Top Safari Destinations in SA
Got the outfit... Now where to go?
You’ve got the safari shirt, the bush pants, the neutral tones, and practical layers ready. Now comes the exciting part: choosing where to wear it.
At Salty Bushwear, our gear is designed for real South African conditions — early morning game drives, dusty roads, warm afternoons, and cool bush evenings. Whether you’re heading into Kruger’s wild plains, spotting elephants in Addo, or enjoying a luxury lodge stay in Madikwe, having the right bushwear means you’re comfortable, practical, and safari-ready.
Not sure where to go yet?
Top Safari Destinations in South Africa You Should Visit
South Africa is one of the world’s best safari destinations — and for good reason. From iconic Big Five reserves to malaria-free parks and luxury private game lodges, the country offers safari experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned bush lover, these South African safari destinations should be on your list.
1.
Kruger National Park – The Ultimate Safari Classic
Kruger National Park is South Africa’s most famous safari destination and one of Africa’s largest game reserves. Spanning nearly 20,000 square kilometres, it offers exceptional wildlife viewing and diverse ecosystems.
Home of the Big Five
(lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo)
Excellent self-drive and guided safari options
(African safari experience with excellent wildlife sightings)
Wide range of accommodation
(from rustic camps to luxury lodges)
Best time to visit: May–September (dry season for better game viewing)
2.
Sabi Sands Game Reserve – Luxury & Leopard Sightings
Bordering Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands is renowned for its luxury lodges and some of the best leopard sightings in Africa.
High-end safari lodges and exclusive experiences
(appreciate a tranquil haven to relax and recharge)
Open borders with Kruger
(allowing free-roaming wildlife)
Guided game drives with expert trackers
(Going on safari in Sabi Sands)
Perfect for: Honeymoons, luxury travellers, once-in-a-lifetime safaris
3.
Addo Elephant National Park – Big Seven Safari
Located in the Eastern Cape, Addo Elephant National Park is one of South Africa’s most accessible and family-friendly safari destinations.
Highlights:
- Famous for its large elephant population
- Big Seven sightings (includes whales and great white sharks along the coast)
- Malaria-free and ideal for self-drive safaris
Best time: Year-round
Famous for its large elephant population
(appreciate a tranquil haven to relax and recharge)
Open borders with Kruger
(allowing free-roaming wildlife)
Guided game drives with expert trackers
(Going on safari in Sabi Sands)
Perfect for: Honeymoons, luxury travellers, once-in-a-lifetime safaris
4.
Pilanesberg National Park – Safari Close to the City
Just a few hours from Johannesburg, Pilanesberg is perfect for a quick safari getaway.
Why visit:
- Excellent Big Five sightings in a compact park
- Ideal for weekend trips
- Close to Sun City resort for added entertainment
Best time: May–September
5.
Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park – Rhino Conservation Success
This historic reserve in KwaZulu-Natal is one of Africa’s oldest protected areas and plays a crucial role in rhino conservation.
What makes it special:
- One of the best places to see white and black rhino
- Beautiful rolling hills and diverse landscapes
- Affordable safari options
Best time: Dry winter months for clearer wildlife viewing
6.
Madikwe Game Reserve – Malaria-Free Luxury Safari
Situated near the Botswana border, Madikwe offers a high-end safari experience without the malaria risk.
Why it’s popular:
- Big Five sightings, including wild dogs
- Exclusive lodges with fewer vehicles
- Ideal for families and international visitors
Best time: April–October
Home of the Big Five
(lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo)
Excellent self-drive and guided safari options
(African safari experience with excellent wildlife sightings)
Wide range of accommodation
(from rustic camps to luxury lodges)
7.
Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park – Rhino Conservation Success
This historic reserve in KwaZulu-Natal is one of Africa’s oldest protected areas and plays a crucial role in rhino conservation.
What makes it special:
- One of the best places to see white and black rhino
- Beautiful rolling hills and diverse landscapes
- Affordable safari options
Best time: Dry winter months for clearer wildlife viewing
8.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park – Desert Safari Adventure
For a more rugged and remote safari, Kgalagadi delivers dramatic red dunes and predator sightings.
Highlights:
- Black-maned Kalahari lions
- Incredible photographic opportunities
- Shared park between South Africa and Botswana
Best time: March–October
