A Guide to National Parks vs Game Reserves

Kruger National Park is world-famous for its great concentration of wildlife and the opportunity to observe some of Africa’s most iconic big animals, specifically the big five, in their natural habitat. Undoubtedly, no trip to South Africa can be complete without a visit to the park. Since, spending just a day in Kruger cannot be enough, there is a broad range of accommodations available within the park for all budgets. It can be tough choosing where to stay, so this guide to Kruger National Park accommodations will explain the different choices to help you choose the perfect base for your safari adventure.

From palm-lined beaches lapped by the waves of two oceans to lush forested mountainsides, vast expanses of arid desert to star-studded night skies, South Africa has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a relaxing seaside break, a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience, or a fine food and wine fiesta, visiting South Africa will leave you with nothing but lasting memories. Check our fantastic guide to planning a trip to South Africa.

With many of us taking longer trips away or even working and globe-trotting full-time, there’s never been a better time to travel. And, more and more evidence points to travel being good for our health and happiness. As well as cutting stress and the risk of heart disease, travel has some surprising benefits. These range from bolstering our relationships, to helping us define who we are. Read more about this, and the other positive effects travel can have below.

Despite a tragedy-filled past, South Africa is constantly and successfully headed towards a triumphant future. It's ace card to success is undoubtedly its abundant natural diversity and rich wildlife. Tourists from all over the world flock to this country to be one with nature; and many mostly find it in the many South African national parks. South Africa houses 21 national parks, together covering 4,000,000 hectares or over 3% of the country’s total area. The South African national parks offer easy encounters with the big five: the African lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, African leopard, and rhinoceros during incredible wildlife safaris, while allowing the convenience of glamping (fancy camping that is) and luxury hotels in the midst of the wilderness. Here is our list of the best national parks for your trip to South Africa (in no particular order), each distinct in its own right.

Kruger National Park is the jewel in the crown of South Africa’s national parks and no trip to South Africa is complete without a visit. Not only is it one of the oldest reserves on the continent but it is also one of the best organized and best managed to make it one of the top tours in South Africa. The range of species that exist in the park is astounding and any trip to Kruger offers a real chance to see lions, leopards, hyenas, giraffes, hippos and many more. Kruger’s population of elephants is flourishing and Kruger is also home to around a quarter of the world’s population of wild rhinos. For these reasons, it is no wonder that Kruger is also one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa. Here is a guide to the best times to visit.

Garden Route National Park in South Africa is one of its top destinations as it is different from many popular South African national parks that are known for wildlife safari and game viewing. Consisting of sprawling coastlines, dense forests, scenic vistas, land and marine wildlife viewing, and quaint towns, the Garden Route National Park is a glittering gem in its own right. Besides the spectacular scenes and environs, a Garden Route National Park trip also offers a number of exciting activities. From eco-tours, self-guided treks and hikes, whale-watching tours, to thrills like bungee jumping and rock climbing, the opportunities for lifelong experiences in the national park seem endless. According to the park authorities, all ventures available in the park are reasonable and safe to be done sole, however, if you want to you can also hire a guide for a small fee for any activity. Here is a list of things to do in Garden Route National Park (in no particular order) that we highly recommend on your next South Africa tour. We leave it up to you to decide if you want to conquer them solo or with a guide.

South Africa is home to vibrant culture, rich wildlife and scenic landscapes, making it the perfect destination for a 9-day adventure. Embarking on a 9-day journey in South Africa allows travelers to dive deep into its rich offerings, from the iconic Table Mountain to thrilling safaris in Kruger National Park. Whether you wish to explore Cape Town and its vineyards, engage in thrilling wildlife experiences, or savor the culinary delights of Johannesburg, there are countless 9-day trips in South Africa to consider.

South Africa is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience. Even if you have just 6 days in South Africa, the country offers diverse possibilities, from enjoying the cosmopolitan vibes of Cape Town to exploring the picturesque Winelands and to spotting wildlife on a thrilling safari adventure in Kruger National Park. A well-planned itinerary can allow you to soak in all the highlights, so here are our recommended 6-day trips in South Africa that blend culture, adventure, and natural wonders.

Embark on an unforgettable 12-day South Africa tour, where you cover the contrasting landscapes from the vibrant streets of Cape Town to the untamed wilderness of Kruger National Park. Marvel at the breathtaking views from Table Mountain, witness the majesty of the Big Five on thrilling safaris, and sip world-class wines in the picturesque Cape Winelands. Traverse the dramatic landscapes of the Drakensberg Mountains, experience the vibrant Zulu culture in KwaZulu-Natal, and relax on the golden beaches of Durban. With a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and urban adventures, spending 12 days in South Africa promises an extraordinary expedition through one of Africa's most captivating countries.

As the start of a new year, January is the perfect opportunity to embark on fresh adventures and explore the world’s most captivating destinations. Hike the rain forests of Costa Rica, float over the Serengeti in Tanzania, hit the slopes in Switzerland, or go dog-sledding across Greenland beneath the Northern Lights—January boasts a smorgasbord of travel delights. While the Northern Hemisphere countries are deep in the heart of winter, Southeast Asia and Africa are basking under the summer sun; whether you want to escape the chills or double down on winter, there are multiple destinations to suit your needs. We’ve hand-picked the best places to visit in January for the perfect mix of pleasant weather, vibrant festivities, manageable crowds, and incredible things to do. From the snow-capped peaks of the Alps to the sunbaked deserts of Namibia, here are our 10 best places to visit in January.

The Rainbow Nation of South Africa is as diverse geographically as it is culturally. While it is true that the country’s national parks stand out as the top tourist draw, there are many destinations that deserve a visit. In this article we have compiled what we believe are the top 10 places to visit in South Africa. The list contains both obvious (Kruger National Park, Cape Town, Robben Island, etc.) as well as not-so-obvious destinations to give you a well-rounded holiday experience, including wildlife encounters, adventure activities, cultural tours, and beach lounging. So if you are planning a trip to South Africa, these are the places that you should make it a point to visit.

South Africa’s landscapes, cities and wildlife are as diverse as the people who live there, making this rainbow nation a truly spectacular travel destination. Summer in South Africa is busy, with local and foreign tourists holidaying, attracted by the warm, sunny weather, so it is important to plan your trip well. In South Africa, the summer months are from November to February. There’s plenty to do on a summer tour in South Africa: Explore the picturesque beaches and indigenous forests along the Garden Route, take a dip in the pleasant waters of the southern beaches, enjoy the music festival season in Johannesburg, and go on a safari tour to the Addo Elephant National Park, the country’s third-largest national park.