Namibia Safari vs South Africa Safari Compared

Every year more and more people are enchanted by the idea of an African safari holiday and it’s not difficult to see why. Jaw-dropping landscapes, incredible wildlife and breath-taking lodges await, and for many this type of holiday is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

A quick browse online however and you’ll quickly notice that there’s a plethora of safari destinations to choose from, all of which offer their unique advantages and disadvantages should you decide to visit.

Places like Kenya have been popularised following visits from the future British King and his wife Kate Middleton, whilst nations like Botswana also hold considerable appeal, home of the iconic Chobe National Park.

For the purposes of this article, we’re going to focus on two completely different African safari nations altogether. Although in some regards these two fascinating countries are similar, in other ways they vary massively when it comes to the type of experience you can expect whilst on safari.

Without further ado, and before you start packing your sun lotion and binoculars, check out our Namibia vs South Africa safari comparison guide below.

Namibia Safari vs South Africa Safari Wildlife Comparison

One of the most fundamental appeals of any safari adventure is the wildlife and the good news is that you won’t be disappointed in this regard, whichever nation you opt to visit.

Home to over 20 sprawling national parks, you’ll have no issues spotting all of the ‘Big 5’ in South Africa; these parks and reserves cover a mammoth area in excess of 35,000sq2. The rainbow nation is also home to an abundance of buffalo, oryx and many other incredible mammals, whilst the country is regarded as one of the best places on the planet for bird spotting.

Although Namibia may not be able to compete in terms of the sheer quantity of wildlife, you can still see all the iconic Big 5; most can be found in Etosha National Park and antelope can be spotted in the Caprivi region. Uniquely, and what is a huge appeal for most, Namibia is home to scores of intriguing desert-adapted wildlife, owing to its harsh and desolate landscapes, including desert-adapted elephants and lions.

As you head towards Namibia’s famous Skeleton Coast you’ll also encounter a mesmerising sight. This region is home to a colony of over 200,000 cape fur seals, all eager to welcome you. Namibia is also a brilliant place for birding, home to over 700 avian species.

Namibia Safari vs South Africa Safari Landscapes & Landmarks Compared

Undoubtedly, one of Namibia’s biggest selling points is its diverse mixture of incredible landscapes and natural wonders. The Soul of Africa, as the country is affectionately labelled, is home to the world’s oldest desert: the Namib, whilst the planet’ second-largest canyon (Fish River Canyon) resides within its borders.

On top of all that, Namibia is home to a spectacular array of sand dunes, including some of the largest in the world. These towering crimson structures can be found in the Sossuvlei region, and you simply must pen-in a visit here if you’re on safari. You’ll also find miles and miles of desolate coastline as well as the magical Epupa Falls.

Conversely, South Africa is characterized by vast grassy plains, stony plateaus, and a beautiful coastline. Landscape highlights if you’re visiting on safari include the famous Kruger National Park whilst it would be remiss of us not to mention the fascinating waterways and lagoons synonymous with iMfolozi Park and iSimangaliso Wetlands. No safari trip to South Africa would be complete without taking a trip along the ‘Garden Route’. Running from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town, this drive offers majestic views as you navigate the Indian Ocean coast.

Namibia Safari vs South Africa Safari Accommodation Options

Long gone are the days of spending the night in a poorly constructed tent! Over the last few decades, the quality of safari accommodation has skyrocketed and today you’ll find a veritable treasure trove of exceptional lodges in both Namibia and South Africa.

Starting with South Africa, here you’ll find a diverse mixture of accommodation to suit all budgets, and there’s certainly more choice for the cost-conscious traveller with cheap camps such as Chisomo commonplace, particularly in the areas surrounding Kruger National Park.

You’ll also find high-end lodgings in South Africa too, including the famous Singita Sabi Sand, a place notorious for its opulent furnishings and exclusivity.

However, if you really want to embrace the high-life, Namibia is the place to visit. Here you’ll find an abundance of luxury lodges- everything from safari chic tree-top hideaways to opulent thatched chalets complete with private plunge pools and viewing decks. The service and hospitality you can expect to receive on a safari holiday to Namibia is also unrivalled. World-class cuisine and staff that will cater to your every whim are the order of the day.

Amongst Namibia’s most prestigious safari accommodation options include Kulala Desert lodge and Onguma The Fort.

Namibia Safari vs South Africa Safari Cost

The cost for a safari adventure to both Namibia and South Africa depends on a variety of different factors. The time of year you visit will undoubtedly play a part with the most popular season occurring between June-October. This time of year is known as the dry season and offers the best chance to view wildlife as the animals congregate around any remaining waterholes.

The type of safari you want to experience, and the number of activities you want to try will also play a part. Are you considering a self-drive safari where you can hire a vehicle and explore to your heart’s content? Do you want to sample a taste of the high life and rest safe in the knowledge that your whole trip is planned out?

If you prefer the latter, hen a luxury fly-in safari may be for you. On this type of safari your you’ll be transported from A to B from the comfort of a private plane, allowing you more time to experience a wider variety of activities, instead of spending large parts of your journey on the road.

For more information about luxury safari trips to Namibia, please visit this page or contact SecretNamibia today.