Covering approximately 20,000 square kilometers, Kruger National Park is South Africa's flagship safari destination. Home to the renowned "Big Five"—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros—the park also boasts over 200,000 mammals and a vast array of bird species. Whether you opt for guided game drives or self-drive safaris, Kruger offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. Accommodations range from luxury lodges to self-catering rest camps, catering to various preferences and budgets. ​

Adjacent to Kruger National Park, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a private conservancy renowned for exclusive safari experiences. Covering 65,000 hectares, it offers intimate encounters with wildlife, particularly leopards, which are frequently sighted here. The reserve's luxury lodges provide top-tier amenities and personalized services, ensuring a comfortable and immersive stay.

Located near Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape, Addo Elephant National Park is celebrated for its significant elephant population. Beyond elephants, the park is home to lions, buffaloes, black rhinos, and various antelope species. Its proximity to the Garden Route makes it a convenient addition to a broader South African itinerary. Visitors can choose between guided game drives and self-drive options, with accommodations ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites. ​

Situated within a dormant volcanic crater in the North West Province, Pilanesberg National Park spans 55,000 hectares. It's a malaria-free reserve hosting the Big Five and over 360 bird species. Its proximity to Johannesburg and Pretoria makes it an accessible choice for travelers with limited time. The park offers various accommodations, from luxury lodges to self-catering chalets.

Bordering Botswana, Madikwe Game Reserve covers 75,000 hectares and is one of South Africa's lesser-known gems. It's a malaria-free reserve boasting the Big Five, African wild dogs, and over 300 bird species. Madikwe offers luxury safari lodges and is ideal for travelers seeking an exclusive, off-the-beaten-path experience.

As Africa's oldest proclaimed game reserve, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park in KwaZulu-Natal spans approximately 96,000 hectares. It's renowned for its white rhino conservation efforts and offers diverse habitats supporting the Big Five and other species. The park provides both guided and self-drive safari options, with accommodations that include rest camps and luxury lodges.

7 Days best of South African safari tours

 Day 1: Arrival in Johannesburg and Transfer to Pilanesberg National Park

Upon arrival at Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo International Airport, you'll be met by a company guide who will transfer to Pilanesberg National Park, approximately a two to three-hour drive away. Pilanesberg is a malaria-free reserve, making it an excellent choice for families and those concerned about health risks. The park is situated within an ancient volcanic crater, offering unique geological features alongside its diverse wildlife.

After checking into your lodge, you'll embark on an afternoon game drive. Pilanesberg is home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo—as well as cheetahs, wild dogs, and over 360 bird species. The afternoon drive provides an excellent opportunity to spot these animals as they become more active in the cooler hours.

Day 2: Morning Game Drive in Pilanesberg and Transfer to Madikwe Game Reserve

Start your day with an early morning game drive, as dawn is one of the best times to observe wildlife. The soft morning light also offers excellent photographic opportunities. After the game drive, return to the lodge for breakfast and prepare for your transfer to Madikwe Game Reserve, a journey of approximately three to four hours by road.

Madikwe is one of South Africa's largest malaria-free reserves, covering over 75,000 hectares. It's renowned for its diverse wildlife, including the Big Five and the endangered African wild dog. Upon arrival and check-in at your lodge, you'll have time to relax before an evening game drive, where you'll begin your search for the elusive wild dogs.

Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Madikwe with Focus on African Wild Dog Tracking

Dedicate this day to exploring Madikwe's vast landscapes with both morning and afternoon game drives. The reserve's varied ecosystems, from woodlands to open plains, support a wide range of species. Special attention will be given to tracking African wild dogs, known for their highly social behavior and pack dynamics. Experienced guides will share insights into their conservation status and habits.

Between game drives, enjoy leisure time at your lodge, perhaps taking advantage of amenities such as a swimming pool or spa, or simply relaxing with a book while overlooking the bushveld.

Day 4: Transfer to Kruger National Park and Afternoon Game Drive

After an early breakfast, you'll be transferred to Kruger National Park. Depending on your lodge's location within Kruger, this may involve a combination of road transfers and a short domestic flight. Kruger is one of Africa's largest game reserves, spanning nearly two million hectares, and offers a variety of ecosystems teeming with wildlife.

Upon arrival and check-in, you'll embark on an afternoon game drive. Kruger's extensive road networks and diverse habitats increase the likelihood of encountering a wide array of species, from large predators to numerous antelope species and birdlife.

Day 5: Full-Day Safari in Kruger National Park

Today is dedicated to immersing yourself in Kruger's rich biodiversity. Full-day game drives allow you to explore different regions of the park, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife sightings. Your guide will tailor the day's itinerary based on recent animal movements and your specific interests.

Lunch can be enjoyed at one of the park's rest camps, providing a chance to stretch your legs and perhaps visit a curio shop for souvenirs. The extended time in the park increases opportunities for witnessing predator-prey interactions, observing birdlife, and appreciating the smaller details of the bush.

Day 6: Transfer to Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Evening Game Drive

Following breakfast, you'll transfer to the adjacent Sabi Sand Game Reserve, renowned for its luxury lodges and exceptional game viewing, particularly leopard sightings. The transfer may be a scenic drive through the park or a short flight, depending on logistics and lodge locations.

After settling into your accommodation, you'll head out on an evening game drive. Sabi Sand's private status allows for off-road driving, enabling closer encounters with wildlife and the ability to follow animals into the bush, enhancing the overall safari experience.

Day 7: Morning Bush Walk in Sabi Sand and Return to Johannesburg

Conclude your safari adventure with a guided morning bush walk. This experience offers a different perspective, focusing on the smaller aspects of the ecosystem, such as tracks, plants, and insects, and providing a deeper connection to the environment.

After the bush walk and a hearty breakfast, you'll be transferred back to Johannesburg for your onward journey. Reflecting on the diverse landscapes and incredible wildlife encounters of the past week, you'll carry with you memories to last a lifetime.

The dry winter months from May to September are often hailed as the prime time for game viewing and probably the best time to go South African safari tours. During this period, the vegetation thins out, and water sources become scarce, making it easier to spot wildlife as animals gather around waterholes and rivers. The cooler temperatures encourage many species to be more active during the day, increasing your chances of witnessing thrilling predator-prey interactions.

For detailed information on available safari packages, customization options, and booking inquiries, you can visit Dav Safaris' official website: davsafaris.com. Alternatively, they can be contacted via email at info@davsafaris.comor by phone at +256-701-412-430 or +256-757795781.​ Embarking on a South African safari tours with Dav Safaris promises a well-organized and memorable adventure, tailored to your specific interests and preferences.