The best of both worlds: Big 5 safari experience in South Africa's coastal Eden

Nestled between the sparkling Indian Ocean and ancient mountain ranges, the Garden Route's game reserves fall within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a biodiversity and eco-tourism stronghold. Offering the best in natural beauty and a limitless choice of attractions, leave footprints behind on white sandy beaches at sunrise and be sitting by a pride of burly maned lions come lunch! In the malaria-free reserves of the Garden Route, you can expect to see predatory mammals, the Big 5, ample birdlife, and a range of other critters on a conservation-centred safari.

Highlights

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Stretch your legs on a morning bush walk led by knowledgeable trackers
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On a bird-watching excursion, keep your eyes peeled for flashes of endemic and indigenous avifauna
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Go on a sunset game drive coupled with safari snacks and wildlife sightings
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'Giddy-up!' on a horseback safari past herds of wild animals in the heart of nature
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Enjoy a private picnic under the shade of a photogenic Acacia tree
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Learn about the region's rich paleo-anthropological history and the Khoisan's age-old ties with the land

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Best time to go to Garden Route Game Reserves

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The Garden Route game reserves' added beauty is that they truly are an all-year-round destination. Our top tip is to visit in the autumn months, between March and May, or in Spring from September to November, when the cool nights and pleasantly warm days allow all day exploring. There is also less wind and rain. From September, you can marvel at kaleidoscopic spring flowers amidst the thorny bush! The hot temperatures (and hoards) during the festive season, from December to January, may be unbearable to some, but you may see more animals as they congregate at waterholes.

Featured Garden Route Game Reserves stays

Botlierskop Private Game Reserve

Experience the magnificence of South Africa at the bountiful Botlierskop Game Reserve
From$226 /ppn
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