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DISCOVER SOUTH AFRICA: "SOUL STIRRING SAFARIS"

Embarking on a South African safari is an immersive journey into the heart of untamed wilderness, where diverse landscapes and iconic wildlife converge to create an unparalleled adventure. From the majestic Big Five to vibrant birdlife, South Africa's national parks and private reserves offer a rich tapestry of biodiversity. Each safari circuit—Northern, Eastern, Western, and Southern—unveils its unique charm and ecological wonders, promising an unforgettable exploration of nature's grandeur.
 

Northern Circuit: The Northern Circuit of South Africa introduces adventurers to iconic destinations such as Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Renowned for its prolific wildlife, including lions, elephants, and leopards, this circuit promises thrilling game drives and encounters with the continent's most impressive species. Luxurious lodges and tented camps provide a perfect blend of comfort and wilderness, offering a gateway to the wild beauty of the north.
 

Eastern Circuit: Venturing into the Eastern Circuit, travelers discover the enchanting landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal and Phinda Private Game Reserve. This region is celebrated for its diverse ecosystems, from savannahs to coastal forests. Witnessing rhinos in their natural habitat, tracking cheetahs, and experiencing the rich Zulu culture are highlights of the Eastern Circuit. Private concessions offer an exclusive safari experience, ensuring a deeper connection with nature.
 

Western Circuit: The Western Circuit beckons explorers to the arid landscapes of the Northern Cape and the iconic Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. This semi-arid terrain, shared with Botswana, unveils a different facet of the safari experience. Guests can witness mesmerizing desert-adapted wildlife, including oryx and meerkats, against a backdrop of vast red dunes. The rustic charm of the wilderness camps enhances the sense of solitude and immersion in nature.
 

Southern Circuit: The Southern Circuit encompasses the Garden Route, Addo Elephant National Park, and the coastal wonders of Tsitsikamma. Beyond traditional game drives, this circuit offers marine safaris for whale watching and encounters with marine life. The lush landscapes and diverse activities, from exploring ancient forests to experiencing coastal adventures, make the Southern Circuit a multifaceted safari experience.
 

In every circuit, South African safaris blend the thrill of wildlife encounters with the comfort of luxury accommodations, ensuring that each moment in the wild is complemented by relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether tracking big game, marveling at birdlife, or savoring the beauty of diverse ecosystems, a South African safari promises an odyssey into nature's wonders.

RATES (USD)

$141 to $635 pp/day

HIGH SEASON

October to March

BEST TIME TO GO

May to September

SIZE

1,221,037km² / 471,445mi²

EXPERT RATING

Excellent and easily accessible wildlife viewing

Self-drive, package or custom safaris for any budget

A wide variety of habitats and scenery

Excellent service and a well-run tourist industry

Less wilderness appeal and fenced parks

Popular parks can get crowded

GREAT PARK (NOT TO BE MISSED)

GREAT PARK (WORTH A DETOUR)

SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL PARKS

KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

The Enchanted Waterhole Safari

BEST PARK 4.7/5

AREA: 22,270 SQ KM 

ALTITUDE: 1000/1208 METRES
OPTIMAL TIME TO EXPLORE: MAY TO OCTOBER IS IDEAL FOR WILDLIFE VIEWING AS ANIMALS CONGREGATE AROUND WATER SOURCES

Kruger National Park, an emblem of South African wildlife conservation, spans nearly 20,000 square kilometers in the northeastern part of the country. It is a sanctuary for the Big Five and a multitude of other species, providing an authentic and immersive safari experience. The park is renowned for its vast landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and an abundance of wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Visitors can traverse the network of roads and guided trails, ensuring encounters with majestic elephants, lions, elusive leopards, powerful rhinos, and herds of buffaloes. The luxurious lodges and camps nestled within and around the park offer a perfect blend of comfort and immersion in the untamed wilderness.

Noteworthy Features: Vast African reserve, 19,485 sq km, rich biodiversity, Big Five.
Activities: Safari drives, walking safaris, cultural experiences.
Did you know?

Established in 1926, among Africa's oldest parks.

HLUHLUWE IMFOLOZI GR

Dunes and Beyond: A Desert Odyssey

BEST PARK 4.6/5

AREA: 49,768 SQ KM 

ALTITUDE: 1000 METRES ABOVE SEA LEVEL 
OPTIMAL TIME TO EXPLORE: THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, BUT MAY TO OCTOBER IS RECOMMENDED FOR COMFORTABLE TEMPERATURES AND OPTIMAL CONDITIONS

Nestled in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, Hluhluwe National Park stands as a beacon of wildlife conservation and biodiversity. Covering an expanse of 960 square kilometers, the park is celebrated for its pivotal role in the successful conservation program for the endangered white rhino. Diverse landscapes, ranging from savannah to riverine forests, create a canvas for an intimate connection with nature. Visitors can witness the iconic Big Five, including the revered rhinos, and a plethora of birdlife. Hluhluwe offers opportunities for guided walks and self-driven explorations, providing a unique safari experience that resonates with a commitment to ecological diversity and conservation.

Noteworthy Features: Rhino conservation, 960 sq km, diverse landscape.
Activities: Game drives, guided walks, birdwatching.
Did you know?

Africa's oldest game reserve, founded in 1895.

Ancient Echoes and Desert Giants Safari

SHAMWARI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

AREA: - SQ KM 

ALTITUDE: 945/1000 METRES
OPTIMAL TIME TO EXPLORE: YEAR ROUND, WITH VARIED ATTRACTIONS SUCH AS ROCK FORMATIONS AND DESERT ADAPTED WILDLIFE

Shamwari Private Game Reserve, spanning an expansive 25,000 hectares in the Eastern Cape, is a beacon of wildlife conservation and responsible tourism. This premier private reserve is a model for sustainable practices, featuring diverse habitats and providing a haven for the Big Five. Luxury lodges within the reserve cater to discerning travelers seeking an exclusive safari experience that seamlessly blends comfort with immersion in the wild. The Born Free Foundation within Shamwari adds a unique dimension, dedicated to the rescue and conservation of big cats. Guided game drives and walks offer opportunities to witness the reserve's rich biodiversity, while spa facilities provide relaxation amid the untamed beauty.

Noteworthy Features: Luxury Eastern Cape reserve, 25,000 hectares.
Activities: Game drives, conservation initiatives.
Did you know?

Supports the Born Free Foundation, Big Five sightings.

PHINDA GAME RESERVE

Shores of Secrets: The Untamed Coast Safari

AREA: 16,845 SQ KM 

ALTITUDE: VARIES WIH COASTAL AREAS AND DUNES
OPTIMAL TIME TO EXPLORE: THROUGHOUT THE YEAR WITH COASAL FOG COMMON. WILDLIFE CONGREGATES AROUND FRESHWATER SPRINGS

Phinda Game Reserve, situated in KwaZulu-Natal, is a testament to successful conservation efforts and the transformation of degraded farmland into a thriving reserve. Spanning 28,500 hectares, Phinda is celebrated for its diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, grasslands, and forests, hosting the Big Five. Phinda's various lodges, each designed to complement the surrounding environment, offer luxury accommodations. Guests can partake in game drives, boat cruises, and walking safaris, unveiling the reserve's ecological richness. Noteworthy is Phinda's commitment to community and wildlife conservation, making it an exemplary destination for ethical and immersive safaris.

Noteworthy Features: KwaZulu-Natal reserve, seven ecosystems, 28,555 hectares.
Activities: Game drives, walking safaris, conservation efforts.
Did you know? Actively involves local communities in conservation and tourism.

BEST PARK 4.7/5

SINGITA SABI SAND GAME RESERVE

Rhythms of the Wetlands Safari

BEST PARK 4.9/5

AREA: 3600 SQ KM 

ALTITUDE: VAIRES, WITH COASTAL DUNES 
OPTIMAL TIME TO EXPLORE:  MAY TO OCTOBER FOR DRY CONDITIONS AND OPTIMAL WILDLIFE VIEWING AROUND THE WETLAND AREAS

Situated in the renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Singita Sabi Sand offers an unrivaled safari experience where luxury seamlessly intertwines with ecological harmony. Spanning over 45,000 acres, this private reserve shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park, allowing for the free movement of wildlife. Singita's lodges are synonymous with opulence and sustainability, providing an exquisite retreat within the wilderness. The reserve is celebrated for its frequent leopard sightings, diverse habitats, and unwavering commitment to conservation. Game drives, guided walks, and community engagement initiatives contribute to a holistic safari experience.

Noteworthy Features: Wetland ecosystems along the Zambezi River, offering a unique safari experience. waterways, islands, and rich biodiversity.
Activities: Enjoy boat safaris, bird watching, and game drives to see diverse wildlife.
Did you know? Nkasa Rupara is a crucial habitat for various bird species.

ULUSABA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

Wilderness Symphony on the Zambezi

AREA: 1000 SQ KM 

ALTITUDE: VARIES WITH LOW LYING AREAS ALONG THE ZAMBEZI RIVER
OPTIMAL TIME TO EXPLORE: MAY TO OCTOBER IS RECOMMENDED FOR DRY CONDITIONS AND PRIME WILDLIFE VIEWING ALONG THE RIVERINE HABITATS

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, part of Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Limited Edition portfolio, is perched in the Sabi Sand Reserve. With two lodges, Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge, Ulusaba offers exclusivity and breathtaking views of the African savannah. Known for its intimate atmosphere and the Big Five, Ulusaba guarantees a personalized safari experience. Game drives, guided walks, and private safaris ensure memorable wildlife encounters, while the reserve's commitment to local communities and environmental sustainability adds depth to the overall experience.

Noteworthy Features: Rich riverine ecosystems and diverse wildlife along the Zambezi.
Activities: Experience river cruises, game drives, and bird watching in the park.
Did you know?

Mudumu supports a significant population of elephants.

TIMBAVATI PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE

A Richtersveld Adventure

AREA: 6,045 SQ KM 

ALTITUDE: VARIES, WITH MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN REACHING ELEVATIONS AROUND 1000 SQ KM 
OPTIMAL TIME TO EXPLORE: YEAR-ROUND WITH COOLER TEMPERATURES FROM MAY TO OCTOBER BEING FAVORABLE FOR EXPLORATION

Adjacent to Kruger National Park, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve covers an extensive 53,000 hectares, providing an intimate and immersive safari experience. Known for its white lions, the reserve offers a unique blend of luxury accommodations and wildlife immersion. The Timbavati River meanders through the landscape, attracting diverse fauna, from the iconic Big Five to various bird species. Guided game drives and walks provide insights into the reserve's ecosystems and wildlife behavior, creating a symphony of untamed beauty. Timbavati emphasizes conservation and sustainable tourism practices, making it a responsible and captivating safari destination.

Noteworthy Features: Extreme desert landscapes, unique flora, and the meandering Orange River.
Activities: Hike the Fish River Canyon, explore rugged canyons, and enjoy river activities.
Did you know?

Richtersveld is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

SABI SABI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

A Richtersveld Adventure

AREA: 6,045 SQ KM 

ALTITUDE: VARIES, WITH MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN REACHING ELEVATIONS AROUND 1000 SQ KM 
OPTIMAL TIME TO EXPLORE: YEAR-ROUND WITH COOLER TEMPERATURES FROM MAY TO OCTOBER BEING FAVORABLE FOR EXPLORATION

Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, spanning 65,000 hectares within Sabi Sand, stands as a legendary safari destination. Comprising four distinct lodges, each with its unique charm, Sabi Sabi is renowned for its exceptional leopard sightings, extensive wildlife, and commitment to conservation. Guests can participate in game drives, guided walks, and photographic safaris, unveiling the reserve's prolific wildlife and conservation initiatives. The reserve's philosophy of responsible tourism integrates conservation, community upliftment, and a premier safari experience, creating an enchanting tapestry of wilderness grandeur.

Noteworthy Features: Extreme desert landscapes, unique flora, and the meandering Orange River.
Activities: Hike the Fish River Canyon, explore rugged canyons, and enjoy river activities.
Did you know?

Richtersveld is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

THORNY BUSH GAME RESERVE

A Richtersveld Adventure

AREA: 6,045 SQ KM 

ALTITUDE: VARIES, WITH MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN REACHING ELEVATIONS AROUND 1000 SQ KM 
OPTIMAL TIME TO EXPLORE: YEAR-ROUND WITH COOLER TEMPERATURES FROM MAY TO OCTOBER BEING FAVORABLE FOR EXPLORATION

Nestled adjacent to Timbavati, Thornybush Game Reserve spans 14,000 hectares, offering an intimate and exclusive safari experience. Home to the Big Five, cheetahs, and diverse birdlife, Thornybush provides a blend of luxury accommodations and wildlife encounters. The reserve's unique location along the Timbavati River adds a tranquil ambiance to the surroundings. Thornybush Game Lodge and private camps ensure exclusivity, providing an ideal retreat for those seeking an intimate connection with nature. Game drives and guided walks offer insights into the reserve's ecosystems and wildlife behavior, creating a memorable safari retreat.

Noteworthy Features: Extreme desert landscapes, unique flora, and the meandering Orange River.
Activities: Hike the Fish River Canyon, explore rugged canyons, and enjoy river activities.
Did you know?

Richtersveld is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

MALA MALA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

A Richtersveld Adventure

BEST PARK 4.9/5

AREA: 6,045 SQ KM 

ALTITUDE: VARIES, WITH MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN REACHING ELEVATIONS AROUND 1000 SQ KM 
OPTIMAL TIME TO EXPLORE: YEAR-ROUND WITH COOLER TEMPERATURES FROM MAY TO OCTOBER BEING FAVORABLE FOR EXPLORATION

Mala Mala Private Game Reserve, a cornerstone of Sabi Sand, is a legendary safari destination encompassing 13,300 hectares. Sharing a boundary with Kruger National Park, Mala Mala is renowned for its exceptional Big Five sightings, particularly the elusive leopards. Three camps, each with its distinct character, cater to various preferences, ensuring a personalized and luxurious experience. Game drives, guided walks, and photographic safaris unveil the reserve's prolific

Noteworthy Features: Extreme desert landscapes, unique flora, and the meandering Orange River.
Activities: Hike the Fish River Canyon, explore rugged canyons, and enjoy river activities.
Did you know?

Richtersveld is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.