The majority of our itineraries are based around Cape Town, Kruger (or the Sabi Sands) and the Garden Route; however there are a number of other parks and areas worthy of consideration. South Africa has a number of private game reserves, ranches, trekking areas and also beach destinations away from the main tourist hotspots. We design holidays throughout the country, so we mention here a few alternatives to the more popular top three.
Tswalu is a huge private game reserve with a fine selection of big game and some fantastic lodges. Malaria-free, Tswalu is superb for families and in our view one of the best locations in South Africa for authentic safari.
Kwandwe is a 22 000 hectare game reserve two hours’ drive to the north of Port Elizabeth. This is a great malaria free safari option to combine with an itinerary featuring Cape Town and the Garden Route. This is a big 5 game reserve, but is particularly good for viewing the rarer aardwolf and aardvark.
Another fantastic Malaria-free option for everyone, is
Marataba. Home to a great density of big five, it's only a three-hour transfer from OR Tambo International, making it easily accessible. With an adult-only camp and a separate family-friendly lodge with kids club, nannies and child-friendly game drives, there is the perfect opportunity for anyone and everyone to visit. With two beautiful lodges in one of South Africa's most beautiful settings, it's hard to go wrong with a stay at Marataba.
South Africa is arguably at its best when explored off the beaten track - here there is some really beautiful accomodation options, breath-taking wilderness and that real hideaway feeling that will make your South African safari completely one of a kind.
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