A self-drive in the Kruger National Park or a safari in a private game reserve? This is a question asked by our guests time and time again. Surely the animals are the same? One could even argue that between the Kruger and a private game reserve such as Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, you could see exactly the same elephant since wildlife has the luxury of roaming freely between the two reserves. But that’s not the case, and here’s why…
Guests on a safari vehicle observing two cheetahs, Image Credit: Shumba Camp
One Hyena Pup – Too Many People
Let me paint you a picture. My first ever sighting of a hyena was on a main road in the Kruger National Park – it was a pup. What a sight! But instead of being able to follow the hyena through the bush in a 4×4, we were jostling for a vantage point with a bunch of other tourists.
In a closed Volkswagen Golf, our heads and cameras were outstretched in an ungainly attempt to get a half-decent photo. After half an hour, we reached the front of the queue, and our reward was a 30-second view of the adorable pup before being hooted at – yes, hooted! Time to move on in search of our next impala.
A curious hyena emerges as autumn cools the Kruger bush
Private Reserves Take Experiences to New Heights
A real safari is about the overall experience. Tales over pre-dinner drinks from rangers and the sudden use of the flash light during dinner to see the hippo in front of the lodge deck all create the memories that urge us to return at the first opportunity.
It’s about immersing yourself in Africa while at the same time seeing real nature in all its spectacular (and at times brutal) glory. It’s about stepping onto a safari vehicle in search of the Big 5, and about the thrill of marauding through the bush after a pack of African wild dogs in hot pursuit of an impala.
Safari vehicles become chariots in the quest for the elusive Big 5, Image Credit: Camp Savuti
So, Why Go for a Private Game Reserve?
In a nutshell, it’s about what makes a private game reserve experience different. Countless advantages come with this, and we've distilled some key highlights that stand out.
1. Game Viewing is Better in Private Game Reserves
Why would game-viewing be better? Well, it's private! No cars of other tourists in a gaudy array of blinding colours. Furthermore, safari vehicles can go off-road, whereas in a National Park, you'll be limited to animals visible from the main roads. The best and most knowledgeable rangers also work here and are not restricted to hours. Therefore, they can go on night drives and stay as long as you want on a sighting!
Exploring the road less travelled, Image credit: Londolozi Founders Camp
2. Best Photo Opportunities
Sitting in an elevated, open-top safari vehicle gives you the best view possible to get the perfect photo. Or, if you stay closer to the ground, rangers can lead walking safaris and other exciting activities so you can get that photo right up the rhino's nostril! Some luxury lodges even have game drive vehicles adapted specifically for photographers and their equipment.
3. You Get Traversing Rights
You might often hear about "traversing rights" in reference to your safari experience. So, what are traversing rights? It allows neighbouring lodges to drive on each others' land, which means more space for you to explore and find animals.
The larger the traversing area, the better! More land equals more biodiversity. For instance, Phinda Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal supports seven different ecosystems – each one attracting a unique variety of life.
Phinda Rock Lodge dining by lantern light, Image Credit: andBeyond Phinda
4. Private Game Reserve Lodges Are World-Renowned
The best (and often award-winning) lodges in South Africa are located in private game reserves. For example, luxury private lodges such as Tanda Tula, Singita, Lion Sands, Silvan Safari and Londolozi set the standard for style, service and cuisine.
Imagine being driven around a marula tree – after your second or third leopard sighting of the day – to arrive at sundowners and canapés lit by lanterns hanging in the tree. Or, perhaps a pancake breakfast or a bush braai (BBQ). Well, these are treats reserved for the private game reserves.
Romantic bush dinner under the stars, Image Credit: Tanda Tula Safari Camp
5. There's Something for Everyone
A variety of lodges means there's something for everyone. Whether you're in search of contemporary design, fine dining and health spas at the likes of Royal Malewane or Tintswalo, or you're looking for a rustic feel at Nottens, African chic at Chitwa Chitwa, or a luxury tented safari at Ngala – you'll find an abode perfectly suited to your needs and likes.
Many lodges are also family-friendly, with kids' programs to keep the little ones entertained so you can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation.
The best of the best in the world of travel, Image Credit: Royal Malewane
6. Private Game Reserves Are All About Luxury
Wherever you choose to stay, a private game reserve will create memories that last a lifetime. But be warned… Africa will get under your skin, and your next trip could be sooner than you think.
The general rule about the safari experience is that you get what you pay for. For many, a trip to Africa is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity resulting from years of daydreaming and sacrificing those much-needed weekend trips to Paris. So why compromise the experience by cutting costs where it counts?
There are countless unforgettable moments waiting to be shared in Africa’s breathtaking landscapes, Image Credit: Singita
Ready for Your Own Private Game Reserve Safari?
Private game reserves aren’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s exactly the point. Whether you’re after exceptional guiding, quieter sightings, or a lodge that feels more personal, there’s a reserve to match the kind of safari you want to have.
Our Travel Experts have first-hand knowledge that makes them the best people to tailor your safari to meet your style. They're here to give you all the advice you need, so that you can have the African adventure of a lifetime!
