South Africa has a huge diversity of landscapes within the same country, so it's possible to come here and have several very different experiences and see radically different things just by travelling a couple of hours in any given direction. The weather is fantastic for most of the year.
South Africa was more beautiful than I ever imagined. I never thought I would see all the animals I did and even better get as close as I did with our skilled Sabi Sabi guides. We were within feet of every animal we came in contact with.
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
In just one day I saw the complete list of big game apart from cheetah and leopard.
Giraffe were a bit thin on the ground and didn't get a close up view of them either.
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35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
South Africa is the premiere safari destination. The main reason is the density of the wildlife and the best safari lodges on the planet. I have been to 4+ lodges and the attention to detail, amazing service and knowledgeable staff stand out compared to Botswana or even Tanzania. I loved both but South Africa has this down to perfection.
The other main advantage are the large private reserves such as Timbivati and Sabi Sands. Limited to 2 vehicles per sighting, night game drives, going off-road and the ability to do bush walks set these destinations apart.
Perfect for a first safari. All of the wildlife I was hoping to see, and more, with accessible and luxurious accommodations.
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Email Lauren | 20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
South Africa is a wonderful location for going on safari. The wildlife is incredible, and there are a huge number of endemic plants and animals in the country. The climate is also quite nice.
Firstly, the game parks in South Africa are extremely well organised compared to the rest of the world. You actually know that the animals are being well protected and the people that work on safari have so much knowledge of the animals and the area, it's mind blowing!
But probably the best thing about South Africa as a safari destantion is watching the beautiful African sun set over a waterhole filled with hippos. Not many places can compare!
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50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
There are so many animals to see in a beautiful location. There were a lot of different birds, too. Our guide did name the birds and point them out. We all had a booklet listing the species of animals, including birds and reptiles, as well as plants that live in Mala Mala.
Email Russell R | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
South Africa is a wonderful country as it is not too dissimilar to many western countries eg: fantastic hotels, restaurants, good roads, great food, however, it has its own unique favour in its culture, scenery and wildlife.
It is a safe destination (as safe as anywhere in the world) providing the rare opportunity to combine fantastic game viewing with get scenery (Table Mountain, Drakensberg Mountains, Beaches etc) and great accommodation. You can easily self drive here (I have done it with my family).
20-35 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Great experience
South Africa has got to be one of the best places i have been to thus far, Cape Town is high on my "must see destinations" with the Kruger National Park coming in at #1!
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