Safari

When you travel to South Africa, you want nothing more than to see the Big Five in person. The famous Kruger National Park, the largest and most famous park in South Africa, is probably too far away to easily fit into a trip to Cape Town. Fortunately, there are also game reserves close to the city where you can get the chance to spot the Big Five. Although this safari experience is not quite the same as Kruger, it is a great option for those who want to experience the magic of African nature without traveling hundreds of kilometers.

Tip: Patience is a virtue! It can sometimes take a while before you spot the animals. They are still wild animals, so you have no control over when you spot which animal. Of course, bring a camera!

Aquila Private Game Reserve

This reserve is located about 2 hours drive from Cape Town and offers a great chance to spot the Big Five. It is a private reserve, which means you don't have to deal with the crowds of a national park. You can do day or night safaris here and enjoy the beautiful nature.

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Sanbona is located approximately 3 hours from Cape Town. This reserve also has a rich biodiversity and offers the opportunity to spot animals such as cheetahs, wild dogs and of course the Big Five.

Is a Cape Town safari the same as Kruger Park?

The short answer is no: the safari experience in and around Cape Town is often a bit more peaceful and controlled than what you will find in the more remote game parks. They are private reserves, which are sometimes compared to a "zoo" because of the management and cleanliness of the environment. However, this does not mean that it is a less enjoyable experience! The chance of spotting the Big Five is still there, and you get a great chance to see animals up close.

Another important point is that the animals in these areas are usually not as wild and unashamed as in the huge national parks of South Africa, where the animals have more space to hide. But even in a reserved environment, it is a great opportunity to see the majestic animals of Africa.

How much does a Cape Town safari cost?

Prices for safaris in and around Cape Town vary, depending on the type of safari and the accommodation. On average, you can expect to pay between R1,500 and R5,000 per person for a day tour in places like Aquila Private Game Reserve or Sanbona. This often includes a game drive, guide, and lunch or other snacks.

When is the best time to go on safari?

The summer months (November to March) are the most popular for safaris, as the weather is warm and dry. The winter months (May to September) can also be good, but there is a greater chance of rain. During the winter, the wildlife can be more lush, but the animals can hide more, making spotting wildlife a bit more difficult.

Booking your safari:

Most safaris can be booked online through the official websites of the reserves or through tour operators offering tours. We recommend booking in advance, especially if you are travelling in high season.

Aquila Private Game Reserve: www.aquilasafari.com
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve: www.sanbona.co

Who are these safaris for?

Families: These safaris are ideal for families who want to teach their children about wildlife in a safe and controlled environment.
Travelers with limited time: If you only have a short stay in Cape Town and can’t make it to Kruger, a safari nearby is a great option.
Animal lovers: For those who have always wanted to learn about Africa’s iconic wildlife, this is a unique opportunity to see them up close.

While the safaris near Cape Town don’t quite compare to the true safari experiences in the north of South Africa, they still offer an incredible opportunity to experience South Africa’s beautiful nature and wildlife – all within a few hours of the city. Perfect for a day trip or as an extension of your Cape Town adventure!