Game Reserves in and near Clarens

Historical Grahamstown is surrounded by malaria-free game reserves that provide the very best facilities and rewarding game viewing. Shamwari Game Reserve, close to Grahamstown, has received many international accolades for its conservation efforts and luxury accommodation. Pumba Game Reserve, just outside Grahamstown, also offers a five-star lodge and Big Five game viewing.

Golden Gate National Park

Nestled in the rolling foothills of the Maluti Mountains of the north eastern Free State lies the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. The park derives its name from the brilliant shades of gold cast by the sun on the park's sandstone cliffs ... more

The opportunity to see African wildlife in their natural surroundings is indisputably one of the biggest draws for tourists from all over the world to South Africa.

Seeing the “Big Five”; white rhino, elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard up close and in the wild is one of many people's most desired travel experiences of their lifetime. South Africa is the best and safest place in Africa to do this, and has become a haven for nature enthusiasts from across the globe.

All budgets can be accommodated: from ultra luxurious five-star lodges to camping in the bush in a tent.

For the best and most diverse game viewing, any visitor's first stop must be Kruger National Park. This 2 million hectare protected area straddling the provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga on the west and Mozambique on the east is one of the best in Africa. The diversity of wildlife is incredible with over 500 species of birds, 107 species of mammals and 114 species of reptiles.

Every type of accommodation is available from camping sites to exclusive guest houses. It can be very crowded in the holiday seasons, so book far in advance to avoid disappointment.

If you are in the market for a luxury experience, the dozens of private games reserves around Sabie, Hazyview, Hoedspruit, Musina, Phalaborwa, Thabazimbi and Bela-Bela will combine opulence and the African bush experience in one location.

It's important to remember that you should check before arrival whether you require malaria protection in your game reserves of choice.

One of the best, and malaria-free places to view game is the Addo National Park in the Eastern Cape near Grahamstown, just north of Port Elizabeth. Addo boasts the most concentrated population of elephants in Africa and a sighting is nearly guaranteed. The rest of the “Big Five” is present, but in small numbers, and re-population programs are in full force. Numerous private game reserves in the area also provide opportunities to see a lion or rhino up close.