South Africa Safari Package Tips
The Wildlife
According to your travel bucket list, the next trip you’re destined to take should or could be to South Africa. You have heard about the rich culture, the vibrant people, the deep history, the scenic beaches, the mountains, however right at the top of your “to do list” should be the South African Wildlife and the abundance thereof.
The African Big 5
The well-known “Big Five” form part of the wonders of South Africa. Questions arise as to whether you will be able to see all the Big Five in one go? Would a day or night safari package be the most suitable? What will you need on a safari? Which area might be best? Should you self-drive or get a safari guide to show you around?
These questions are important to ask when looking for the best safari package out there and this guide will give the best answers possible. This guide will hopefully arm you with what is needed in order to have that once in a life time experience that will have your memory (and camera roll) filled with images of buffalo, lions, leopards, elephants and rhinos and other spectacular wildlife and nature’s gifts
The first safari experience Guideline or Tip is being aware of what is available at the game reserve's and how season impacts the likelihood of viewing certain animals and other activities. Undoubtedly the best place's for wildlife viewing (while getting in some of South Africa’s other Wonders) would be in Cape Town or Kwa-Zulu Natal. These two areas have been rated as the top two locations to get your “safari on” with top class subtropical weather throughout the year. Peak season, for most reserves, is usually from July to November due to its low rain season. It is thus recommended that an early booking is made in order for you not to lose out on the experience. To avoid the hassle and overflow that comes with the peak season, it is suggested that you either book before or after the peak months – this will allow you to have a quieter time and possibly a better experience when it comes to wildlife sightings!
Destinations Tips
Cape Town Safari Package Tips
Weather:
Summer Months (December to end April)
Areas of Interest:
Table Mountain, Cape Peninsula, Winelands
When to Go:
January to end March ( Favorable outdoor Weather)
What to Pack:
Hiking gear, Beach wear, Hats, Sunblock, Comfy shoes, Light jacket
Research:
Game Reserves in the area that offer Big 5 Wildlife
Reviews:
Some Interesting Outings:
New Adventures in the Mother City, Water Front to Hout Bay by Boat
KwaZulu Natal Safari Package Tips
Weather:
Sub Tropical year round (February being the warmest)
Areas of Interest:
Drakensberg, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park
When to Go:
April to end November (December is high season & busy)
What to Pack:
Hats, Sun Block, Beach wear
Research:
Game Reserves that offer Big 5 Wildlife
Reviews:
Some Interesting Outings:
New Adventures include Turtle Tours (Nov to end Feb)
What To Consider
Unless you have a knack for spotting animals or maybe you are very good with maps, the best option is to opt for a safari guide above the option of self-driving. Safari guides are more knowledgeable about the area, possible migration, hunting times and other aspects involving the wildlife which means you will be able to get an educational experience and optimal chance of getting the wildlife viewing you’ve always dreamt of. If you do however prefer driving yourself, make sure you do your research and acquire a detailed map of the game reserve. Most game reserves have experienced operators who will be able to advise you about where to get the best Big Five Sightings and other extraordinary wildlife.
Duration of Safari Package, What best Suits You
To answer your question about the type of safari package, this would greatly depend on your adventure levels. Many tourists keep it to 2 to 3 days safari which is offered in places such as Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, and Aquila Game Reserve in Cape Town. Aquila offers a 2-3-hour tour accompanied by either a breakfast, lunch or tea time buffet. Hluhluwe has a half-day tour starting at 6 am till 12 pm and includes breakfast and other refreshments as part of the tour. However, if you are into a little bit of adventure and a lover of sunrises, sunsets and the stars, the night safari package at Hluhluwe comes highly recommended, especially if you plan to take a trip to KwaZulu-Natal. A one-night safari package of the oldest game reserve in Africa will give you full safari exposure and access to iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a World Heritage site. Your trip will be packed with an open game drive in a 4x4 vehicle accompanied by breakfast in the early hours of the morning, this will be followed by a Sunset Boat Safari ride on the shoreline of the St. Lucia Estuary and capped off star-lit game drive. Hluhluwe also offers two-night, three-night, four-night, six-night and seven-night safari with each one filled with different experiences such as snorkeling, visiting local markets, bird viewing, bush walking, scuba diving or getting the opportunity to interact with elephants.
Considerations
Cape Town
KwaZulu Natal
If you are taking a flight into one of these areas for your safari tour you will be required to travel slightly lighter than when driving to these places, with this in mind it is important to make sure that you have the following items packed:
- Camera
- Memory cards
- Binoculars (if possible)
- A light water proof jacket
- Sun block
- Closed shoes
- Fairly dark clothing (avoid bright colours)
- Thick socks
- Insect repellent and nets
- A water bottle (most times water will be provided)
- Sunscreen
- A hat or cap
Have To Knows
As a precautionary measure, ensure that you have travel insurance if you are coming from outside of South Africa and have certified copies of your passports on hand. Please also check if you may require a visa to enter into South Africa on the following Department of Home Affairs website link: http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/applying-for-sa-visa. It is also advisable to check what vaccines you may need to get especially if you plan on expanding your trip beyond South African boarders into other African countries. For the most part you will be safe however, it is important to keep you items safe and to stay vigilant as one always should when travelling the world.
South Africa’s nature looks forward to welcoming you!
The Best
SAFARI PACKAGES IN KWAZULU NATAL SOUTH AFRICA
Heritage Tours & Safaris was established in 2003 and offers a host of South African Safari Packages. Varying from 1 to 7 night packages. We would be delighted should you join us and explore and discover the very beauty that makes us so passionate.