Top 10 Best African Safari Tours in Southern Africa

Once you’ve decided that a wildlife documentary seen on National Geographic just isn’t the same as experiencing it in person, the excitement of going on an African safari is sure to kick into first gear. This can sometimes leave you overwhelmed as you try to determine what kind of safari is right for you. Safaris in Africa are our business and as safari enthusiasts and experts we’ve put together this list of the  “Top 10 Best African Safari Tours in Southern Africa.”We have left no stone unturned, with our tours carefully selected by defining which are most popular amongst our customers and which offer the most authentic safari experiences. Each tour is perfectly packaged to include accommodation, transfers and a selection of experiences that highlight each region. Iconic destinations featured include the 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

One of Africa’s most romantic beds, Kingston Treehouse at Lion SandsRenowned for the ‘Big 5’ and phenomenal sightings of lion, leopard, and cheetah; Lion Sands Game Reserve is sure to blow you away with up-close animal encounters, fantastic photographic opportunities from open game vehicles, and exhilarating bush walks that discover both the fauna and flora and spectacular birdlife on the reserve. Lion Sands River Lodge promises 3 days of ultimate comfort and offers 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 location on the southern Mozambican coastline. This 9-day tour offers a perfect blend of ‘Big 5’ game viewing in the famous Kruger National Park with blissful beach living on the tropical Inhaca Island in Mozambique. The tour is the ideal choice for couples and families who don’t wish to travel long distances but desire adventure, white sand beaches and warm turquoise waters.

3. Luxury Kruger, Victoria Falls and Cape Town

View of Table Mountain in Cape Town, one of the oldest and most iconic mountains in the world. Combining three of Africa’s most sought-after destinations, this 11 day tour is packed with adventure, spectacular scenery and luxury accommodation. Highlights include big 5 game drives in the renowned Kruger National Park, a humble interaction with a majestic elephant, the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, and breathtaking views of Cape Town from the top of Table Mountain. This tour is ideal for solo explorers, couples, and families wanting to experience what is true Southern Africa.

4. Luxury Victoria Falls and Chobe

Built on a dramatic bend of the Zambezi River relax fully at the luxurious Sussi & Chuma Safari Game Lodge. In only 6 days, this tour explores two iconic countries that each boast prolific wildlife and magnificent scenery. Sanctuary lodges offer profound luxury and activities that truly highlight each region, including an authentic cultural experience. You can look forward to experiencing luxurious tree-house accommodation, a sundowner cruise on the Zambezi River, and game drives in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and Chobe National Park; home to the largest population of elephants in the world.

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 the stories and information shared with you by your guide. Perfect for solo travellers, couples and families, 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 Okavango Delta in Botswana is the only place where visitors can enjoy a mokoro safari. In only 5 days you will explore the grassy plains and waterways found in the heart of Botswana. With over 500 bird species and a myriad of animal species found in the Moremi Game Reserve and Okavango Delta, Botswana is a prime favourite amongst avid photographers, bird watchers, and safari-goers with a keen interest in seeking out 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

The striking patterns of the dune sea in the Namib desert. 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 the untamed beauty of nature unfolds in the most remarkable ways. The 7-day Kruger Park and Vic Falls Combo seamlessly combine the thrill of safari adventures with the tranquillity of luxurious accommodations. Whether you're marvelling at the wildlife of Kruger National Park, suspended over the Sabie River at the Kruger Shalati or experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Victoria Falls with uninterrupted views from your private balcony at The Wallow Lodge, this unforgettable journey promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

9. Luxury Rail Journeys Across Southern Africa

Travel on the world's most luxurious train, Rovos Rail. Train travel adds a unique perspective to your holiday, showcasing the finest and most unique routes. With the comforts of never having to pack and unpack or drive anywhere, rail journeys give you the freedom to do nothing but relax and enjoy the dramatic scenery. Rovos Rail is better described as a 5-star hotel on wheels and is regarded as the most luxurious train in the world; offering sophisticated facilities, service and fine dining. Epic 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

sought-afterA guided walking safari tour is one of the most exciting safari activities in Africa. Walking safaris are one of the most sought-after activities in Africa and are perfect for travellers who wish to discover the excitement of true African wilderness. A walking safari is a highly immersive method that brings about a new way of understanding your surroundings. We offer several walking safaris including a 5 day trail in the renowned Kruger National Park. This tour offers a unique blend of ‘lodge’ and ‘tented’ accommodation and the perfect balance of game drives and guided bush walks. Spending a night in a tree house also adds new meaning to a safari in Africa with a location that promises a magical sunset, dinner under the stars, and profound calls from the African bush.

Whatever type of safari experience you prefer, one thing is certain: there’s no better way to experience Africa. Would you like to get access to our top tips and exclusive offers on trips to Africa? Sign up here to join 400,000 subscribers currently enjoying the benefit of our expert African knowledge.