The native of South African has become accustomed to the big 5 and we even see them every day, well not exactly but they are represented on our currency. South Africa takes pride in the big 5 and why we take the utmost care in preserving areas for them to thrive in. Each year thousands of visitors flock to South Africa to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat and have become one of the main reasons tourists plan a trip to South Africa.
If you want to see the African Elephant, Lion, Rhino, Leopard and Buffalo. in action then you’re in luck, we’ve put together a list of the best Safari destinations to do so.
Where you can spot the big 5 in South Africa
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South Africa: Kruger National Park & Private Reserves, Eastern Cape & Madikwe
One of Africa’s most reliable Big 5 sightings in the private reserves that border the Kruger National Park, itself a famous Big 5 hotspot. The Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve is exceptional: leopards are relatively common and the reserve generally delivers all the Big 5 within a couple of days.
The various sites of bush lodges, huts and luxury accommodation have first aid facilities, braais / BBQs, laundromats and electricity. No TV or radio provided, but you can bring your own if you so wish. It also hosts self-catering accommodation in a two-bed hut starts from R400 per night.
For more information, contact: +27 13 735 4000
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Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, Nomcondo, KwaZulu-Natal.
This reserve located in Kwa-Zulu Natal offers a host of activities for visitors to enjoy. Picnic sites, boat tours, and rooms are provided with parking and braais / BBQ’s. Accommodation begins at R975 for a unit. For more information, call: +27 35 5901555 or Email: info@stlucia.co.za
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Pilanesberg Game Reserve
This reserve is situated inside the crated of an old volcano in North West province, across from Sun City. As well as the Big Five, tourists can see early archaeological evidence of man, as well as the unique geological features of the location. You can book a cosy chalet here for as little as R275
For more information, email: stephanie@pilanesbergnationalpark.org
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Madikwe Reserve
This reserve is situated on the North West’s border with Botswana, near Groot-Marico. A special feature of Madikwe lies in its unique location, a transition zone on the edges of the Kalahari, where a number of rare species occur naturally. You can book an exquisite lodge for R3980.
For more information, you can get in touch with Madikwe via their website.
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Addo Elephant Park, Eastern Cape
If you’re specifically looking for elephants, this is the place. They have one of the densest populations of them on earth. You can secure a sheltered unit here for as little as R815. For more information, you can get in touch via their website which provides the necessary details.
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Shamwari Game Reserve, Eastern Cape
This game reserve is about 75km away from Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. It has the distinction of being voted the ‘World’s Leading Safari and Game Reserve and Conservation Company’ for consecutive years. They are famous for their responsible tourism ethos. It would cost R4725 per night.
For more information, call: +27 (0) 42 203 1111
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Timbivati Private Nature and Game Reserve, Limpopo
This reserve is home to 12 luxury safari lodges in Limpopo’s Kruger region. The food provided is out of this world. It certainly is the best place if going on safari gives you an appetite. We won’t judge. You can enjoy a spacious lodge here from as little as R890 per person.
For more information, call: +27 15 793 2436 or email: info@timbavati.co.za
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Kapama Game Reserve, Limpopo
Kapama is near the Drakensberg Mountains, Kapama Game Reserve is set in the Lowveld Bush. That’s still in the Limpopo region of Kruger. They showcase unbelievable views and provide a truly sight-seeing paradise. You can book a night there for R1850.
For more information, call: +27 12 368 0600 or email: res@kapama.com
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Thornybush Reserve, Limpopo
It is situated right next to Timbivati and Kapama in Limpopo. The lodges themselves are in an incredibly intimate setting and perfect for a private getaway. It has been quoted at R2100 per person, so now’s the time to book if you’re interested.
For more information, you can inquire with them on the website.
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Balule Nature Reserve, Limpopo
It is situated in Limpopo, Greater Kruger Park. Close to Phalaborwa and north of Hoedspruit. Besides the Big Five, they also have crocodiles and hippos to complete that essential African experience. If you make a move now, you can get rooms for R1250.
For more information: you can enquire via their booking form on their website.
Pack those bags
South Africa is packed with a range of such game reserves, that offer not only a chance to see our majestic and magical Big Five; but you will also have access all the modern luxuries you’re used to so you can enjoy the best of both worlds. If that doesn’t encourage you to start packing your bags and planning what will surely be an unforgettable trip, we don’t know what will.
Speak to a professional
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