South African Safaris

Bespoke Luxury African Safaris

Book your Luxury South Africa Safari

Blending cosmopolitan energy with extraordinary natural beauty, South Africa offers exceptional safari experiences, abundant wildlife, and some of Africa’s finest luxury lodges.

South Africa’s dynamic cities often take the spotlight, but beyond them lies an extraordinary safari landscape known for its accessibility, comfort, and remarkable wildlife. That’s where we come in.

Our South Africa safaris are carefully planned to create unforgettable wildlife experiences, with every detail arranged to ensure a seamless and memorable journey.

So Why a South African Safari?

South Africa is an Eden of luxury, rare opportunity, and infinite diversity. A chic modern hub ensconced in a glorious natural wonderland. With majestic and abundant wildlife and lavishly appointed safari lodges, this is a safari holiday destination that should never be underestimated.

As a safari experience, South Africa affords the greatest opportunity to see the “Big 5” of any African country, and the best chance of observing the reclusive leopard anywhere on the planet. 

As an exotic locale, South Africa enjoys a pleasant year-round climate and offers a landscape of exceptional geographical and biological diversity, with all the highlights of continental Africa packed into a single country.

Our African Safari Bespoke Tours normally include one or more of the following destinations:

Book Your Luxury African Safaris Tour

Book Your Luxury African Safaris Tour

Magnificent Safari Tours, Sumptuous Safari Lodges

After being mesmerised during the day by some of the world’s most captivating wildlife on one of our luxury South Africa safari tours, prepare to be favoured in the evening with every indulgence while retiring to some of Africa’s most elegant and accommodating safari lodges.

So much to do in South Africa

Beyond magnificent safaris and the scenic cosmopolitan fusion of Cape Town, South Africa offers a wealth of inimitable attractions – the striking surrounds of Cape Peninsula; the historic Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was once incarcerated; the glorious Garden Route; the picturesque Cape wineries offering superb wine and accommodation; and much more to be discovered by the intrepid traveller.

Why South Africa Is the Ultimate Luxury Safari Destination

Few safari destinations combine accessibility, wildlife density, and luxury accommodation quite like South Africa. For travellers seeking luxury safaris, South Africa offers one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences on the continent.

Another reason travellers choose a private safari in South Africa is the variety of landscapes. In one journey, you may experience bushveld savannah, coastal scenery, mountain ranges, vineyards, and vibrant cities. 

A private South African safari is also perfect for travellers seeking romantic escapes. Many guests choose safari holidays for couples, enjoying private game drives, candlelit dinners under the stars, and beautiful safari lodges surrounded by wildlife.

English is widely spoken throughout the country, travel infrastructure is excellent, and the variety of luxury lodges ensures visitors can enjoy a safari that is both comfortable and immersive.

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What to Expect on a Luxury Private Safari

A private safari in South Africa follows a rhythm that allows travellers to see wildlife during the most active periods of the day.

A typical safari day begins early in the morning with coffee or tea before heading out on a sunrise game drive. Wildlife is particularly active during these cool morning hours, offering excellent opportunities to observe predators and grazing animals.

After the drive, guests return to the lodge for a relaxed breakfast. Many travellers spend the late morning enjoying the lodge environment – relaxing by the pool, visiting the spa, or watching wildlife pass nearby.

In the afternoon, tea and refreshments are served before the second game drive of the day. Sunset safaris often lead to memorable sightings as animals become active again. 

The day often concludes with dinner under the stars in a traditional boma setting or in the lodge’s elegant dining space. Fine wines, locally inspired cuisine, and attentive hospitality are standard features of many luxury lodges.

South Africa Excursions: Beyond the Bush

Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Visitors can explore Table Mountain, stroll through the vibrant V&A Waterfront, and visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was once imprisoned.
Just a short drive from Cape Town lies the famous wine region. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl offer historic estates, exceptional restaurants, and world-class wines.

The Garden Route is one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world. Lush forests, dramatic coastlines, and charming towns make this region ideal for travellers looking to extend their African adventures.

Combining South Africa With Neighbouring Destinations

Many travellers combine their luxury safari journeys in South Africa with other iconic African destinations.

A luxury Botswana safari allows visitors to explore the Okavango Delta’s extraordinary wetlands and remote wildlife areas. Another popular option includes visiting Victoria Falls on a Zimbabwe safari for remarkable scenery and wildlife experiences.

Want more wildlife on your expedition? Pair your South African trip with our Kenya safari holidays to experience the dramatic landscapes of the Masai Mara and the Great Migration.

These combinations allow guests to experience multiple regions of Africa in one seamless trip.

How Much Does a Luxury Safari in South Africa Cost?

A luxury safari in South Africa generally ranges from AUD $1200 to $3000+ per person per night, depending on the lodge, reserve, and time of year.

Most safari lodges operate on an all-inclusive basis, which typically includes:

  • Luxury accommodation
  • All meals and premium beverages
  • Daily safari game drives
  • Expert guides and trackers
  • Park and conservation fees

Working with experienced African travel specialists that Australian travellers trust often means the cost of a tailored itinerary is comparable to booking everything independently, while removing the stress of managing complex travel arrangements.

stay
stay

Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel - Cape Town

Among the top luxury resorts in Cape Town, Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel describes itself as “an oasis of calm within Cape Town’s beating heart”. Perched at the foot of Table Mountain, and invoking the magic of a bygone era through it’s colonial grandeur (with a distinctly modern touch), this airy sanctuary is guaranteed to be an unforgettable stay.

Victoria and Alfred Hotel - Cape Town

A beautifully located 4-star hotel on the waterfront pierhead of Cape Town. Sophisticated modern luxury full of old world charm, the Victoria and Alfred Hotel offers sweeping views of the harbour and Table Mountain, and is within easy walking distance to many fine retail outlets, designer stores, restaurants, craft markets, boat cruises to Robben Island, and the Waterfront Amphitheatre.

InterContinental Hotel - Jo’burg Airport

The award-winning 5-star hotel at Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport. Providing convenience, style, and a host of services and facilities such as conferencing, spa, and the Quills restaurant, the hotel is a mere one-minute walk from both international and domestic terminals.

City Lodge - Jo’burg Airport

A highly affordable and excellently equipped 3-star hotel, also offering superb convenience due to its immediate proximity to O.R. Tambo International Airport. Services and facilities include spacious air-conditioned rooms, 24-hour reception and check-in, wifi access, boardroom and conference facilities, same day laundry and dry cleaning, in-room safes, and a fitness room with deck and swimming pool.

Franschhoek Country House and Villas - Franschhoek

Boutique 5-star accommodation in the heart of the Franschhoek Valley, just over an hour’s drive from Cape Town. A restored manor house and perfumery dating back to 1890, Franschhoek Country House and Villas is found between enchanting vineyards and majestic mountains, and offers guests a sublime list of services and amenities including the award-winning Monneaux restaurant.

Savanna Private Game Reserve

An exclusive 5-star lodge set in the renowned Sabi Sands Reserve. With nine opulent suites, Savanna also offers specially designed game viewing vehicles, and highly trained guides with a vast knowledge of the African bushveld in an area where “Big 5” sightings are certain. With their personalised service, you’ll feel part of the Savanna family from the moment you arrive.

Motswari Private Game Reserve

Motswari Private Game Reserve, nestled in 150 square km of safari wonderland located within the Timbavati and Umbabat Private Nature Reserve, is an exclusive lodge never hosting more than thirty guests at any one time. Motswari, meaning “to conserve and protect” in Tswana, offers incredible game viewing opportunities, and places great emphasis on personal attention throughout your stay.

Shumbalala Game Lodge

Situated on the shady banks of the Monwana River in Thornybush Reserve, Shumbalala offers a variety of activities from game drives, bush walks, to birding and photography excursions. This unexpected oasis of luxury, privacy and comfort gives you the opportunity to view all of Kruger National Park’s wildlife with none of the crowds.

Dulini

Set beneath the shade of Ebony and Leadwood trees by the Mabrak River in Sabi Sands, Dulini offers a resplendent main lodge and six intimate thatched suites on the bank of the riverbed. As well as a perfect safari experience, the lodge provides a cantilevered viewing deck, a private restaurant, a wine cellar, and even a well-equipped gym for when the African pot begins to pad the hips.

Camp Jabulani

Camp Jabulani in Kapama Reserve offers more than just safari. As well as elegant lodgings, delectable Relais & Châteaux cuisine, and superb opportunities to view the “Big 5”, Camp Jabulani allows you to get up close and personal with some of the most soulful animals in all of Africa. Due to their unique relationship with a herd of orphaned Zimbabwean elephants, Camp Jabulani can claim “the most incredible elephant experience imaginable”.

Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Few reserves in all of Africa come close to what Sabi Sands has to offer. With multiple high-end lodges in a region brimming with wildlife, visitors are spoiled for choice, for luxury, and for opportunities of viewing the “Big 5” on almost any budget. Without doubt, Sabi Sands is truly the ultimate South African luxury safari experience.

Timbavati Game Reserve

With twelve lodges in 18,000 hectares of land, Timbavati Game Reserve was formed in 1956 with the intent to conserve a pristine wilderness area. The barely touched and unspoiled bushveld in this South African region is genuine wild land, and offers some of the most authentic and inspiring safari experiences available.

Cape Town

Cape Town is a joyous blend of diverse culture, impeccable cuisine, engrossing creativity, and stunning landscapes, a singularly beautiful city topped by the glorious Table Mountain National Park. Named a World Design Capital in 2014, there are few cities in the world that can compare with the rich melting pot that is the Rainbow Nation’s western metropolis.

Cape Wineries

The vineyards of South Africa’s western cape are as replete with scenic beauty as they are with world-class vintages. Enjoy lounging in sumptuous estate accommodation while sampling the cuisine of an award-winning restaurant in picturesque locales such as Paarl, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Wellington, Tulbagh, and more.

Garden Route

Bask in the incredible vistas of the Garden Route, an approximately 200 kilometre section of coastal beauty found along the journey from Cape Town to Plettenberg Bay. Hidden beaches, placid lakes and lagoons, mountain ranges, bucolic townships, and sweeping ocean panoramas all have place alongside a swathe of outdoor entertainments fit for any tour group.

Game Drives (Safaris)

No visit to South Africa would be truly complete without taking part in one of our luxury safari tours. In addition to immersing yourself in the presence of Africa’s enthralling wildlife, guests will enjoy creature comforts comparable to those found in some of the world’s most indulgent resorts. Become one with nature and live your dream of walking among the big cats, the elephants, the rhinos, the buffalo, and more.

Wildlife Hiking

If getting off the beaten track is your passion, South Africa offers numerous planned hikes and wilderness tours in stunning locations such as Table Mountain, the Drakensberg Escarpment or the rugged Cederberg. Enjoy trekking with like-minded individuals on your passage through sublime wilderness, and observe the local wildlife on some of the region’s most spectacular walking trails.

Ascension of Table Mountain

There is no shortage of routes to the top of Table Mountain, the flat-topped crowning glory of Cape Town. The more adventurous visitor can choose from no end of hiking or climbing trails to the summit, while the more casual traveller may opt for a five-minute ride in the mountain’s permanent cable car, but both will be rewarded with breathtaking views in all directions.

Tours of Cape Peninsula

Enjoy full-day tours of this exquisite natural landscape, accompanied by expert local guides. Take the coastal roads to Hout Bay, explore Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, enjoy idyllic coastal towns such as Muizenberg and Fish Hoek, and take in the incomparable view at Cape Point where two oceans collide, all with transport directly to and from your Cape Town hotel.

Cape Town Cuisine

It is unlikely you will find a more eclectic mix of gastronomic delights anywhere in the world, with Cape Town restaurants being inspired by a swirling of cultural influences sometimes so diverse it can be hard to pinpoint their origins. Enjoy the traditional foods of the African continent, stellar international cuisine of all types, and numerous dishes native to South Africa itself.

Whale Watching in Hermanus

Between June and November, the coastal town of Hermanus becomes one of the best places in the world to observe southern right whales. These magnificent creatures migrate to the sheltered bays along the South African coastline, often coming remarkably close to shore. 

Visitors can watch whales breaching and playing in the water from scenic cliff paths or during guided boat excursions. It is an unforgettable marine wildlife experience that pairs perfectly with a luxury South African safari journey.

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Rhino grazing near a safari vehicle in nature.

Travel Guide

Local Time:

Wild animals in safari

South Africa’s climate allows for comfortable visits any time of the year.

Winter (June – September) is cooler and drier than other months, ideal for hiking and outdoor pursuits, and the best time for wildlife watching. Spring is the best time to see vast expanses of Northern Cape carpeted with wildflowers. The high summer months offer some outstanding festivals, including Cape Town New Year Karnaval, and Swaziland’s Incwala ceremony.

However, the most important consideration is the school holiday schedule. During the holidays, waves of vacation-hungry South Africans stream out of the cities, with visitors from Europe and North America adding to the pressure on local accommodation bookings and prices (which can more than double). Essential tip: Book in advance.

climate

South Africa enjoys an overall comfortable climate that varies by region, from Mediterranean in the southwest, to temperate in the inner plateau, to subtropical in the northeast. As the country is south of the equator, its seasons are the reverse of those in the northern hemisphere.

The Western Cape enjoys largely Mediterranean weather, with generally dry summers (October–March) and temperatures averaging around 25–30°C. Most of its annual rainfall occurs during the winter months (June–September).

The eastern Natal Coast can be extremely humid in February, reaching temperatures of around 30°C.

On the Highveld (including Johannesburg), most rain is in summer, and tends to fall in thundershowers. Summer days are pleasantly warm, up to around 25°C, while winter days are dry and also relatively warm, averaging around 15°C. Winter nights are cold and crisp, reaching lows of 0°C or occasionally lower.

Overall, for best weather, we recommend visiting from March to October, inclusive.

Safari currency

South Africa’s currency is the Rand (ZAR), which is divided into 100 cents.

As a modern nation, there are numerous commercial banks available, and most are easily accessible. Bank hours are typically 09:00–15:30 Monday to Friday, and 09:00 – 11:00 Saturdays.

Major hotels have foreign currency facilities. Most shops, lodges and travel agencies will accept traveller’s cheques and credit cards. However, some of the smaller or more remote camps may not accept credit cards.

Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Diners Club credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.

South africa safari clothings

For travel to South Africa over the warmer months (October to April) lightweight clothing is essential, with a light sweater or jacket sometimes suitable for the evenings. As rain can be frequent in many areas, we also recommend packing an umbrella or lightweight raincoat. In winter, temperatures can drop to zero, so heavier clothing may be advisable.

Smart casual clothing is suitable for most hotels and restaurants. At lodges and safari camps, dress is entirely casual. However, neutral colours are best for game viewing.

We recommend always taking suitable precautions against the sun (even in winter), such as a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

Safari Destinations - Med Kits

No vaccinations are currently required for entry into South Africa when arriving directly from North America or Europe. However, we recommend that tetanus boosters for children and adults are kept up to date, with courses or boosters usually advised for diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A and typhoid.

A yellow fever certificate is required if the visitor is over one year old, and arriving in South Africa from an infected area or a country where yellow fever is endemic (such as Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, or Zaire). In the case of yellow fever, the vaccine must be administered at least ten days before arrival.

As malaria epidemics occur in certain areas of South Africa during the warmer months of October to May, malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended. Precautions are advisable mainly in low altitude areas of northern and eastern Mpumalanga (including Kruger National Park and other game parks in the region), Northern Province, and northeastern Kwa-Zulu Natal as far south as the Tugela River.

As with all travel to remote places, we recommend bringing a small supply of any medicines you may need.

English is the lingua franca of South Africa, and the language most commonly used in media and government. English is also widely spoken and understood throughout the country.

However, English is only one of eleven official South African languages. The others include Afrikaans (a language originally derived from Dutch), and nine languages of the African continent, the most widely spoken of which (according to the 2011 Census) are ZuluXhosa, and Sepedi.

Read more about the languages of South Africa.

Safari - Aircraft view

All charter transfers on our South Africa luxury safari tours are in light aircraft that carry between five and seven passengers. Please note that these planes are limited with regards to the weight that they can carry. It is therefore vital that all passengers adhere to the luggage restriction of fifteen (15) kilograms per person in a soft bag.

This excludes a reasonable amount of camera equipment and carry-on luggage (up to 5 kilograms – 20 kilograms in total). In addition, please let us know if you are over 188 cm (6’2”) tall or weigh over 100kg (220lbs), so that we can plan our trip appropriately.

Tickets are generally not issued for charter flights; you will however receive a voucher for your trip.

park closing

Please be advised that the Kruger National Park, Natal Parks and other game reserves close their gates at approximately 18:00 all year round.

To be on the safe side, we recommend that you arrive at your destination well before dark.

Safari currency

Passport requirements: Each visitor to South Africa must be in possession of a valid, signed passport that is valid for at least six months beyond his/her scheduled departure date.

PLEASE ENSURE YOU HAVE AT LEAST FOUR BLANK PAGES IN YOUR PASSPORT FOR STAMPS/VISAS ETC. IF NOT, YOU MAY BE REFUSED ENTRY INTO SOUTH AFRICA. FOR SECURITY PURPOSES, WE SUGGEST THAT YOU CARRY A PHOTOCOPY OF THE RELEVANT PAGES OF YOUR PASSPORT AND ANY OTHER IMPORTANT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS WITH YOU. IN ADDITION, WE ALSO RECOMMEND THAT YOU LEAVE COPIES OF YOUR DOCUMENTS WITH SOMEONE AT HOME.

VISA EXCEPTIONS: Citizens of the following countries do NOT require visas:

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK and USA.

Canoeists near a herd of elephants by water.

South Africa’s safari industry plays an important role in protecting wildlife and supporting local communities. Many of the private reserves and lodges we work with contribute directly to conservation initiatives designed to protect natural habitats and endangered species.

Rhino conservation and anti-poaching programs are a major focus across several reserves. Dedicated ranger teams, monitoring technology, and conservation partnerships help safeguard these iconic animals and preserve the ecosystems they depend on.

Responsible tourism also supports surrounding communities through employment opportunities, education programs, and conservation initiatives. By choosing carefully managed luxury safaris in South Africa, travellers help ensure that wildlife, landscapes, and local communities continue to thrive for generations to come.

Famous Falls At Victoria Falls In Matabeleland North Zimbabwe

Some regions are malaria-free, making them particularly appealing for travellers with young children or those seeking additional peace of mind.

Reserves such as Madikwe Game Reserve, the Eastern Cape safari region, and the Waterberg area offer excellent wildlife viewing without the need for malaria medication. These locations are ideal for luxury family safari holidays, providing safe and comfortable safari environments with exceptional guiding and lodge experiences.

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FAQs

How much does a luxury safari cost in South Africa?

A luxury safari in South Africa typically ranges from AUD $1200 to $3000+ per person per night, depending on lodge choice and travel season.

The dry season from May to September offers excellent wildlife viewing, although safaris are rewarding year-round.

Private reserves such as Sabi Sands, Madikwe, and Timbavati offer some of the most refined safari experiences with exceptional guiding and luxury lodges.

Yes. Private reserves bordering Kruger offer private guiding and more flexible wildlife viewing experiences.

Most travellers spend 5–14 days on safari, often combined with Cape Town or other destinations.

Vaccination requirements depend on your travel history. Your doctor or travel clinic can provide guidance before departure.