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From stargazing to frogging safaris
Unusual safaris in South Africa
Frog at The Dunes Country House
© The Dunes Country House
Did you know?
There are an estimated 34 different species of amphibians in the Kruger National Park
People usually don't think of unusual safaris in South Africa; they think Big 5 game, but South Africa’s wildlife offers so any more wild and wacky experiences.
How about a frogging safari? If you’re interested in frogs, South Africa has a very wide variety of frog species. It's such an exciting adventure - strictly an after-dark experience. You’ll be armed with a net, bag and headlamp, ready to do your bit for conservation while enjoying an inspiring adventure.
Frogging safaris can be undertaken at The Dunes Country House in St Francis Bay in the Eastern Cape, at Jock Safari Lodge in the Kruger National Park, and at Florence’s Guest House in Chrissiesmeer, Mpumalanga.
The best time for frogging safaris is November through March/April, but it can be enjoyed all year round at The Dunes Country House, with some species more prolific at certain times.
Turtle tracking in South Africa is another wonderful nocturnal adventure. An evening turtle tracking safari along Maputaland’s beaches in KwaZulu-Natal searching for marine leatherback and loggerhead turtles laying their eggs, or hatchlings emerging from the nest, is an awe-inspiring experience. Turtles lay eggs from November to January, while turtles hatch from December to March.
A favourite spot for scuba divers is the Aliwal Shoal Marine Protected area off the KwaZulu-Natal coastline. It’s the gathering place for ragged tooth sharks. During July and December it’s not unusual to see 50 or 60 at a time, so a shark safari beckons.
The game parks are the place for Big 5 game safaris in South Africa and are teeming with wildlife. South Africa’s winter from June though August is a good time to visit because the dry weather means animals flock to the waterholes to quench their thirst and there is less foliage on trees. September and October are when animals give birth, just after the spring rains - so it’s a lovely time to visit the parks.
The annual sardine run off South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape coastlines between May and July is another must-do experience. At this time millions of sardines travel in huge masses that stretch up to 15km long and 3km wide, creating a spectacular feeding frenzy for the ocean predators.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Thompsons Touring & Safaris
St Lucia & Cape Vidal turtle tours
Tel: +27 (0)35 590 1584
Email: ruth.davies@thompsons.co.za
Website: www.thompsonsafrica.co.za
The Dunes Country House
Tel: +27 (0)42 294 1685
Email: reservations@dunesstfrancis.com
Jock Safari Lodge
Tel: +27 (0)41 407 1000 (Central reservations)
Tel: +44 1483 425 465 (UK and Ireland reservations)
Tel: +1 877 354 2213 (North America)
Florence Guest Farm
Tel: +27 (0)17 847 0051
Email: info@florence.co.za
Sardine Run
Email info@sardinerun.net