South Africa is a large and diverse country. Its regions have many different climates, making the country attractive all year round. However, for safaris, the best time is usually during most of the country’s dry season, from May to September. This period offers the best opportunities to see game around water sources, while the vegetation is less dense, making animals easier to spot.
South Africa boasts a variety of safari destinations, each offering unique experiences. You'll need to choose between 3 different areas of the country. Most well-known is the iconic Kruger National Park in the country's North East, which is one of Africa’s largest game reserves. The Kruger boasts exceptional biodiversity, being home to the iconic African 'Big Five' lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros. In addition, its extensive size and varied habitats, including savannahs, woodlands, and rivers, support a rich diversity of wildlife, including numerous bird species. To avoid the crowds, it's worth considering a safari lodge on one of the many private reserves bordering the Kruger.
Pilanesberg National Park is possibly the most accessible safari destination. Situated in the ecologically rich transition zone between the Kalahari and the Lowveld, this vast area promises thrilling big game viewing in a malaria free environment. The relatively small size of the park, and its unusual ecological richness, dramatically increase your chance of encountering the Big 5 in their natural environment.Only a 3-hour drive from Johannesburg, a safari here will keep your travel costs down. (You need to take a flight from Jo'burg to reach the Kruger and dovetailing with international flights means you'll probably have to overnight at Jo'burg airport in at least one direction).
The Eastern Cape is a province renowned for its conservation efforts. It also has many smaller private game reserves and national parks, including the famous Addo Elephant National Park. If you're worried about malaria, the Eastern Cape has the additional benefit of being completely malaria-free. While not as expansive as Kruger, this area still offers remarkable wildlife diversity. particularly in some of the private reserves, where the 'Big Five' can also be found, and increased animal numbers are the fruits of long-term conservation efforts. A safari in the Eastern Cape can be added as a last stop after a tour along the Garden route. Visitors can look forward to encounters with elephants, buffalo, rhinos, lions, leopards, various antelope species, and diverse bird life. Coastal areas also provide opportunities for marine wildlife sightings, such as dolphins and whales.
If you want to relax by a beach after your safari, that's easily done. With decent flight connections, you can combine a safari in South Africa with a fabulous beach destination such as Mauritius or the Seychelles. Or if Victoria Falls is on your Bucket List, that would be a great place to visit after your time in the bush.
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