South Africa is home to splendid scenery and an array of impressive wildlife. The wild animals are a national treasure for those who are blessed to call South Africa their home. They are also a major draw card for tourists.
When exploring South Africa and all it has to offer, it is wise to immerse yourself in a memorable wildlife experience.
Here are three of the best wildlife experiences to enjoy in South Africa:
Spot the Big 5 at Kruger National Park
The world-famous Kruger National Park is the largest game reserve in South Africa. Covering nearly 2 million hectares, it is home to the Big 5 and plenty of other animal species. You can enjoy a number of wildlife experiences, including a self-drive glamping safari, guided tours or even walking safaris.
Picture: Getaway Gallery
As you immerse yourself in refreshing and breathtaking natural beauty, expect to encounter different animal species and interesting birdlife.
Aardvark safari in the Karoo
Aardvarks are one of the strangest, most enigmatic animals in Africa. They are shy and nocturnal. Thus, spotting an aardvark isn’t easy. South Africa’s Karoo and southern Kalahari are some of the noted areas for spotting aardvarks. You’ll need to take a night drive to increase your chances of spotting these elusive creatures. Since they come out to feed at night, this is when you’ll be able to spot them.
Picture: Etienne Oosthuizen
Having the sharp eyes of a seasoned guide is very useful when trying to spot an aardvark, as they know what footprints to look out for and what feeding areas to take you to in order to increase your chances of spotting this shy “earth pig”. However, if you’re on a self-drive aardvark safari, look for evidence of their burrows and dig around termite mounds. Their distinctive three-toed tracks are good indicators that an aardvark is or has been in the area.
Encounter the African Elephant at Addo Elephant National Park
Currently the third largest national park in South Africa, the original section of Addo Elephant Park was founded in 1931 and has expanded greatly since then. It currently houses more than 600 elephant in addition to a large number of other mammals.
Located in the Eastern Cape province, the Addo Elephant National Park is the ideal place to immerse yourself in the once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the African elephant.
The park is famous for its large elephant herds which graze on the vegetation and parade in a calm manner. Delight in the beauty of the flora and fauna as you walk through the diverse valleys, plains and forests of the bushveld. You will also have the opportunity to walk with, observe and feed some elephants alongside trained and knowledgeable guides.
An elephant encounter is not only the chance to enjoy the beauty of nature and wildlife, but also to learn more about the majestic animals which are admired for their strength, beauty and intelligence.
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