The reason I ranked South Africa so high is because not only is Kruger a fantastic place to view wildlife in wide open, endless plains, but heading south to Capetown and the coast was some of the most breathtaking country I've ever seen. The natural and cultural combination was so very interesting. Because English is widely spoken, and there are profound European influences mixed with traditional African villages, it was a very rich experience. The opportunities for adventure are endless.
Did not visit the Kruger itself but am to understand that it does get very touristy. If you can afford it, definitely try to go for one of the private game reserves with unfenced borders (joining the Kruger) and intimate safari lodges.
Email kimmy | 50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing close up encounters with animals.
50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Bush vibe is possible on in selected as exlusive destinations; the most popular parks are so easily accessible and well maintained that mass tourism and self drive are quite common. To live the bush experience you have to pay
Email Jordanar | 35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
We went also to Bostwana, but at South Africa the Bush experience was better and all the animals were easy to see.
We saw the big 5 in one day and a rhino was right on our side so much so that we could touch him if we wanted to but obviously did not!
I am born and bred here. Our Tourism Board has promoted Sa for a long time as a world within a country. We have everything from beaches to mountains, forests to desert, a wonderful climate, a weal rand for overseas visitors which make SA an affordable destination. The general populace is friendly. We have over 900 recorded bird species, over 200 mammal species, the Cape Flower Kingdom with the most species, beautiful skies, stars, weather. Some areas like the Garden Route in the Southern Cape is renowned worldwide for it beauty and scenery. Table Mountain, the Drakensbeg - so many biomes, and all with a beauty of its own. This is the place where you can see the big 5, and the small 5 and so many other critters in between! The private game reserves adjacent to Kruger National Park are the best place to see and photograph leopards, that most beautiful and elusive enigma of the African bush. Our life list of SA birds is >530 - I photograph them - I'm not a twitcher. We have wonderful birds, beautiful birds, elusive birds and many endemic birds. However take care that recorded species is never the same as how many species you may encounter at any given time, place and season!
Absolutely perfect
I found an amazing country, and i will come again in the next future
Nature, color, passion..... very nice experience!
We have done 4 days on safari at Kruger. The organization of the trip by plane until the last day to La Digue (Seychelles) and everything was perfect. In particular in South Africa at Kaiatani Lodge reception was fantastic. Alberto has conducted all the guides to safari: very prepared and addictive! The Africa there has remained in my heart ..... we will definitely be back! South African Dream to the next!
This tour was a very informative, low cost, but a comfortable & enjoyable experience.
Abundant wildlife in their natural habitat. Some magnificent scenery, especially the Drakensburgh mtns, & Kruger N.Pk. The weather (in Oct) was mild. Accomodation was clean & comfortable, in Cottages, Lodges & one park camp. The food was prepared by the crew, & was tasty, varied & plentiful. The vehicle was a 7 ton truck, fitted with a large body, which made viewing enjoyable & comfortable. The operator/guide Darren Humphries was extremely knowledgeable on all of Africa, & made every effort to ensure the trip was enjoyable, & importantly, safe for all.