South Africa
Location
Southern Africa
Famous For
Big 5 Safaris
Perfect Combo
Safari & City
Ideal For
First Time Travellers
When to visit
SUMMER SAFARI
Warm summer weather brings abundant birdlife, dramatic landscapes and excellent opportunities to witness newborn animals. While wildlife can be harder to spot in thicker vegetation, the scenery is at its most spectacular.
Highlights
✓ Peak birdwatching
✓ Baby animals
✓ Vibrant scenery
✓ Green landscapes
Worth Knowing
Hot temperatures
Afternoon thunderstorms possible
Best For:
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Newborn Wildlife
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Birding
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Green Landscapes
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Scenic Photography
National Parks
Overview
A malaria-free safari destination in the Eastern Cape, Addo is best known for its impressive elephant herds and accessible wildlife viewing. Its landscapes stretch from bushveld to coastal areas, making it a great choice for families and first-time safari travellers.
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Why Visit?
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Large elephant herds
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Family-friendly safaris
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Rhino, buffalo and antelope
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Coastal landscapes nearby
Wildlife of South Africa
South Africa is home to one of the most diverse wildlife populations on the continent, offering unforgettable encounters with the Big Five, powerful predators and a remarkable variety of birdlife and marine species. From Kruger's iconic lions and elephants to penguins along the Western Cape and whales off the southern coastline, every region offers a different wildlife experience.
Lions
One of Africa's most iconic predators, commonly seen in Kruger National Park and private game reserves
Elephants
Large breeding herds roam many of South Africa's national parks, particularly Kruger and Addo Elephant National Park.
Leopards
Elusive but regularly spotted in Kruger, Sabi Sand and other premier safari destinations.
Rhinos
South Africa protects one of the world's largest populations of both black and white rhino.
Found in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi
Buffalo
Often found in large herds across the country's major safari parks.
Cheetah
Seen in selected reserves and open grassland ecosystems across South Africa.
African Penguin
Found along the Western Cape coastline, particularly at Boulders Beach near Cape Town.
Southern Right Whale
Seasonal whale watching takes place along the coast around Hermanus between June and November.
Conservation
Community
Many private reserves and community partnerships work alongside national parks to protect wildlife while creating jobs, supporting education and generating sustainable income through responsible tourism.
Wildlife Protection
South Africa is recognised for its strong conservation programmes, with ongoing anti-poaching efforts, habitat management and species protection helping to safeguard iconic wildlife, particularly rhino.
Sustainable Tourism
Responsible tourism plays a vital role in funding conservation, supporting protected areas and ensuring wildlife and local communities benefit from the country's natural heritage.
Best for
Who is South Africa best for?
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First-Time Safari Travellers​
South Africa's excellent infrastructure, experienced guides and accessible reserves make it one of Africa's best destinations for first-time safari travellers.
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Family-Friendly Safaris​
Many lodges offer family suites, child-friendly activities and flexible game drives, making South Africa ideal for multi-generational adventures.
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Big Five Wildlife
Enjoy exceptional opportunities to see the Big Five across world-renowned parks such as Kruger National Park and private game reserves.
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Safari & City Escapes
Combine unforgettable wildlife encounters with Cape Town's beaches, culture, food and nearby wine regions in one seamless itinerary.
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Self-Drive Adventures
Well-maintained roads and excellent visitor facilities make South Africa one of the best destinations in Africa for independent self-drive safaris.
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Luxury Safari Experiences
Stay in award-winning lodges and exclusive private reserves, offering exceptional guiding, fine dining and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Visa
Vaccination
UK passport holders can visit South Africa visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism.
Entry Requirements
✓ Valid passport with at least 30 days validity beyond departure
✓ At least two blank passport pages
✓ Return or onward travel may be requested
✓ Check the latest government travel advice before departure
Routine travel vaccinations are recommended before travelling to South Africa.
Recommended
✓ Hepatitis A
✓ Tetanus
✓ Typhoid (for some travellers)
✓ Yellow Fever certificate only if arriving from a risk country
✓ Malaria prophylaxis recommended for Kruger National Park and north-eastern regions
Always check the latest NHS Fit for Travel guidance before your trip, as vaccination and health recommendations may change.
Add the Coast to Your Safari
South Africa is one of the few safari destinations where you can seamlessly combine incredible wildlife with world-class beaches, vibrant cities and breathtaking coastal scenery. From the cosmopolitan charm of Cape Town to the dramatic Garden Route, it's the perfect way to extend your safari adventure.
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Cape Town
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Iconic coastal city with mountains, beaches & culture
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World-class dining, wine regions & vibrant waterfront
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Easy domestic flights from major safari destinations
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Garden Route
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Spectacular coastal drives & pristine beaches​
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Forests, lagoons & outdoor adventures
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Boutique hotels & luxury seaside escapes
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Seasonal whale watching in Hermanus​
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African penguin colonies at Boulders Beach​
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Coastal cruises, dolphin & seal watching
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Marine & Ocean
A South Africa safari doesn't have to end when the game drives do. Add a few days along the coast to experience vibrant cities, spectacular beaches and unforgettable marine adventures before heading home.
Habitats
South Africa is one of Africa's most ecologically diverse safari destinations, with habitats ranging from open bushveld and semi-desert landscapes to coastal forests, rugged mountains and rich marine ecosystems.
Savannah & Bushveld
The classic safari habitat found across Kruger National Park and many private reserves, where open grasslands, woodlands and river systems support the Big Five and abundant wildlife.
Semi-Desert & Arid Zones
Rift Valley lakes such as Nakuru and Naivasha provide habitat for flamingos, hippos and waterbirds.
Coastal Forests & Thickets
Cooler areas like the Aberdares and Mount Kenya support elephants, buffalo, colobus monkeys and rich birdlife.
Marine & Coastal Ecosystems
​Northern Kenya, including Samburu, is home to Grevy’s zebra, oryx and gerenuk.
Fynbos Biome
Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast includes coral reefs, mangroves and beaches supporting marine life, dolphins and bird habitats.
