The Best Safaris in South Africa

Cape Town, South Africa Cape Town, South Africa

Interested in taking a safari in South Africa? Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking an exhilarating escapade, a safari is a terrific way to spend a memorable holiday in South Africa. But how should you choose one? Well, we have meticulously analyzed an extensive range of safari tours from highly esteemed and top-rated tour companies in order to find the absolute best options available. From thrilling game drives and close encounters with majestic creatures to immersive cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes, these top safaris in South Africa offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness nature's grandeur up close.


The Top 3:

  • 5 Days, $5400.00

  • 4 Days, $2550.00

  • 3 Days, $850.00

What are safaris like in South Africa?

South Africa

Here are the important factors:

  • 70 trip options analyzed
  • $269 average price per day (USD)
  • 2 to 21 days in length
  • 4.69 of 5 average rating
  • 18 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of safaris in South Africa, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.69 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 18 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. The average tour length spans 8 days, with tours ranging from 2 to 21 days long. Regarding physical activity options, you'll find tours marked as moderate, easy, and relaxing, with the most being moderate. With our thorough analysis of 70 safaris, we've found the best. So rest assured that South Africa has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Safaris in South Africa
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Professional Safari Africa
starstarstarstarstar
5.0 rating



5 Days Start/End in Johannesburg 2 Destinations 6 People at Most Ages 2 to 85 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

This fantastic trip has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Johannesburg. This terrific trip also highights wildlife, family-friendly activities, and safaris. Lasting 5 days, the maximum group size is 6 people, and it's good for guests from 2 to 85 years old. Organized by Professional Safari Africa, this is a great deal because it's only $1080 per day.

  • Jeep & 4WD
  • Wildlife
  • Family
  • Safari
  • Big Five
$5,400
TourRadar

  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Amatungulu Tour
starstarstarstarstar
5.0 rating



4 Days Start/End in Johannesburg 3 Destinations 8 People at Most Ages 1 to 99 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

With a stellar 5 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary safari adventure is the perfect choice. You're in for an epic adventure with a strong emphasis on wildlife, family-friendly activities, and safaris. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Johannesburg. Spanning across 4 days, the safari adventure accommodates 8 individuals, and is suitable for travelers of all ages. Offered by Amatungulu Tour, this remarkable safari adventure is priced at just $638 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

  • Jeep & 4WD
  • Wildlife
  • Family
  • Safari
  • Big Five
$2,550
TourRadar

  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Viva Safaris
starstarstarstarstar
5.0 rating



3 Days Start/End in Johannesburg 2 Destinations 9 People at Most Ages 1 to 99 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

This exceptional trip offering by Viva Safaris has received a 5 out of 5 rating. On this 3-day journey you can unwind while also making new memories. Johannesburg kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. With a group size of 9 people, it's suitable for travelers of all ages. You'll love the emphasis on wildlife, family-friendly activities, and safaris, too. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $283 per day.

  • Jeep & 4WD
  • Wildlife
  • Family
  • Safari
  • Big Five
$850
TourRadar

  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for safaris.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Viva Safaris
starstarstarstarstar
5.0 rating



3 Days Start/End in Johannesburg 2 Destinations 9 People at Most Ages 2 to 99 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

Check out this safari trip that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 5 out of 5 rating. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Johannesburg. With an emphasis on wildlife, family-friendly activities, and safaris, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. Spanning across 3 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 9 participants, and it's great for guests from 2 and up. Brought to you by the renowned Viva Safaris, this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $253 per day - an unbeatable value.

  • Jeep & 4WD
  • Wildlife
  • Family
  • Safari
  • Big Five
$759
TourRadar

  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for safaris.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Africa Moja Tours & Transfers
starstarstarstarstar
5.0 rating



2 Days Start/End in Johannesburg 3 Destinations 20 People at Most Ages 2 to 99 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

This 2-day safari is ideal for guests from 2 and up. And priced at only $240 per day, it's a great value, too. And since the priority is on wildlife, family-friendly activities, and safaris, this tour is a great choice. Johannesburg will be both the start and end of your journey. It's offered by Africa Moja Tours & Transfers, a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

  • Jeep & 4WD
  • Wildlife
  • Family
  • Safari
  • Big Five
$480
TourRadar

  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for safaris.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Hotspots2c
starstarstarstarstar
5.0 rating



3 Days Start/End in Johannesburg 3 Destinations 13 People at Most Ages 12 to 100 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

Priced at just $202 per day, this terrific 3-day journey is ideal for guests from 12 to 100 years old. Your adventure starts and ends in Johannesburg. Organized by the reputable Hotspots2c, this is one of the best tours on this list.

  • Jeep & 4WD
  • Wildlife
  • Photography
  • Safari
  • Big Five
$605
TourRadar

  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for safaris.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Sandy Tracks
starstarstarstarstar
5.0 rating



4 Days Start/End in Johannesburg 2 Destinations 8 People at Most Ages 12 to 90 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

Check out this incredible safari trip that has received a 5 out of 5 rating from previous guests. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around wildlife and safaris. With a duration of 4 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 8 people, and is good for guests from 12 to 90 years old. Johannesburg will be the beginning and end of your trip. This fantastic option, organized by Sandy Tracks, presents an unbeatable value at just $202 per day.

  • Jeep & 4WD
  • Wildlife
  • Local Guide
  • Safari
  • Big Five
$806
TourRadar

  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Endless Summer Tours
starstarstarstarstar
4.9 rating



4 Days Start/End in Johannesburg 2 Destinations 8 People at Most Ages 2 to 99 Guest Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars

Spanning over 4 days, this safari adventure has a maximum size of 8 individuals. Welcoming guests from 2 and up, it is organized by Endless Summer Tours, a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Johannesburg. This terrific trip also highights wildlife, family-friendly activities, and safaris. Available at an unbeatable price of only $413 per day, this option also has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

  • Jeep & 4WD
  • Wildlife
  • Family
  • Safari
  • Big Five
$1,650
TourRadar

  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for safaris.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by G Adventures
starstarstarstarstar
4.9 rating



8 Days Start/End in Johannesburg 2 Destinations 18 People at Most Ages 12 to 90 Guest Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional safari trip that has garnered a 4.9 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 8 days, this jouney will have 18 participants, and it warmly welcomes guests from 12 to 90 years old. You're in for an epic adventure with a strong emphasis on wildlife and safaris. Expertly organized by G Adventures, this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $212 per day.

  • Jeep & 4WD
  • Wildlife
  • Safari
  • Big Five
$1,699
TourRadar

  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for safaris.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Viva Safaris
starstarstarstarstar
4.8 rating



5 Days Start/End in Johannesburg 2 Destinations 9 People at Most Ages 1 to 99 Guest Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars

This memorable trip is offered by Viva Safaris which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $226 per day. Johannesburg kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. You'll love the emphasis on wildlife, family-friendly activities, and safaris, too. The maximum group size is 9 people, welcoming travelers of all ages.

  • Jeep & 4WD
  • Wildlife
  • Family
  • Safari
  • Big Five
$1,132
TourRadar

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Africa, The Best Wildlife Tours to South Africa, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in South Africa, The Best Historical Tours in South Africa, The Best 10-Day Tours in South Africa, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in South Africa, The Best 3-Day Tours in South Africa, The Best 2-Week Tours in South Africa, The Best 3-Week Tours in South Africa, The Best Bicycle Tours in South Africa, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in South Africa, The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in South Africa, The Best Overlanding Trips in South Africa, The Best Coach Bus Tours in South Africa, The Best Adventure Tours to South Africa, The Best Eco Tours in South Africa, The Best Sightseeing Tours in South Africa, The Best Cultural Tours in South Africa, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in South Africa, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in South Africa, The Tours for Animal Lovers in South Africa, The Best Camping Tours in South Africa, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in South Africa, The Best Budget Safaris in South Africa, The Best Tours Under $1000 in South Africa, The Best Luxury Tours to South Africa, The Best Budget Tours to South Africa, The Best Tours for Seniors to South Africa, The Best Contiki Tours to South Africa, or The Best G Adventures Tours to South Africa for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Johannesburg, The Best 3-Day Tours from Cape Town, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Johannesburg, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Cape Town, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Pretoria, The Best 10-Day Tours from Cape Town, The Best 10-Day Tours from Johannesburg, The Best 2-Week Tours from Cape Town, or The Best 2-Week Tours from Johannesburg for more package tour options.

How much do safaris in South Africa cost?

Average Daily Price Safaris
$269

Visitors will find a large range of terrific options for safaris when planning a visit to South Africa. The price of these specific trips can vary according to length, destinations, and travel style. The average price of safaris in South Africa based on data from 70 options is an affordable $269 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in South Africa.

And for more information on South Africa, see South Africa Travel Costs and South Africa Hotel Costs.


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