Big Five Safari Lodges in the Western Cape

The following lodges and game reserves offer Big Five safaris in the Western Cape of South Africa. Spot Elephant, Rhino, Lion, Buffalo and Leopard at these safari lodges.

The Western Cape may not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think of Big Five safari country, but this remarkable corner of South Africa is home to a growing number of world-class private game reserves where lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo roam freely against a backdrop of dramatic mountain ranges and sweeping Karoo plains.

Unlike the malaria zones of Kruger or KwaZulu-Natal, the Western Cape's Big Five reserves offer a rare combination of untamed wildlife and easy accessibility, just a few hours' drive from Cape Town.

Gondwana Game Reserve

Experience the best of both Big Five safari and Garden Route in Gondwana. This malaria-free Western Cape game reserve in South Africa has stunning views of Outeniqua Mountains. Ideal for a bush and beach safari 20 minutes from Mossel Bay. This is the world's first Fynbos reserve.

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Enjoy a Big Five safari. The speciality is the White Lions. Enjoy amazing scenery and indigenous Western Cape flora in the semi-desert area of the Little Karoo/ Klein Karoo. This safari lodge is located in the Warmwaterberg on the Route 62. Western Cape game reserve in South Africa.

Inverdoorn Game Reserve

Inverdoorn is a Big Five Western Cape Game Reserve offering a safari near Cape Town experience only 2.5 hours from the city. Inverdoorn Game Reserve is known for its cheetah conservation programme and rehabilitation centre tours.