Where To See

MOUNTAIN GORILLAS AND WHAT TO EXPECT IN UGANDA VERSUS RWANDA

Gorilla trekking is a highly moving wildlife conservation experience, and available only to a handful of travellers visiting East Africa. Trekking activities can be done in any of the three countries whose protected parks straddle the Virunga Mountains – Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and Rwanda. 

While all countries offer a unique experience, Rwanda and Uganda are the two best options. There are a number of things to consider when thinking about gorilla trekking in Uganda versus Rwanda. Both offer distinct advantages so deciding on which destinations to visit will depend on the kind of trip you are looking for.

What You Need

TO KNOW ABOUT GORILLA TREKKING IN RWANDA

Often referred to as the “land of a thousand hills”, Rwanda is a country known for its lush mountainous terrain and complicated political past. Rwanda is arguably most famous for being one of the best remaining places on the planet where you can see the endangered mountain gorilla in its natural habitat.

The misty slopes and dense jungle terrain of Volcanoes National Park is home to approximately a third of the last remaining mountain gorilla population on earth. Volcanoes National Park is a protected area that is the heart of gorilla trekking in this country and which plays a vital role in conserving the species. 

The Volcanoes National Park (which encompasses five out of the eight volcanoes that make up the Virunga range) is only about two to three hours by car from Kigali (the capital of Rwanda), making it a very accessible destination for gorilla viewing if travelling directly from the airport (logistically, a far easier option versus Uganda) It is also thought of as the ‘easier’ trekking destination due to its thinner rainforest vegetation, which allows for easier viewing and less arduous hiking, and is, therefore, more accessible to a larger variety of visitors.

What You Need

TO KNOW ABOUT GORILLA TREKKING IN UGANDA

Uganda has been called the “Pearl of Africa” and it is not difficult to see why! This small, landlocked country is home to incredible wildlife destinations and beautiful scenery. In Uganda, you can enjoy both wildlife safari experiences and gorilla trekking adventures. Once in Uganda, it is easy to combine a gorilla trekking trip with a traditional safari, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park as well as an adventure to seek the source of the Nile!  

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to over half the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. Venture through the thick green foliage of the national park with your gorilla trekking guides to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Bwindi is also home to over 100 other species of mammal and 300+ species of birds making it a veritable wildlife watching haven! 

Accessing Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park can take about a day (10 – 11 hours) when driving from the capital city Kampala. Alternatively, you can catch a charter flight which is quicker but will cost more. 

There are a variety of accommodation options available in both Rwanda and Uganda; from mid-range to high-end luxury. Where you go will depend on your preferences. 

Gorilla Trekking

PERMIT FEES IN UGANDA VERSUS RWANDA

One of the largest contributors to conservation funding is gorilla trekking permit fees, which while costly are an essential means of controlling and funding gorilla tourism. A limited number of permits are issued per day so that a gorilla family is only visited once per day, for a limited time of 1 hour each. National park officials in both Uganda and Rwanda accompany each trekking group to ensure that gorilla trekking etiquette is maintained. 

Permit fees help fund the management of the reserves, monitoring and research, and go toward the salaries of the rangers who protect them as well as towards the upliftment of local communities. 

When deciding whether to visit Rwanda or Uganda for your gorilla trekking trip, it is useful to note that a gorilla trekking permit for Uganda costs approximately half of what a Rwandan permit will cost (permits can be upwards of USD1000 per person, but can fluctuate depending on seasonality and demand)  Please chat with your Safari365 travel consultant to find out up to date information regarding permit fees. 

ONGOING GORILLA CONSERVATION EFFORTS IN UGANDA AND RWANDA

The main threats facing the mountain gorillas are habitat loss, poaching and disease. Conservation efforts are integral to the survival of these endangered creatures. Trekking, which sees visitors hike through the forest on foot in small groups to view habituated family groups of gorillas, has become a critical contributor to tourism revenue, which in turn supports conservation efforts in each country. Conservation also raises awareness around the plight and status of the species.

Boosted by the work of individuals such as Dian Fossey, conservation efforts have been underway since the late 1960s to help rehabilitate the species. They have been widely successful in raising the numbers, which currently sit at around just over 1 000! While this increase is encouraging, the status of this species still hangs in the balance so conservation remains vital. 

What To Expect

ON THE DAY OF YOUR TREK

With the above being said, gorilla families move continually within their territory and your trekking will last as long as it takes to get to their current location through the mountain paths and hills. Guides will assign hikers of different strengths and fitness levels to different gorilla families (stronger hikers will be given a family that might be further away from the starting point).

Given the sensitive nature and precarious status of the species, gorilla trekking comes with certain important and specific guidelines, for the safety of guests, but most importantly the wellbeing of the gorillas themselves. The interaction with the gorillas is a strictly regulated affair lasting only an hour and is done in small and limited groups each day. Touching these animals is prohibited and a wide berth is enforced (gorillas are very susceptible to human germs and precautions are taken to ensure that no human diseases can pass to them).

We can advise on the finer points of this poignant, once-in-a-lifetime experience, and can navigate the ins and outs of crafting a trip for you to this inspiring region of Africa! 

For action-seekers and adrenaline junkies, there are few places that tick as many boxes as Victoria Falls. One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, it is, statistically speaking the largest waterfall on earth (an accolade that results from combining its height and width together, resulting in the largest single sheet of flowing water). A mammoth 1 708m wide and 107m deep, at its maximum flow, it sees 550 000 cubic meters of water plunging into the gorge every minute. 

Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (‘the smoke that thunders’), it sets the stage for a staggering number of adventure-oriented activities that thrill-seekers can fill their itineraries with. 

The most obvious are the plentiful watersports available, in the vicinity of the falls and on the river that feeds it. From white-water rafting on the Zambezi (an action-filled route though masses of rapids and amazing scenery), to swimming near the edge of Devil’s Pool (a famous spot on the Zambian side, close to Livingstone Island and beloved by the brave), to a more gentle canoe safari up river (accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will share insights into the surrounding environment and wildlife), immersing yourself in the water is one of the best modes in which to experience the awe and majesty of the falls.

Keen fishermen too, will have great scope – with over 75 species of fish, including tiger fish, bream and nembwe, the Zambezi is a great year-round fishing destination, and with the bush and game viewing scenes as a backdrop, it’s arguably up there as one of the most unforgettable ways to indulge in this popular pastime. 

But you can also survey the scene from above. Bungee jumping with the majestic falls in the background and the Zambezi 111 metres below, or a gorge swing or zipline over the Zambezi are sure to satisfy even the most experienced adventurer, while the Flight of the Angels microlight trips over the falls give an exhilarating vantage point from which to take in the landscape and appreciate the scale of this natural wonder. 

In the surrounding areas, safaris of all varieties illustrate this destination’s multifaceted nature. On foot or horseback, at night, or from a traditional 4X4, the game viewing in the parks surrounding the falls is an ideal low-key complement to the more heart-stopping pursuits on offer. 

The falls form a natural boundary between Zambia and Zimbabwe, with both countries offering exceptional views of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and easy access to tourists. Timing wise, Victoria Falls is a great all-year destination but certain months are better for certain activities, so plan your trip according to the itinerary you’d most like to experience. 

For the most spectacular view of the falls, it’s best to visit between February and May, just after the rainy season when the water flow is at its greatest (and the spray reaches upwards of 1.7km into the sky). The falls are conversely at their least impressive between October and November (drying up almost entirely on the Zambian side), as it comes to the end of the dry season and this time of year also sees very high temperatures. But if you want to get involved in the many activities at Victoria Falls the best time to visit is actually when the Zambezi levels are not too high (usually between July and December). The winter months (June to October) are best for game viewing in the surrounding game parks, and if safari is your primary reason for a visit, it is recommended that you schedule your trip at this time. 

A Tanzanian safari is probably one of the most iconic holidays you can take. And it lives up to the hype in a big way – spectacular scenery, abundant varied wildlife, and the rare opportunity to experience truly unspoilt wilderness.  

But travelling to Tanzania is a feat and while a trip designed around a once-in-a-lifetime safari sojourn is more than worth it, it also makes a lot of sense to plan beyond this leg of the journey and maximize your time in Africa by exploring other destinations and experiences. 

While still within the borders of Tanzania, add on a different type of wildlife experience post safari on the savannah. Mahale National Park – an area of mountainous rainforest rising from the sandy shores of Lake Tanganyika – is one of the least visited and most beautiful parks in Africa. It is here that you can have one of the world’s best chimpanzee encounters, thanks to the large group of relatively habituated chimps who have become accustomed to humans due to the extended presence of researchers, making them much more relaxed in the presence of people and less likely to startle and flee.

Continuing along the theme of primates, consider a detour from your Tanzanian base next to venture either to Uganda or Rwanda in order to experience the majesty and poignancy of encountering the endangered mountain gorilla in one of the last places on earth it lives in the wild. Requiring a hike through dense and beautiful jungle in either Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda or Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda to reach them, gorilla trekking allows you to watch a family of this rarest subspecies of gorilla from a close distance, while contributing to their conservation (the revenue brought in from gorilla-centric tourism plays a large role in ensuring their protection and survival). 

Once you’ve got the adventure component of your trip under your belt, why not put in some beach time and spend the last few days winding down on a tropical island? Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania is an excellent option and offers a balance of idyllic coastal setting and complex history and culture. This unique mix of attributes can best be seen in Stone Town – the old part of Zanzibar City. Its architecture – which dates back to the 19^th century and which reflects diverse influences ranging from Arab to Persian, Indian and European – prompted the town to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. These striking buildings, as well as a vibrant market culture and winding alleyways make it a joy to explore. Should deserted beaches be more your speed however, Zanzibar has these in abundance – just commandeer a hammock and kick back. 

Also conducive to low-key relaxation, the Lamu Archipelago is located off the northern part of the Kenyan coast, and consists of a number of small islands, the most popular of which is the unspoilt Lamu Island. Besides offering some of the most beautiful of Kenya’s beaches, Lamu Island also offers a laid-back experience, as well as markets and historical sites to explore that reflect the island’s unique culture and history. 

Chat to Safari365’s expert team about designing your itinerary – from your chosen route and preferred activities to the best places to stay in each location. 

The Great Migration is known as “the greatest show on earth” with good reason! This annual migration sees hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebra, antelope and various other game, move in impressive herds across the wild plains of East Africa. The Great Migration is one of the major drawcards that brings travelers to Kenya every year! 

Looking for insight on the best way to view and experience the Great Migration in the Masai Mara in Kenya? Safari365 has put together a “cheat sheet” on everything you need to know when planning a Great Migration Kenya safari trip.

What Is

THE GREAT MIGRATION?

This annual movement of game in their thousands is the cycle of life made manifest. It’s a physical and powerful reminder of the instinct for survival that drives wildlife and their movements across the land. The incredible journey they undertake, which spans Tanzania and Kenya, is driven by the constant pursuit by grazing herds to find new and fresh food sources, and is therefore dictated by the seasons and the rainfall. This journey takes months (it’s an ongoing and gradual movement across the plains throughout the year) with certain highlights and hotspots that have become big tourist attractions. 

WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO VIEW THE GREAT MIGRATION?

While Tanzania has the lion’s share of the action (approximately 75% of the annual migration period occurs within its borders), Kenya’s Masai Mara is the scene of some of the most exciting stages of the animals’ long, arduous and often dangerous odyssey. 

Benefits of experiencing a Great Migration Kenya safari include the fact that the Masai Mara is closer to Nairobi (the traditional starting point of a Kenyan safari) than the northern Serengeti is to Arusha (the traditional starting point of a Tanzanian safari), which makes it easier and quicker to access by vehicle. 

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VIEW THE GREAT MIGRATION?

The annual migration route can change from year to year (depending on rainfall and grazing), so predicting its timing is not an exact science as it seldom repeats the exact path as the year prior, but there are general guidelines to follow and a few key months that you should aim to be there. 

Late July to October is the window for the best opportunity to see the action in Kenya, but both sides of the Mara River are important during this period. The herds begin to cross the central Serengeti into the Western Corridor. Come late July/early August, the grasses of the western Serengeti die and the herds move north, making their way through the Ngurumet River into the northern plains of the Serengeti. This sets the stage for one of the most crucial points of the migration – in order to reach the grassy plains of Kenya’s Masai Mara, essential for their survival, the herds have to cross the Mara River, a dramatic ordeal which sees them brave the crocodiles waiting below to get to the opposite banks. By September, the last of the herds will be crossing the Mara River.

Whilst this article focuses squarely on the Great Migration, it is worth noting however that the Masai Mara is an incredible year-round safari destination and should not be minimised in other periods of the year.

WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THE MASAI MARA?

Because the Great Migration covers thousands of kilometres during the course of a year there is no particular ‘best’ lodge for viewing the action but planning your trip’s accommodation and itinerary well ahead of time is crucial, as – unsurprisingly – it’s a very popular destination, and places to stay are always in demand. In terms of accommodation, you have options to consider. The two primary types are permanent lodges and luxury tented camps, or mobile tented camps (which move in concert with the game). Permanent lodges and tented camps tend to offer a superior service when compared to mobile camps. Permanent lodges and tented camps are fully equipped and usually kitted out with kitchens, bars, swimming pools, laundry rooms and other facilities. 

Mobile tented camps are non-permanent structures that can move according to the Great Migration route, and while smaller and more pared-back, are by no means lacking in service. These camps will still have chefs and waiters to cater to your needs and offer a more immersive experience. To get the best of both worlds, aim to divide your time between the two types over the course of your safari.

WHAT ELSE CAN I ADD TO MY MASAI MARA & GREAT MIGRATION KENYA SAFARI TRIP?

Finally, there’s what to do afterward your safari to consider! Kenya offers more than just wilderness and wildlife. The ideal itinerary includes a post-safari sojourn at the coast, the ideal low-key way to wind down after the early mornings and action-filled days inland. Our team is well-versed in this region and always on hand to help craft the trip of a lifetime that ticks all of the boxes! 

 

Serengeti 101

GETTING THE BEST OUT OF THE GREAT MIGRATION

Experiencing the herds of the Great Migration thundering across the Serengeti plains is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that any wildlife enthusiast needs to have on their bucket list! To help travellers make the most of their Great Migration trip, Safari365 has drafted a useful guide as to what you should consider when planning a Great Migration safari to the Serengeti. 

Getting the best out of a trip to this incredible region of Tanzania requires forward planning and expertise. This will help ensure that you maximise your chances of optimal game viewing, choose the right accommodation type and efficiently plan your travel to and from this remote and magical part of the world. Safari365 has years of experience and the inside which perfectly equips us to help craft your ideal itinerary.

When To Visit

BEST TIMES OF THE YEAR TO TRAVEL TO THE SERENGETI TO SEE THE MIGRATION

There is no ‘wrong’ time to travel to the Serengeti, but there are certain times of year better than others if you want to specifically see the Migration.

As a general rule, the best time to visit the Serengeti National Park is in the dry season (from late June to October). This period offers the best wildlife viewing in general – with June and July the best months to see the wildebeest migration in the western corridor area of the Serengeti National Park, and August to September are good for the northern sectors of the park near the Kenyan border (with a chance to see the famous Mara River crossing)

Between December and February, we recommend guests visit the southern sections of the Serengeti (namely Ndutu and Maswa areas) Note that this time of year is famous for the Wildebeest calving, and is green and verdant after the short summer rains.

April and May are generally considered the least desirable times to visit the park due to the long rains (but does offer great discounts and birding opportunities)

Like anything in nature, the timing of the Great Migration does vary somewhat from year to year and cannot be guaranteed, yet if you are seeking to see the migration, we recommend speaking to our experts who understand the location of the camps and lodges in proximity to where the migration should be for at least a few of the nights on your safari.

Where To Stay

TYPES OF ACCOMMODATION IN THE SERENGETI

When planning your trip to the Serengeti, knowing what type of accommodation (and the advantages of each) is important to get the most of your trip to view the Migration. 

We have broadly classified the options into permanent lodges, tented lodges and mobile luxury camps.

The permanent options tend to be typical brick and mortar establishments, normally between 8 -12 rooms in size. These are fully serviced with incredible offerings in the African bush, often including dining areas, boma areas, swimming pools, laundry rooms and a spa.

Tented lodges are similar in nature to a permanent lodge, yet are on permanent decking with canvas structures (often with aircon and all other facilities).

Mobile tented camps are non-permanent structures with the upside that they can move according to the Great Migration route, and while smaller and more pared-back, are by no means lacking in service. These camps will still have chefs and waiters to cater to your needs and offer a more immersive experience of the bush. Please see here for further details 

How To Travel

MODES OF TRANSPORT OPTIONS TO THE SERENGETI

The majority of safaris to the Serengeti start from the town of Arusha. The best way to get there is to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), which is situated about 46 kilometres from Arusha. It is also possible to fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), just outside of Dar es Salaam, and use a domestic flight to get to Arusha Airport (ARK) or directly to the Serengeti. 

In Arusha, you will be met by a Safari365 representative for your onwards leg.

For the more budget-conscious travellers (and those wanting to see the country), we recommend a guided 4×4 Land Cruiser (a local Safari365 guide will be with you throughout your trip, showing you the best on offer). This is a great way to explore especially if you have a little more time, and want to include other National Parks or the Ngorongoro Crater in your trip. 

The most convenient method of travelling from Arusha to the Serengeti is by taking a small charter plane to one of the numerous airstrips in the park. Travelling from Arusha by road transfer, the trip to the Serengeti is approximately 325 kilometres often on dirt roads. If you do opt to do the trip with a guided 4×4 transfer, the views from your traverse over the Great Rift Valley are spectacular and the landscapes throughout will keep you intrigued!   

Seeing the Great Migration on a Serengeti safari is a true bucket list experience. Make sure you get the most out of your trip by following the expert advice above! 

Wildlife From

A DIFFERENT ANGLE

There are various ways to embark on a safari. The most common, or traditional, is from a safari vehicle. For travellers looking for a different type of experience, there are alternative modes of transport to consider. From horse riding through the wilderness in pursuit of big game or drifting silently over the savannah in a hot-air balloon watching the wildlife from above, to traversing the plains on foot – the different ways of accessing the African wilderness will offer vastly different safari experiences!

When visiting Botswana, there are a number of safari experiences on offer. One of the most iconic and memorable ways to immerse yourself in the landscape in Botswana is on the water! Travel to the breathtaking Okavango Delta and iconic Chobe National Park to enjoy Botswana’s best water-based safari activities. 

WATER-BASED SAFARIS IN THE OKAVANGO DELTA

Water-based safaris in the Okavango Delta are one of the country’s unique safari selling points. Water-based safaris highlight Botswana’s unique terrain and climate – its incredible unspoilt wetlands teem with life and form a labyrinthine of waterways created by seasonal floods. These form a vast network of life-giving channels – viewable even from space – that sustain animal and plant life and attract a variety of species, which gather at the life-giving waters. 

A water safari can be done in a few different ways. The most typical to the area is by mokoro. A mokoro is a Botswanan low-slung dugout canoe that is shaped by hollowing out a long straight tree trunk, such as ebony or Kigelia. This form of transport is traditionally used by local residents to travel around the shallower waters of the delta in a similar manner to punting (poling the boat along). Nowadays, mokoros are commonly used to transport tourists. The boats are also increasingly being made out of fibreglass as a way to preserve the larger endangered trees.

There are numerous benefits of safari by mokoro. The first is that this mode of transport allows for an intimate trip through the maze-like waterways from a different angle – allowing you a fresh vantage point and the opportunity to spot smaller creatures you might have missed driving by in a vehicle. 

Secondly, the stealth with which the mokoro moves through the water means animals are less likely to be startled, making up-close sightings much easier (the silently gliding vessels are relatively unobtrusive and the lack of engine noise makes them ideal for keeping game and birds at ease. This offers a serene experience, a closer connection to the landscape and a more authentic viewing experience). The smoothness of the vessels’ passage through the water and ability to view wildlife from up close also facilitates much more productive photography opportunities, ideal for amateurs and experts! Moreover, the nature of the vessels, and their ability to navigate water (and shallow water more importantly), means you can access many areas by boat that you can’t in a vehicle. 

Lastly, the expert ‘polers’ – local men with an intimate knowledge and love of the land – offer deft guidance through the water and insight into your surroundings.

When enquiring about water-based safaris in the Okavango Delta, please be aware that not all camps offer this as a year-round activity (as the seasonal waters are in peak flood between June and August, and recede at others periods of the year)  Certain camps are also in the unique position to offer both water-based and land-based activities (walking and game-drives) Okavango Delta camps are considered some of the most sought after in Africa and are very limited in lodge size (generally not larger that 10 rooms), and as a result they are booked far in advance.

WATER-BASED SAFARIS IN CHOBE NATIONAL PARK

For something a little more luxurious, and longer-lasting than a mokoro cruise, head to Chobe National Park and let Safari365 book you a houseboat. The Chobe River is flanked by riverine forests, floodplains and open woodlands that set the scene for some of the best game viewing in Southern Africa! These settings also provide a haven for the continent’s greatest concentration of elephants. 

An idyllic way to watch the world go by and enjoy the serenity of the water, houseboats offer a good base from which to embark on various water activities. From here, you’ll be able to head off on more compact and mobile boats to view game, split off for tiger and bream fishing in season, and birdwatch from smaller vessels. After a day spent on the water, you’ll then head back to your aquatic HQ for drinks while you watch the sun dip below the water. 

Safari365 is well-versed in designing the ultimate safari experience and can customize a dream itinerary for your once-in-a-lifetime adventure around Botswana’s magical waterways, and beyond. And because not all Okavango lodges offer water-based safaris all year round, we can guide you to the ones that do during the time you plan to travel. We’ll take care of all the details, you enjoy the safari!

Wildlife Safaris

GO BEYOND BIG FIVE SIGHTINGS IN SOUTH AFRICA

For visitors embarking on South African wildlife safaris, ticking off the Big 5 is often a priority. Sightings of the Big 5, which includes lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and Cape buffalo, form the bulk of a game lover’s wish list when heading into the African wilderness. While seeing these incredible animals in their natural habitat is an amazing experience, South Africa is home to even more wildlife that needs to be added to your sightings wish list!  

A country rich in bird, plant, marine and wildlife, there is no end to the sightings you can enjoy when traversing this beautiful landscape on a South African wildlife safari. From endangered to spectacular, or simply hard to spot, make sure to expand your scope of must-see flora and fauna to fully reflect South Africa’s diversity. 

Home to a myriad of species – big, small, rare and prolific – South Africa’s varying terrains and vast tracts of preserved wilderness make it a must for animal lovers and conservation enthusiasts. The potential for wildlife encounters are so extensive, in fact, that you can plan an entire itinerary for a trip to South Africa purely around the species you’d like to see! 

GO BEYOND BIG FIVE SIGHTINGS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Go in search of African wild dog, whose scientific name means ‘painted wolf’ and whose formidable hunting techniques, complex social structures and declining numbers (as a result of shrinking habitats and hunting spurred on by human conflict) make it a special and inspiring creature to witness in the wild. 

Even harder to find, the Riverine rabbit is a sighting to aspire to. With only 250 left in its natural habitat – it calls the arid riverbeds of the central Karoo home – your chances of spotting this small and scarce creature are slim, which makes a glimpse of one that much more special!
Slightly more outgoing, however, are the meerkats of the Northern Cape. These adorable tiny carnivores live in groups of up to 40 individuals in the Kalahari Desert and certain habituated colonies – like those at Tswalu Kalahari Reserve – will come close and interact, even going so far as to climb on visitors and use them as lookout points!

FROM LAND TO SEA: DISCOVER SOUTH AFRICA’S MARINE LIFE

Consider taking a trip to iSimangaliso Wetland Park in KwaZulu Natal to explore a totally different type of habitat. This vast protected area forms part of a transfrontier marine reserve straddling South Africa, Mozambique and Eswatini. Among its many wildlife highlights, it lays claim to being the only remaining major nesting site in Africa where Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles lay their eggs. 

From site-specific, to seasonally abundant. Venture further south, along the Whale Route of the Overberg region in South Africa’s Western Cape, at the right time of year (between August and December), and you can witness the annual migration of multitudes of whales. High numbers of Southern Right, humpback and Bryde’s whales migrate to South African waters as they return to mate and calve. Visitors at this time of year are treated to epically close encounters and dramatic displays by these incredible creatures. 

SEE WILDLIFE CLOSER TO THE CITY

Even within the city limits – where wildlife should, in theory, be scarce – you can experience memorable moments! One good example is Boulders Beach in Cape Town and its famous colony of lovable and comical African penguins, whose antics delight scores of visitors to the sanctuary every year. It’s the only place in the world where you can watch them in such close proximity and offers the rare opportunity to swim near these charming birds. 

BIG 5 ALTERNATIVES: THE SHY FIVE, THE SMALL FIVE AND THE UGLY FIVE

Start by adding some alternative lists to your Big 5 countdown. The “Shy Five” consists of the porcupine, bat-eared fox, aardvark, meerkat, aardwolf, named so because they are so rarely sighted! Witnessing one of these five creatures on your safari travels is a truly special experience! Next up is the “Small” or “Little Five” made up of the elephant shrew, leopard tortoise, ant lion, rhino beetle and buffalo weaver. This group has its name because these animals are smaller versions of their larger Big Five counterparts.  

Finally, there is the Ugly Five made up of warthog, vulture, wildebeest, marabou stork and hyena. Most travellers will be able to guess why this group has earned its name. However, these five creatures may not be winning any beauty contests, they are all unique and intriguing sightings!

South Africa is home to a multitude of wildlife sightings that go even further beyond the thrills of the Big Five! Be sure to add the animals listed above to your wildlife wishlist on your next trip to South Africa. 

Ten Days
In South Africa

Highlights

WHAT TO SEE IF YOU HAVE 10 DAYS IN THE COUNTRY

South Africa has it all. Idyllic beaches, sun-kissed vineyards, lush tropical coastline, dramatic mountain ranges, iconic wildlife reserves and vibrant cities. The country boasts an enormous variety in terms of scenery and pastimes. Affordable and accessible too, it’s this combination that has seen South Africa become one of the world’s top tourism destinations. 

While you could easily spend months exploring this beautiful country, and still not have seen everything, a well-planned itinerary over ten days will give you a good taste of what it has to offer. 

How to Experience

THE HIGHLIGHTS OF SOUTH AFRICA IN 10 DAYS

Most international flights either land in Johannesburg or Cape Town, which will be used as the springboard for your onwards journey. If you are looking to experience a true African vibrant city, kick off your holiday with a tour of Johannesburg. It was founded on the gold mining industry, and is now South Africa’s commercial center with a thriving nightlife, arts and fashion scene and makes an impactful and surprising first impression of the country. 

Adding a safari experience is a must in every trip to South Africa, with most first time visitors opting to visit the famous Kruger National Park. It is an accessible drive from Johannesburg (at least 6 hours by car), but is well serviced by direct flights from Cape Town or Johannesburg directly to the Kruger safari area of choice. The Kruger National Park is one of the world’s most famous game reserves. Boasting the Big 5, a myriad of bird and wildlife species, scenic landscapes and a plethora of lodges in a number of private game reserves forming the Greater Kruger National Park, offering unforgettable immersion into the wilderness. Do note that there are many other excellent game reserves in South Africa (some more easily accessible depending on where in the country you choose to visit – chat to one of our African travel experts for more information). 

A firm summer favourite is to visit the Garden Route. This scenic 300-kilometre stretch of coastline is named for its beautiful vegetation and terrain ranging from forests and lakes to rivers, mountains, beaches and bays. Along this route, travellers have the opportunity to enjoy various sporting endeavors like fishing, sailing and hiking. The Garden Route is not only a paradise for adrenaline junkies! This region is also dotted with charming beach destinations that are perfect for a relaxing getaway. Look into Plettenberg Bay, a glamorous resort town known for nature sanctuaries, wineries and beautiful beaches, as well as Knysna (a picturesque and low-key seaside haven) and Wilderness (a sleepy, rustic beach hamlet). 

An exploration of the Whale Route (preferably during the winter months of June to October when these migratory mammals return to calve) should form the next stop on your itinerary. This annual spectacle, best appreciated from towns in the Overberg region (including Hermanus, Betty’s Bay and Pringle Bay) is a memorable sight to see and allows you to witness nature at its most miraculous as these magnificent creatures breach and play only metres from the coast!

Cape Town is on everyone’s bucket list – one of the world’s most stunning and leisure-oriented destinations! The striking natural beauty, thriving culinary scene and mix of cultures have made it perennially popular among travellers of all types. With everything in relatively close proximity, a morning hike up iconic Table Mountain can be followed by breakfast at one of the hundreds of charming nearby eateries and a visit to a top art gallery or designer boutique within the city bowl. Afterwards, you’ll still have time for a walk on the beach or sundowners at a bar on the famous Camps Bay strip. Be sure to factor leisurely afternoon excursions to Cape Point and the charming village hubs of Kalk Bay and Noordhoek into your itinerary too!

A few nights in the Cape Winelands – a short drive from the city – is an absolute must, and a relaxing and luxurious way to wind down your visit! Arguably one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world, the Cape Winelands is made up of the towns of Franschhoek, Paarl and Stellenbosch, it’s a wine lover’s paradise home to hundreds of cellars, farms and tasting rooms offering award-winning wines made by celebrated winemakers. It also boasts some of South Africa’s best restaurants, making it one of the country’s premier culinary hubs. 

When planning your trip, consider adding another nearby destination to your itinerary.  A popular choice is a visit to Victoria Falls, which is a short flight from South Africa. Similarly, Mauritius (only a four-hour flight from South Africa) and or Botswana, are excellent complimentary destinations to include on your trip to South Africa. 

Ten days is limited, but it is definitely enough time to experience all of the fantastic experiences that South Africa has to offer. Chat to Safari365 to get planning.

 

Botswana safaris and tours take a great amount of expert planning due to their remote and isolated destinations. Distances can be vast, and travel can be tricky. Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of experiences and tours for your approval; expect a great combination of luxury, adventure, and sights unseen.

Our Recommended

Botswana Tours

Botswana safaris and tours take a great amount of expert planning due to their remote and isolated destinations. Distances can be vast, and travel can be tricky. Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list of experiences and tours for your approval; expect a great combination of luxury, adventure, and sights unseen.

Is Deadvlei The
8th Wonder of the World?

The Wonder Of

Deadvlei

Is Deadvlei the 8th Wonder of the World? Tucked away in the vast expanses of Namib-Naukluft Park, near the renowned Sossusvlei, the mesmerizing Deadvlei presents a stunning spectacle of natural contrasts. The site’s name, a blend of the English word “dead” and the Afrikaans “vlei” for marsh, aptly describes its haunting yet captivating landscape. Originally a flourishing wetland, Deadvlei has transformed over centuries into a stark white clay pan, a silent witness to the relentless march of time.

Surrounded by some of the tallest sand dunes in the world, Deadvlei is a dramatic canvas painted with deep, rust-red hues—testaments to thousands of years of iron oxidation. These majestic dunes form a fiery backdrop to the bleached white floor of the clay pan, creating a surreal, almost other-worldly scene. The area’s stark beauty is further highlighted by the scattered remains of ancient Camel Thorn trees; these skeletal forms, blackened by the harsh sun, stand frozen in time, defying the arid conditions that have preserved them in their death pose for nearly a millennium.

A Landscape Frozen
in Time

Ancient Camel Thorn Trees define Deadvlei’s dramatic scenery. About 900 years old, these trees have turned into blackened skeletons under the harsh desert sun. Floods from the Tsauchab River once nourished them after heavy rains. However, climate shifts led to severe droughts. Growing dunes then isolated the trees from their water source, sealing their fate.

Help Declare Deadvlei The
8th Wonder of the World

Deadvlei’s striking beauty has earned it a nomination as the 8th Wonder of the World. This unique site blends a millennia of history with a contrast of landscapes. Here, red dunes meet a white clay pan and black trees under a blue sky. To help Deadvlei win this title, visit the official campaign website and vote.

If named the 8th Wonder, Deadvlei will join ranks with the Great Wall of China, Christ the Redeemer, Machu Picchu, and others. Each landmark showcases significant achievements and deep historical importance, attracting global admiration.

Explore Deadvlei Yourself

Inspired to see this potential new Wonder of the World? Have a look at this stunning 360-degree view of Deadvlei.

We plan tailor-made trips to Deadvlei. Experience its surreal beauty and unique landscapes for yourself. Contact us today to start planning your journey. 

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