5 Days in South Africa - 4 Safari Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: South African Safari Highlights: Kruger & Sabi Sands

This compact highlights safari is an excellent introduction to South Africa's wildlife-filled savanna landscapes and features five game drives and two top-rated accommodations. While staying at Rhino Post in Kruger National Park, seek out the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. Then, hop over to Sabi Sands Game Reserve to admire the elusive leopard, learn the tricks of animal tracking, and laze by your 5-star accommodation's pool.

Your South Africa safari begins with a private transfer to Rhino Post, a safari lodge tucked within the wilderness of southwestern Kruger National Park. Upon arrival, enjoy a quick refresh, as soon, a guide will scoop you up in an open-top 4WD vehicle for an afternoon game drive. Over three hours, track down lions, rhinos, elephants, and plenty more majestic wildlife. Then, after a night's rest, get straight back to it, this time in search of the park's more elusive residents, including antelopes, ostriches, and leopards.

After two superb days in Kruger National Park, it's time to set your sights on the adjacent Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Your home here is the exclusive Sabi Sabi bush lodge, and if its prime location overlooking a watering hole isn't impressive enough, this lodge is also home to swimming pools and luxury villas. Beyond the lodge's amenities, Sabi Sabi is an excellent base to seek out wildlife and learn the craft of animal tracking. Yet, all too soon, the time will arrive to transfer to Johannesburg, where your departing flight awaits. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Self-Drive Safari in South Africa

Ideal for adventurers seeking a more active, self-drive experience, this far-reaching road trip highlights the Sabi Sands Game Reserve and pristine Magoebaskloof area. Throughout, embark on guide-led game drives on foot and in a 4WD vehicle, zipline over the dramatic Letaba River Gorge, and hike alongside chattering monkeys in "The Land of the Silver Mist." In addition, stays at Umkumbe Bush Lodge and Graceland Eco-Retreat ensure you're rejuvenated and captivated throughout your adventure.

Johannesburg is a natural starting point for this adventure, and it's where you'll pick up your rental car and embark on a scenic drive to Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Plan for a four-hour drive, which ensures that as long as you get an early start, you'll have plenty of time to explore after checking into Umkumbe Bush Lodge. Join a guide for a 4WD journey in search of the Big Five, then after an overnight "glamping" experience, you'll be ready to return to the bush. This time, head out on foot to track animals by their prints and spot wildlife often overlooked when traveling by car.

From Sabi Sands, your road trip continues north to Tzaneen—a charming agricultural town in the foothills of the Wolkberg Mountains. This drive takes around three hours, and upon arrival, you'll be treated to an insightful tour of the Wegraakbosch Organic Farm and Dairy. Afterward, continue to Graceland Eco-Retreat and spend the evening relaxing in your spacious chalet overlooking the Kudu River Valley. Next, zipline over the Letaba River Gorge and hike amid Magoebaskloof's monkey-filled valleys before returning to Johannesburg or continuing your adventure elsewhere. Learn more

Itinerary #3: South Africa Family-Friendly Safari

Featuring kid-friendly accommodations and activities, this Eastern Cape safari is an excellent, family-focused introduction to the magnificent wildlife of South Africa. Let young ones' imaginations run wild as you embark on game drives and bush walks throughout the Shamwari Private Game Reserve. Enjoy quality time with your significant other while children climb, zip, and play at the Kids Safari Adventure Center. Then, wrap up the adventure in Port Alfred, burning off energy at the beach and ticking off another game drive or two.

Safe and kid-friendly destinations are always a top priority when planning a family adventure, and you'll certainly agree that your first stop, the Shamwari Private Game Reserve, is exactly that. Located in the malaria-free Eastern Cape, this game reserve is an excellent destination to embark on guided bush walks and learn about the importance of conservation at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Parents can also enjoy some quality time on their own, perhaps seeking out the Big Five on a game drive, while kids get spoiled with a special day of their own at the Kids Safari Adventure Center.

In between activities, your accommodation, the Riverdene Family Lodge, is the perfect place to relax as a family. Yet, there's more of the Eastern Cape to see beyond Shamwari. So, on the morning of Day 4, transfer to Port Alfred's luxury Oceana Beach & Wildlife Reserve and spend the afternoon seeking out giraffes and zebras on a kid-friendly game drive. The excitement continues into the afternoon with free time at the beach, and as you wrap up your adventure over a picnic dinner, the entire family is bound to be happily exhausted. Learn more

Itinerary #4: South Africa Off-the Beaten-Track Safari

This luxury-infused South Africa safari has been expertly crafted for those eager to experience the less-visited Limpopo province. While staying at the 5-star Palala Boutique Game Lodge & Spa, embark on numerous game drives or relax onboard a Limpopo River canapés tour. Then, hit the road to Welgevonden Game Reserve, where a stay at a private safari lodge gives you privileged access to seek out the Big Five and the rare white rhino.

Already equipped with a rental car, your South African safari kicks off with a drive to the Palala Boutique Game Lodge & Spa—a 5-star bush resort in the province of Limpopo. Considering this lodge is home to a decadent hotel spa, infinity pool, and private outdoor dining area, an evening free to relax will be a welcome delight. In addition, you'll wake refreshed and ready to spend a day in the wild. While activities will be catered to your interests, popular options include morning and nighttime game drives, a Limpopo River cruise with canapés, and a guided bicycle safari. 

Next, hop behind the wheel for a scenic drive to Welgevonden Game Reserve and check into the 5-star Mhondoro. Spend your first evening here enjoying its many amenities, which again ensures you're well-refreshed for a full day of exploring. Tick off a morning game drive, where you'll have a chance to spot the Big Five, spend the afternoon searching for the rare white rhino, and round off the night with a bit of stargazing. Then, on the final day of your South Africa safari, drive to Johannesburg for an insightful tour of the Soweto Township. Learn more

More Great 5-Day South Africa Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to South Africa? Check out these other five-day South Africa itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.