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South Africa Safari

Find out all you need to know about South African safaris

Get to Know South Africa

Imagine the thrill of a South African safari, the sun warming your skin as you set off on a game drive through the iconic Kruger National Park. Picture the breathtaking moment your eyes meet those of a prowling leopard or the awe-inspiring sight of a pride of lions bathed in the golden hues of dawn or the bright crimson evidence of a recent hunt. Back in the city, South Africans proudly carry the weight of struggles gone by, filled with a sense of unity admired the world over.

South Africa’s allure extends far beyond its wildlife. From the rolling vineyards of the Cape Winelands, where world-class wines await, to the Drakensberg Mountains’ dramatic cliffs and the Wild Coast’s untouched beaches, this country is a tapestry of natural wonders waiting to be explored. And, as you delve deeper into the country’s difficult past, you begin to appreciate exactly why it’s one of the most remarkable nations in the world.

That’s why South Africa isn’t just a destination. It’s a place where every traveller can find their own unforgettable connection with the wild and with themselves, all while savouring world-class cuisine, wines, and safari experiences.

Why South Africa?

  • Diverse Safari Options: From the iconic Kruger National Park to private reserves like Sabi Sands, South Africa offers a range of safari experiences for all types of travellers.
  • Big Five & Beyond: South Africa is home to an astonishing variety of wildlife, from the famed Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) to elusive predators like cheetahs and African wild dogs.
  • Luxury & Accessibility: World-class lodges and easy access via major airports make South Africa a top-tier safari destination.
  • Malaria-Free Reserves: Several regions, such as Madikwe and the Eastern Cape, offer family-friendly, malaria-free safaris.
  • Renowned Winelands: South Africa’s Cape Winelands, particularly Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, boast some of the world’s finest wines, offering picturesque vineyard landscapes, award-winning vintages, and gourmet food experiences that perfectly complement a safari adventure.

Where to Go

Discover the top safari destinations in South Africa, from the iconic Kruger National Park to the vibrant city of Cape Town and beyond.

When to Go

Peak Season

Low Season

Who is Travelling to South Africa with you?

Plan your South African safari adventure tailored to you, whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or celebrating a special occasion.

What You Need To Know

Find everything you need to know to plan your South Africa journey, from travel tips to essential insights for an unforgettable trip.

Not sure what to pack? Discover Africa has created a detailed guide to clothing, gadgets and so much more, but if you want to find out more - speak to us.


Packing List for a South Africa Holiday

So, you’ve settled on southern Africa as your ideal safari destination, but you can’t choose between two of the world’s most famous wildlife havens: South Africa and Botswana. One is home to Kruger National Park, a game reserve that’s bigger than some countries, and the other boasts the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site...


South Africa vs Botswana

Several Big Five reserves in South Africa protect the more charismatic large mammals associated with the African savannah. Foremost among these is the Kruger National Park and its abutting private reserves. Still, other key safari destinations include iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi, Madikwe, Pilanesberg, Addo Elephant National Park, and a variety of smaller and more exclusive...


Wildlife in South Africa

South Africa is affectionately known as the “Rainbow Nation” because of its diversity in its people, climates, geography, and wide array of experiences. Here, people speak 11 official languages, with English being the lingua franca. As you’d expect, South African culture isn’t homogenous – instead, it’s a collection of numerous cultures and creeds, with some restricted...


South African Cultures and Their Nuances

So, you’ve decided to experience the safari vacation of a lifetime in South Africa, but there’s one thing making you a bit apprehensive: crime. While it’s true that crime rates are relatively high in South Africa, the overwhelming majority of visitors have hassle-free holidays. Generally speaking, the vast majority of crime in South Africa is...


Is South Africa Safe?

Are you going on a holiday in South Africa? With 12 official languages, there are a variety of ways to communicate with the locals.


Languages in South Africa

South Africa is a world-class travel destination offering a wide range of experiences, from safaris to cosmopolitan cities. While the country has excellent medical facilities, it’s essential to be prepared for emergencies. Here’s what you need to know about emergency medical services, including vital contact numbers and practical advice to keep you safe on your...


Medical Emergencies in South Africa

South Africa is a surprisingly affordable safari destination compared to the rest of Africa, due to its favourable exchange rate. Its safari options are as varied as its landscapes, from the expansive plains of the Kruger National Park to the exclusive, game-rich areas of Sabi Sands and the family-friendly, malaria-free reserves of the Eastern Cape....


Cost of a South Africa Safari

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South Africa Safari Reviews

Read what other travellers have to say about their unforgettable experiences in South Africa.

Thoughtful, thorough, responsive, and great organization of trip

Southern Kruger Safari and Cape Town Adventure Review

Bob Bender, United States
10 Jan 2025
Excellent Safari advice and guidance

4 Day Authentic Kapama Safari Review

Rob, Jill, Anna & Chris, United Kingdom
28 Oct 2024
Devryn Panaino worked hard to plan the honeymoon of our dreams and...

African Honeymoon Safari Review

Jacob and Justine, Canada
11 Jun 2024
Listen and advise what makes your customer happy, this is the mindset...
We can do nothing but highly recommend Susan from Discover Africa. What...

10 Days Cape Town, Winelands and Kruger Park

Bryan & Neil, United Kingdom
13 Mar 2024
A Seamless Experience

14 Day Best of Southern Africa Review

Debra G, United States
31 Jan 2024

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