Safari in South Africa offers travelers some of the best game viewing in the world, from the Big 5, to big game animals and numerous bird species. With plenty of game reserves, there are a lot of options to choose from, suited for safari beginners to experienced wildlife enthusiasts. Many of these reserves have been in existence for decades and are some of the most rewarding places to spot wildlife. Arguably some of the best game reserves on the continent can be found here.

A game reserve is a large area of land where wildlife can roam freely and where they are protected from poachers and illegal hunting. However, controlled hunting in order to maintain a healthy population does occur. These reserves exist specifically for the preservation of wild animals (fauna), whereas nature reserves are ecologically protected areas of flora and fauna. Because of the preservation, game reserves are excellent safari destinations.

By far, the Greater Kruger region is the best area to go to for game reserves and safari holidays. This region is dotted with game reserves and off course its crown jewel; the Kruger National Park. From all over the world, travelers come here to have a world-class safari experience. But, the Kwazulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Western Cape provinces are also home to some excellent game reserves.

Because South Africa is such a diverse country, with many different landscapes and habitats, the game reserves throughout the country are also very diverse. Some are specialized in one particular or a handful of endangered animals, others have the full range of wildlife animals within their borders. The landscape, climate and vegetation all play a very important role in this diversity. It is good to know that not in all of the game reserves you can find the big 5, and that landscapes other than savanna can make your stay just that extra special.

If safari and the big 5 is the main goal on your trip, you might want to consider how you want to experience that. Do you go for a national park or a game reserve? In general, national parks are publicly accessible, allow day visitors and self-drives, often have stricter rules on game viewing, are more affordable but also more crowded. Game reserves offer a more exclusive and luxurious safari experience. There are a limited number of visitors in the reserve which makes you feel like the only ones there, they have luxurious accommodations and facilities, and experienced guides for more personalized game walks and drives.

The best time to spot wildlife in game reserves is during the dry winter months between May to September. In this period the vegetation is more sparse and animals come together at the remaining waterholes, which makes them easier to spot. However, all the other months are still worth it. There are more baby wild animals due to the abundance of food, the landscape is green and lush, rivers are full of water and it might be a better match with the rest of your holiday plans in South Africa.