SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa's standouts.
A shortlist of the 10 safari most worth booking in South Africa, with what each one is like on the day, who runs it, and what it costs.
Full-day Big Five safari from Johannesburg to Pilanesberg, with two open-vehicle game drives, great guides, and lunch near a water hole.
“We liked the convenience of the pick up and the lunch. Our guide was Lethabo, He was amazing and we thoroughly enjoyed every moment.”
2-day Cape Town safari with overnight at Garden Route Game Lodge: sunset and morning open-air drives, plus Hermanus and Cape Agulhas.
“My 2-day safari tour along the Garden Route was absolutely incredible, and a huge part of that was thanks to our amazing guide, Von. From the moment the tour started, Von was professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about what he does. He made sure every detail was taken care of, kept the experience fun…”
All-inclusive full-day safari in Addo Elephant National Park with an expert guide, lunch, and two game drives.
“We had a lovely day at Addo Park. We didn't see a lot of elephants due to strong winds, but our guide John made sure we saw as many animals as we could. We even saw 3 lions. John also explained a lot about the park and the animals.”
Full-day private Kruger safari from Hazyview with a pro guide, Big Five chances, photo stops, and breakfast and lunch breaks.
“Very happy with the service provided. Good communication right from when the booking was made. Senzo, our guide was knowledgable and jolly. He picked us up right from our chalet on time and explained the details on the way to the park. Throughout the day, he catered to our needs and kept explaining various details…”
Big Five chances in Pilanesberg with two open-vehicle drives, waterhole lunch, and door-to-door pickup from Johannesburg or Pretoria.
“My very first Safari experience. The initial drive takes a while but once at the Safari it’s a magical place. Would 100 percent recommend this tour.”
Big Five safari day trip from Cape Town to malaria-free Aquila Game Reserve with pickup, 3-hour open-vehicle drive, and lunch.
“Excellent activity and we saw the 5 Big Animals. Well organized and lunch was great at a very nice lodge on a 10,000 acre property.”
Express Big Five safari from Cape Town with Breede and Hex winelands stops, buffet lunch and champagne at Aquila.
“Had an extraordinary tour to and from the Safari. Our driver was great also on time very prompt it was worth the money the visit made our cape town experience more wonderfully than it already was. My husband and I encourage you to take the family if you could. It's a much needed trip to…”
Soar over the Magaliesbergs in a hot air balloon, hear live commentary, then celebrate with a sparkling wine breakfast.
“The entire experience from the moment you arrive to park was so incredibly welcoming. They are so professional and organized. Our pilot, Nick was professional and funny and made the while trip something to remember for ever.....highly recommend.”
Two-day Big Five safari from Cape Town to Oudtshoorn: Botlierskop and Buffelsdrift 4x4 drives, plus optional rescued-elephant observation.
“Our guide Dylan put his heart and soul into it from the very first second! Our outward journey was a bit bumpy - the traffic didn't cooperate - but he still did his very best to deliver us to the resort in time for the safari. The carpool karaoke sessions were the highlight of the…”
Johannesburg and Pretoria pickup for a half-day Lion Park safari with a 1-hour open-vehicle drive, lions, and other predators up close.
“We both had a very enjoyable day. The park was very well run.”
