near Mount Kilimanjaro, observe intact social behavior.

Tips for Safari:

• Best time to go is from July to October for high animal sightings.
• Pack essentials like long-sleeved shirts, hat, fleece, comfortable shoes, insect repellent.
• Recommended binoculars: Celestron 71347 Outland x | 10×25.
• Canon EOS Rebel series for safari photography.
• Check specific requirements, permits, and administrative documents for each park.

Be advised that those are subjective ideas and of course every safari park, whether big or small can be beautiful and present you with awesome wildlife.

There's always more to explore so feel free to check out our article on the top 10 countires for safaris!

Frequently Asked Queastions (FAQs)

Safari experiences are generally safe, but it's important to follow guidelines and instructions provided by your guides or tour operators. Wildlife should be observed from a safe distance and never approached or provoked. It's also recommended to stay within designated areas and camps, especially during night hours. Adhering to these precautions ensures a safe and enjoyable safari experience.

Many safari operators and lodges prioritize sustainability and conservation efforts. They work to minimize the ecological impact by implementing responsible practices such as supporting local communities, conserving natural resources, and participating in wildlife conservation initiatives. When choosing a safari operator, it's advisable to opt for those with strong environmental ethics and credentials.

Interacting with or touching wildlife is strongly discouraged and, in most cases, prohibited during safaris. The well-being of the animals and the safety of visitors are of utmost importance. Safaris promote responsible wildlife viewing, which involves observing animals from a safe distance and respecting their natural behaviors. Touching or disturbing the wildlife can cause stress or potentially dangerous situations for both humans and animals.

Several ways to contribute to conservation efforts during a safari include supporting eco-friendly lodges or tour operators that actively participate in conservation initiatives. Additionally, you can choose to visit parks and reserves that allocate a portion of the entrance fees to conservation projects. It's also encouraged to learn about and respect local customs, traditions, and wildlife protection regulations while engaging in responsible tourism practic

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