Safari in South-Africa
Nature reserves in northern South-Africa
Kruger National Park and satellite parks
Kruger National Park is one of the most famous parks in Africa, and has a long history of safari. In particular, the Private Concessions within the park boundaries of Kruger and the Private Game Reserve just outside it are the most interesting in terms of quality. Names like Pafuri in the north and Sabi Sands have proven themselves over the years to be absolute top destinations that are home to rich flora and fauna, including 330 species of plants, 45 species of fish, 30 species of amphibians, 110 species of reptiles, 500 species of birds and 145 species of mammals – including the Big 5 (leopard, lion, buffalo, elephant and rhino). The great advantage of Private Reserve like Sabi Sands is that only visitors from the lodges located there are allowed here; day guests are not allowed, nor is it allowed to go on game drives on your own . Staying at one of the lodges implies that safari activities are included, and this very thing is a crucial component for a productive safari: as a guest, you are taken into the wild by highly trained guides who can really tell you everything about the Reserve and the animals living in it. Another advantage is that the guides have permission to drive off-road (something strictly prohibited in Kruger NP) allowing them to follow the special animals such as the leopard through the bush. The chances of a great encounter with the magnificent African wildlife are thus greatly increased.
Madikwe Game Reserve
Madikwe Game Reserve consists of vast grassy plains and more vegetated sections. The Reserve is divided in two by rugged hills and is bordered on the south by the Dwarsberg Mountains. Because of the variety of habitats, Madikwe is home to an enormous variety of flora and fauna. The 66 species of mammals include the famous “Big 5”: elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhinoceros. Other spectacular residents include giraffe, hippo, cheetah, wild dog and hyena. For birders, there is also a great deal to see, with over 340 different species counted in the Reserve.
Nature reserves in Kwazula Natal
Phinda and Hluhluwe-Umfolozi
Magnificent safari opportunities are also available in KwaZulu Natal, with highlights being the luxurious Phinda Private Game Reserve and Hluhluwe-Umfolozi, the park known for its thriving rhino populations
iSimangaliso Wetland Park and Indian Ocean
In the northeastern part of the province of Kwazulu-Natal find with iSimangaliso Wetland Park. It is a very diverse region, with vegetated dunes, wetlands, sandy beaches, forests and the warm sea. The area lies within the boundaries of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, one of South Africa’s World Heritage Sites, and includes a multitude of ecological zones. Offshore is the Maputaland Marine Reserve, with exceptional opportunities for diving and snorkeling among lush marine life, spectacular corals and dolphins and whales. Few stretches of the South African coast are so pristine and secluded. The area is known for its beautiful dive sites, as well as for the Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles that lay their eggs on the endless beaches.
The Cape / Garden- & Whaleroute
One of the most beautiful coastal routes in the world can be found in the far south of the African continent. The route leads from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town, and is characterized by lush vegetation, many lagoons and lakes, and the beautiful transition from the Indian to the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, towns such as Jeffrey’s Bay, Mossel Bay, Knysna, Plettenberg’s Bay and Hermanus are visited, offering something for everyone.
For coastal lovers, towns like Jeffrey’s Bay offer all kinds of beach activities. Jeffrey’s Bay itself is known for the huge waves on which surfers show off their skills, but there are also safe swimming beaches. Of course, wonderful restaurants, stores and entertainment venues can also be found along the route. The lagoons and lakes around Knysna offer relaxation in the form of hiking trails, wellness centers, and golf courses. The coastal route from Hermanus is known for whales, and the area around Cape Town is a real wine region, with grape fields and wine tastings for enthusiasts.
Kaapstad
Cape Town is truly a worldly city, where many cultures and all kinds of historical movements meet. Of course, a visit to Table Mountain is a must, but the lovely beaches of fashionable places like Camp’s Bay are also well worth a visit. The Waterfront is the heart of Cape Town’s harbor, while the Company Gardens and various museums in the city center provide cultural and historical fulfillment. Of course, deepening into South Africa’s Apartheid past is also an extremely impressive component. The District Six museum, the Nelson Mandela Gateway, and of course Robben Island all represent impressive reminders of a troubled past.