South Africa

South Africa is Africa’s most accessible safari destination, with well-developed infrastructure, excellent roads and the iconic Greater Kruger National Park.

The surrounding private reserves like Sabi Sand, Timbavati and Manyeleti offer some of the best Big Five game viewing on the continent.

What sets Greater Kruger apart is its network of private reserves like Sabi Sand, Timbavati and Manyeleti, which share unfenced borders with Kruger National Park. These reserves offer exclusive game drives with no day visitors, expert trackers and some of the best leopard sightings in Africa.

Best time to visit South Africa: The dry season from May to October offers the best game viewing, with sparse vegetation and animals clustering around water sources. June to August carries very low malaria risk. For a balance of good wildlife viewing, fewer crowds and better value, the shoulder months of September to early December and May are an excellent choice and my preferred time to visit.