The Greater Kruger is famed for its game viewing opportunities and abundant predator sightings. The region is made-up of the Kruger National Park and a number of uncrowded private reserves, and tourists flock to the expansive wilderness to experience the safari of a lifetime. But there are those tourists that might want to experience a big five safari in a different landscape, perhaps closer to their primary holiday destination or just to experience something different from the Greater Kruger. These are our 3 choices of game reserves in South Africa NOT in Kruger.
Pilansberg Game Reserve
The Pilansberg Game Reserve is the perfect safari destination for those seeking a big five experience close to the glitz and glam of Sun City and the Lost City. Pilansberg is also an ideal option for a golf safari and those wanting to stay in a big five game reserve that’s 2 hours drive from the pulsating city of Johannesburg. Located in the North-west province, this malaria-free reserve is among southern Africa’s fascinating game reserves and is actually the 4th largest park in South Africa.
Pilansberg National Park spans 550 sq km of rugged bushveld comprising distinct vegetation zones of camphor, marula, mountain aloes, wild seringa and magic ghwarri. The low-lying scrub, savannah and trees provide the ideal habitat for a wealth of wildlife. The vegetation of the Pilansberg is a veritable crosshatch between two landscapes, the Kalahari and the Lowveld. Millions of years ago there were volcanic eruptions that caused massive craters on the landscape. The park was actually formed within this crater and to this day, there is still a fascinating circular formation of rock surrounding the park known as the ‘Pilanesberg Alkaline Ring Complex’.
There are plenty of sandy, dry river beds that collect pans of water during the rainy season and provide sustenance for wildlife. During the dry season is when you’ll spot wildlife flocking to pans to replenish their thirst.
With over 300 species of bird in the park and ample opportunity to spot lion, leopard and even cheetah; Pilansberg is most certainly worthy of visiting.
Lodges and camps within the Pilansberg are affordable and accessible, making it a sought after destination. We’d recommend Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge and Black Rhino Game Lodge.
Hluhluwe Imfolozi Reserve
The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is a proclaimed reserve in KwaZulu Natal that covers 96 000 hectares of hilly topography in the north, and open grasslands in the south on the Imfolozi side. What sets Hluhluwe apart from other game reserves is its high concentration of white rhino, and because of its conservation efforts it actually boasts the highest number of white rhinos in the world. Hluhluwe has its roots firmly entrenched in conservation, and actually served as the home of Operation Rhino in the 1950s and 60s.
The Hluhluwe River Flood Plain is a haven for eager twitchers and is actually the only region in South Africa where avid birders can view the yellow-throated, pink-throated and orange-throated longclaw in one location. In total, the reserve is home to a recorded 340 species of bird ! Scattered throughout the reserve there are a number of waterholes and pans, with viewing hides adorning the banks. The expansive Hluhluwe dam is teeming with activity from Nile crocodiles and hippos.
In terms of game viewing there is plenty to see. Hluhluwe is home to the big five and at least 80 species of wildlife, all thriving in this natural wilderness area. One of the major highlights of the area is the sightings of lions in trees. Climbing trees is not commonplace for lions, but it’s certainly not unheard of – especially in Kenya and Uganda. When you’re not trying to spot the elusive tree-climbing lions, then head out in search of the abundant populations of giraffe, wild dogs, cheetah and hyena.
There are a range of lodges and camps in the Hluhluwe region that cater for a variety of budgets, but our top choice is the Falaza Game Park and Spa.
Addo Elephant National Park
The Eastern Cape is a dynamic region comprising rugged coastlines intertwined with lush wilderness carpeted with typically Cape vegetation. Expect scenes of orange spears protruding from aloes on hilly landscapes, ancient forests, pristine beaches framing cascading cliffs, and game reserves rich with wildlife. The province in its entirety is worthy of exploring. One of the most popular national parks and certainly the largest, is the Addo Elephant National Park.
The park was proclaimed in 1931 and currently there are over 450 elephants within the national park. In conjunction with the huge herds of elephants there are also Cape buffalo, black rhino, general game, and big cats. There is 164 000 ha of reserve with a rich habitat of coastal dune field, home to such a variety of birdlife.
Another bonus about the Addo Elephant National Park? It’s malaria free.
We recommend staying at the luxurious Gorah Elephant Camp inside the park. Gorah is the only camp on a private concession and is a romantic camp with exquisite views of the park. Gorah is the ultimate in five star luxury.
