The Best Game Reserves to Visit in South Africa
Where can you go if you want to experience the best of South Africa’s nature? South Africa is a beautiful country abundant with lush greenery, and has some of the world’s best game reserves, both private and in national parks. Thanks to its wide array of locations and different climates, South Africa offers visitors superb game-viewing opportunities.
We have compiled a list of South Africa’s top game reserves that you absolutely need to check out if you’re looking to get to close and personal with South African wildlife.
Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is undoubtedly South Africa’s most famous game reserve, and is home to a variety of animals, from lions, elephants, buffalo and antelope to over 500 species of birds. It is the largest game reserve in South Africa and is regarded as one of the greatest, most diverse reserves in the world. The park affords convenient, modern amenities for visitors and has direct access to the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, located on the edge of the park.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
This South African reserve straddles the South African and Botswana borders and is one of the largest conservation areas on the African continent. Also known as the Kalahari Gemsbok Park, Kgalagadi is home to wildlife such as gemsbok, wildebeest, lions, leopards, cheetahs and brown hyenas. It is known as one of the best game reserves in the country as it boasts large expanse of land without fences, making it an ideal environment for animals to roam and share.
Drakensberg Mountains
The Drakensberg Mountains, often referred to as the Mountains of Dragons, are part of the Great Escarpment in South Africa. This beautiful mountain range is home to an incredible variety of wildlife and vegetation and spans almost 1000 km through KwaZulu-Natal, Free State and Eastern Cape Provinces. There is a range of activities and adventure to be had in the mountains, from hiking and canyoneering to abseiling and rock climbing.
Madikwe Game Reserve
The Madikwe Game Reserve is located in the North West province and covers 75,000 hectares, one of the largest wildlife reserves in South Africa. The Reserve rests on the rock formations of the Ancient Madikwe, separating it from Botswana, and is home to a large array of wildlife species including elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos and antelope. It plays host to over 300 different bird species, making it a great place for birdwatchers to explore. The Reserve also offers visitors interesting ancient archaeological sites and iconic landscapes.
Addo Elephant National Park
The Addo Elephant National Park is an incredible sanctuary located in the Eastern Cape, and is the third largest national park in the country. This impressive park is known for the diversity of wildlife that it proudly protects, and you are bound to see a significant array of wildlife alongside an elephant in the same frame. Addo also offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, from 4x4 trails and hiking to bird watching and river cruises.