South Africa Safaris
South Africa Safari and Wine Tours
We are, first and foremost, a wine travel company. But we’ve learned something over twenty years of crafting bespoke travel: no two trips are the same. So, while most South Africa itinerary we design will start with a conversation about wine, it will typically end up including a safari.
South Africa is the only destination in the world where you can combine world-class wine tastings with Big Five game drives and unforgettable wildlife experiences. SmoothRed arranges luxury South Africa safaris across the country’s finest private reserves, sequencing the safari alongside the wine, the coast and the city so that each part of the trip enhances the rest.
Popular South African Safari Itineraries
These are simply handpicked suggestions for the kind of South Africa wine and safari holiday you might have. Yours will be tailored, and refined until it matches you completely.
Why Choose SmoothRed for Your South Africa Wine and Safari Tour
For over 20 years, SmoothRed has specialised in tailormade wine travel. We craft itineraries that seamlessly combine wine and safari tours with depth, authenticity and seamless luxury.
We bring together first-hand knowledge of the region with professional wine expertise, ensuring every itinerary is genuinely curated, from Big Five private game reserves in the Kruger region to the astonishing biodiversity of the Eastern Cape.
With 24/7 support, a dedicated concierge service and our bespoke travel app, every detail is effortlessly managed, while ABTA and ATOL protection offers complete peace of mind.
Highlights of South Africa Safaris
Get started planning your perfect South African safari with our travel guides. From the best time to combine wine and wildlife to the best food to have on a safari, our inspirational articles are the perfect starting point.
South Africa's Safari Regions
South Africa layers Big Five game viewing with world-class wine country, a dramatic coastline and one of the continent’s liveliest cities.
Take a look at our guide to South Africa’s main safari regions to find out what makes each one distinct and how a bush experience fits into a wider South Africa trip.
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What to do on a South African Safari
The best South African safari experiences layer activity upon activity: pre-dawn drives, walks through the bush on foot, sundowner stops in the middle of nowhere, nights under a sky that makes you wonder where all the stars have been hiding.
Our guide covers the full activity menu at South Africa’s leading safari lodges, so you know what to ask for when you’re planning.
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What to Eat on a South African Safari
Dining on safari in South Africa (particularly at the private reserves we work with) is not an afterthought slotted between game drives. It is an experience in its own right: delicious, rooted in tradition, and paired with unforgettable views.
Read our full guide to find out what to eat on a South African safari.
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When to Go on a Safari in South Africa
When you go on safari matters. The season affects what you see, how easily you see it, and how well a safari trip fits alongside everything else South Africa has to offer.
Our guide lays out the seasons honestly, matching you with times that work best for what you’re trying to do.
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We craft each itinerary just for you. Contact our Travel Designers to plan an unforgettable journey.
Start PlanningFAQs About South African Safaris
What’s the best time of year for a South Africa safari?
South Africa is a year-round safari destination, but the dry winter months (May to September) are widely considered the best for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources and vegetation is thinner. The summer months (October to April) offer lush landscapes, excellent birdwatching, and fewer crowds.
Our tip? Travel in the shoulder seasons (October-November and March-May) for the best of both safari and wine experiences in South Africa.
Which part of South Africa is best for a safari?
The part of South Africa that’s considered best for a safari is the Greater Kruger Region, in particular on the private reserves and concessions nearby like Sabi Sands, Shambala and Timbavati. If you have less time or simply wish to stay closer to Cape Town, the Gondwana Private Reserve is another great Big Five safari area.
Other private reserves with unique safari experiences in South Africa include Madikwe, near the northern border and considered the premier malaria-free area, while far to the north west, Tswalu Kalahari offers a more intrepid experience with unique, semi-arid landscapes.
How do you get from Kruger to Cape Town?
The best way to get from Kruger to Cape Town is to take a direct flight from one of the airports near the National Park, such as Shukuza, Hoedspruit or Kruger Mpumulanga. You can also connect (either flying or driving) to Johannesburg and then fly onward from there.
While it would make for a pretty epic road trip, we don’t recommend driving, as it would take about 20 hours to drive straight through!
What animals can I expect to see on a South African safari?
South Africa is home to the “Big Five” — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo — along with cheetah, giraffe, zebra, hippo, and hundreds of bird species. It is also one of the only countries where you can see white lions in the wild. Wildlife sightings vary by location and season, but expert guides maximise your chances of unforgettable encounters.
Are safaris in South Africa safe?
Yes, South African safaris are safe for travellers. We work with top-notch lodges and private reserves, where safaris and game drives are conducted by highly trained professional guides and trackers who prioritise safety at every stage.
How long should I spend on safari?
For an immersive South Africa safari experience, we recommend 3–5 nights in one reserve. As a wine travel specialist, we always recommend pairing your safari with Cape Town, the Winelands, or the Garden Route for a truly comprehensive South African travel itinerary.
Have more questions?
(+44) 020 8877 4940 (UK)
(+1) 646 968 0388 (US and Canada)
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