Safari Holidays to South Africa
South Africa Safari Holidays
South Africa is a land where wild wonders meet modern comfort. Whether you dream of tracking lions at dawn in Kruger, sipping wine after a sunset game drive in the Eastern Cape, or exploring malaria-free reserves with your family, South Africa safari holidays offer extraordinary variety and accessibility.
From rugged mountains to vast savannahs, and from luxury lodges to tented camps, South Africa is perfect for both first-timers and seasoned safari-goers — a place where the wilderness is both breathtaking and easy to reach.
A Selection of our South Africa Safari Holidays
Safari Lodge
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When is the Best Time to Go on South Africa Safari Holidays?
You can go on safari in South Africa at any time of year, but the dry winter months (May to September) are widely considered the best for wildlife viewing, particularly in Kruger National Park and surrounding private reserves. During this time, vegetation thins out and animals gather around waterholes, making sightings more frequent.
In contrast, summer (October to April) brings lush green landscapes, dramatic thunderstorms, and newborn animals — ideal for birdwatching and photography. Many private reserves in the Eastern Cape and Madikwe are malaria-free and great for family safaris all year round.
What Wildlife Can You See on South Africa Safari Holidays?
South Africa delivers the Big Five in abundance — lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos — along with cheetahs, hyenas, wild dogs, giraffes, hippos, and hundreds of bird species.
In Kruger and its neighbouring reserves, you're almost guaranteed thrilling encounters.
Meanwhile, places like Phindaoffer sightings of rare species like black rhinos and nyala, and Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is famous for black-maned lions and massive herds of springbok.
Top Safari Destinations in South Africa
Each region offers something distinct — from crowd-pleasing classics to off-the-beaten-path gems.
Kruger National Park & Private Reserves
South Africa’s most iconic safari region, Kruger is vast and full of life. Stay in the park or opt for private reserves like Sabi Sands and Timbavati for luxurious lodges, fewer vehicles, and off-road game drives.
Madikwe Game Reserve
Near the Botswana border, Madikwe is malaria-free, Big Five-rich, and perfect for families. It’s known for wild dog sightings, excellent lodges, and fewer crowds.
Eastern Cape Game Reserves
An easy add-on to a Cape Town holiday, the Eastern Cape is also malaria-free and ideal for self-drive safaris. Reserves like Shamwari and Amakhala offer great wildlife and a strong focus on conservation.
Phinda Private Game Reserve
Located in KwaZulu-Natal, Phinda combines diverse ecosystems with high-end safari experiences. You’ll find everything from coastal forest to open savannah — plus the chance to pair your trip with beach time.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Remote and dramatic, this desert park offers big skies, black-maned lions, and true wilderness. It’s perfect for intrepid travellers seeking raw adventure.
The Types of South Africa Safari Holidays That We Offer
Awake in the Wild curates South African safaris for every kind of traveller:
- Classic Big Five Safaris – Game drives in open vehicles, expert rangers, and wildlife from dawn to dusk.
- Luxury Lodge Escapes – Fine dining, plunge pools, and personalised service deep in the bush.
- Malaria-Free Family Safaris – Safe and fun for all ages, with kid-friendly lodges and private guides.
- Walking Safaris – Explore on foot and learn to track animals with experienced rangers.
- Self-Drive Adventures – Hit the road and explore Kruger or the Eastern Cape at your own pace.
Why Book Your South Africa Safari Holiday with Awake in the Wild?
South Africa is a safari heavyweight — and we know how to tailor it just for you.
At Awake in the Wild, we create bespoke itineraries that match your pace, budget, and dream destinations.
With ATOL and PTS protection, 24/7 support while you're away, and a commitment to ethical travel, you can trust us to handle every detail.
Whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or on honeymoon, we’ll make your safari seamless, safe, and unforgettable.
Where to Stay on a South Africa Safari
From five-star lodges with open-air bathtubs to authentic bush camps that focus on simplicity and immersion, South Africa excels in safari accommodation. Many properties are owner-run and deeply involved in conservation and community efforts.
Expect expert guiding, stylish design, and exceptional cuisine, whether you're sipping a G&T at sunset or waking up to a lion's roar in the distance.
Many lodges also offer private game drives, spa treatments, stargazing decks, and even photographic gear hire — blending wild adventure with indulgent comfort.
Combine Your Safari With...
South Africa makes it incredibly easy to build a multifaceted holiday.
We’ll help you combine safari with:
- Cape Town & the Winelands – Explore the coast, Table Mountain, and sip world-class wines.
- The Garden Route – A scenic drive along beaches, forests, and adventure hubs.
- Victoria Falls – Fly directly from Kruger or Johannesburg to see the world’s greatest waterfall.
- Mozambique or Mauritius – For a barefoot island break after your time in the bush.
Travelling from the UK to South Africa
Travelling to South Africa from the UK is one of the easiest safari journeys you can make, with direct flights available from London Heathrow to both Johannesburg and Cape Town. Carriers like British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and South African Airways operate regular non-stop services, with flight times averaging around 11 to 12 hours.
For safari-goers heading to Kruger National Park, Madikwe, or the Eastern Cape, Johannesburg is usually the best arrival point. If your trip includes the Garden Route or Western Cape reserves, Cape Town is ideal.
With no visa required for UK passport holders and minimal time difference, South Africa is a top choice for a smooth, hassle-free safari start. We’ll coordinate flights and transfers to match your personalised itinerary, ensuring your journey is as stress-free as it is exciting.
Start Planning Your South Africa Safari Holiday
Ready to track leopards in Sabi Sands, toast the sunset in the Eastern Cape, or explore wild frontiers in the Kalahari? Let us help you design a South Africa safari that’s full of magic, meaning, and memory-making moments.
Call us now or complete our enquiry form to begin planning your safari with Awake in the Wild.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do UK travellers need a visa to enter South Africa?
No — UK passport holders can enter South Africa for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism purposes. Just ensure your passport has two blank pages and is valid for at least 30 days after your departure.
Is South Africa a good destination for first-time safari-goers?
Absolutely. South Africa offers a well-developed tourism infrastructure, top-tier guiding, and a wide variety of parks and reserves. With both luxury and budget-friendly options — plus malaria-free zones — it’s ideal for first-timers.
What’s the best time of year to go on safari in South Africa?
The dry season (May to September) is best for wildlife viewing, especially in Kruger and surrounding private reserves. That said, South Africa is a year-round destination, and the green summer months are great for birdwatching and photography.
Is South Africa suitable for family safaris?
Yes! There are plenty of malaria-free reserves like Madikwe and the Eastern Cape, which cater well to families. Lodges here often offer kid-friendly activities, flexible meals, and shorter game drives for younger travellers.
Will I see the Big Five in South Africa?
South Africa is one of the best places to spot the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. Reserves like Sabi Sands, Phinda, and Madikwe boast excellent success rates on game drives.
Can I do a self-drive safari in South Africa?
Yes. Kruger National Park is a popular and safe option for self-drive safaris, with clearly marked roads and accommodation options inside the park. Many travellers combine self-drive with a few nights in private lodges.
Is malaria a concern in South Africa?
Some areas like Kruger have a low risk of malaria, particularly in the wet summer months. However, many excellent safari destinations, including Madikwe and the Eastern Cape, are completely malaria-free.
What are lodges and camps like in South Africa?
They range from rustic bush camps to ultra-luxurious lodges, many of which offer pools, gourmet dining, and even spas. All lodges prioritise guiding and wildlife experiences, regardless of their star rating.
Can I combine safari with other South African highlights?
Definitely. South Africa is perfect for combining safari, culture, and coast. Popular add-ons include Cape Town, the Winelands, the Garden Route, or even Victoria Falls and Mozambique.
How do I get to South Africa from the UK?
You can fly direct from London to Johannesburg or Cape Town, with multiple airlines including British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. From there, internal flights or road transfers connect you to safari regions like Kruger or Madikwe.
