BIG 5 GAME DRIVES – HOEDSPRUIT
Experience a Big 5 safari near Hoedspruit with guided by expert rangers through exclusive private reserves.
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Rate from R 3520 Per Person*
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Discover the wild heart of the Lowveld on a Big 5 Game Drive in one of Hoedspruit’s premier private reserves. These guided safaris take place in open 4×4 vehicles, led by qualified field guides who share deep knowledge of the bush and its wildlife. Each of the game reserves, Pridelands, Rietspruit, Blue Canyon, and Olifants, offers a unique experience. Refer to the table below for details on the different reserves. From the majestic Drakensberg backdrop and riverine forests to open plains teeming with antelope and predators, every drive reveals a new side of Africa’s wilderness.
You can choose between a Morning Game Drive, when animals are most active, or an Afternoon Game Drive, perfect for soaking in the golden bushveld and ending with a classic sundowner stop. Morning drives include coffee, tea, rusks, and bottled water, while afternoon drives feature snacks, drinks, and water. Private vehicle options are available for families with children under 7 years or those seeking a more intimate game-viewing adventure.
| Reserve | Landscape & Focus | Typical Sightings | Best For | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pridelands (Greater Kruger) | Open, unfenced to Kruger; mixed bushveld, waterpoints | Elephant, buffalo, hyena, leopard/wild dog (occasional), plains game | Classic Big 5 feel, close access, authentic wilderness | Book Now |
| Rietspruit | Mountain vistas, riverbeds, mixed habitats | Lion & cheetah (possible), giraffe, zebra, kudu, wildebeest, rich birdlife | Varied scenery, balanced predator & plains-game viewing | Book Now |
| Blue Canyon Conservancy | Vast private wilderness; Drakensberg backdrop, dams | Elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, wild dog & ground hornbill conservation | Wide open spaces, photography, rare species potential | Book Now |
| Olifants Concession (Greater Kruger) | Iconic river scenery; quieter roads, unfenced to Kruger | Hippo, croc, elephant, Big 5 possible; excellent birding | Tranquil drives, river views, lingering sightings | Book Now |
Note: Reserve selection is subject to availability and may change at the operator’s discretion based on wildlife movement, weather, and operational factors. We’ll always do our best to fulfill your preferred request.
Highlights include:
- Explore Big 5 reserves near Hoedspruit with expert, qualified guides.
- Morning drive: includes coffee, tea, rusks & bottled water.
- Afternoon drive: includes sundowner drink, snacks & bottled water.
- Family-friendly and suitable for all ages (children under 7 require a private vehicle).
- Collection & Drop Off for the full day safari is from Hoedspruit (specific pick up locations below)
Duration: 3-4 Hours
Inclusions: Qualified guide, refreshments (tea/coffee or sundowners), bottled water, reserve entry fees
Exclusions: Transfers to pick-up point if outside of pick-up range, additional drinks/snacks, Meals/Drinks, Items of a Personal Nature.
Important Information
- Departure Times: Morning (~05:00) & Afternoon (~15:00) and may vary seasonally.
- What to Bring: ID/passport for entry, light jacket, hat, sunscreen, camera, and closed shoes.
- Minimum Age: Children 7 & under require a private vehicle.
- This activity goes out in all weather.
- Please note that children under 12 years must be accompanied by 2 adults.
Collection/Drop off:
The pickup points for the Pridelands, Rietspruit, Blue Canyon game drives include Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit and Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate. For the Olifants game drives, guests must meet Guides at Three Bridges. For collection outside of the pickup range, an additional charge may apply.
Please familiarise yourself with SAFARI ESSENTIALS.
How long is the game drive?
Each drive lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, including a refreshment stop.
Can children join the game drive?
Yes, children are welcome. Ages 7 and under require a private vehicle for safety and comfort.
Do you guarantee Big 5 sightings?
While sightings are not guaranteed, these are free-roaming Big 5 reserves with regular encounters of elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, and rhinos. Every drive offers a genuine wilderness experience.
Are refreshments provided?
Yes! Morning drives include coffee, tea, rusks, and bottled water, while afternoon drives include sundowners, snacks, and water.
Is this in Kruger National Park?
No. Most of the drives take place in private reserves bordering Greater Kruger, where animals move freely between the reserves through unfenced boundaries.
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HOW TO BOOK: the BOOK NOW button only sends an enquiry – payment request sent to you after submitted!
– Click the BOOK NOW button
– choose your date and time slot
– add the number of adults and kids for the activity. Many activities offer sliding scale rates according to the number of guests
– BOOK – enter your details and send the enquiry
– we will respond asap and confirm the availability of your booking, price, time, etc and send you a secure payment link by e-mail/SMS.
– only once payment has been received, will your booking be confirmed and your Activity Ticket/Voucher be sent to you by e-mail
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