One of the main attractions about travelling in South Africa is the African bush. In terms of wildlife the place to go is the Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga province. There are many other reserves north of Johannesburg, such as Marakele National Park, Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, and the Pilansberg National Park.

The cheapest and most flexible option is to hire a car and drive into these reserves. Access and accommodation in the national reserves is fairly easy out of season or if you book a long time in advance.

A productive way to spend quality time in the bush is to do a game ranger course where you live and work in the bush whilst gaining a qualification.

Many organizations have structured programs whereby you pay to spend time with animals and working with local communities. Costs vary, so do your research and plan well in advance so as to save!

Organisations and South African reserves offering bush experiences:

Kwa Madwala – 8 week programs.

AfrEco Tours – safari guide training course

Pathfinders – various courses in the Kruger Park.  

Moholoholo – game ranger guide course

Enkosini Eco Experience – 6 to 12 month ranger program and other options

SanWild – volunteer to help

Centre for Animal Rehabilitation and Education (CARE) – work with baby baboons

Daktari Bush School and Wildlife Orphanage – work with school children and care for animals

Shumba Experience – work with cheetahs in Namibia

Volunteer Africa – options include the Kruger Park, Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Institute and Wild Coast

Nature Reserves

There are hundreds of nature reserves in South Africa, all of which offer a different experience. Click here for a dedicated website of all South Africa’s nature reserves.