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Be inspired by a thrilling wildlife experience
Bush, wilderness and wildlife
Lions in the Madikwe Game Reserve
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
While most people think of the Kruger National Park in terms of animal life, it is also home to 1 982 different plant species.
South Africa is one of the most successful countries in the world when it comes to the conservation of bush, wilderness and wildlife on a sustainable basis.
We have 19 national parks, numerous game reserves, nature reserves and a range of eco-systems - from subtropical rain forests to semi-deserts and everything in-between. Not only do we have the Big 7 (rhino, elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard, whales and great white sharks); we also have an incredible array of bird and plant life. For those interested in fauna and flora, this is a paradise on earth.
Our Kruger National Park game reserve, for example, has more species of wild mammals than any game reserve in Africa. And the birding opportunities in South Africa are internationally acclaimed.
Among these unforgettable wilderness and wildlife experiences are hands-on 'green hunting' for conservation (darting and relocation of wild animals), walking tours and game drives amongst the Big 5, sleeping in the bush under the stars, and enjoying a private jacuzzi overlooking a waterhole.
It doesn't end there. After a long day of tracking wild animals in the bush, you can sip on sundowners as you watch the animals quench their thirsts at a watering hole. And if you still have energy, going on a night drive is a special experience. For an exclusive bush experience book yourself or your team on a tented safari in a private wilderness area. Staying in a tree-top retreat of wood, reed and thatch built high above the ground surrounded by giant trees is another accommodation option that's hard to beat.
You can also take a guided walk along a wilderness trail learning about the animals, trees and vegetation you see along the way from an experienced guide; have a bushveld dinner in a boma under the stars around a large outdoor fire; or go on stargazing, birding or tree-spotting safaris.
Visiting a local community on the outskirts if a game reserve, where you can see responsible tourism in action, will provide a fulfilling and memorable experience.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
South African National Parks (Central Reservations)
Tel: +27 (0)12 428 9111
Email: reservations@sanparks.org
How to get here
There are several airports located near South Africa's wildlife areas so you can fly in from the international airports in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.
Get around
Some game reserves such as the Kruger National Park allow visitors to drive their own vehicles around the park. Many private reserves require one to accompany a park ranger in 4x4 open top vehicles.
What will it cost
Accommodation prices at game parks vary widely and depend on the reserve you're visiting.
What to pack
Be sure to pack neutral-coloured clothing and binoculars if you're visiting a wildlife reserve, and your bathing suit if you're going to beach areas.
Where to stay
The accommodation options in bush, wilderness and wildlife areas are varied and range from basic campsites with ablution facilities to luxury 5-star lodges in private game reserves.