Where to Go on Safari in South Africa

South Africa is a land of contrasts. From peaceful beaches to bustling cities, Africa’s southernmost country has it all – but the main thing that draws travellers here is, of course, its exceptional wildlife. The best South Africa safaris range from big game viewing in legendary national parks to off-the-beaten-path experiences in small private reserves.

With so much variety, choosing where to go on safari in South Africa is no simple task. The Kruger and Sabi Sands are prime spots to see lions and leopards; Madikwe, Tswalu and the Eastern Cape are malaria-free; Kwandwe promises unparalleled privacy; and that’s just a small sampling of the options.

Fortunately, our travel designers are well versed in this country’s regions, parks and reserves – and the differences between them. We’ve put together this guide to the best places for safaris in South Africa according to their expert insights.

Planning the best South African safari for you will depend on your priorities and preferences. Certain spots are ideal for families with young children, while others are better suited to a romantic couple’s trip. Timing matters too; most places experience optimal safari conditions during the dry season (May–October), but the green season (November–April) is the best time to go to South Africa for birdwatching and baby animals.

You should also consider which species you want to see, what kind of accommodation you’re looking for and which perks pique your interest. There are classic safari camps, exclusive-use villas and remote lodges offering everything from private vehicles and guides to world-class spas and restaurants – it all depends on what sort of experience you’re hoping to have.

Whether you’re planning an exhilarating adventure, a romantic honeymoon or a family safari in South Africa, there’s a destination for you. Here are a few of our favourite places and some useful tips regarding their specific benefits, how to best enjoy them and where to stay.

Kruger National Park – or simply the Kruger, as it’s often called – is the quintessential South African safari destination. With well over a hundred years of history and more than 7,500 square miles (19,400 square kilometres) of wilderness, this park is the perfect place to spot the Big Five and countless other animals.

The Greater Kruger encompasses several privately owned reserves and concessions around the park. We suggest basing yourself in one of these areas. In the northern Kruger you’ll find the Pafuri Triangle, promising uncrowded landscapes and fantastic walking safaris. The Singita Concession is known for its large prides of lions; stay at Lebombo for stunning views or Sweni for an especially cosy experience, and enjoy exclusive off-road access to the area.

The unfenced private concessions of Sabi Sands are legendary for their abundance of leopards and instantly recognisable savannah bushveld: the classic safari environment. Here you can stay at one of four phenomenal lodges in the Sabi Sabi Reserve or head to Leopard Hills to spot its eponymous felines and other animals right from your suite’s private sundeck and pool.

South Africa is a wonderful choice if you’re travelling with children, thanks to its combination of family-friendly safari lodges and diverse activities that can be adapted for all ages. One of our favourite destinations is Madikwe Game Reserve. This area is malaria-free, which makes visiting it with young children much simpler as there’s no need for anti-malaria precautions.

Madikwe also happens to be one of the largest and most remote reserves in the country, and is still relatively unknown. In addition to spotting elephants, cheetahs, wild dogs and many other mammals on game drives, you can enjoy birdwatching, rock climbing and special activities for younger travellers at the reserve’s top family lodges.

We’re partial to Molori, which boasts a spacious two-bedroom family suite, and Morukuru Family, which includes three exclusive-use villas. The latter has been specifically designed for family trips to South Africa, featuring fully personalised itineraries and private safari guides.

The Kalahari is a vast semi-arid savannah home to an amazing density of wildlife, with species ranging from desert-adapted meerkats to rare black rhinos. Only the southernmost bit of this region spills across South Africa’s northern border. It’s a land of sandy plains, sweeping grasslands and spectacular sunsets, ideal for adventurous and nature-loving travellers.

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is a privately owned game reserve within the Kalahari that offers incredibly exclusive and bespoke experiences. In addition to being the country’s largest private reserve, it’s also malaria-free. There are only two places to stay here; Tarkuni Private House can host groups of up to ten people, while Motse Camp is among South Africa’s most romantic lodges for couples.

Whichever accommodation you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy a long list of activities including luxurious sleep-outs, walking safaris and private game drives. Because a maximum of just 30 people can stay in the reserve at a time, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of this remote corner of the country without another visitor in sight.

If you’re looking for an alternative safari experience, including not just terrestrial wildlife but also coastal beauty and riverside luxury, consider the Eastern Cape. Known for the dramatic views and rocky shorelines of its Wild Coast, this region also boasts several wildlife reserves where you can see the Big Five along with giraffes, cheetahs, hippos and more.

The Kwandwe Private Game Reserve is one of our top choices. Here you can embark on night-time safaris and learn about local initiatives to monitor and protect rhinos and other endangered species. Stay at the elegant Great Fish River Lodge or the exquisitely modern Ecca Lodge, or opt for a private villa like Fort House.

We also love the Kariega Game Reserve, where you’ll find the delightfully secluded tented lodge of Settlers Drift. Combine land-based safari excursions with river cruises and canoeing, and treat yourself to rejuvenating spa treatments at the reserve’s wellness centre.

The Shamwari Private Game Reserve also offers world-class wellness experiences, along with opportunities to visit its wildlife rehabilitation centre and big cat sanctuaries. All of the reserves in the Eastern Cape are malaria-free, making this region a great choice for families as well.

Absolutely. In fact, South Africa is often our top choice for first-time safari-goers. The incredible variation between its destinations means that every traveller can find the perfect place for them. There’s a wide array of national parks and private conservancies, ample opportunities to see the Big Five and plenty of sumptuous lodges to make your trip as comfortable as possible.

We also love the fact that a luxury safari in South Africa can include multiple destinations with different vibes, plus all sorts of complementary experiences to round out your itinerary. Here you can combine safaris with vineyard tours in the Winelands, cultural activities in Cape Town, whale watching on the Whale Coast, sun-drenched sandy beaches and so much more.