Our Top 5 Self Drive Safari Destinations

Our Top 5 Self Drive Safari Destinations

For those on limited budgets, seeing extraordinary wildlife and scenery on a self-drive excursion makes real sense. That feeling of driving at your own leisure, being behind the wheel as you encounter a herd of elephants crossing in front of you or a lion lounging on the roadside, is one that will never be forgotten.

The main attraction of a self-drive safari is the freedom that it offers, and in this blog we highlight some of the best places in Africa for a self-drive safari holiday.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

The Kruger National Park is the premier self-drive safari destination in South Africa, with an unbeatable variety of wildlife and habitats to explore, an excellent infrastructure of roads, inexpensive accommodation options, and a feeling of huge, wide-open spaces. Covering an area of nearly 8,000 square miles, it is one of the best places in the world to spot the big 5 and boasts an exceptionally rich mix of wildlife, including some 490 species of bird, 147 mammal species, 94 different reptile species, 33 types of amphibians and a magnificent array of over 200 different kinds of trees.

Etosha National Park, Namibia

Namibia is the king of self-drive safari destinations and the malaria-free Etosha National Park is undoubtedly the jewel in its crown. Situated in the country’s dry north, the park is defined by semi-arid landscapes set around a salt pan so large it can be seen from space. Its combination of grassland, salt pans and thorn-tree thickets supports a surprising variety of life, with highlights ranging from elephants, leopards and lions to both species of rhino. The park is also a birders’ paradise, with 340 avian species recorded within its boundaries. The park’s roads are generally accessible for 2x4 vehicles – although a 4x4 is preferable during the rainy season. There are six public rest camps offering a range of tented and luxury accommodation.

Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa

Less crowded than the Kruger, the malaria-free Addo Elephant National Park is one of South Africa’s most popular self-drive safari destinations. As its name suggests, Addo is most famous for its huge herds of elephant, but it’s also home to the Big Five as well as an impressive variety of birdlife. Located just a short drive from Port Elizabeth, it’s amazingly easy to get to, making it perfect for day trips as well as longer stays. No booking is required for day visitors, while in-park accommodation ranges from campsites to basic chalets and luxury lodges. Unusually, the park’s tarred and gravelled roads are suitable for both 2x4 and 4x4 vehicles and are meticulously well signposted.   .

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South Africa & Botswana

Those looking to explore the road less travelled should consider a trip to the mighty Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, a remote wilderness that straddles the border of South Africa and Botswana. Extreme temperatures, a low risk of malaria and roads suitable for 4x4s only means that self-driving the Kgalagadi is not necessarily easy; but the rewards far outweigh the effort of stringent forward-planning. This semi-arid section of the Kalahari Desert is famous for its predator and raptor sightings, with highlights including cheetah and black-maned lion.

Chobe National Park, Botswana

Dominated by the spectacular ribbon of the life-giving Chobe River, Chobe National Park is the best option for a self-drive safari in Botswana. Roads run along the waterfront, giving you the opportunity to spot animals as they come down to the river to drink. Chobe is famous for its abundant wildlife, including vast herds of elephant and buffalo. The river adds water species like hippo and otters; while the birdlife here is astounding. Chobe also includes the legendary Savuti Marsh, renowned for its lion, cheetah and hyena sightings. 4x4 vehicles are recommended for Chobe and anti-malaria medication is essential.