Gone are the days of a safari simply meaning a game drive in a big open vehicle. These days you can live on the wild side and spot South Africa’s wildest animals in their natural habitat with a wide range of safari experiences including horseback, bushwalk, fishing, golf, river, balloon, and elephant back safaris.
The Kruger National Park is South Africa’s top tourist destination and one of the world’s most famous game reserves. Around 180,000 visitors enter the 20,000km² park via the Phalaborwa Gate in Limpopo every year to experience Big 5 safari country at its finest. As the “Central Gate to the Kruger National Park”, Phalaborwa is the perfect place to get your safari fix – however you prefer it.
Have a look at some of the exciting safaris you can experience in Phalaborwa:
Golf Safari
Combine your love of golf with your passion to explore the unspoilt African bush. You can literally golf in the wild at Hans Merensky Estate, which boasts a superb 18-hole course that ranks as one of the top 20 in South Africa. It also offers one of the most unique golfing experiences in the world as the resident wildlife that wander the course have right of way. The Masorini Bush Lodge course also contributes to an unforgettable golf safari.
River Safari
There’s no better way to experience the bush without actually entering it than on a river cruise. Sip sundowners and feast on a traditional South African braai as you cruise on a sunset barge down the Olifants River. All the while, you can keep an eye out for hippos, crocodiles, elephants, water birds, and other wildlife roaming along the banks of the Klaserie Game Reserve, which borders and is open to the Kruger National Park.
Contact: +27 (0)15 781-6168
Balloon Safaris
Ok, so there may be one way to beat a river safari…and that’s in a hot air balloon. Float through the air and see the African game from a whole new perspective. I also suggest booking a microlight tour if you enjoy flying and don’t have a fear of heights or dinky contraptions.
Contact: +27 (0)84 5158 646
Fishing Safari
A fishing expedition is a great way to spend a good few hours outdoors. If you’re not as fascinated by the wildlife on land as those beneath the water, this is the safari for you. While you’re waiting for that perfect bite, you’ll have plenty of time to scour the land for animals coming to quench their thirst. Just keep an eye out for crocs and hippos!
Contact: +27 (0)82 484 7292 or +27 (0)82 765 9310
Game Drive Safaris
Explore the normally restricted parts of the Kruger National Park with qualified and registered safari guides. Morning and night game drives give you the best chance to spot game at their most active.
Contact: +27 (0)15 781 0027
Not enough choices? You can also try out elephant back, horseback, and bushwalk safaris. Visit the Tourism Information Kiosk as soon as you get to Phalaborwa to find all the information you need!
Where to stay?
Kaia Tani is an exclusive 4-star guest house only 1 km from the Kruger National Park. The en-suite rooms are individually furnished in true African style and equipped with amenities, TV, and air-conditioning. Besides a lounge with library, visitors can unwind in the bar overlooking the rock swimming pool. The Lapa has a constant supply of complimentary tea and coffee. Dinners are a delightful blend of Mediterranean and African cuisine. Find out more.
What type of safari would you opt for?
