Top 10 Must-Do Experiences on Your South Africa Safari Adventure

Family on Safari

Planning the Ultimate South Africa Safari Trip

It’s no surprise that a wildlife safari is the second most sought-after bucket list experience. Just imagine the sights and sounds of the wild, from incredible animals in their natural habitat to the breathtaking scale of Africa's landscapes.

If you've ever dreamt of ticking a South Africa safari off your list, you know that planning the perfect trip can be daunting. Club Med is here to take care of every detail, so you can focus on creating unforgettable memories. To help you prepare, here are the top 10 experiences that can make your safari in South Africa an incredible adventure for everyone.

**Key Takeaways **
Two Experiences in One: Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari is a dual-destination holiday that combines an all-inclusive safari lodge with a stunning beachfront resort.
Stress-Free Safari: This South African safari is a family-friendly adventure, with expert-guided tours to see the Big Five and explore the incredible landscapes.

1 - Wildlife Encounters in South Africa

Rhinos

1. Spot the Big Five at Kruger National Park

The ultimate goal of a South African safari is to spot the iconic Big Five: the lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and African buffalo. While Kruger National Park is one of the most famous places to seek out these magnificent animals, Club Med offers a more exclusive experience.

Our new safari lodge is located within the magnificent Mpilo Private Game Reserve, a vast sanctuary renowned for its conservation efforts. Here, you’ll embark on guided tours with expert rangers, who use their local knowledge of the bush to track these amazing creatures.

2. Experience the Diverse Wildlife of South Africa

A South African safari is about much more than just the Big Five. The fun continues as you discover the huge variety of wildlife roaming the bush. You'll see giraffes stretching for leaves, families of zebras grazing on the open plains, playful baboons, and even hippos relaxing in watering holes.

One of the best parts of safari trips in South Africa is having expert guides by your side. They’ll share stories and facts about the animals' behaviour and the ecosystem. This insight turns every sighting into a rewarding moment for the whole family.

3. South Africa's Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Safari Spots

South Africa is home to many hidden gems that rival the famous Kruger National Park, offering a quieter, more intimate wildlife experience.
Addo Elephant National Park: This park offers sightings of lions, rhinos, and elephants alongside great white sharks and whales. It's also a malaria-free zone, making it ideal for families.
Manyeleti Game Reserve: Known for its fantastic stargazing and rich birdlife, this reserve offers a peaceful alternative for a rewarding wildlife encounter.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: Experience dramatic red dunes and unique wildlife, including the famous black-maned lions.
Madikwe Game Reserve: Celebrated for its wild dogs, this park attracts fewer tourists, allowing for more peaceful game drives.

2 - Unforgettable Safari Experiences

4. Family-Friendly Safari Experiences

One of the best parts of a South Africa safari with Club Med is how it’s designed for the entire family. The adventure begins with our unique two-property experience. Start your trip by relaxing at our beachfront resort, then take a short 45-minute flight to the breathtaking Mpilo Safari Lodge.

Once there, safari tours are tailored to all ages, with experienced guides who ensure every child feels safe and engaged. From a scavenger hunt for animal tracks to learning about the ecosystem in a fun way, your family will create memories that go far beyond just spotting the Big Five.

5. Guided Walking Safaris for Adventurers

A guided walking safari offers the ultimate adventure for those who want to get up close to nature. Accompanied by expert guides, you'll feel the thrill of tracking animals on foot, learning to identify tracks, and discovering the smaller, intricate details of the bush that are often missed.

It's an immersive experience where you can appreciate the sights, sounds, and biodiversity of the African landscape. A walking safari is one of the best ways to connect with the wild, making it a rewarding addition to any South Africa safari trip.

6. Upcoming Beach and Safari Experience in 2026

Your adventure is just getting started! Club Med is creating the next evolution in safari holidays, with our brand-new dual-destination experience launching in 2026. Imagine combining the thrill of a South African safari with the ultimate beach escape in one seamless, all-inclusive package.

You’ll spend your days in the wild, spotting incredible animals at our safari lodge, then take a short flight to our beach resort to relax by the ocean. It’s the perfect blend of high-energy adventure and pure relaxation, offering a complete holiday experience. Trust us, it will be worth the wait!

3 - Landscapes and Cultural Discoveries

7. Explore the Scenic Landscapes of South Africa

From verdant savannas to lush river valleys and dramatic mountain ranges, every view showcases South Africa at its very best. At our safari lodge, you'll be surrounded by the rolling Zululand hills and the winding Mkuze River.

Our guided game drives and stargazing experiences let you explore the unique terrain, which includes dune forests and wetlands. Combined with the coastal beauty of our beach resort, you get a unique blend of Africa’s wild landscapes and stunning ocean scenery.

8. Visit Local Villages and Immerse in Culture

Within the heart of the Zululand region, you can immerse yourself in the traditions of local communities. Through guided visits to authentic homesteads and villages, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Zulu customs, witness traditional dances, and even participate in workshops with local artisans.

This is a chance to learn about traditional beadwork and weaving while hearing fascinating stories of the region. It’s an enriching experience that adds an authentic, human element to your safari in South Africa.

4 - Comfort and Well-being on Your Safari Journey

9. Comfortable All-Inclusive Accommodation

After a day of adventure in the bush, nothing beats coming home to a comfortable retreat. At the Mpilo Safari Lodge, you’ll stay in one of 75 premium tented rooms that blend effortlessly into the natural environment.

Situated on a hilltop with sweeping 180-degree views, the lodge provides a serene atmosphere for unwinding. With dedicated spaces like a kids’ club and a teen lounge, and interlinked rooms for larger groups, the accommodation is perfectly tailored for families. It’s a peaceful sanctuary that ensures your family has everything it needs, all included in your stay.

10. Relaxation and Wellness After Safari Adventures

The Club Med South Africa holiday is designed for your complete well-being, blending adventure with ultimate relaxation. After an exciting day of game drives, you can unwind at the safari lodge in tranquil spaces or by the swimming pool, cooling off while taking in panoramic views of the wilderness.

For a more intensive wellness experience, head to the beautiful beachfront resort on the Dolphin Coast, where you can indulge in a luxurious spa. This combination of relaxation at both resorts makes your safari a true sanctuary for mind and body.

The Safari You've Always Dreamed Of

Forget everything you know about safari! Club Med is launching a new kind of adventure. This is your exclusive opportunity to combine an epic South Africa safari with an indulgent and idyllic beach holiday, all in one stress-free, all-inclusive package. Discover more about Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari today!

Discover more about Club Med

Our most popular resorts