Where to stay & things to do in
Safari Holidays South Africa 2023 & 2024
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South African safaris are some of the best in the world, with a wide range of options for taking in the view. There are many different types of safari, but all of them will give you a chance to see wild animals up close in their environment. Whether it’s a group of friends, a romantic getaway or your annual family vacation, a safari holiday is a perfect retreat. If you are thinking of taking little ones on their first expedition, be aware that although most camps and lodges welcome children, many have minimum age restrictions on accommodation and excursions.
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Addo Elephant Park
Established in 1931 and offering the best experience in the Eastern Cape is Addo Elephant Park. Situated just an hour from Port Elizabeth, you'll find over 600 majestic elephants exploring the third-largest national park in South Africa. You'll also get a chance to see Africa's Big Seven as well as an offshore marine reserve home to gannets and penguins.
Shamwari Game Reserve
Enjoy your safari with a bit of luxury at this private game reserve. You'll find some of the most luxurious accommodations, safari game drives and guided bushwalks. With its rehabilitation centre, the area is basking in wildlife. It has a strong focus on conservation, with over 50 different mammals, including white rhinos, elephants, giraffes, lions and many more, so you are sure to have a holiday you'll never forget at this award-winning reserve in Eastern Cape.
Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is one of the most popular choices for an African safari holiday. Home to the big five as well as cheetahs, hippos and zebras, Kruger National Park has been described as one of the most remarkable wildlife-watching destinations in the world. As one of the most accessible game reserves, you get the opportunity to book a self-drive safari and see over 140 species of mammal. However, if you would rather enjoy your safari from the passenger seat, plenty of guided game drivers are available.
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You want to be sure that you book your safari during the right season to ensure you get a good glimpse of some of South Africa's most spectacular wildlife. If you visit the continent between April and October, you can enjoy pleasant evenings in southern areas such as Kruger National Park and hot summer storms in the north. During these months, you can also experience the iconic Masai Mara migration. The dry season begins in April, making animals more visible thanks to the cooler temperatures, and with less rain and warm days, you'll find that the wildlife is easier to spot between April and June. These are the best months to book a safari trip and offer the best game viewing in Madikwe Game Reserve, Pilanesberg National Park, KwaZulu-Natal, and Kruger National Park.
If you choose to visit Southern Africa from November through March, you'll find the weather is superb wherever you go. Beach holidays in Cape Town, Eastern Cape and Garden Route are most prevalent during these months.
Some quick facts
- Time Difference
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+2 hours
- Languages
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English, Afrikaans and Xhosa
- Currency
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South African Rand (ZAR)
- Flight Info
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11-12h flight time from UKCape town international (CPT), O.R. Tambo International (JNB), Durban International airport (AFB), Chief Dawid Stuurman International airport (PLZ)Depending on destination there are direct flights from the UK