Planning your South African Safari: How complicated is it?
Planning a Safari in South Africa: The Simple and Straightforward Guide
Planning a safari holiday doesn’t have to be complicated.
We recently saw an advertisement for a 40-page guide to choosing your safari. Can you imagine—40 pages! That’s not necessary and it’s possible to break down the essentials into an easy-to-follow plan. If you’re dreaming of an African safari, South Africa is one of the most accessible and rewarding destinations.
Here’s our short & simple guide to safari planning
1. Choose the right country:
You can go on safari in Africa in many countries, but the most popular ones are in southern Africa (usually South Africa, Botswana or Namibia) and East Africa (usually Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda). You can see different habitats and wildlife in different places, and different places have different climates and weather. A lot of people get bogged down at this step—so many countries, so many options.
The country of South Africa is an easy choice for safari – Here is why:
- Well-Developed Infrastructure: South Africa has an excellent road and air network, making it easy to navigate between cities, reserves, and lodges.
- Diverse Wildlife & Habitats: Whether you’re dreaming of spotting the Big 5 or exploring different ecosystems, South Africa offers a wide variety of landscapes, from savannas to forests, and rich biodiversity.
- Ease of Access: South Africa is a major international destination, with regular flights into Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport from around the world.
- Tourism Expertise: With decades of experience hosting safaris, South Africa is well-equipped to cater to international tourists with high-quality accommodation, knowledgeable guides, and a robust support system.
2. Now to choose the right game reserve
Although Kruger National Park is perhaps the most well-known game reserve in South Africa, there are other game reserves where you can see the “Big 5”: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. If you google “Big 5 game reserves in South Africa” you’ll see a list. Often guests will visit more than one game reserve, to see wildlife in different habitats.
Why not choose a hidden gem?
Madikwe Game Reserve is home to the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and offers a more intimate safari experience with fewer tourists than Kruger. Madikwe also allows for off-road game drives, offering the chance to get closer to the action.
For more on why Madikwe should be at the top of your list, check out our blog post on why Madikwe Game Reserve is one of the absolute best reserves for game viewing and a hidden gem in South Africa.
3. After you have chosen a game reserve you need to book accommodation
Once you’ve selected what reserve or reserves you want to go to, you need to figure out what lodge to stay in. Some reserves have a single lodge; some have multiple lodges.
Madikwe Game Reserve is home to about 15 commercial lodges, each under different ownership, and each with its own vibe and personality.
When you have selected your preferred lodge, send an email and make a reservation. Ask any questions that you have. If you book directly with Etali, we can also organize your road transfers or air transfers from Johannesburg to Madikwe Game Reserve.
Pro Tip: Always book directly with the lodge when possible, as this can often come with additional benefits such as personalised transfers or custom safari experiences.
While we might be biased, we believe having your own private watering hole to watch animals in the habitat while enjoying some of the top food in the country is hard to beat- Read more: Why choose Etali in Madikwe Game Reserve
4. Preparing for Your Safari: Travel Essentials
With your lodge and safari booked, the next step is to finalise your travel logistics. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:
- Plane Tickets. You need to purchase your international plane tickets to get to OR Tambo International Airport in the city of Johannesburg, in the country of South Africa.
- Travel Documents. Specifically, passports, visas and birth certificates (for minors).
A valid passport with at least 6 months remaining before it expires, and 2 consecutive blank pages. Check the South African government’s site, which they update periodically, for information about tourism visas: Department of Home Affairs – Types of Visas (dha.gov.za)
Check if you need a visa. Citizens of the United States, Canada, UK and many EU countries receive visas on arrival at OR Tambo International Airport that will allow you to stay in South Africa for tourism purposes for up to 90 days. Check the South African government’s site, which they update periodically: Department of Home Affairs – Exempt Countries (dha.gov.za)
If you’re traveling with minor children (under the age of 18), there are special requirements. Check the South African government’s site: What are the requirements for travelling with children? | South African Government (www.gov.za)
- Vaccines. Check with your local doctor. However, currently the only required vaccine is a yellow fever certificate, if you’re coming from or passing through a yellow fever country (South Africa is not a yellow fever country).
- Credit Card Companies. Let your credit card company know that you’ll be traveling abroad, and when, so they don’t think that your card has been stolen or is the subject of fraud when you use it here.
- Travel Insurance. Buy travel insurance—not only for trip cancellations or interruptions, but also travel medical insurance. Better to be safe than sorry.
And…that’s it. Traveling to South Africa may seem daunting the first time, but it’s quite straightforward.
Additional Considerations: Perfecting Your Safari Experience
To enhance the comprehensiveness of your safari plans, consider these additional aspects that are often overlooked:
1. What to pack on safari
Packing for a safari requires some thought, especially when it comes to clothing, gear, and essentials. Focus on neutral-coloured clothing, lightweight layers, and good walking shoes. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, binoculars, a hat, and a camera to capture wildlife moments. Check out our blog post on What to Pack for a Safari for a detailed guide.
2. Weather
South Africa’s seasons vary, with each season offering a different safari experience. During the dry winter months (May to September), animals gather around water sources, making wildlife spotting easier. The summer months (October to April) bring lush landscapes and newborn animals, though rains can make the terrain more challenging. Speak to anyone on the Etali team for comprehensive seasonal information.
3. Conservation
When planning your safari, consider how you can contribute to conservation efforts and responsible tourism. Many reserves, including Madikwe, are dedicated to wildlife preservation and community support. By choosing eco-conscious lodges and being mindful of your environmental impact, you contribute to these efforts. Ask your lodge about their conservation programs and how you can support them during your stay. Learn about the Madikwe conservation efforts.
4. Safety on safari
Safaris are generally safe, but it’s essential to follow your guide’s instructions to ensure a safe experience. Avoid standing up in the game vehicle, don’t approach wildlife on foot unless instructed by a guide, and always keep your hands inside the vehicle. For health concerns, ensure you stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, especially during midday game drives.
Final step: Enjoy your adventure
Once you’ve covered all the essentials, the only thing left is to embark on your adventure. South Africa offers unparalleled safari experiences, and planning a safari should be exciting, not overwhelming or overly complicated.
Ready to start your safari journey? Contact us at Etali Safari Lodge, and we’ll help you plan your dream safari in the heart of Madikwe Game Reserve.
Together, let’s make your African safari a trip of a lifetime!
