South Africa - Wildlife

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African wildlife is in many ways unique and South Africa offers some of the best game viewing on the continent. There are many different ways of experiencing the thrill of the African wildlife - hire a vehicle and 'do-it-yourself' in one of the many national, provincial or private reserves, fly in to some of the most famous and luxurious lodges in Africa and have an experienced 'bush hand' take you around in an open vehicle, join a walking trail and feel Africa through the soles of your feet. Whichever way you choose, South Africa can offer you the full range of big game experiences - you just have to get here and choose.

South Africa's wildlife, with the "Big Five" (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino and Buffalo), is a great attraction, particularly from May to September when game viewing is at its best, and the weather at its mildest. Thrill to the close  encounter with nature from an open land rover in a private game reserve, or from the comfort of a hired car or coach in one of South Africa's many national parks.

For the eco-tourist, who travels the world seeking authentic landscapes, South Africa is a last refuge. The thrust of South African tourism effort is to ensure that they are not ready to sacrifice their environment and heritage on the altar of reckless development.

National parks and nature reserves
South Africa's wildlife can be seen in its natural habitat in various national parks and nature reserves, some of which are privately owned. The National Parks Board manages 16 national parks and one national lake area with a total land area of some 3.2 million hectors. The game population of the world-renowned Kruger National Park includes the 'big five'. The park offers a wide range of accommodation from rudimentary to luxurious. There are several trails where visitors can cover large areas of unspoiled nature areas on foot under the guidance of a trail ranger. 

Each of the nine provinces manages the nature reserves, mountain catchments and wilderness areas within their borders. At present, there are more than 300 provincial nature reserves.

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