Bernie Van Der Linde
September 3, 2024
Big 5 Game Reserves in South Africa
This post contains some affiliate Links

Big 5 Game Reserves by Province: South Africa

South Africa is known for its Big 5 Game Reserves across the nine provinces.

Ready your adventure spirit as we explore what makes each Big Five Game Reserve a must-visit for every wildlife enthusiast.

Did you know that many of the Big Five Game Reserves in South Africa fall under SANParks? For a list of the National Parks, visit the SANParks website.

Here is a breakdown of the best Big 5 Game Reserves per province in South Africa.

Big Five Game Reserves in Limpopo Province

Limpopo province has some of the best Big Five Game Reserves in South Africa. The most well-known reserve is the Kruger National Park, which spans two provinces: Limpopo and Mpumalanga.

However, several smaller Big Five Game Reserves, like Welgevonden Game Reserve and Madike, also offer exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.

#1 Kruger National Park

The Big Five Kruger National Park is arguably South Africa’s crown jewel of Big Five Game Reserves. We love Kruger for its sheer size and biodiversity. The park offers 350 kilometres north to south and 60 kilometres west to east traversing, covering nearly 20,000 square kilometres. It offers endless opportunities to spot the Big Five and hundreds of other species. You can indulge in a luxury private lodge stay to get an unforgettable safari experience. Here, you will be treated to up-close encounters with wildlife and educated about the bushveld by a highly trained field guide. Here is a list of our top 10 recommended Big Five private game lodges in Kruger. If a private game lodge is not within your budget, you can also opt to stay in a bungalow in one of the many rest camps in Kruger. The park has 12 main rest camps (Skukuza, Lower Sabie, Elephants, Mopani, etc.), five bushveld camps, two bush lodges and four satellite camps. Our article ‘Where to stay in the Kruger National Park’ is a must-read for first-time visitors. Please also read our related articles about Kruger, which tell you everything you need to know and explain why we love visiting it. For guests who do not wish to stay inside the park, there is Kruger Gate Hotel. This is one of our favourite resorts near Kruger.

#2 Welgevonden Big 5 Game Reserve

Welgevonden is one of our favourite Big Five Game Reserves in South Africa because it is so close to Johannesburg’s international airport, OR Tambo. This 37,000-hectare reserve is located within a malaria-free area within the rich ecosystem of the Waterberg district.

There are several lodges located on the reserve, yet we highly recommend Sediba Luxury Safari Lodge and Elephants Crossing Lodge.

Unlike Kruger, private vehicles are not allowed on the reserve.

Big Five Game Reserves in Mpumalanga

Mpumalanga, which means ‘Place where the sun rises’, is synonymous with world-renowned, luxurious game reserves in South Africa.

The private Big Five Game Reserves in this area epitomise up-close encounters as game rangers are not confined to main roads.

#1 Lion Sands Big 5 Game Reserve

Lion Sands is part of the More Family Collection. Lion Sands Tinga Lodge offers a classic safari experience with natural decor and open design. Enjoy unprecedented game viewing over the Sabie River.

Tinga and Narina lodges are within proximity of Skukuza Airport, making them ideal for visitors who want to combine a luxury lodge with a self-drive experience. Visitors can rent a car from Skukuza Airport.

#2 Sabi Sands Big 5 Game Reserve

Located adjacent to Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands Game Reserve is famed for providing intimate Big Five encounters and upscale safari lodgings. What sets Sabi Sands apart for us is the incredible game viewing frequency. This reserve boasts some of the highest concentrations of big cats, making it a paradise for photographers and wildlife lovers alike.

Big Five Game Reserves in the Northwest Province

The capital of the northwest province is Mahikeng. This northwest province has several tourist attractions, including Sun City, Pilanesbrg National Park, Madikwe Game Reserve and the De Wildt Cheetah and Wildlife Trust.

Hot air ballooning is a popular activity in this area.

#1 Madikwe Big 5 Game Reserve

Madikwe is one of the lesser-known malaria-free reserves, yet it is the 5^th biggest in South Africa and offers some of the best wildlife experiences. It is situated on the border of Botswana, close to the Kalahari Desert, which makes it an ideal trip if you want to combine it with a safari game lodge in Botswana.

We admire Madikwe for its commitment to eco-friendly tourism. In addition to the Big 5, you may also encounter rare wild dogs and over 300 bird species. There are several luxurious lodges that make Madikwe an excellent choice for all types of travellers.

For travellers who want an authentic wildlife experience, we recommend Mosetlha Bush Camp & Eco Lodge. For those who crave opulence, there is Impodimo Game Lodge, Jaci’s Lodge, and Madikwe River Lodge, to name a few.

#2 Pilanesberg Big 5 National Park

Pilansberg National Park is the fourth largest reserve in South Africa. The reserve covers around 55,000 hectares and is also set in a malaria-free region on the eroded remnants of a volcanic crater. Unfortunately, the roads are very neglected, which makes it difficult to drive with a normal vehicle. The most popular lodges are Bakubung Bush Lodge and Kwa Maritane. We like the Pilansberg Game Reserve for being within two hours’ reach of Johannesburg, which allows visitors to make a day trip if they are limited on time. The reserve is ideal when you want to combine Sun City with a safari experience.

Kwa Maritane Resort in Pilanesburg

Kwa Maritane is a lovely, family-friendly resort offering many fun activities for the whole family. There is also a wildlife centre & Museum. Don’t miss the underground hide that faces a waterhole. Here, you can spend hours watching the Big Five drinking from the waterhole while enjoying a sundowner.

The resort offers bush boma dinners and has a great spa where you can rejuvenate your body and mind.

Big Five Game Reserves in Gauteng

Dinokeng Game Reserves is the only Big Five Game Reserve in Gauteng. We love this resort more for camping, as the roads and game viewing is not that great.

Big Five Game Reserves in KwaZulu-Natal

Kwa-Zulu Natal’s capital is Pietermaritzburg. The area has a humid subtropical climate and is known for beautiful waterfalls, the Drakensberg mountain range, and indigenous forest along the coast. The area is also famous for its San Bushman Rock Art, which is often found in caves in the region. Durban is one of the fastest-growing urban areas in the world. One of South Africa’s top hotels, The Oyster Box Hotel, is in Umhlanga, which is less than an hour’s drive from Durban. You should try to visit Kosi Bay, a coastal forest when you are in the area.

#1 Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park Big 5 Game Reserve

Nestled in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is renowned as one of Africa’s oldest game reserves and a pioneer in conservation.

What we love most about this park is its rich history and successful rhino conservation efforts. With rolling hills, wide rivers, and an impressive range of wildlife, including the Big 5, it’s a perfect blend of captivating landscapes and thrilling wildlife encounters.

#2 iSimangaliso Wetland Park

iSimangaliso is the Zulu word for miraculous. The reserve consists of 220km of unspoiled coastline, Africa’s biggest estuary, acacia savannah, sand forest and South Africa’s largest freshwater lake.

Cape Vidal is a must-visit location for exquisite natural scenery.

A boat trip on Lake St. Lucia is a must-do to admire the thousands of hippos and crocodiles up close.

#3 Thanda Private Game Reserve

Thanda, meaning ‘love’ in Zulu, is in northern Zululand, close to the Indian Ocean. This exceptional reserve offers the perfect blend of romance, exclusivity, and Zulu culture, complimented by superb Big Five game viewing. It is only four hours’ drive from Durban.

Although the lodges come with a hefty price tag, they are absolutely worth every cent when considering their delectable cuisine and romantic setting.

Big Five Game Reserves in Eastern Cape Province

The Eastern Cape covers 170,000 square kilometres over diverse landscapes. From snow-capped peaks of the southern Drakensberg Mountains to the lush forests of the Tsitsikamma and along an 800 km long coastline from Cape St Francis to the Wild Coast. The province boasts an abundance of bird and marine life, including 27 species of whales and dolphins. The region is also home to Great White Sharks and southern right whales. The area offers many exciting activities such as bungee jumping (from the famous Bloukrans River), zip lines, surfing, dune boarding, hiking, and many ore.

#1 Addo Elephant Park

Addo Elephant National Park is the third-largest reserve in South Africa and is well-known for its large concentration of elephants. The reserve is a half-hour’s drive from Gqebertha (formerly known as Port Elizabeth). It encompasses 164 hectares of land and a 120,000-hectare marine service.

Besides witnessing the Big Five up close, visitors can also admire Southern Right Whales and Great White Sharks in its marine environment. Visitors can enjoy self-drive game viewing, guided game drives, 4X4 trails, and even bush walks. There is a variety of accommodation types available, from camping to cottages and chalets. Accommodation at Addo Elephant Park can be booked through SANParks.

#2 Shamwari Game Reserve

Shamwari (malaria-free) Game Reserve offers an extraordinary safari experience combined with luxurious treatments. What makes Shamwari stand out for us is its strong emphasis on wildlife rehabilitation and conservation education. Visits to the on-site Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary and the Ian Player Rhino Centre supplement the exceptional Big Five sightings. There are seven luxurious lodges to choose from, each offering unforgettable encounters with nature.

And the best part? Guests are educated about their conservation efforts and contribute to sustainable tourism to protect the environment for future generations.

Big Five Game Reserves in Western Cape Province

The Western Cape is known for its floral diversity of Fynbos and award-winning wine farms.

The area is very popular among international tourists because of the Table Mountain National Park, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, and Cape Point.

#1 Grootbos

Grootbos is within a 2,500-hectare reserve of rugged terrain covered in Fynbos and indigenous Milkwood trees. The reserve offers a dramatic coastline view of Walkers Bay near Hermanus. We love Grootbos because it is a Big Five game reserve where you can also marvel at the Big Five marine animals, such as whales, great white sharks, penguins, seals, and dolphins. The reserve offers several fun activities, such as horse riding, quad biking and off-course wildlife game drives.

Final Thoughts

South Africa’s Big 5 game reserves offer something unique and enchanting for every discerning traveller. From the historical trails of Hluhluwe-Imfolozi to the expansive wilderness of the Kruger National Park and the eco-conscious Madikwe and Shamwari Game reserves, each reserve promises an unforgettable encounter with nature’s wonders.

There is no better place in Africa to enjoy sundowners on a game drive while watching the golden African sunset—pure magic!

Stay tuned for more exclusive travel tips and adventures from your trusted travel buddies. Don’t forget to share your safari stories with us!

Also visit our resources page to discover the ultimate tools and tips for planning your perfect trip.

Safe travels, Your Travel Buddies

Bernie and Petra

Please give us feedback on this travel blog

Did you find the information in this travel blog helpful? Please leave a comment below. Your comments ensure that we give you all the information you need to know before visiting a destination, and your feedback helps us improve the quality of the travel blog.

Until Next time,

Your travel buddies, Bernie and Petra

Big 5 Game Reserves by Province in South Africa

Big 5 Game Reserves by Province: South Africa