south african safari in Nov/Dec
 

I am traveling with my husband and 2 children to Capetown in late November next year. We would like to go on safari. I have read that many camps are shut down during this time of the year. Would it be better for us to fly somewhere else for the safari portion and if so, where?

Hi Slk16,

Some of the camps do close down, but not all. Since you will be in Cape Town and travelling with children, perhaps you should consider some of the malaria-free game reserves on the Garden Route. They are children-friendly, easy to get to - either by driving or flying - and accommodations come in a variety of budget options. The Garden Route is very interesting and beautiful and has many attractions that kids would enjoy. How old are your children? And how long is your trip planned for?

Best,
B.

Fly to Port Elizabeth, visit Addo National Park plus/or a private reserve in this area, malaria free.

I have heard that one of the world’s finest tuna can be found on South Africa Sea shore; luckily, we can get it from Cape Town. The prawns can be found on well-priced rate. BUT be aware of the Eco friendly sea food choices.

If you can tell us the ages of the children, I can make better suggestions for them to have fun on the Garden Route, seeing some interesting and unusual parks that will entertain them. This will specifically apply if you are inclined to driving the Garden Route. There is a malaria-free game park that is 10 minutes away from the beach, and in November all of you, including the children, could enjoy the 'bush and the beach' perfectly! The more information you give us, the more information we will return to you :-)

Thank you for the information. My kids are 11 and 9. My son (the 11 year old) has been on a safari in Kenya 2 years ago and did great. We will have up to a week for the safari portion of our trip.

Just be aware that safaris on the garden route are manufactured for tourists, it is not a natural habitat like in the Eastern Cape & Kruger.

If it were me, I'd fly up to Kruger National Park, or one of the private reserves bordering Kruger. Wildlife viewing will be great in November in that area.

Celia

I love Capetown, and it is a very beautiful place to visit, a driver is a must to cover the most territory. I would have to agree with the earlier comment, and fly to Nelspruit and go to a camp around Kruger or Sabi Sabi.

I appreciate all of the advice. Any tips for must do's in Cape Town--we will be there a week.

Tanzania is the best for the family vacations. As it offers you, the best safari experience in Africa and it is malaria free safari. Therefore, it will be best to go with kids.

does anyone have any information on the Timbavati reserve? I have heard it is connected to Kruger. Would this be a good place to go?

My husband and I spent 4 nights at Tanda Tula tented camp, in the Timbavati,this past July.
On previous safaris we'd spent time in other private reserves ( Sabi Sands and Mala Mala ) that also border Kruger Park and our experiences there were wonderful.

The Timbavati did not disappoint. Its riverine/woods/grass lands are home to the Big 5 and much more.

The tents at Tanda Tula were roomy and comfortable, the food was varied and delicious, the camp staff was friendly, the guiding was personable, and sightings on our game drives were superb.

Nyala and wart hogs freely graze the lawn that's between Tanda Tula's main lodge and the 12 tents. One day at lunch we watched a troop of 40 or so mongooses skitter across the lawn.
There's also a water hole very close to the main lodge which attracts all kinds of wildlife.

As for Cape Town, taking the cable car to the top of Table Mountain is very family friendly as is a visit to Cape Point and a visit to see the penguins at Boulders Beach.
Cape Town, its surrounding sea- side and wine lands are beautiful; you are in for a treat.

DCarla - Where in the world did you come up with the statement that Tanzania was 'malaria free?' NOT!