As summer winds down and the air starts to cool, autumn and winter quietly become one of the best times to head out on safari in South Africa. With milder weather, fewer people, and better visibility in the bush, spotting animals gets a whole lot easier. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or a longer getaway, the next couple of months are perfect for exploring some of the country’s top national parks and game reserves.
Kruger National Park
Mpumalanga | Limpopo
If you’re dreaming of a classic South African safari, Kruger is the place. It’s one of the biggest and most famous parks in the country — and for good reason. Now is a great time to go: it’s quieter, cooler, and the animals are easier to spot. You can choose from simple rest camps inside the park or treat yourself to a luxury lodge nearby, so it suits just about every kind of traveller.
Whether you’re after an authentic bush experience or a bit of indulgence, Kruger’s got you covered. Budget-conscious travellers can stay at any of the SANParks Camps, while Elephant Walk Retreat, just a stone’s throw away from Crocodile Bridge Gate, offers a more upscale, self-catering safari stay on the banks of the Crocodile River. For a luxurious escape, Motswari Private Game Reserve delivers incredible views, comfort, and guided game drives.
Addo Elephant National Park
Eastern Cape
Addo is a top pick for anyone who loves elephants — and it’s completely malaria-free, which is a bonus. It’s close to Gqeberha and works well as part of a Garden Route trip. The park is great for self-drives and is easy to explore, especially if it’s your first safari. The cooler weather means you’ll probably catch the animals being a bit more active, too.
With options for every kind of traveller, Addo makes it easy to plan a relaxed getaway. The SANParks Camps offer an affordable stay inside the park, while Zuurberg Mountain Village gives you a charming, mid-range option just outside. For something more exclusive, Woodall Country House and Spa is perfect for unwinding after a day of wildlife spotting.
Pilanesberg National Park
North West
Need a quick escape from the city? Pilanesberg is only a few hours from Joburg or Pretoria, making it ideal for a weekend break. The scenery is a mix of bushveld and rocky hills — it’s actually inside an old volcano. The dry air this time of year means you’ll have a good chance of seeing animals around the waterholes, and the cooler temperatures make game drives a lot more comfortable — just remember a warm jacket and a beanie.
Planning a weekend escape? Stay close to the action with a family-friendly resort like The Kingdom Resort, or opt for a luxury, self-catering experience at Morokolo Safari Lodge. If you’re celebrating something special, aha Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge offers a more luxurious retreat with guided drives and spa treatments.
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park
KwaZulu-Natal
Looking for something a bit wilder? Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is one of the oldest parks in Africa and has a raw, rugged charm. It’s well known for rhino sightings and has a more remote feel compared to some of the bigger parks. While things are cooling down, it makes exploring the hilly terrain much easier, with great views and plenty of wildlife to spot along the way.
This wild corner of KwaZulu-Natal pairs perfectly with rustic lodges and safari stays. AfriCamps at Bonamanzi Game Reserve is a great self-catering option just 30 minutes away, while Hluhluwe River Lodge on the banks of Lake St Lucia caters to families and couples and includes breakfast and dinner. For something special, Makakatana Bay Lodge, also on the banks of Lake St Lucia, offers full-board luxury with game drives and activities included.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
Northern Cape
The Kgalagadi is a dream for people who love wide open spaces and dramatic desert scenes. It’s far from the crowds and feels like a real adventure — perfect if you enjoy camping or 4×4 road trips. In autumn, the extreme heat starts to ease, making it a better time to visit. You’ll find everything from lions with black manes to graceful antelopes in a setting that feels otherworldly.
The Kgalagadi is made for travellers who don’t mind being a bit off the grid — in fact, they prefer it. Try Kgalagadi Lifestyle Lodge for affordable accommodation with all the amenities, less than 10 minutes from the gate, or Molopo Lodge for a comfortable B&B base about 40 minutes away. If you’re up for something wilder, SANParks Urikaruus Wilderness Camp and SANParks Bitterpan Wilderness Camp both offer raised cabins in unfenced camps overlooking busy waterholes.
Marakele National Park
Limpopo
Tucked away in the Waterberg Mountains, Marakele is peaceful and a little under the radar. It’s got a mix of mountains, valleys, and bush, with fewer visitors and lots of breathing room. Now is a lovely time to be there — cool and clear, ideal for relaxed drives or short hikes. Keep an eye out for elephants, baboons, and even vultures soaring overhead.
This peaceful park pairs beautifully with a stay at SANParks Bontle Rest Camp, especially if you’re travelling on a budget or love to camp. Luara Wildlife, just outside the park, is great for a comfortable, relaxed stay, but for a luxe bush break, Marataba Safari Lodge and Marataba Mountain Lodge in the park both blend high-end design with a deep connection to nature.
Before the proper winter chill sets in and we all start spending more time indoors, now is the time to get out into nature. These parks are full of wildlife, fresh air, and space to breathe — no rush, no crowds, just the magic of the bush. So grab your jacket, charge your camera, and make the most of this golden season in the wild.
Main image: Marataba Safari Lodge
Also read:
Autumn Adventures: The Best Spots to See SA’s Changing Leaves
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