Cape Town is a fantastic starting point for a safari, combining vibrant city life with easy access to some of Africa’s best safari destinations. Whether you’re looking to explore the renowned Okavango Delta, the vast Kruger National Park, or exclusive private reserves, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable journey. Learn why starting your safari from Cape Town offers the perfect mix of adventure and luxury, with recommendations on destinations, travel logistics, and experiences.
If you’re craving adventure but short on time, we’ve created the cheat sheet you need. In this guide, we’ll take you through three main choices for the best safaris from Cape Town for first-timers—each with its own unique perks, so you can dive deeper into whichever suits your schedule, budget, or bucket-list dreams:
Close to Cape Town:
- Drive to a local game reserve like Aquila or Sanbona
- Perfect if you want a short getaway (2–3 hours by car)
- You’ll see rescued animals and beautiful landscapes, but it’s not the same as venturing into a truly wild, untamed habitat
Big 5 Adventures in Kruger National Park:
- Quick 2.5-hour flight to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport
- One of Africa’s largest and most iconic wildlife havens
- Ideal if you want classic game drives, diverse habitats, and multiple lodging options
Bucket-List Wildlife Experience in the Okavango Delta:
- Fly from Cape Town to Maun (2.5 hours) and hop on a helicopter to Atzaró Okavango
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: the “real deal” wilderness experience, with mokoro rides and abundant year-round wildlife
- Best if you want an immersive safari and don’t mind travelling a bit further for a once-in-a-lifetime trip
We’ve weighed up the pros and cons so you can jump straight to safari daydreaming.
Jump to Local Safari Options | Jump to Kruger | Jump to Okavango Delta | Jump to Pros & Cons Table
| Option | Travel Time/Logistics | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local Reserves (e.g. Aquila, Sanbona) | 2–3 hours by car or private transfer from Cape Town | – Minimal travel time – Budget-friendly for short trips – Great for families or first-timers – A feel-good safari! Rescued animals and rewilded land help conservation efforts | – Not fully wild – Smaller range of species – Shorter stays might be less immersive | – Day-trippers – Families – Time-crunched travellers |
| Kruger National Park | 2.5-hour flight from Cape Town to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) | – Iconic Big 5 destination and the largest national park in Africa – Wide range of lodges from luxury to classic tented options – Massive diversity of wildlife and landscapes – Great for multi-day trips | – Can be busier during peak times – Some areas require malaria precautions | – Classic safari seekers – Photographers – Longer stays (4+ days) |
| Okavango Delta (Botswana) | 2.5-hour flight to Maun + 20-min helicopter transfer to Atzaró Okavango | – UNESCO World Heritage Site – Authentic “wild” safari: traditional mokoro rides, abundant year-round wildlife, over 400 bird species – Unique water-based activities – Exclusive, intimate lodges | – More travel logistics are required – Higher cost – A longer trip is recommended to truly soak in the experience | – Bucket-list adventurers – Couples/honeymoon – Wildlife enthusiasts wanting the ‘real deal’ |
| Zimbabwe (e.g. Hwange, Mana Pools) | Flight from Cape Town to Victoria Falls or Harare (varies), then transfer to parks | – Epic Victoria Falls nearby – Rich wildlife – Zambezi River activities – Fewer crowds than some SA reserves – Strong conservation ethos | – Longer total travel time – Malaria area – Lodging can vary, so research is required | – Adventure seekers – Africa “repeaters” or those wanting something different |
Can You Go on a Safari from Cape Town?
A safari from Cape Town is not only accessible, but it’s also one of the most captivating ways to experience the unique contrasts of Southern Africa. An itinerary that combines the urban and natural charms of Cape Town with the wildlife and remoteness of a safari promises an exciting experience for every traveller.
Cape Town is Your Safari Gateway
Cape Town is a lively destination with unique offerings you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. Although the Mother City is located on the southern tip of Africa and seemingly far away from other destinations, it’s easily paired with adventures in the wild, thanks to convenient direct flights that operate multiple times a day to Kruger National Park (2.5 hours) and Maun, Botswana’s gateway to the Okavango Delta (2 hours and 35 minutes.)
Options for Safari Experiences
Cape Town International Airport has numerous nonstop flights that can land you in some of Africa’s most rewarding safari destinations, from Kruger National Park to local favourites like Aquila Private Game Reserve and further afield to the spellbinding Okavango Delta, located in Botswana.
To embark on a Kruger safari from Cape Town, you can board a nonstop flight from Cape Town International Airport and land in the wilderness, ready for an unbeatable wildlife experience.
Located just 2.5 hours away in South Africa’s northeast, Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest game reserves with a host of accommodation options that range from closer-to-nature rest camps for the adventurous at heart, authentic tented camps and luxury African safari lodges. Here, you can expect to find the Big 5 (elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard and rhino) plus zebra, antelope, giraffe, warthogs, and a plethora of beautiful birds across the Kruger’s unique habitats that range from sandveld to savannah, woodlands and mountainous bushveld, each harbouring its own curious sightings.
Those wishing to stay closer by needn’t miss out on the safari fun. There are several private game reserves near Cape Town. Aquila Private Game Reserve is located just two hours away from Cape Town and boasts a thrilling wildlife experience for the whole family that’s easy to get to for fun-filled day trips, weekend escapes or longer journeys in nature. Alternatively, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is a mere 3.5 hours away from Cape Town in a place known as the Little Karoo. At the foot of the Warmwaterberg Mountains, you’ll uncover ancient San rock art, endemic flora, and the sculpted Cape mountains. There’s family-friendly accommodation, couples’ retreats and an adventurous Explorers Camp.
For an experience that’s steeped in contrasts and pairs the best of two diverse destinations, you can’t beat a Cape Town to Okavango Delta safari.
A safari from Cape Town to the wilds of Botswana is a journey that some describe as a bucket list trip. With this thrilling itinerary, you see two inimitable destinations and experience a world of wonder on one effortless journey. A safari in Botswana embraces vast stretches of untamed wilderness, thrilling encounters with wildlife and birds, rich cultural immersion, and the chance to experience water-born safari activities to explore one of the most fascinating ecosystems on the planet – the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Okavango Delta.
Perfect for a Diverse Itinerary Imbuing Urban, Coastal and Safari Experiences
The beauty of beginning (or ending) your safari in Cape Town is the diversity of experiences you’re bound to have. From the buzzing urban sprawl of the Mother City to the stretching coastline and marine wildlife sights, the picturesque wine routes and the history immersion. All this, combined with an unbridled safari in Africa’s wilderness, is a transformative journey that’s unlike anything you’ve experienced.
Top Safari Destinations Accessible from Cape Town
1. Okavango Delta, Botswana:
Fly from Cape Town to Maun, then transfer to Atzaró Okavango for a premium safari experience in three hours. Ideal for those checking out of Atzaró Cape Town after a leisurely breakfast, you can easily transfer to Cape Town International Airport to board a flight that will land you in Maun, Botswana’s gateway to the wild. With a seamless transfer, you’ll take off in a helicopter bound for our home in the wilderness – Atzaró Okavango. And it is here from the sky that you’ll grasp the magnitude of the Okavango Delta, which will feel a world away from the cosmopolitan coast of Cape Town. Here in this untamed stretch of waterways lies one of the greatest wildlife displays on the planet, with scores of mammals, birdlife, and fascinating ecosystems waiting to be explored.
And it’s quite literally unlike anything you’ve experienced before. In this wildly unique habitat, you’ll encounter curious sightings like elephants wading through water channels with trunks outstretched like snorkels, lions pouncing through wetlands in pursuit of prey, and termite mounds that tower overhead, while millions of “architects” continue to shape the landscape as they’ve done for centuries. Here, everyday is a life-altering experience as you discover the largest inland delta on the planet.
2. Kruger National Park, South Africa:
For an adventure-filled experience for all ages, Kruger National Park offers you the chance to discover another corner of South Africa. The renowned Kruger National Park, or Kruger as it’s known to locals, sprawls out over two million hectares and is reachable via a short flight to Johannesburg, followed by a transfer to Kruger’s popular camps and lodges. It’s here that you’ll find a thrilling collection of private game reserves – Sabi Sands, Balule, Timbavati, Klaserie, MalaMala and Manyeleti – alongside the public-entry national park. Visitors can select from a range of accommodation options, from an authentic under-canvas experience to contemporary safari lodges nestled in nature, and all are just an easy 2.5 hours away from Cape Town.
3. Private Game Reserves Near Cape Town:
From Cape Town safari day trips for families, couples and solo travellers are a breeze, thanks to nearby private game reserves and wildlife destinations. Here are our favourites:
From beach to bush with ease, Aquila Private Game Reserve is an ideal overnighter or day trip destination for the whole family. You can look forward to traditional game drives with half or full-day safari options along with a children’s entertainment and adventure zone, a blissful day spa, and an on-site restaurant. Best of all, you can hire a car and drive yourself, request a shuttle transfer or enjoy private transport suitable for up to four people. Those wishing to stick around longer can choose from luxe lodges or safari cottages, all set amongst nature.
Beyond game drives and action-packed adventures, Aquila Private Game Reserve is deeply committed to wildlife conservation and rehabilitation. Aquila Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Conservation Centre (ARC) is a non-profit organization that supports rehabilitation programs, habitat restoration and conservation projects, and wildlife rescue initiatives. By visiting the reserve alone, you are helping to support these vital project
In contrast, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve offers guests three distinct accommodation options: the eco-friendly Dwyka Tented Lodge, the homestead-style Gondwana Family Lodge, and the historic Tilney Manor, surrounded by a picturesque indigenous garden. Venturing out into the wild reveals the ‘Little Karoo,’ an area characterised by rugged terrain, towering cliffs, scenic mountain passes, rivers and swathes of Indigenous flora. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve has been rewilded over the past 20 years to restore the region’s biodiversity and protect threatened ecosystems. It’s well worth the scenic journey from Cape Town!
4. Cape Town to the Eastern Cape Safari:
If you’re keen to uncover one of the most scenic road trips on the planet, then the 820km journey from Cape Town to Shamwari Private Game Reserve is for you. Best experienced over the course of a few days, this route takes in what’s known as the Garden Route, a wildly scenic, ocean-hugging road trip that’s destined to delight all travellers.
The gateway to the Garden Route is Mossel Bay, 390km from Cape Town along the N2. From here, the route wends past the dramatic coastline through to George. Don’t miss the Botanical Gardens, where 20% of Africa’s plant species are found. The picturesque route then meanders through verdant Knysna, Wilderness and onto Plettenberg Bay. Storms River is the end of the Garden Route, approximately 50 minutes from Plett – as it’s known to locals – where you can explore the mountainous Tsitsikamma Forest.
If the road trip isn’t for you, we suggest flying from Cape Town International Airport to Port Elizabeth, which is under 60 minutes away from Shamwari Private Game Reserve. Alternatively, charter flights can be arranged at a cost by your lodge via companies like Air du Cap.
Shamwari Private Game Reserve is located in the Eastern Cape in a malaria-free zone. Stretched over 250 square kilometres, you’ll find seven serene lodges scattered amongst the bushveld, each boasting its own indelible charm and unique identity. For families, we recommend Riverdene, Long Lee Manor or Sarili, the private villa, while couples will enjoy the privacy of Sindile, Eagles Crag, Bayethe, or Explorers Camp.
Days at Shamwari Private Game Reserve can be spent on traditional game drives for the chance to spot elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, rhinos, lions, antelopes and a plethora of bird species. Other activities include bush walks, bird watching, and conservation experiences. Kids can wild at the Safari Adventure Center with ziplining, swimming, rock climbing, treehouses and slides.
4. Cape Town to Zimbabwe Safari:
Zimbabwe lures safari enthusiasts from Cape Town with the promise of seeing several world-famous natural wonders and distinct landscapes.
The Mosi-oa-Tunya, or Victoria Falls, is the world’s largest sheet of falling water. It’s here where the mighty Zambezi River plunges 108 meters, creating misty rainforests and lush canopies in its spray. Adrenalin seekers flock here for thrilling activities like white-water rafting, helicopter flights, and sunset cruises. Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest wildlife reserve, where incredible game drives and walking safaris reveal sightings of vast elephant herds, cats, and birdlife. Located on the Zambezi River, Mana Pools is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can enjoy canoe and walking safaris and up-close encounters with elephants, hippos, and crocodiles in a pristine wilderness.
The quickest and most convenient way to reach Zimbabwe is by flying. Several airlines, including Airlink and South African Airways, offer flights from Cape Town International Airport (CPT) to Harare (HRE), Victoria Falls (VFA), or Bulawayo (BUQ), often with a layover in Johannesburg.
Flight time: Approximately 4–6 hours, depending on the stopover, plus a road transfer or charter flight to your chosen lodge.
Explore Safari Itineraries Starting from Cape Town
3-Day Safari in a Private Game Reserve:
Perfect for a quick getaway with game drives, bush walks, and fine dining.
A three-day safari from Cape Town is an ideal bush break and can be an effortless way to elevate your next vacation. With some of South Africa’s best private game reserves in such close proximity, you can easily experience the wonder of nature alongside an urban safari in Cape Town. Private road and air transfers to Sanbona Wildlife Reserve make for a seamless journey. However, those wishing to drive themselves can navigate to the reserve via the national road network. At Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, you’ll find three enticing properties: Dwyka Tented Lodge with nine luxury tents and private plunge pools, the twelve-suite farmhouse style Gondwana Family Lodge, and Tinley Manor, a secluded six-suite homestead.
- Day 1: Hit the road to Sanbona Wildlife Reserve via the Valley of Wine and Roses
To make the most of three days, depart from Cape Town in the morning. The drive is approximately three and a half hours from the city and proves to be a picturesque meander through places like Paarl and Robertson, a town known as the Valley of Wine and Roses. Once at the main gate of the reserve, you can reach your chosen lodge with a complimentary transfer to the property’s Welcome Lounge. We suggest arriving before 12 pm to make the most of your first afternoon nature drive, which is included in your stay. Post-game drive, you’ll enjoy dinner, where you can sit back and marvel at the night sounds and star views.
- Day 2: An action-packed day discovering wild animals
Over the next two days, you can enjoy daily activities in the wild and plenty of time to wind down and relax before indulging in fine dining cuisine. Typically, your days begin before first light to capture sunrise unfolding on a thrilling nature drive. These drives can last up to three hours and include a refreshment stop for tea and coffee. After breakfast, your day can then be spent as you please with options like nature walks (enjoyable for all fitness levels), bird watching and photography, San rock art discoveries and Eco Explorers, an immersive and fun-filled program for children of all ages.
A sunset safari is one of the most magical ways to experience raw Africa. As the heat of the day dwindles, mammals emerge from the thicket and seek out water, and predators soon begin their nightly hunting escapades. After a sundowner at a picturesque stop in the midst of the wilderness, you’ll journey back to your lodge for dinner.
- Day 3: A slow morning for wellness or poolside reprieve before departure
To reap the benefits of your three-day safari, use your last moments to enjoy the pool or a spa treatment in one of the Relaxation Retreats scattered amongst nature.
4-Day Safari to the Kruger National Park:
Perfect for a long weekend itinerary that includes exclusive game experiences.
Embark on an unforgettable four-day safari to Kruger National Park from Cape Town, seamlessly planned with flights and exclusive game experiences.
- Day 1: Journey to South Africa’s beloved Kruger National Park
Your journey begins with a flight from Cape Town International Airport (CPT) to either Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) near Nelspruit or Skukuza Airport (SZK) within Kruger National Park, depending on your chosen lodge. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to a luxury safari lodge. Your first evening is often characterised by a discovery game drive to introduce you to the wilderness and entice you to sink into nature’s rhythm.
- Day 2 – 3: Explore Africa’s largest national park with expert guides
After a blissful night in the bush, you’ll wake to an expertly guided game drive. With a packed morning tea, you’ll set off for incredible opportunities to spot iconic wildlife like lions, elephants, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, antelope and countless bird species. Between adventures, you can savour gourmet meals under the African sky, bird watch from the shade of a tree, and unwind in elegant surroundings.
- Day 4: Change your pace to walk in the wild
Make time for a walking safari on your last morning. Designed for all fitness levels, a walking safari is a leisurely walk through the bush with your guide. Take your binoculars and your camera; a walking safari reveals a spectrum of plants and insects you may never have seen before and the chance to see animals from a safe distance. When it comes time to depart, you’ll feel contentment knowing you explored a vibrant ecosystem in depth.
7-Day Cape Town and Okavango Delta Experience:
Perfect for a week-long adventure combining city tours with the Okavango’s unique wildlife and landscapes.
In just seven days, you can experience a world of adventure in Cape Town and the Okavango Delta.
7-Day Cape Town and Okavango Delta Experience
- Day 1: Arrival in Cape Town
Fly into Cape Town International Airport (CPT), which is conveniently accessible via direct flights from cities like Johannesburg (JNB), London (LHR), or Dubai (DXB). Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to Atzaró Cape Town, ideally set between the mountains and the ocean. Spend your first afternoon settling in and relaxing in your luxurious accommodations. Enjoy dinner in-house at Atzaró’s or venture out to one of Cape Town’s renowned dining spots.
- Days 2–3: Discover Cape Town’s Gems
After a leisurely breakfast, immerse yourself in Cape Town’s top attractions. Take a cable car ride up Table Mountain for panoramic views, kayak with seals along the coastline, or explore the Cape Winelands for world-class wine tastings. For a thrill, hike Lion’s Head or go shark cage diving. Between excursions, unwind by the pool or indulge in a spa treatment at Atzaró Cape Town. Evenings are your choice of elegant dining at the hotel or sampling the city’s diverse culinary scene.
- Day 4: Journey to the Okavango Delta
After breakfast, check out and transfer to Cape Town International Airport for a direct Airlink flight to Maun International Airport (MUB), approximately 2 hours 40 minutes. Upon arrival, a helicopter transfer will whisk you to Atzaró Okavango Camp, offering stunning aerial views of the Okavango Delta’s mosaic of winding waterways and floodplains. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is teeming with wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Arrive at the camp mid-afternoon for high tea before embarking on an evening game drive and a sundowner. Dinner is a culinary delight, served under the stars beside the tranquil lagoon to the sound of nearby hippos and distant calls.
- Days 5–6: Okavango Delta Adventures
Wake up early for a 5:30 am game drive to explore the delta’s dynamic ecosystem, home to lions, elephants, leopards, wild dogs, antelope, birds and more. Other enthralling activities include guided safari walks for an up-close view of the flora and fauna, serene mokoro canoe rides through the delta’s crystal-clear channels, and cultural visits to a local community. The delta’s unique landscape evolves from vast grassy plains with towering palm trees to wide, vibrant wetlands, enticing you to explore. When you’re not out in the wild, spend peaceful afternoons relaxing by your private plunge pool, enjoying yoga at the shala, or rejuvenating at the Wellness Sanctuary. Evenings conclude around the fire followed by gourmet meals served under the expansive African sky.
- Day 7: Farewell to the Delta
Savour your final morning with a game drive or a leisurely breakfast. Around 11:00 am, depart via private helicopter transfer for Maun, soaking in a last view of the delta’s vibrant wetlands and stunning wildlife. Connect to your flight from Maun to Johannesburg and onward to your final destination.
What to Expect on a Safari from Cape Town
Travel Logistics
Reaching these incredible safari destinations from Cape Town is simple, with well-planned flights and transfers. Each destination offers convenient options, ensuring your journey into the wild is as smooth as possible. For Aquila Private Game Reserve and Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, both in the Western Cape, no flights are needed—just a scenic 2–3-hour drive from Cape Town International Airport (CPT), with private transfers readily available.
To visit Kruger National Park, fly from CPT to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) or Skukuza Airport (SZK). Direct flights to MQP take approximately 2.5 hours, while flights connected to SZK can take around 4–5 hours, followed by a short road transfer to your lodge.
For Atzaró Okavango in Botswana, take a 2.5-hour international flight from CPT to Maun Airport (MUB), the gateway to the Okavango Delta. From there, enjoy a stunning 20-minute helicopter transfer over the delta, landing directly at the camp.
Types of Safari Experiences:
Game drives and night safaris for big game sightings
Safari experiences are wildly varied, each offering a unique way to connect with nature. Game drives, including thrilling night safaris, provide the chance to spot iconic big game like lions, elephants, and leopards in their natural habitat and safely encounter the wild in far corners of reserves and national parks.
Walking safaris and bushwalks for an up-close experience
For a more intimate encounter, walking safaris and bushwalks let you explore the wilderness on foot, immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and smaller details of the bush for an intriguing insight into plants, insects, geography and even cultural history.
Mokoro (canoe) rides in the Okavango Delta for a unique water-based safari
In the Okavango Delta, traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) rides offer a serene and one-of-a-kind water-based safari, gliding through tranquil waterways surrounded by wildlife, birds and stunning scenery. It’s a welcomed change of pace and one of the reasons the Okavango Delta is a bucket list destination.
Understanding Luxury Lodges and Camps:
Destinations like Atzaró Okavango redefine luxury in the wild, blending comfort with a deep connection to nature. Think spacious villas or tented suites featuring elegant and authentically styled interiors, private decks with panoramic views, and, often, plunge pools to cool off after a day of adventure. Gourmet dining, inspired by local flavours, is served under the stars, in the peaceful atmosphere of your tent or among other guests at the lodge. At luxury lodges, your experience includes private guides and tailored safari experiences for an elevated and intimate stay. These lodges are also thoughtfully designed to immerse you in the African wilderness for a sense of place with world-class amenities like day spas and unforgettable experiences steeped in culture.
Why Start Your Safari with Atzaro Cape Town?
Exclusive Accommodations:
Atzaró Cape Town is a small luxury hotel nestled on the foothills of Table Mountain. With just six suites, you’re bound to feel the intimacy and privacy of a home-away-from-home sanctuary with the comforts and amenities of a luxury hotel. What’s more, you’ll enjoy privileged and far-reaching views of the Mother City.
Each suite is designed to ground guests in a sense of place, with a unique South African identity, king-sized beds, space for leisure and exceptional views that roll from the mountain to Devil’s Peak, the City Bowl below and over the sparkling ocean beyond.
The top-floor Lion’s Head Deluxe Suite has panoramic views, a light-filled lounge and two terraces. Similarly, the Madiba Deluxe Suite is located on the top floor with lofty ceilings, spectacular views of Table Mountain and a serene office space.
Our two Superior Suites, Protea and Marula, are tranquil and inviting, both featuring bright living spaces, terraces and stretching views. On the ground floor, the Rooibos Suite is designed to feel intimate while offering guests a sun-dappled terrace for slow moments. The Mopane and Tamboti Family Suite has two bedrooms and bathrooms, a private living space to gather and relax, plus a garden and terrace.
Curated Experiences: Top activities, including a Table Mountain tour, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Cape Winelands excursions, and sunset cruises.
To grasp the magic of Cape Town, our safari concierge will craft a personalised itinerary that combines iconic highlights, local gems and hidden urban treasures for your time in Cape Town. You can explore the lush Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, savour world-class wines on a Cape Winelands tasting tour, visit the charismatic penguin colony at Boulders Beach, or dive into South Africa’s history on a trip over to Robben Island. Don’t leave without taking a cable car ride up Table Mountain for awe-inspiring views in every direction and a sunset cruise, an ideal way to see Cape Town from the water and toast to your adventures in the Mother City.
Seamless Transitions to Safari Destinations: Concierge services that handle all logistics, from flights to transfers.
Located in Cape Town, South Africa, our safari concierge team is here to help you plan your trip to Atzaró Cape Town and Atzaró Okavango as easily as possible. With your preferences and needs in mind, our team will handle all the details – from creating your ideal itinerary to arranging internal flights, transfers, experiences, and any special requests you might have.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know for a Safari from Cape Town
1. Can you go on a safari directly from Cape Town?
Yes, you can! Despite being on the southern tip of Africa, Cape Town is ideally located near several wildlife reserves and private game reserves. It’s also easy to connect to destinations further afield thanks to daily scheduled flights to Kruger National Park and Maun in Botswana, the gateway to the Okavango Delta.
2. What are the best safari destinations accessible from Cape Town?
There are multiple options if you’re considering a safari from Cape Town. Aquila Private Game Reserve (2 hours) and Sanbona Wildlife Reserve (3 hours) are both accessible by road, while Kruger National Park is reachable by an easy flight from Cape Town International Airport, just 2.5 hours away.
For a diverse safari that combines water activities and traditional game experiences, you can fly directly from Cape Town to Maun, Botswana (2 hours and 35 minutes). Once there, you can board a helicopter transfer to land at Atzaró Okavango Camp, a wild luxury African safari.
3. How do I travel from Cape Town to popular safari areas like the Okavango Delta?
A Cape Town to Okavango Delta safari is one of the most thrilling experiences a nature enthusiast can have. To access the world-renowned Okavango Delta, you can board a direct flight from Cape Town International Airport to Maun in Botswana. The flight time is just 2 hours and 35 minutes, and it is a picturesque way to see South Africa and the wilderness unfolding in Botswana.
From Maun, a private helicopter transfer awaits you. After a seamless transfer from the aeroplane to the helicopter, your journey to Atzaró Okavango Camp begins. Over the course of 20 minutes, you’ll be transfixed by the scenery below, where the web of the Okavango Delta extends, and animals roam below.
4. Is it possible to do a three or 4-day safari from Cape Town?
Absolutely! Private game reserves near Cape Town, such as Aquila Private Game Reserve, offer short safari experiences perfect for a 3- or 4-day itinerary. Alternatively, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is approximately 3.5 hours away from Cape Town. These reserves provide a chance to see the Big Five, indigenous plants and bird species and enjoy luxury accommodations without requiring long travel times.
5. What types of safaris are available from Cape Town?
From Cape Town, you can choose between guided day trips, overnight safaris, or multi-day stays at nearby Sanbona Wildlife Reserve or Aquila Private Game Reserve. Options range from traditional game drives to walking safaris, and some lodges even offer family-friendly or eco-focused experiences for a unique twist. Alternatively, you can fly directly from Cape Town to Kruger National Park, one of the world’s largest national parks, or Maun in Botswana to access the UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta.
6. When is the best time of year to go on a safari from Cape Town?
The best time is during the dry season, from May to September, when wildlife gathers around waterholes, making them easier to spot. However, Cape Town’s proximity to reserves in South Africa and Botswana means safaris are possible year-round, each season offering its own charm.
7. Can I combine a Cape Town city experience with a safari?
Yes, combining a Cape Town city break with a safari is a popular choice! Spend a few days exploring the city’s attractions, like hiking Table Mountain, visiting the penguins at Boulders Beach and joining a tour of the Cape Winelands, before heading out for an unforgettable wildlife adventure.
8. What’s the best way to plan a safari from Cape Town?
The easiest way is to work with a dedicated concierge or travel specialist. They can customise an itinerary to suit your preferences, taking care of everything from transfers and accommodations to activities and special requests, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. Our safari concierge is based in Cape Town, and they’re on hand to help you plan a bespoke experience that will combine Cape Town’s urban charm with the wild, untamed beauty of Botswana’s Okavango Delta.
A safari from Cape Town provides a unique blend of city exploration and wildlife adventure, offering easy access to Africa’s top safari spots. With Atzaro’s luxury accommodations and personalised travel services, you can start your journey in Cape Town and seamlessly transition into the wilderness. Ready to experience the best of Africa? Contact Atzaro’s concierge to begin planning your ultimate Cape Town safari adventure.
Ready to plan your authentic African safari experience from Cape Town?
Get in touch with our dedicated concierge team, and let us help you craft an unforgettable Cape Town safari experience, from quick bush trips from the city to a luxury Cape Town to Okavango Delta safari.
