OM
Email David | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Difficult to enter
I am unable to write a review of South Africa, its wildlife, or its landscapes due to the frustrating experience with the online eVisa system.
Our first application was rejected after nearly three weeks without any update on the website, despite being notified of a decision. It took several phone calls, emails, and text messages to receive the official verdict.
We are still waiting for a decision on our second application, two weeks after submission.
Our travel plans for July had to be rescheduled for August in the hope that the visa will be approved in time.
Having traveled to numerous countries, we find this process to be the most exasperating. While most countries have their peculiarities in documentation requests, requiring copies of our deceased parents' death certificates appeared unreasonable.
Other eVisas we've applied for were processed within hours or days, but this takes weeks.
NZ
Email Dawn Dalley | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A country of great diversity in geography, landscapes, wildlife, culture, people and wealth
Our trip to South Africa had some highs and lows. We self-drove for 10 days from Port Elizabeth, along the Garden Route and into Oudtshorn and Franshoek. It was a very affordable country for us to visit and we had some great experiences but didnt always feel safe. The food was great and we met some lovely people at our accomodation. The highlight of our trip was 4 days in the Kapama Game reserve. Amazing food, wonderful staff and awesome wildlife.
FR
Email Albert Abela | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Safari with my sons
Excellent lodges and safari in Kruger and in concessions .
US
Email Diane Lincoln | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
I loved the animal viewing on the safari!
We booked two different safaris in June 2024 with Ranger Buck Safari team. The first safari was the Buffalo Camp in Kampama game reserve. The staff was wonderful and the glamping tents where nice. The game drives started on time and the ranger was knowledgeable and worked hard to find all the animals each day. I would definitely return to Kampama!
The second safari was Shamwari private game reserve. The glamping tents were fantastic but the staff was getting the lodge ready for winter shut down and we felt it was rushed and not time well spent at this lodge. The ranger was driving so fast at times, we could not spot anything in the bush.
SE
Email Christian Anthony Wiberg | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Great adventure
North eastern SA had not only exciting safari but also offer guider tours to diamond mines and Mandela’s old neighbourhood as well as apartheid museum.
US
Email Colette | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Wonderful!
I’ve wanted to go on a safari since I knew what they were. I went on a 5 day trip with Bongan Safaris and loved it! I saw the Big 5 and many more. I also took a day trip to see Blyde Canyon, among other wonderful sites. Everyone I encountered in South Africa, from airport and hotel personnel to safari and game reserve employees, were so kind and helpful. This was one of my all time favorite vacations. I’d love to go back.
AE
Email Paola | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
it was magical
Our trip to Kruger Park was beyond what we could imagine. we stayed at Kapama private reserve. we did many safaris. we could see all the animals we wanted to see. The service, the hotel and the overall experience were excellent and above our expectations. great trip that i would recommend to everyone.
FR
Email Erica | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Definitely one of the most beautiful countries on earth
It was my first time in South Aftica and definitely not the last!
I've been amazed by the variety and beauty of the landscapes from Joburg to Cape Town! My time at the Kruger Park during a 3 days safari was the highlight of my trip! I was lucky to witness the beauty of the nature and the majesty of animals (lions, girafes, elephants, zebras, etc.).
Joburg is a busy and rich city, visiting Soweto to learn more about the history of the country was very moving but necessary!
Cape Town stole my heart! This city is definitely one of the most beautiful cities I've had to visit in my life, between Table Mountain or Lion's Head, Camps Bay and the other parts of the city, all I could do is to admire the beauty and diversity of this city. I'll definitely come back sooner than I thought!
AR
Email Fernando Arbach | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
A dream come true
We loved the experience of going on a safari for the first time! Everything was magical, the people from different places are very kind and friendly.
ID
Email Ira Lembong | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Experience Like No other
South Africa have been a long time bucket-list destination for us, when we finally took the trip, it was once in a lifetime experience.
What we love most about South Africa are the people, how accommodating, how they dress so vibrantly, how artistic these people are.
I used to hear horror stories about people’s experience in South Africa, the robbing and the violence, i did not experience any of that and i felt safe.
Maybe some areas have to be avoided but that’s like any other part of the world.
The Safari experience was just thrilling, the anticipation of seeing some animals in the wild was like a game of hide and seek. We did not have the expectation to see the big 5 because it’s not guaranteed in the wild. We were very lucky though to witness a cheetah with it’s kill, devouring an impala. This experience made me have even more respect for nature, the circle of life.
Seeing the vast bushland with all the animals give one some sort of perspective, a need to protect all these animals that share the earth.
Cape Town… just WOW!! It is said to be one of the most beautiful city in the world, you believe it when you see it! This city is surrounded by beauty everywhere, from mountains to beaches to cities. I was most surprised with the South African cuisines, they are delicious, even more surprising, the Thai restaurant in Cape Town is as authentic as it is in Thailand!
South Africa is definitely live up to their Tourism motto “Out of the Ordinary”
If you ever had the opportunity to go, seize it! It will be a travel experience you will never regret.
