Safari in South Africa

A fly-in safari itinerary is an attractive option. Within a few hours of landing or arriving at the airport you could be in the bush !

Operating out of one of Johannesburg’s three airports, utilizing local air charter companies, if the scheduled offerings don’t suit your plans then chartering your own aircraft is not as silly as it might sound – for parties of 4 or more it can still be quite reasonably priced. There are many game reserves and lodges to choose from that offer this option and the following are just a few suggestions.

A typical day in a lodge on a private game reserve involves an early morning game drive, followed by a hearty breakfast back at the lodge. A guided bush walk is available at many lodges mid-morning. After a light lunch, maybe a nap, then after high tea you head out once more. Stopping for sundowners in the bush you will then continue on a night-drive, before heading back to the lodge. Many lodges have a boma, a traditional reed-enclosed outdoor eating area, surrounding an open log fire.

The Reserves

Kruger National Park and the surrounding area offers a wildlife experience that ranks along with the best in Africa. Experience some of Africa's most exclusive and luxurious safari lodges, from intimate tented safari camps & small game lodges to award-winning designs in style and luxury, the private safari lodges and game reserves in and around the Kruger National Park will satisfy the needs of the safari connoisseur. The 75 000 hectare malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, in the North West Province, is home to 66 large mammal species including the Big 5 and approximately 300 resident and migrant bird species. 

Welgevonden Private Game Reserve is one of the largest privately owned reserves in South Africa, covering 37 000 hectares of pristine bushveld in the malaria-free Waterberg region of Limpopo Province, and offering a great Big 5 game experience. In KwaZulu-Natal on the banks of Zululand's Mkuze River is the 12000 hectare Amazulu Private Game Reserve or there is the Pongola Game Reserve, first proclaimed in 1894 and the second oldest reserve in the world.

Other options include a combination with a country house hotel in the area; a 4-night fly-in extension to Cape Town, giving you a 7-night highlight of South Africa; or take the 4 hour flight from Johannesburg to Mauritius for a sophisticated beach extension.

Price Guide - from £ 675.00 - £ 1 425.00 per person sharing