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Destinations to Experience South African Safaris

Experience the Best of the South African Safaris

You plunge into the forest and feel awe with the amazing animal sights surrounding you. You trek, explore, and embark on this one-of-a-kind voyage that lets you discover more of the wonders of this new habitat.

You see lush greenery filled with natural beauty and you watch the world as you relax in the comforts of your private space overlooking magnificent scenes nearby. You feel closer to nature and connected to your environment. Melting your stress away, you take a sip of your favorite fruit drink and munch on some fresh salad as you relish this refreshing experience.

So how do you make these thoughts in your mind come true to life?

Well, we got your back as we give you the top destinations for a rare opportunity in your lifetime: a safari trip! But first, let us have a quick background on safaris, especially in Africa, the continent best known for wildlife viewing. 

What is an African safari?

The name safari derives from the Swahili word for “journey”. A safari in Africa is a journey involving watching wild animals in the bushes. It is basically a trip into the wilderness to see wildlife. In contemporary Africa, it includes game viewing in the wilderness areas such as national parks and game reserves. Traditional safaris focus on seeing African wildlife, but safaris are not limited to this.

Wildlife Safari in Modern Times

Safari trips have changed over time. Now, it means supporting local communities and wildlife conservation in Africa. Wildlife safaris play a key role in African economy sustainability presently. It is not just about wildlife but already has a new purpose, adding a new set of other adventures to the experience.

They have developed into holiday trips that benefit African wildlife as visitors get to encounter them and protect the species. These excursions involve immersing in the local cultures of Africa, exploring natural wonders and scenes, visiting historical highlights, and participating in outdoor and adventure activities.

You can mix relaxation and adventure on a safari, and your first trip is always going to be remarkable.

Top 10 Destinations to Experience South African Safaris

Here are some of the top 10 African Luxury Safari Destinations in no particular order that you should add to your bucket list.

1. Singita Ebony – Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Hazyview, South Africa

Situated in the private Sabi Sand Game Reserve, the original Singita safari lodge shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park. The lodge’s design is a traditional lifestyle that has a comfortable take. Ebony has glass walls in its 12 beautiful suites and plunge pools overlooking the Sand River.

The best time to go here is during the dry season, from May to September to see the wildlife.

Top 10 Destinations to Experience South African Safaris

2. Londolozi – Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Skukuza, South Africa

You can find five separate lodges in Londolozi’s private reserve. The three Granite Suites are the most luxurious options. You can soak in outdoor bathtubs and plunge pools while watching the world – or maybe just a herd of elephants – go by.

Visit this reserve from May to September to best see the wildlife.

3. Angama Mara, Masai Mara National Reserve, Lolgorien, Kenya

Indulge in a  lovely safari lodge in Kenya! Angama, inspired by the Swahili word for ‘suspended in mid-air,’ is located high above the floor of Africa’s Great Rift Valley. It literally means “between heaven and earth.”

Angama Mara is considered by many as the loveliest game reserve on the continent. It has an overlooking view of Kenya’s Maasai Mara. You will definitely enjoy your stay here as it has two intimate camps of only 15 tented suites each. There is also a private airfield and access to the Mara underneath. You will be greeted with a warm welcome; the Kenyan way and your safari days are tailor-made to your liking.

Angama Safari Camp perfectly complements the lodge. It is an exclusive-use mobile tented camp amid the mega herds during the Great Migration and is sited deep in the Mara Triangle.

4. South Africa Safari Resorts: Singita Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga, South Africa

Located in the southeastern region of the world-famous Kruger National Park in South Africa, Singita is one of the best places for an African safari. It has two lodges, Sweni and Lebombo that provide unique experiences.

Lebombo Luxury Lodge

There are 15 private suite spaces with amenities such as a rooftop terrace, wine studio, and a private plunge pool at Lebombo Luxury Lodges. Built into the cliff of the N’wanetsi River, you can enjoy a nightcap underneath the stars on open feature decks.

Sweni Luxury Lodge

This lodge has seven different accommodation options for a wonderful stay.

Tucked into the banks of the Sweni River, you are likely to see crocodiles and big cats.

These two safari lodges both have these to enjoy too:

  • Fitness centers
  • Wellness and spa centers
  • Boutiques and galleries from the locals
  • Unique wine experiences
  • Guided tours and game drives
  • Restaurants
  • Swimming pool

5. Safari Resort in South Luangwa National Park: Time & Tide Chinzombo, Zambia

Looking for a premier safari camp? Well, Time and Tide Chinzombo is a great place to be! It is located in South Luangwa National Park and overlooks the stunning Luangwa River. Chinzombo is situated along the banks of the Luangwa River. It got its name from a gorgeous tree that grows nearby.  You will also find stunning ancient msikizi trees.

Among the wonderful scenery, it has six villas with plunge pools – ideal for those who want a private space. It can also do well for families since one villa can fit up to five guests.

Tide and Time has accommodation in three main areas namely South Luangwa, Liuwa Plain, and Lower Zambezi River. There are suitable options for all, from safari tents for honeymoon couples or family-friendly lodges.

Safari goers can also enjoy an unforgettable experience lounging on private decks with river views and stargazing with a glass of wine.

It is an amazing destination for animal viewing. Spot elephants at the river as they drink water in the morning and at night hear the hippos’ hush. It is a game-rich area where you can expect to see wild dogs, buffalos, impala, and much more. 

This luxury safari resort also offers seasonal boating safaris, day and night game drives, spa treatments, dinner under the stars, and sleep out under the stars.

Best time to go here is during the dry season of July to November.

6. Kruger National Park, South Africa

This is one of the biggest game reserves in Africa. It is 220 miles from top to bottom and 40 miles from east to west. There are plenty of flora and fauna here due to its size which makes visitors eager to go to this place.

The park also offers self-drive safari. Bring your own vehicle and explore at your own pace! Lots of loops, watering holes, and backroads are waiting for you to navigate, perfect when you stay outside the Kruger Park.

This is a natural choice because of wildlife diversity. There is a great opportunity to see the “Big Five” (with both black and white rhinos), cheetah, different buck, wild dogs, over 500 bird species, herbivores, and amazing plant life.

7. Masai Mara, Kenya

The Masai Mara National Park is popular for the Great Wildebeest Migration. Due to its unfenced boundary, this park offers incredible migration sightings, one of the world’s most breathtaking wonders.

The Great Migration refers to the significant circular movement of over a million wildebeests searching for grasslands between Kenya and Tanzania. These wildebeests flood into Masai Mara, which in turn, attracts a variety of predators.

It is also a top destination for big cats like leopard, lion, and cheetah, lion, and leopard. There are also elephants, buffalos, and giraffes which are notable too.

Enjoy these on your visit to Masai Mara:

  • Breath-taking views in the Great Rift Valley
  • Guided game drives in the park
  • Fully-equipped tented accommodation
  • Picnics in the wildlife reserve
  • Tranquil scenes from the Mara River
  • Optional: Hot-air balloon safari

8. Botswana Sky Beds, Khwai Private Reserve, Botswana

This National Park is dominated by the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and is situated in Located in southwestern Uganda along the Democratic Republic of Congo border, deep Africa, it offers safari adventurers the chance to get up close with the mountain gorilla, a formidable species like the “Big Five.”. The Bwindi Park protects approximately half of the world’s population of this species.

This park has a refreshing change to the traditional sadari. It has rainforest and peculiar animals in contrast to bushes.

An African tour to this site includes:

  • A stop at the Equator
  • Views of Lake Bunyonyi
  • Lodging, meals, and transport included
  • A gorilla safari

9.  Botswana Sky Beds, Khwai Private Reserve, Botswana 

Have an unforgettable night in the bush in Botswana Skybeds! This site is just a short drive from nearby Sable Alley. The sky beds are on a three-story treehouse, giving you the chance to stay close to animal activity throughout the night. Botswana Sky beds is one of the best and most adventurous African safari lodges.

10. Azura Quilalea Private Island, Tavari, Mozambique

Discover a hidden gem that is the Azura Quilalea Private Island! If you are looking for a place to retreat from a busy life, this is the perfect getaway you shall indulge in!

Unwind and destress ‘Robinson Crusoe’ castaway style that soothes your senses in one of the 9 seafront villas.

Experience a luxury Indian Ocean Retreat from the Azura Retreats group, bringing Azura’s trademark African-chic style to Quilalea Private Island.

Immerse yourself in a private fully uninhabited island paradise. Get refreshed by the views of pristine waters of the Quirimbas Archipelago marine sanctuary.

You can dive from the main beach, go kayaking on the mangroves, snorkel on the island’s shores or just relax in a hammock under the island’s giant baobabs.

Plunge in an ultimate private luxury destination that is a stunning untouched paradise for you to discover, explore and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Wildlife sightseeing, glamping, camping in a luxury tented safari camp are the most common activities one engages in during safaris. Drives in 4WD vehicles are also the most popular ways to explore. Some may prefer walking too in a private conservancy.

When the lights go out, you fall asleep to the chorus of the wild calls whether you are in a lodge or in the open under a sky of stars in Africa. Do not miss your opportunity of a lifetime to go on South African Safaris and embark on an unforgettable adventure!

South African safaris offer a unique and thrilling experience for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Whether you prefer bush walks, bird watching, game drives, or guided tours, there is something for everyone. Luxury safaris provide an even more upscale and comfortable experience, with options such as safari tents and exclusive wildlife viewing opportunities. With its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, South Africa is truly a safari destination that should not be missed. So pack your bags, grab your binoculars, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the African bush

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