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South Africa
A Southern Africa Safari Through Iconic Private Reserves

This 12-day South Africa luxury safari features exceptional wildlife encounters paired with elegant lodges and expert guiding. Journey deep into private reserves within the Greater Kruger region, where Big Five sightings, conservation-driven experiences, and seamless service define every day. From Timbavati to the legendary Sabi Sand, this Southern Africa safari delivers indulgent and memorable moments in the wild.

Journey at-a-glance:

  • Day 1: Johannesburg
  • Days 2–4: Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
  • Days 5–7: Thornybush Game Reserve
  • Days 8–12: Sabi Sands Nature Reserve

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South Africa Luxury Safari | Southern Africa Safari
Game Drives from Lion Sands River Lodge

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Your South Africa luxury safari first begins in Johannesburg. Upon arrival, a Ker & Downey representative will greet you and assist with your transfer.

Settle in at a comfortable airport hotel, allowing time to rest after your international journey. As such, this easy first night ensures a smooth transition into safari country the following day.

The next morning, return to the airport for your scheduled flight to Hoedspruit. On arrival, transfer by road to Simbavati Hilltop Lodge, perched above the sweeping plains of the Timbavati.

Here, your South Africa luxury safari truly begins as you immerse yourself in the surrounding African bush. As such, morning and evening game drives focus on peak wildlife activity.

You will soon find that lions, leopards, elephants, and rhinos roam freely across this unfenced wildlife reserve. Meanwhile, endangered species such as wild dogs and cheetahs are also present. Birdlife is also abundant, with hundreds of recorded species.

Between drives, relax at the luxury lodge, enjoying panoramic views, spa treatments, or visiting Simbavati’s community initiatives. Finally, evenings conclude with fireside dinners beneath the African sky.

Then continue to Thornybush Game Reserve, another premier private game reserve known for exceptional game density.

You will eventually arrive at Thornybush Game Lodge located within Greater Kruger National Park. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch overlooking a sandy riverbed. Indeed, you will notice wildlife frequently passing by. 

Over the next two days, explore this rich ecosystem through morning and afternoon game drives through the wildlife reserve. Guided by expert rangers and trackers, you will of course likely experience close encounters with lion and leopard. In addition, guided bush walks and night drives reveal smaller creatures and nocturnal species. This therefore adds depth to your South African safari experience.

Then continue to the world-renowned Sabi Sands Game Reserve, your final and most iconic African safari destination. Check in to Lion Sands River Lodge, a safari lodge set along the Sabie River, for four nights.

Indeed, the Sabi Sand is famous for its amazing wildlife and outstanding leopard sightings. Because the reserve limits vehicle numbers, each encounter feels private and unrushed. Also, the lodge offers experience off-road driving, walking safaris, and night drives, offering unmatched flexibility.

Spend three full days immersed in this extraordinary environment. For example, watch elephants gather along the riverbanks, and track predators with skilled guides. Then return to the lodge for refined dining, river views, and moments of quiet reflection.

Depart with lasting memories of one of the finest luxury safari experiences South Africa offers.

Customize Your South Africa Luxury Safari

Allow Ker & Downey World Travel to tailor this Southern Africa safari to your travel style, pace, and interests. Perhaps consider adding time in Cape Town, the Western Cape, or Eastern Cape in South Africa. Or, venture further into Botswana's Okavango Delta and Kalahari Desert.

Therefore, contact a Ker & Downey Travel Designer to personalize your own journey. In the meantime, explore the best seasons for wildlife viewing in Southern Africa.

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