All the best-known safari animals, including the , thrive in South Africa’s extensive network of protected areas. Kruger National Park is Africa’s top destination, while neighboring Greater Kruger (including Sabi Sand Nature Reserve) offers a more exclusive experience and superb viewing. Malaria-free Big Five safari destinations include Madikwe and Pilanesberg Game Reserves, and all parks and reserves in the Eastern, Western and Northern Cape.
Wildlife Highlights
South Africa hosts a wealth of and wildlife. This is mostly associated with the semi-arid and , the of the Western Cape, or the grasslands of the central . Antelope fitting this category are , , , , , , and . Other endemics and near-endemics include , , , , and .
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing
South Africa offers good year-round wildlife viewing. The dry winter months (May to September) are generally best, with August to September being especially rewarding as animals concentrate near water. The exception is the Western and Eastern Cape, where rain falls mostly in winter and wildlife viewing peaks in summer (October to April). In midwinter (June to August), early morning and afternoon in open vehicles can be very cold.
Wildlife Rating per Major Park
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Kruger NP
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Sabi Sands
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MalaMala GR
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Phinda GR
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Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park
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Kgalagadi TP
Recommended Wildlife Books
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Stuarts’ Field Guide to Mammals of Southern Africa
Ideal for those whose travels are limited to southern Africa.
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Stuarts’ SA Mammals (app)
Travel light with this app based on Stuarts’ field guide.
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The Kingdon Pocket Guide to African Mammals (book and app)
The comprehensive favorite of many repeat visitors to Africa.
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KrugerExplorer (app)
Top Kruger companion illustrates every mammal recorded there.
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Tracker Manual: A Practical Guide to Animal Tracking in Southern Africa
Learn to track 160 species from their prints and other spoor.
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