Our Best Safaris From Cape Town

South Africa is one of the world’s finest wildlife destinations, with an abundance of natural wonders, each with its own allure and charm. From the sun-drenched savannas to the lush, verdant forests, these reserves are home to some of the most majestic creatures on our planet. These are our choices for the best safari options to enjoy from Cape Town. These are not safari’s near Cape Town, you can read about those here, but rather the best safaris from Cape Town.

We do not suggest that travellers visit the safari options close to Cape Town unless they have no other choice and really want to. Instead we prefer to plan an authentic safari experience for our guests by transporting them to some of the best safari options Africa has to offer. Each of these game reserves have different pluses which could effect which one you choose, from their large geographical area and tremendous game viewing to their malaria-free status and family friendly offerings. They each have a number of wonderful safari lodges that we can help you choose while planning your South African safari from Cape Town.

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Kruger National Park

Possibly South Africa’s most well-known wildlife reserve, Kruger National Park is a must-see. It is the flagship of South African national parks, covering approximately 2 million hectares and containing an unmatched diversity of plant and animals. This vast landscape provides a wildlife experience that rivals the greatest in Africa. Expect to witness the ‘Big Five’—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo—as well as a plethora of other species and flora in their native habitat. The Kruger National Park is the pinnacle of African wilderness, with its rich cultural heritage sites and abundant biodiversity.

Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Located adjacent to Kruger National Park, Sabi Sand Game Reserve is well-known for its excellent wildlife encounters. The reserve gets its name from the Sabie and Sand rivers, which run through it and provide vital water sources for a variety of animals. Sabi Sand is especially well-known for leopard sightings, with these elusive species frequently sighted lazing on tree branches or tracking their prey silently. The Sabi Sand is popular among discerning guests due to its luxury lodges and private safari experiences.

Addo Elephant National Park

The third-largest national park in South Africa, Addo Elephant National Park is located in the dense Eastern Cape region. The park is famous for its elephant herds, as the name implies, and tourists can witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Addo does not just deliver land-based species; it also caters to marine life through its Bird and St. Croix Island groups, which are home to the world’s greatest breeding populations of African penguins. As a result, Addo ensures a comprehensive wildlife experience, from ‘Big Five’ sightings to marine species interactions.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

A fusion of South Africa’s Kalahari Gemsbok National Park and Botswana’s Gemsbok National Park, the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a retreat for individuals who value isolation and huge open vistas. Predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards live in this semi-arid environment. It’s also a birder’s heaven, with species that have adapted to the harsh desert environment. Kgalagadi is a captivating place due to its beautiful beauty of red sand dunes and blue skies.

Pilanesberg National Park

Pilanesberg National Park is a location of tremendous beauty and rich biodiversity, set in an ancient volcanic crater. Its unusual geological features, along with a diverse range of ecosystems, make it a biodiversity hotspot. Visitors to Pilanesberg can witness the ‘Big Five’ as well as unusual animals such as the African wild dog. Because of its proximity to Johannesburg and malaria-free status, it is a popular choice for families and first-time safari visitors.

Phinda Private Game Reserve

Phinda Private Game Reserve, located in the heart of Zululand, is a monument to successful conservation initiatives and sustainable luxury tourism. The reserve’s seven unique ecosystems, which include sand forests, wetland systems, and mountain ranges, are well-known. This ecological diversity supports a diverse range of fauna, including the ‘Big Five’ and over 400 bird species. Phinda is also one of the best spots in the world to see wild cheetahs. Phinda offers not only a wildlife adventure but also a voyage into the heart of South Africa, thanks to its commitment to conservation and community involvement.

Madikwe Game Reserve

The Madikwe Game Reserve, which borders Botswana, is one of South Africa’s best wildlife locations. This malaria-free reserve is the country’s fifth largest and home to a diverse range of animals, including the ‘Big Five.’ Madikwe is well-known for its wild dog population, as well as its elephant and buffalo populations. The landscape varies from large open meadows and woodlands to steep hilly regions, making for a fantastic backdrop for animal viewing. Its deluxe lodges provide exclusive viewing opportunities, making it an ideal alternative for a peaceful wildlife escape.

We believe that your African holiday and safari will be immeasurably better by traveling from Cape Town to one of these remarkable safari destinations. If you are feeling even more adventurous your can add on countries like Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia & Namibia and have an unbelievable Southern African safari. Talk to one of our African safari specialists to start planning your trip today.