Top 10 Best African Safari Tours in Southern Africa

Once you’ve realized that watching a wildlife documentary on National Geographic isn’t quite the same as experiencing it firsthand, the excitement of taking on an African safari will undoubtedly kick into first gear. This can sometimes leave you feeling overwhelmed as you try to determine which safari is right for you. Safaris in Africa are our specialty, and as safari enthusiasts and experts, we’ve curated a list of the  “Top 10 Best African Safari Tours in Southern Africa.” We’ve left no stone unturned, selecting tours based on their popularity among our customers and their ability to offer authentic safari experiences. Each tour is meticulously planned to include accommodation, transfers, and a selection of experiences that highlight each region. Iconic destinations include Kruger National Park, Cape Town, Botswana, Victoria Falls, Namibia, and Mozambique. We have also added some hidden gems namely KwaZulu Natal and the Garden Route.These tours are pre-packaged, however, should they not suit your travel needs, our team of experts will happily tailor-make a package to suit your specific needs and budget.

1. Lion Sands Sabi Sand Safari

Renowned for the ‘Big 5’ and phenomenal sightings of lion, leopard, and cheetah, Lion Sands Game Reserve offers up-close animal encounters, fantastic photographic opportunities from open game vehicles, and exhilarating bush walks to discover the reserve. Lion Sands River Lodge promises 3 days of ultimate comfort and a unique tree-house experience in the African bush—a must for wildlife enthusiasts and honeymooners.

‍

2. Bushveld and Beach Escape

Machangulo Beach Lodge is a secluded retreat on Mozambique's southern coastline. This 9-day tour, perfect for couples and families seeking adventure, warm waters, and sandy beaches without long travel distances, combines ‘Big 5’ game viewing in the renowned Kruger National Park with tranquil beach living on tropical Inhaca Island.

3. Luxury Kruger, Victoria Falls and Cape Town

Combining three of Africa’s most iconic destinations, this 11-day tour is packed with thrilling adventure, stunning scenery and luxurious accommodation. Highlights include ‘Big 5’ game drives in the renowned Kruger National Park, interaction with a majestic elephant, the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, and breathtaking views of Cape Town from the top of Table Mountain. Perfect for solo travellers, couples, and families wanting to experience the sole of Southern Africa.

4. Luxury Victoria Falls and Chobe

Relax at the luxurious Sussi & Chuma Safari Game Lodge, located on a dramatic bend of the Zambezi River. In the 6 day tour, explore two iconic countries known for prolific wildlife and magnificent scenery. Sanctuary lodges offer profound luxury and activities that highlight each region, including an authentic cultural experience. Enjoy luxurious tree-house accommodations, a sundowner cruise on the Zambezi River, and game drives in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and Chobe National Park, home to the world’s largest population of elephants.

5. Kwandwe, Garden Route and Cape Town

Enjoy an authentic South African Big 5 safari experience at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge. This 10-day tour visits landmark destinations in the Cape that offer stunning vistas, unique experiences and exquisite 5-star accommodations. This is a guided tour that guarantees a flawless vacation as you enjoy offering stunning landscapes, unique experience and luxurious accommodations. You can look forward to exhilarating game drives in the malaria-free Kwandwe Game Reserve, the spectacular fauna and flora of the Garden Route, golden beaches, and unique ostrich and meerkat interactions.

6. Magical Moremi and Okavango Delta

The one of a kind mokoro safari in Botswana's Okavango Delta. In just 5 days you will explore the grassy plains and waterways of Botswana's heartland. With a vast bird species and a myriad of wildlife found in the Moremi Game Reserve and Okavango Delta, Botswana is a favourite with photography enthusiasts, bird watchers, and those interested in the endangered African Wild Dog. Highlights on this tour include game drives, night drives, mokoro (dugout canoe) trips, game walks and motorboat cruises.

7. Diverse Namibia

Namibia is one of Southern Africa’s best-kept secrets with vast open spaces, breathtaking scenery, and great contrasts. This 10-day tour explores the most beautiful desert plains and sand dunes of the Sossusvlei, the picturesque city of Swakopmund, Damaraland and the famous Etosha National Park which are home to a variety of desert-adapted animals and wildlife endemic to the area. Combining Meru-style safari tents and a photographic hide, this tour offers an extraordinary safari experience and some of the world’s most loved photographic locations.

8. A Unique Adventure to Kruger and Victoria Falls

Embark on an unparalleled journey through the heart of Africa, where natures beauty unfolds in the most remarkable ways. The 7-day Kruger Park and Vic Falls Combo blends safari adventure with luxury accommodations. Marvel at Kruger National Park’s wildlife, stay suspended over the Sabie River at Kruger Shalati, and experience the breathtaking beauty of Victoria Falls with uninterrupted views from your private balcony at The Wallow Lodge.

9. Luxury Rail Journeys Across Southern Africa

Travel aboard the world’s most luxurious train, Rovos Rail. Train travel provides a unique perspective, showcasing incredible scenery with the comforts of never having to pack and unpack. Rovos Rail is better described as a 5-star hotel on wheels, offering sophisticated facilities, service and fine dining. These incredible journeys include a 2-night scenic trip from Cape Town to Pretoria, a 2-night Durban Safari, a 3-night meander from Pretoria to Victoria Falls, and a 9 day Namibia Safari.

10. Walking Safari Trails

A guided walking safari is one of the most exciting safari activities in Africa, offering an unique way to experience the wilderness. There are several walking safaris on offer, including a 5-day trail in the renowned Kruger National Park. This tour blends ‘lodge’ and ‘tented’ accommodation with game drives and guided bush walks. A night in a treehouse adds a magical touch to your safari, with stunning sunsets, dinner under the stars, and the profound sounds of the African bush.

No matter what type of safari experience you prefer, one thing is certain: there’s no better way to experience Africa.