See more animals with these game drive tips

South Africa’s beautiful national parks and game reserves are a treasure trove of wildlife and natural beauty, attracting visitors from across the country and worldwide. One of the best ways to explore our national parks is with a self-drive trip. 

Below are some of our top tips on how to get the most out of your game drive:

• While this might sound obvious, there are more than 20 parks in the South African National Parks group, so you’ll be hard-pressed for choice. Aside from the main deciding factor of which area you’d like to visit, you’ll also need to choose the type of experience you’re after – whether it’s spotting the Big Five, or hiking.
• The national parks include savanna parks, arid semi-desert parks, coastal parks, Cape Floral Kingdom parks, and parks with forests and grasslands.
• While the large African game is a feature of many of the parks, others are more focused on aquatic ecosystems, vegetation, and cultural or scenic landscapes.
• Understand the park’s rules and regulations, such as speed limits, entry fees and opening hours.
• When choosing your destination, remember to make sure you have the right type of car. Some areas might require a 4x4 or SUV. 

• Make sure your car is insured and that your services are up to date. You don’t want to break down in the middle of a park just before the gates close! If you have a service plan through MotorHappy, for example, in the event of a car breakdown, you’ll get Roadside Assistance and other free benefits. Click here to find out more about a Service Plan through MotorHappy.
• Ensure that your car is in good working order and that the following have been checked: headlamps, controls, switches, windscreen wipers, brakes, handbrake, seatbelts, indicators, cooling system, and warnings on the dashboard.
• Check that all fluids are at their recommended levels, and if your car battery is older than a year, get it tested.
• Inspect your tyres to see if they have at least 3mm of tread. It’s worthwhile getting your tyres inflated, plus an alignment and balancing.
• Check that your spare wheel is in good condition and that you have the correct tools to change a tyre if necessary. 

• Remember to bring essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, a first aid kit, and plenty of water when packing for your game drive.
• Summer days can be scorching, so staying hydrated is critical. 
• Don’t forget to pack good quality binoculars... these are essential for game viewing!

• Safety should always be a top priority.
• Observe the park’s speed limits and rules for approaching and viewing wildlife.
• Respect the animals’ personal space and maintain a safe distance; it’s for your safety and theirs.
• If you’re unsure about anything, ask park rangers for assistance.

• Wildlife viewing requires patience. Animals might not always be immediately visible, so take your time, stop your engine, and listen. Keep noise to a minimum to avoid scaring off animals, and you’ll be rewarded with more sightings.
• One of the magical aspects of a self-drive safari is that you never know what you’ll encounter. Be open to surprises and enjoy the unpredictability of nature.

• Animals are often more active during the cooler times of the day, so plan your game drives around sunrise and sunset. These are the best times to witness predators on the hunt and other fascinating animal behaviours.

• Leave no trace. Dispose of your trash in designated areas and do not disturb the natural environment. Stick to marked roads and trails to minimise your impact on the ecosystem. 

A self-drive game drive is an exciting and cost-effective way to experience our country’s incredible wildlife and natural landscapes. With careful planning, respect for nature, and a reliable car, you’re sure to have a safe and unforgettable adventure.