Okay, safari lovers, ready for an itinerary that blows the usual out of the water (and straight into the bush!)? Southern Africa’s winter isn’t just about incredible game viewing; it’s also about a spectacular coastal show. At African Safari Collective, we’re all about giving you the full picture, and this winter, that means combining the heart-pounding thrill of the bush with the serene beauty of the coast. Get ready for an adventure where your safari wardrobe needs both khaki and perhaps a light jacket for ocean breezes!

Why Winter is the Best of Both Worlds

As Southern Africa settles into its stunning dry season, a unique magic unfolds. The vegetation thins, making game viewing in our reserves absolutely phenomenal – animals are easier to spot, congregating around vital waterholes. But here’s the twist: the same season ushers in prime time for marine activity along our coasts, particularly the majestic annual whale migration. This means you don’t have to choose between a Big Five encounter and a whale sighting; you can have both!

Crafting Your Ultimate Bush-to-Coast Winter Journey with ASC

Our carefully curated collection of lodges are perfectly positioned to help you create an itinerary that spans diverse landscapes and unforgettable experiences:

• The Bush Thrills (Leopard Mountain, Sungulwane, Fugitives’ Drift, Three Tree Hill):
  
  
  • Leopard Mountain Safari Lodge (Manyoni Private Game Reserve): Experience the zenith of dry-season game viewing from an award-winning, 5-star luxury lodge. Prime Big Five sightings, spectacular views, and the added feel-good factor of knowing your stay contributes to vital pangolin and rhino conservation. This is your quintessential bush fix.
  • Sungulwane Private Game Lodge (Zuka Game Reserve): Reopening refreshed mid-June! This intimate, family-owned Big Five lodge offers personalized safaris, making July prime time for incredible dry-season encounters. It’s perfect for those seeking a soulful bush experience with a strong conservation ethos.
  • Fugitives’ Drift (Northern Drakensberg): Immerse yourself in the profound Anglo-Zulu War history amidst crisp winter mornings. Combine your bush thrill with powerful, deeply moving battlefield tours led by expert historians – a unique cultural immersion.
  • Three Tree Hill (Northern Drakensberg): For the active adventurer, complement your bush experience with invigorating hikes or mountain biking through dramatic Anglo-Boer War battlefields, all while enjoying the Fair Trade-certified luxury and farm-to-table delights of this historical lodge.
• The Coastal Charms (Makakatana Bay Lodge, Fairview House):
  
  
  • Makakatana Bay Lodge (iSimangaliso Wetland Park): Your gateway to a truly unique experience where bush meets beach. Enjoy wildlife viewing within the diverse UNESCO Wetland Park, and from June, experience the exhilarating start of the whale watching season as these magnificent creatures migrate along the KZN coastline. Boat safaris on Lake St Lucia offer another unique perspective.
  • Fairview House (Plettenberg Bay): Round off your adventure with sophisticated coastal charm on the Garden Route. This boutique country retreat offers tranquil luxury in Plettenberg Bay. July is prime whale watching season here too (June-December), and the quieter winter months are perfect for exploring pristine beaches, sampling local wines, or simply unwinding in refined elegance.

Why Choose this Diverse Winter Blend with ASC?

• Unrivalled Variety: Experience the best of Southern Africa – from iconic Big Five safaris to breathtaking marine encounters and rich cultural histories – all in one trip.
• Optimal Conditions: Enjoy prime dry-season game viewing and the peak of whale migration season.
• Less Crowds: Winter often means fewer visitors, allowing for more intimate and exclusive experiences.
• Seamless Itineraries: Our collection of lodges allows for easy and luxurious transitions between different landscapes and activities.

So, who’s ready to unlock the full spectrum of Southern Africa’s winter wonders? Combine the thrill of the bush with the majesty of the coast, and create a truly unforgettable journey.