Best South Africa Safari Tours
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10 best South African safari packages
Compiled by
NadineSouth Africa travel expert at TourRadar
- Garden Route Wildlife Safari - 4 Days
- Kruger Safari And The Panorama Route
- 5-Day Kruger National Park Big 5 Safari & Panorama Route Tour
- 3 Day Big 5 & Bungy Safari Tour (Return)
- 9 Day Incredible South African Safari and Drakensberg Adventure
- 5-Day Simbavati George Camp,(Greater Kruger) All-Inclusive
- 5 Day Classic Kruger Park Safari
- 2 day South African Wildlife Safari Highlights Tour from Cape Town
- South Africa: The Garden Route
- Active South Africa: Cape Town, Kruger & Tugela Falls
Garden Route Wildlife Safari - 4 Days
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“He made great recommendations that accommodated our group's preferences and we saw a lot within the short tour window.”
Eryn, traveled in November
Private game drives at Botlierskop and Buffelsdrift Lodges reveal lions, elephants, and buffalo. Professional rangers lead safari experiences through private reserves, complemented by luxury overnight stays and gourmet bush dinners.
Duration 4 days Destinations George, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Tsitsikamma National Park, Witfontein Nature Reserve, Oudtshoorn Age Range 1 to 90 year olds Physical Rating Easy Distance 221 mi Operator Explore South Africa From
- US$855
Kruger Safari And The Panorama Route
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I feel so lucky to have seen and experienced all that I saw on this trip.”
Karen, traveled in September
The Kruger National Park Region unfolds over four days of intensive safari activities, with multiple game drive options. Big 5 tracking with expert rangers reveals prime wildlife viewing areas, while comfortable lodges serve traditional South African cuisine.
Duration 6 days Destinations Johannesburg, Kruger National Park, Bourke's Luck Potholes, Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve Age Range 10 to 75 year olds Physical Rating Moderate Distance 556 mi Operator Expat Explore Travel From $905
15% Off- US$765You save $140
5-Day Kruger National Park Big 5 Safari & Panorama Route Tour
26 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Super nice experience with good guides and friendly staff!”
Twan, traveled in November
FGASA guides lead wildlife tracking in Kruger's Skukuza region, with 80% Big 5 sighting success. Lodging near Phabeni Gate provides easy access to dawn and dusk game drives, plus full-day exploration of the Panorama Route's natural wonders.
Duration 5 days Destinations Johannesburg, Hazyview, Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, Bourke's Luck Potholes, Graskop Age Range 1 to 99 year olds Physical Rating Easy Distance 613 mi Operator The Mzansi Experience From
15% Off- US$727
3 Day Big 5 & Bungy Safari Tour (Return)
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“The views driving around were amazing! I definitely recommend this tour.”
Sarah, traveled in May
Wildlife encounters await at private reserves near Swellendam. Optional elephant interactions at Garden Route sanctuaries complement visits to Cango Wildlife Sanctuary in Oudtshoorn and traditional safari dinners.
Duration 3 days Destinations Cape Town, Sedgefield, Knysna, Tsitsikamma National Park, Oudtshoorn, Barrydale Age Range 10 to 99 year olds Physical Rating Moderate Distance 640 mi Operator Cape Xtreme From
15% Off- US$390
9 Day Incredible South African Safari and Drakensberg Adventure
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The 9-day Incredible South African Safari and Drakensberg Adventure was perfect for our family.”
Karri, traveled in June
Five national parks showcase South Africa's diverse wildlife. The Big 5 roam Kruger, rare rhinos inhabit Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, and iSimangaliso's varied ecosystems thrive. Park bungalows provide immediate wildlife access and traditional braais under African stars.
Duration 9 days Destinations Johannesburg, Kruger National Park, St Lucia, Durban, Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park Age Range 2 to 99 year olds Physical Rating Easy Distance 1051 mi Operator Endless Summer Tours From
15% Off- US$2,850
5-Day Simbavati George Camp,(Greater Kruger) All-Inclusive
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“All staff was top quality. PARTICULARY Jaques ,the guide had an enormous knowledge of all wildlife and also plants.”
Guenter, traveled in June
The Timbavati Private Nature Reserve in Greater Kruger offers exceptional wildlife viewing. Dawn and dusk drives from Simbavati George Camp showcase rare white lions and Big Five. Gourmet meals, luxury accommodation, and expert guides enhance the experience.
Duration 5 days Destinations Johannesburg, Kruger National Park Age Range 2 to 85 year olds National Park Kruger National Park Physical Rating Moderate Distance 539 mi Operator Professional Safari Africa From
15% Off- US$5,400
5 Day Classic Kruger Park Safari
5 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We got to see all big-5 and many other animals and birds. Each day was different and well organized.”
Luba, traveled in December
Kruger's Orpen-Satara-Nwanedzi region boasts Africa's highest lion concentration. Guided bush walks and sunset drives in Balule Reserve reveal abundant wildlife. Authentic bush BBQs at Marula Tree Boma punctuate daily adventures.
Duration 5 days Destinations Johannesburg, Kruger National Park Age Range 1 to 99 year olds National Park Kruger National Park Physical Rating Moderate Distance 539 mi Operator Viva Safaris From
15% Off- US$1,176
2 day South African Wildlife Safari Highlights Tour from Cape Town
52 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Absolutely faultless, would recommend to all. My partner and I felt very safe in his van.”
Eve, traveled in November
The wildlife-rich reserves of Botlierskop and Buffelsdrift offer two distinct safari environments. Track Big Five animals in open 4x4 vehicles, join ranger-led bush walks, and watch rescued elephants in their natural habitat. The varied landscapes span from plains to mountain terrain, home to diverse wildlife.
Duration 2 days Destinations Cape Town, Oudtshoorn Age Range 12 to 99 year olds Physical Rating Easy Distance 436 mi Operator Hotspots2c From
15% Off- US$266
Premium safari drives at Addo Elephant National Park reveal the Big Five. Expert rangers lead wildlife tracking with bush breakfasts. Tsitsikamma's indigenous forests and Knysna Heads' marine life complete the journey to Cape Town.
Duration 9 days Destinations Port Elizabeth, Addo Elephant National Park, Tsitsikamma National Park, Knysna, Franschhoek, Cape Town Age Range up to 90 year olds Physical Rating Moderate Distance 462 mi Operator G Adventures From
15% Off- US$1,999
Rangers guide intimate bushwalks in Pridelands Conservancy, followed by evening game drives and bush camping. The Kruger area wildlife viewing continues with expert guides, Boma dinners, and dawn safari drives. Total costs around $3,900.
Duration 10 days Destinations Cape Town, Johannesburg, Hoedspruit, Kruger National Park Age Range up to 90 year olds National Park Kruger National Park Distance 1324 mi Operator G Adventures From
15% Off- US$3,749
South Africa Safari Reviews
Excellent trip. Well planned and we got to see so many animals every day. Matthew was an excellent guide and kept things organized and moving. Busy days but well worth it to see the animals at Kruger National Park.
Kruger Safari And The Panorama Route
- 5-Day Kruger National Park Big 5 Safari & Panorama Route Tour
Good tour, good value
- 3 Day Big 5 & Bungy Safari Tour (Return)
This was a great tour !! I loved every moment of it ! The highlight for me would have been the bungy jumping which was just insane ! The views driving around were amazing ! I definitely recommend this tour
What our customers ask about Best South Africa Safari Tours
How long should I plan for a safari tour in South Africa to see the main highlights?
Most travelers need 4-5 days to experience South Africa's key safari destinations. The 5-Day Kruger National Park tour includes 3 days of game drives and exploration of the Panorama Route. A TourRadar traveler shares: "Five days were very ideal for this package including the transfer from Johannesburg. We loved the safaris and saw the Big 5!" For those seeking a broader wildlife experience 9-day tours through Endless Summer's South African Safari cover multiple parks like Kruger Hluhluwe-iMfolozi and iSimangaliso Wetlands.
What are the best times of year for a South Africa safari to maximize wildlife viewing?
The dry winter months from May to September offer prime wildlife viewing conditions especially in Kruger National Park. Animals concentrate around water sources during this period when thinned vegetation makes them easier to spot. A TourRadar traveler notes: "We got to see so many animals every day thanks to the perfect timing." Endless Summer Tours guides report consistent Big 5 sightings during winter safaris at Kruger National Park where guests stay at properties like Braai Safari Lodge.
What types of accommodation options are available on South African safaris?
South African safari lodgings range from upscale lodges to authentic tented camps. Braai Safari Lodge near Kruger offers 4-star rooms with air conditioning and private decks while more rustic options include tented accommodations in Marloth Park along the Crocodile River. A TourRadar guest reports: "The lodge was nice with pretty decent food and the staff amazingly friendly. So lucky to have had a private jeep to ourselves." Standard amenities at most properties include private bathrooms dining facilities and wildlife viewing areas.
What's the typical day like on a South African safari?
Safari days begin around 5:30 AM with morning game drives accompanied by coffee tea and rusks. Guests return for breakfast near 9 AM followed by free time at the lodge for swimming or wildlife watching from observation decks. Afternoon drives start around 3:30 PM concluding with drinks in the bush. A TourRadar participant shares: "Wake up bright and early for the morning drive then enjoyed relaxing at the lodge pool during midday before another exciting evening safari - it was the perfect balance."
How much does a South African safari typically cost?
Daily rates for South African safaris run between USD 185-563 based on accommodations and activities. A basic 3-day Kruger experience starts at USD 555 while premium 5-day packages can reach USD 2814. Most tours cover lodging meals game drives and park entrance fees. According to a TourRadar guest: "The price was very reasonable for all that was included - accommodation three meals daily and multiple game drives with expert guides."
Are children allowed on South African safaris?
South African safari operators generally welcome families though age policies differ. Standard lodges accept children ages 6-12 while select properties like Braai Safari Lodge accommodate children as young as 2. A TourRadar family reports: "Rhys was great with my two kids aged 11 and 12. Great knowledge about animal behaviour and made the experience fun and educational for them."