South Africa is home to an abundance of breathtaking landscapes, distinct cultures and unique flora and fauna. Any trip to the country is bound to involve crossing paths with nature – encountering all different kinds of wildlife along the way. From rhinos and elephants to leopards and lions, these remarkable animals are sure to make your trip memorable.
In order to make the most of your wildlife experience in South Africa, you’ll want to make sure that you’re prepared ahead of time. In this article, we explore the country’s diverse wildlife and some things you should consider before embarking on your trip.
Photos via Unsplash.
Choose the right time
South Africa experiences seasons that are distinctly different, meaning various kinds of animals will flourish depending on the time of year. A popular time to visit South Africa is between June and July, as that’s when the wildebeests begin their river crossings in their journey of migration.
Or if you’re more interested in birdwatching, make sure to visit between October and March to witness as many birds as possible.
It’s also important to note that the weather can vary greatly across the country’s different regions, so you’ll need to check the conditions of the specific place you plan to visit. For example, the Western Cape will typically experience more of a Mediterranean climate, whereas the northeastern region will experience hot and humid weather.
Decide on your priorities
As the climate varies across regions, inevitably so will the wildlife that is native there. South Africa is home to such an incredible range of wildlife that you can see everything from lions to penguins all in one trip – you’ll just need to ensure you plan ahead of time. By considering which animals you want to see the most, you can get a better understanding of where is most important to visit and plan your itinerary accordingly.
If you want to see the famous Cape Town penguins, you might then want to consider the surrounding areas to see what other wildlife is present there. However, if you’re looking for a more general wildlife experience, make sure to visit Kruger National Park. It’s relatively central and is home to the ‘Big Five’ for an authentic South African experience.
Always respect wildlife
Most importantly of all, make sure to respect any wildlife you encounter. While it can be exciting to get to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitats, it’s important to remember that we’re visitors and shouldn’t have any impact on them. In order to preserve these habitats and protect the wildlife within them, it’s crucial to maintain a safe distance from animals at all times and refrain from feeding them.
While a little bite of your lunch might seem harmless, it can not only put you in danger of being approached by the animals but it also disrupts their natural food supply. This can have a knock-on effect on the entire ecosystem, so it’s best to leave them to their own devices.
Savour the South African wilderness
South Africa is a true paradise for wildlife lovers. With so many fascinating animals wandering within the country’s borders, a trip to South Africa presents a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of the natural world up close.
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