From the dramatic coastline of the Western Cape to the rugged mountains of the Drakensberg, this country boasts some of the most stunning natural beauty in the world. And when it comes to wildlife, South Africa doesn't disappoint - with iconic destinations such as Kruger National Park and the vast Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, it's no wonder that visitors from all over the globe come here to witness the big five and other incredible species.
Finding your perfect South African safari:
from hidden gems to private lodges.
Whether you're a budget traveler or seeking a luxurious getaway, there will be a safari experience in South Africa that's perfect for you. So sit back, relax, and let us take you on a journey through the best game reserves and national parks in this incredible country. Get ready to be inspired and start planning your dream South African safari today!
Less Touristy
Mapungubwe National Park
Is famous for its rich cultural heritage and diverse wildlife, with habitats ranging from riverine forests to open savannah. Visitors can spot African elephants, lions, and other iconic species, while also learning about the ancient kingdom of Mapungubwe, which dates back to the 11th century.
Location
Limpopo Province, in the northern part of South Africa
Closest International Airport
OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg
Approx. 500 km from the closest gate (Maloutswa Bird Hide Gate)
Approx. 5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Polokwane International Airport
Approx. 214 km from the closest gate (Mazhou Camping Site Gate)
Approx. 3 hours driving time (From Polokwane International Airport to Mazhou Camping Site Gate)
There is also Musina Airport, approximately 135 km from the park's Pafuri Gate, with a driving time of approximately 1,5 hour.
Karoo National Park
Is renowned for its unique arid landscape, where visitors can explore vast plains, rugged mountains, and ancient fossils. It's also home to a variety of wildlife, including Cape mountain zebra, black rhino, and Cape buffalo.
Location
Western Cape Province, South Africa
Closest International Airport
Cape Town International Airport
Approx. 462 km from the closest gate (Potlekkertjie Gate)
Approx. 5.5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
George Airport
Approx. 230 km from the closest gate (Nuweveld Reception)
Approx. 2.5 hours driving time
There is also Beaufort West Airport, approximately 16.5 km from the park's main entrance, with a driving time of approximately 20 min
Mountain Zebra National Park
Is named after the endangered Cape mountain zebra, which can be seen grazing on the rolling hills and grassy plains. It's also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 200 species of birds, and boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Location
Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Closest International Airport
O.R. Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg
Approx. 370 km from the closest gate, the Matyholweni Gate
Approx. 5.5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Port Elizabeth International Airport
Approx 260 km from the closest gate (Matyholweni Gate)
Approx. 3.0 hours driving time
There is also Bloemfontein Airport, approximately 260 km from the park, with a driving time of approximately 3 hours.
Kosi Bay Nature Reserve
This reserve is a coastal wonderland, featuring pristine beaches, mangrove swamps, and crystal-clear lakes. Visitors can snorkel, swim, and fish in the warm waters while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Location
East coast of South Africa, facing the Indian Ocean.
Closest International Airport
King Shaka International Airport, Durban
Approx. 400 km from the reserve
Approx. 5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Richards Bay Airport
Approximately 140 km from the reserve
However, the reserve is located in a remote area and access to it is via 4x4 vehicles. Visitors are advised to hire a local guide or use the shuttle services provided by the reserve.
There is also Margate Airport, approximately 150 km from the reserve, with a driving time of approximately 2.5 hours.
Namaqua National Park
This reserve is a floral paradise, with fields of vibrant wildflowers that bloom in the spring. Visitors can also spot rare species such as Hartmann's mountain zebra and black-backed jackals in the rugged landscape.
Location
Northern Cape Province, South Africa
Closest International Airport
Cape Town International Airport
Approx. 450 km from the closest gate (Skilpad Entrance Gate)
Approx. 5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Springbok Airport
Approx. 60 km from the closest gate (Skilpad Reception)
Approx. 1 hour driving time
There is also Bloemfontein Airport, approximately 260 km from the park, with a driving time of approximately 3 hours.
More affordable
Golden Gate Highlands National Park
This reserve offers stunning scenery, including unique sandstone formations, and a variety of wildlife. Entrance fees are relatively affordable, making it a good option for budget travelers.
Location
Situated in the central part of the country. The park is located southeast of Johannesburg and southwest of Bloemfontein
Closest International Airport
OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg
Approx. 320 km from the entrance
Approx. 5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Bram Fischer International Airport, Bloemfontein
Approx. 292 km from the closest gate
Approx. 3.5 hours driving time
Augrabies Falls National Park
Is named after the stunning Augrabies Falls, a powerful waterfall that drops 56 meters into a narrow gorge. It's also home to a variety of wildlife, including baboons, klipspringers, and African wildcats.
Location
Northern Cape Province, South Africa
Closest International Airport
Upington International Airport
Approx. 124 km from the Augrabies Falls National Park
Approx. 1.5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Kimberley Airport
Approx. 525 km from the reserve
Approx. 5 hours driving time
Mokala National Park
Is a hidden gem, featuring rolling hills, savannah grasslands, and unique camel thorn trees. It's also home to rare species such as the roan antelope and black-maned lion, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Location
Northern Cape Province, South Africa
Closest International Airport
OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg
Approx. 630 km from the closest gate (Mosu Gate)
Approx. 7.5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Kimberley Airport
Approx. 80 km from the closest gate (Lilydale Rest Camp Gate)
Approx. 1 hour driving time
West Coast National Park
This reserve features a variety of ecosystems, including wetlands, salt pans, and sandy beaches. Entrance fees are affordable, and there are a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets
Location
Western Cape Province, South Africa
Closest International Airport
Cape Town International Airport
Approx. 100 km from the closest gate (West Coast National Park Geelbek Gate)
Approx. 1.5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Langebaanweg Airport
Approx. 20 km from the closest gate (Postberg Gate)
Approx. 20 minutes driving time
Camdeboo National Park
Is known for its unique landscapes and wildlife, including endangered species such as the Cape mountain zebra. It also boasts a rich cultural history, with ancient rock art and fossils dating back millions of years.
Location
Eastern Cape province, South Africa
Closest International Airport
Port Elizabeth International Airport
Approx. 148 km from the closest gate (Darlington Dam Gate)
Approx. 2 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Port Elizabeth International Airport
Approx. 265 km from the closest gate (Valley of Desolation Entrance Gate)
Approx. 3 hours driving time
Normal priced
Kruger National Park
Is one of the largest game reserves in Africa, known for its abundance of wildlife, includingthe Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) and numerous bird species.
Location
Northeastern part of South Africa
Closest International Airport
OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg
Approx. 375 km from the closest gate (Numbi Gate)
Approx. 4.5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport
Approx. 40 km from the closest gate (Numbi Gate)
Approx. 45 minutes driving time
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi-Park
Is known for its important role in rhinoceros conservation efforts and its diverse range of wildlife, including the Big Five, as well as cheetahs, hyenas, wild dogs, and over 300 bird species.
Location
KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa
Closest International Airport
King Shaka International Airport, Durban
Approx. 245 km from the closest gate (Memorial Gate)
Approx. 3 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Richards Bay Airport
Approx. 80 km from the closest gate (Memorial Gate)
Approx. 1 hour driving time
uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park
A stunning natural area that encompasses the majestic Drakensberg mountain range in South Africa. The park's name means "barrier of spears" in Zulu, which is a fitting description of the rugged peaks and cliffs that dominate the landscape. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its incredible natural beauty and rich cultural history. Visitors to uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park can explore the park's numerous hiking trails, marvel at the ancient rock art left by the San people, and enjoy the tranquility of the park's pristine mountain wilderness.
Location
KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa
Closest International Airport
OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg
Approx. 400 km (Cathedral Peak Gate)
Approx. 4.5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
King Shaka International Airport, Durban
Approx. 230 km (Giants Castle Gate)
Approx. 3 hours driving time
Addo Elephant National Park
Is not only famous for its incredible elephant herds but also boasts a wide variety of other wildlife species, making it a must-visit destination for any safari enthusiast. The park has been instrumental in the conservation efforts of the African elephant, ensuring their survival for future generations.
Location
Eastern Cape province, South Africa
Closest International Airport
OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg
900 km from the closest gate (Main Gate)
Approx. 10 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Port Elizabeth International Airport
70 km from the closest gate (Main Gate)
Approx. 1 hour driving time
Mkambati Nature Reserve
Is a secluded paradise that offers a truly off-the-beaten-path safari experience. With its untouched beauty and diverse ecosystems, this reserve is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility in the heart of nature.
Location
Wild Coast of Eastern Cape province, South Africa
Closest International Airport
King Shaka International Airport, Durban
Approx. 380 km from the closest gate (Mkambati Gate)
Approx. 5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Mthatha Airport
Approx. 160 km from the closest gate (Mkambati Gate)
Approx. 3 hours driving time
Private/higher priced
Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Located adjacent to Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands is known for its luxury lodges and incredible Big Five sightings. Prices for accommodation and activities are higher than in public parks, but the private experience and luxury amenities justify the cost.
Location
Mpumalanga province, South Africa
Closest International Airport
OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg
Approx. 500 km from the closest gate (Maloutswa Bird Hide Gate)
Approx. 5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport
Approx. 115 km from the reserve
Approx. 1.5 hours driving time
Skukuza Airport in the Kruger National Park
Approx. 45 km from the reserve
Approx. 1 hour driving time
Madikwe Game Reserve
Is a premier safari destination known for its large population of African wild dogs, as well as the Big Five and over 300 bird species.
Location
North-West, South Africa
Closest International Airport
OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg
Approx. 340 km from the reserve
Approx. 4.5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Madikwe Airstrip
Located within the reserve
No driving required
Phinda Private Game Reserve
Offers a range of luxury lodges and a diverse range of wildlife, including the Big Five and the rare black rhino. Prices for accommodation and activities are higher, but the private experience and luxury amenities justify the cost.
Location
KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa
Closest International Airport
King Shaka International Airport in Durban
Approx. 250 km from the reserve
Approx. 2.5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Phinda Airstrip
Located within the reserve
No driving required
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
Is a prime game viewing destination famous for its high density of big cats, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs, as well as elephants, buffaloes, and other wildlife.
Location
Limpopo Province, in the northern part of South Africa
Closest International Airport
OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg
500 km from the closest gate (Timbavati Gate)
Approx. 6 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Hoedspruit Airport Approximately
45 km (Timbavati Gate)
Approx. 45 minutes driving time
Thanda Private Game Reserve
Is a luxurious safari destination known for its exclusive wildlife experiences, including the Big Five, as well as unique opportunities to view the rare black rhinoceros and the elusive cheetah.
Location
Northeastern part of KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa
Closest International Airport
King Shaka International Airport, Durban
Approx. 250 km from the reserve's entrance gate
Approx. 2.5 hours driving time
Closest Local Airport
Richards Bay Airport
Approx. 75 km from the reserve's entrance gate
Approx. 1 hour driving time
Discovering the wonders of South African wildlife:
a journey through the best Game reserves and National parks.
In conclusion, South Africa is a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts, with an array of game reserves and national parks to explore. Whether you're looking for a secluded and affordable option or a high-end private lodge, there's something for every type of traveler. From the majestic Kruger National Park to the lesser-known hidden gems, this country will leave you in awe of its natural beauty and the abundance of stunning wildlife. So pack your bags, put on your safari hat, and embark on an unforgettable adventure through the savanna of South Africa.
Happy exploring!
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