South Africa Safari Tours & Vacations

The dry season (May - October) is the best time for wildlife viewing, with animals gathering near water sources and minimal bush cover enhancing visibility. Cooler days and clear skies make it perfect for game drives and bush walks.

During the dry season, temperatures are mild, averaging 65°F in July, with lows rarely below 50°F. These conditions ensure comfortable safari experiences with little chance of rain. Wildlife is easier to spot, and the crisp air adds to the adventure.

From October to April, the wet season transforms the landscapes into lush greenery, attracting migratory birds. While brief showers occur, they rarely disrupt activities, offering vibrant scenery and excellent birdwatching opportunities.

We recommend spending a minimum of 10 days on safari, though 12 days provide more time to view the wildlife, and two weeks is ideal for visiting multiple camps and reserves. That said, you can customize your safari based on the number of days you have available.

10-day safaris are great for exploring a specific reserve like Sabi Sands, while 12-day safaris give you a little more time to visit multiple game reserves in Kruger. Spending two weeks on safari gives you plenty of time to visit multiple camps and enjoy various safari activities in South Africa’s top national parks and reserves. You may see herds of elephants bathing in a river one day and watch a pride of lions saunter to shady acacias a day or two later. You may also leave some days unplanned, giving you room to relax in the amenities at your safari camp or lodge.

You can also plan safaris for longer, and spending upwards of two weeks gives you more opportunities to see your favorite animals and birdlife. The length of your safari is guided by what you want to see and do, and we can help you decide.

Kruger National Park is the most recognizable safari destination in South Africa. Within the Kruger region, Sabi Sands and Mala Mala top our list of game reserves to visit on safari:

• Kruger National Park: As the best place to safari in South Africa, especially among fans of the Big Five, it’s hard to pass up on visiting Kruger Park. With several stunning reserves within the greater Kruger region, no safari is ever the same.
• Sabi Sands Game Reserve: Sabi Sands, on the border of Kruger, is South Africa’s most luxurious game reserve. It’s often the first game reserve booked for luxury South African safaris as the lodges are some of the finest in the world.
• Mala Mala Game Reserve: Situated within the Kruger region, Mala Mala is a private game reserve that offers exceptional wildlife viewing and unrivaled luxury. The Kruger reserve is a hotspot for viewing the Big Five from the comfort of gorgeous camps within the untamed wilderness.

From Big Five game drives to bush and beach trips, guided bush walks, and nocturnal wildlife viewing, here are some of the top things to do in South Africa on safari:

• Search for the Big Five, including lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos on South Africa safari game drives
• Explore the bush with spotlights on nighttime game drives to see the nocturnal wildlife
• Stay in luxury tented camps for a uniquely lavish experience surrounded by nature
• Visit a safari reserve on the coast to see great white sharks, whales, and other marine life

Spot the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos—alongside giraffes, hippos, zebras, wildebeests, meerkats, and African wild dogs. Witness diverse wildlife, including springbok, impalas, elands, and crocodiles, plus an array of vibrant migratory birds.

Pack neutral, light-colored clothing, a lightweight rain jacket, long pants, and hiking boots. Don’t forget a backpack, camera with zoom lens, binoculars, insect repellent, and sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses). Be ready for your adventure in comfort and style!

South African safaris are very safe when following guides' instructions. Many regions are malaria-free, but bring insect repellent for comfort. Petty crime is rare at safari lodges, though staying mindful of personal belongings is always wise when traveling.