South African Safari Holidays
South Africa, Africa
Kruger is the top national park in the country. Founded by a Scotsman, Kruger is the same size as Wales or Belgium – in other words, its big enough to have separate regions – the south has the most game and visitors, while the northern region is more remote and has more of a wilderness feel. However, game viewing in South Africa doesn’t begin and end with Kruger – there are numerous reserves around the country. Addo Elephant Park, in the Eastern Cape, is one of the best non-malarial national parks that feature the Big Five. ISimangaliso Wetlands Park in KwaZulu Natal has numerous beasts, including lions and hippos.
Where to Go for a South African Safari
In most camps, the day starts early – usually with a coffee and a rusk. If you’re staying in a SANParks reserve, then many visitors will be ready to go as soon as the gates open, usually at around 6am. Once you’ve done your early morning game viewing, head back to the camp for a fry up and to sleep through the heat of the day – the theory is that the animals will be resting too. In the afternoon, check to see if anyone’s spotted any big game – there’s usually a map near the gates – before you head out again. Depending on how big your camp is, there’s sometimes a bar or restaurant on-site. If not, have a braaivleis and spend the evening chatting over your game viewing triumphs. Most parks also offer ranger-guided walking safaris, night drives and – extremely! – early morning drives, to give you the best chance of seeing animals. You can also sometimes spot game from your accommodation.
Top South African Safari Parks
SANParks is the state-run parks authority, and is responsible for the running of South Africa’s biggest and most famous reserves. If you want to stay in a SANParks camp, bear in mind that you’ll have to book well in advance. There are also numerous luxury reserves, like Sabi Sabi and Shamwari, where everything is provided and you have an excellent chance of seeing the Big Five (although beware that some of the private reserves near Kruger have the reputation of being glorified zoos). Don’t get too hung up on seeing the Big Five though – some of the most pleasant game viewing trips can be in smaller parks, like the Camdeboo near Graaf Reinet, where you’ll see antelope and spectacular scenery, and also – if you’re lucky – may more or less get the park to yourself.