Safari holidays in South Africa

Experience breathtaking safari adventures in one of the world’s most iconic safari destinations.

A safari holiday in South Africa is an experience that stays with you – it was here we sent our very first guests back in 2006.

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Why go on a safari holiday in South Africa?

South Africa is a world-class safari destination and the perfect choice if you dream of an unforgettable safari in Africa.

On a safari holiday in South Africa, we take you close to the country’s magnificent wildlife in one or more of its national parks and private game reserves, where you can encounter the iconic Big Five and many other fascinating species – all set against scenery so beautiful it will surely take your breath away.

But there’s so much more to South Africa than its safaris. The country offers incredible diversity, with opportunities to combine your safari with vibrant city life, dramatic mountain landscapes, and idyllic vineyards – allowing you to make your safari holiday as varied as you wish.

What does our travel expert say about safari in South Africa? 

“One of the things I love most about a safari in South Africa is the incredible diversity of landscapes – from savannah and forest to mountains and bushland. Everything is within reach, and the variety of wildlife experiences makes it truly unforgettable.”

– Winnie, travel expert and Product Manager for Africa – went on her first safari holiday in South Africa in 2007.

Our safari holidays in South Africa

With its breathtaking scenery and rich wildlife, South Africa is among the very best destinations for an unforgettable safari adventure.

Below, you can read more about some of the highlights that await you on a safari holiday in South Africa.  

Kruger National Park

The majority of our tours to South Africa take you on a safari in Kruger National Park and the surrounding private game reserves that together form the famous ‘Greater Kruger’ area.

In Kruger National Park, an impressive natural landscape awaits, where the scenery shifts beautifully from dense vegetation and lush forest areas to open plains and rushing rivers that serve as vital gathering places for the region’s wildlife.

However, it’s not just the landscape that makes Kruger National Park so special. The park is also renowned for its vast population of wild animals, offering you the perfect opportunity to spot Africa’s magnificent wildlife – including elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, leopards, hyenas, hippos, lions, and many, many more.

Kariega Game Reserve

Kariega Game Reserve is located in the Eastern Cape, in the heart of the lush Kariega Valley – a well-known, malaria-free area where you can go on safari and experience the wildlife up close from open jeeps.

This safari destination is perfect for those dreaming of experiencing a private game reserve with luxurious accommodation and plenty of game drives through outstanding and diverse scenery, featuring rivers, forested hills, grassy plains, and of course, an abundance of wild animals.

On a safari in Kariega Game Reserve, you can spot lions, rhinos, hippos, giraffes, baboons, and colourful birds. And if you’re really lucky, you might even catch sight of rare animals such as aardvarks – enough to lift even the most seasoned guide out of their seat!

Nambiti Private Game Reserve

Nambiti Private Game Reserve is a 9,000-hectare private wildlife reserve offering spectacular safari adventures in malaria-free surroundings.

As you drive through the diverse landscapes – shifting from savannah and bushland to forested riverbanks – you’ll not only have the chance to spot the Big Five, for which the reserve is especially renowned, but also countless other fascinating mammals and bird species.

In addition to being one of South Africa’s most successful conservation projects, the reserve is deeply committed to protecting wildlife and takes great pride in ensuring that encounters with the animals are both ethical and truly unforgettable.

Combine your South Africa safari with… 

Our safari holidays in South Africa come in countless variations and can easily be combined with other destinations within the country – or with adventures in neighbouring nations.

Among our most popular combinations is Mauritius, which provides the perfect finale to an unforgettable safari holiday in South Africa, along with Cape Town – a city that truly leaves a lasting impression. You can also combine your safari with the Drakensberg Mountains, the Garden Route, the Winelands, Victoria Falls, Madagascar, and Botswana.

You can read about the combination options under each tour.

Beach holiday in Mauritius

Combine your safari with a tour to Mauritius and round off your adventure with a beach holiday in the heart of the Indian Ocean.

In Mauritius, picture-perfect sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs come together in a stunning fusion that invites both relaxing days on the beach and active water sports such as snorkelling and diving.

When you’re not lounging on the beach, you can explore Mauritius’ magnificent natural beauty – for example, the serene Ganga Talao lake or the iconic Seven Coloured Earth Geopark, where you’ll discover multicoloured sand dunes and the island’s highest waterfall.

Cape Town

Combine your safari holiday with a tour to Cape Town and explore South Africa’s second-largest city, where an extraordinary blend of nature, culture, and history is sure to captivate you.  

For example, you can visit Table Mountain, which rewards you with a fantastic view over the vibrant city, or immerse yourself in South Africa’s dark past on Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned during the apartheid regime.

If you’d like to sample South African cuisine, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront where restaurants and food markets entice you with local specialities and a lively atmosphere.

Garden Route

Combine your safari holiday with the Garden Route and experience one of the world’s most breathtaking coastal stretches.

The Garden Route, which officially runs for 300 kilometres between the Western and Eastern Cape, constantly surprising you with new contrasts and experiences – from the famous ostrich farms and mysterious limestone caves in Oudtshoorn to the beautiful lagoon and atmospheric seafood restaurants in Knysna.

If you visit the Garden Route during whale season, you’ll have an excellent chance of spotting playful whales just off the coast of Hermanus – often referred to as South Africa’s whale capital.

The Drakensberg mountains

Combine your safari holiday with the Drakensberg Mountains and experience one of South Africa’s most impressive mountain ranges.

The area offers a variety of fantastic hiking trails, ranging in length and difficulty. For example, you could take on a hike to Cathedral Peak if you’re up for a longer, more challenging trek – or set off on a walk to Neptune’s Pool, where you can relax with a refreshing dip in the stunning emerald-green pools.

If you opt instead for the Panorama Route, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the iconic Blyde River Canyon – one of the world’s largest canyons, renowned for its three scenic vantage points: God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and the Three Rondavels.

South Africa’s winelands

Add on a visit to South Africa’s idyllic winelands, just a short drive from Cape Town, and gain a unique insight into the country’s proud winemaking traditions.

In famed wine regions such as Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, you’ll get up close to the craftsmanship behind the fine vintages as you visit both traditional and contemporary wineries, all beautifully situated in some of South Africa’s most breathtaking scenery.

To top it all off, you’ll have the opportunity to taste some of the country’s renowned wines while taking in the view of the lush vineyards stretching picturesquely across the rolling hills.

Victoria Falls in Zambia

Combine your safari holiday with a visit to Victoria Falls and experience the sheer power of nature up close. 

Victoria Falls, set on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, is one of the largest waterfalls in the world. Here, torrents of water plunge into a gorge around 108 metres deep with such immense force that clouds of mist rise into the air, shrouding the falls in a veil of fine spray.

Admire this natural wonder on a leisurely walk along the falls or opt for an exhilarating helicopter flight over the roaring waters, offering you the ultimate panoramic view from above.

Lemurs in Madagascar

Combine your safari with a tour to Madagascar, the world’s fourth largest island, and experience wildlife that’s strikingly different from the classic safari animals you encounter on the African mainland.

Due to its isolated location in the Indian Ocean, Madagascar has developed such a unique ecosystem that more than 90% of its reptiles and mammals are endemic – meaning they exist nowhere else on earth. One of the island’s most iconic species is the lemur, found in large numbers and in a dazzling variety of shapes and sizes.

Beyond its extraordinary nature and wildlife experiences, Madagascar captivates visitors with its fascinating culture and history – for example, in the capital Antananarivo, where the Queen’s Palace offers a captivating glimpse into the country’s royal past and its long struggle for independence from colonial rule.

Safari in Botswana

Combine your holiday with a tour to Botswana and enrich your adventure with even more unforgettable safari moments. 

In Botswana, you’ll go on safari in Chobe National Park, one of Africa’s finest national parks. With its pristine and untouched natural scenery, the park is a breathtaking sight in itself. But it’s undoubtedly the remarkable wildlife that draws most visitors to Chobe National Park.

In Chobe National Park, you’ll encounter classic safari animals such as buffaloes, zebras, lions, leopards, giraffes, and, not least, elephants – thousands of them roaming freely throughout the park. In addition to its mammals, the park is also home to an impressive variety of birdlife, including the lilac-breasted roller, Botswana’s national bird.

Book South Africa safari packages from the UK

All our safaris in South Africa are package holidays.

When you book a safari holiday with TourCompass, flights, transfers, accommodation, and scheduled activities are always included in the price.

You can find details of what you’ll need to arrange yourself (e.g. visas, vaccinations, etc.) on our practical information page.

Frequently asked questions about going on safari in South Africa

You may have many questions when booking a safari holiday to South Africa – especially if it’s your first time visiting the country.

That’s why we’ve gathered the answers to some of the questions we’re most often asked.

Where is the best place to go on a safari in South Africa? 

One of the best places to go on a safari in South Africa is Kruger National Park, the country’s largest national park. With its breathtaking scenery and iconic wildlife, Kruger is considered one of the finest national parks in Africa. In the private game reserves, however, you’ll enjoy a more intimate and exclusive safari experience. Only guests staying within the reserve can go on safari there, and as there are fewer restrictions than in a national park, there’s greater flexibility and freedom to get close to the wildlife – even off road.

No matter which of South Africa’s national parks or reserves you choose for your safari holiday, you’re guaranteed unforgettable wildlife encounters that will take your breath away.

When is the best time to go on a safari in South Africa

The best time to go on a safari in South Africa is between May and October, which is the dry season. As the vegetation becomes more sparse, animals gather around the waterholes, making it easier to spot them. 

No matter when you visit South Africa, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable safari adventure. South Africa is a year-round destination, offering extraordinary experiences in every season. Read more about the best time to visit South Africa.

How much does a safari in South Africa cost? 

The price of a safari in South Africa varies depending on the departure date, tour length, and the details of the itinerary.

All our tours are package holidays, and the price therefore includes flights, transfers, and scheduled activities. You can find starting prices listed under each individual tour. Travelling in the peak season – for example, during the summer holidays or over Christmas and New Year – tends to be the most expensive, while the low season offers more affordable options.

For a final price, we recommend requesting a no-obligation quote based on your preferred departure date, airport, and any adjustments or upgrades.

How long should you spend on safari in South Africa? 

We recommend spending at least three to four days on safari. Our shortest safari holiday in South Africa lasts nine days (including travel days) and includes three days in Kruger National Park, where you’ll enjoy classic game drives, night game drives, and guided bush walks in South Africa’s stunning wilderness.

The length of your safari holiday depends on whether you choose to combine it with other experiences in South Africa or adventures in neighbouring countries – for example, a relaxing beach holiday in Mauritius or a safari in Madagascar.

Where do you stay when on safari in South Africa?

When you go on a safari in South Africa, you’ll typically stay in either tented camps (a type of tented lodge) or lodges. This kind of accommodation gives you an authentic and close-to-nature safari experience, right in the heart of the wilderness.

Even though you’re surrounded by unspoilt nature, that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on comfort – quite the opposite, in fact. Tented camps and lodges are often beautifully designed and offer a touch of luxury alongside modern facilities.

Is it safe to go on a safari in South Africa?

Yes, going on a safari in South Africa is perfectly safe.

The animals are accustomed to vehicles being nearby and don’t perceive them as a threat. In addition, our guides have an in-depth understanding of animal behaviour and the rules of the parks.

Can you take children on safari in South Africa?

Yes! South Africa is an outstanding safari destination for families travelling with children. This is partly thanks to the country’s malaria-free safari options, such as Kariega Game Reserve, which also features family-friendly activities.

Depending on the tour you choose, please note that some activities may have age restrictions.

Why go on a safari holiday in South Africa with TourCompass?

When you choose TourCompass for your safari holiday, you’re choosing a tour operator that’s an expert in South Africa – in fact, that’s where it all began for us back in 2006, when we sent our first guests off on safaris. Some of our guests have even travelled with us to South Africa more than 10 times!

We know exactly what makes a tour to South Africa truly unforgettable. We’ve felt the chill of early mornings before sunrise, excitement bubbling inside as we set out on the day’s game drive. We’ve experienced the rush when a lion wanders close to the vehicle in Kruger National Park and calmly settles down as if creating its own roadblock. And we’ve sat with a glass of red wine in hand, soaking up the sunset that feels uniquely special on the other side of the equator.  

When you travel to South Africa with TourCompass, you’ll enjoy a safari holiday carefully crafted from our own experiences and deep knowledge of the country – ensuring you moments to treasure and look back on forever.

Book your safari in South Africa with TourCompass

Would you like to experience South Africa’s spectacular wildlife on an unforgettable safari adventure?

At TourCompass, we offer a wide range of safari holidays to South Africa, giving you magical encounters with the country’s incredible wildlife – and so much more!

Need help finding the perfect tour or have a few questions? Get in touch with our experienced travel specialists, who are ready to help you set off on your next safari adventure.

We look forward to helping you embark on the tour of a lifetime!

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You can check out the itinerary and dream yourself away in photos and videos of all our tours. You can read more about accommodation, combination options and all the practicalities – and see prices and departure dates for the next 18 months.

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You will receive a detailed quote for the tour, which you can save, print out or share with your travelling companions. If you decide to go ahead and book the tour, you can do this easily via the quote itself.

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Personal and reliable service from dedicated travel specialists.

We are here to answer all your questions, listen to your wishes and provide you with honest and competent advice based on our extensive experience with tours in Africa, Asia, Latin America, North America and Oceania.

Opening hours
Monday-Thursday 9-15
Friday 9-13
Enquire Now

Personal and reliable service from dedicated travel specialists.

We are here to answer all your questions, listen to your wishes and provide you with honest and competent advice based on our extensive experience with tours in Africa, Asia, Latin America, North America and Oceania.

WHY TRAVEL WITH TOURCOMPASS?
Why choose us

We know your time is precious. That's why we strive to provide personalised, attentive service to ensure your comfort and safety throughout your tour. From the moment you book to the moment you return home, we’re here to handle every detail with the utmost care.

We offer a diverse array of destinations, each promising its own unique story, shaped by its local cultures, fascinating wildlife, and natural beauty. 

We design every tour based on the extensive research and first-hand experiences of our travel specialists and experts. Each tour is crafted to showcase the best each country has to offer.

With us, you can rest assured; your journey is in safe hands. We are ATOL certified and a proud member of ABTA, maintaining rigorous standards of quality and service to ensure your complete peace of mind.