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I'm Bill Given – Denver based wildlife biologist and safari guide. Based on your requirements I use my knowledge and experience to custom craft a South Africa safari that will exceed your expectations.
The strength of South Africa is the ease and convenience of Big 5 safaris combined with a diverse array of non-safari related activities and attractions such as winelands, beaches, township cultural visits and the renowned city of Cape Town. Beyond traditional-safari there are also unique wildlife opportunities including viewing great white sharks that breach out of the water, right whales, fur seals, and penguins. The country motto is ‘One World within a Country’ and it is well earned with the variety available.
South Africa Safari Experience
- Big 5 - I have found South Africa to without a doubt be the best place to see the Big 5 (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) - the country offers the most reliable leopard and rhino sightings. The Sabi Sand Reserve adjacent to Kruger National Park is the best Big 5 location with sightings of all Big 5 virtually guaranteed. Other reserve areas adjacent to Kruger and the park itself are all outstanding for big game.
- Malaria Free - Madikwe Game Reserve is the best safari location that is malaria-free and South Africa is the ideal safari location for those needing a malaria-free trip.
- Luxury - South Africa has the ultimate in ultra-luxury safari lodges complete with spas and all the other modern conveniences and is thus very popular for honeymoons, destination weddings, and other special occasion safaris.
- Variety - Right whales, fur seals, penguins, and great white sharks - in addition to the more traditional safari animals
Cape Town
I love Cape Town. It is the most magnificent city in Africa and makes many World’s top five or ten lists. It is a great place to see the vibrant urban Africa that many people do not even realize exists as well as learn of the rich and controversial history of South Africa. A visit to a Township unveils a completely different side of life. The winelands is close by Cape Town and is a lovely extension to any safari trip in Southern Africa and a great value way to stretch the budget while enjoying world-class gourmet food and wine.
First Hand Knowledge
My knowledge of African wildlife has twice resulted in Africa Geographic publishing my articles based on my firsthand safari experiences while guiding groups. Pack of Surprises recounts a new discovery in the behavior of the highly endangered African wild dogs and The Power Behind the Throne details the politics of chimpanzee society.
Your Needs Are My Priority
My wildlife and science background ensure that I will put you in the best possible places to see the wildlife that you want to see on your South Africa safari. South African lodges generally have the best marketing materials and distinguishing between the real deal for wildlife from a simple game farm turned photo tourism park can be difficult for the uninitiated. Even within a famed area such as the greater Kruger area including many excellent private game reserves the number of lodges offered is staggering and the quality of game drive areas and skill of the guiding staff can vary considerably. I can work with you to identify the best choices to get the most value and quality for your safari, whether you are after the special occasion opulent luxury or a budget option dedicated to outstanding wildlife viewing.
Beyond safari I have worked to form relationships with small owner operated properties that deliver intimate experiences in the Winelands and Cape Town. For activities, from great white shark expeditions to visiting townships, to touring the winelands I have identified top guides that provide amazing personalized experiences. All combined I can craft a custom itinerary that takes in any and all of your interests in South Africa.
As Johannesburg is the major air hub for all of Southern Africa it makes South Africa extremely convenient but also makes it very easy to combine with other safari countries. I can advise when it is wise to consider a different country for some or part of your safari, likewise its common for people focused on another country for safari to finish with some time in Cape Town and the Winelands.
Next Steps
To learn more, contact me using the form on this page. I’d be happy to assist you with any South Africa Safari related questions that you may have – even if you’re in the very early stages of the safari planning process or are just curious about safaris in South Africa.
Resources
To help prospective safari clients, I offer a free in-house seminar (details below). Also, please sign up for my safari newsletter, THE ROAR.
A South Africa Safari Preview in Your Home
Going on a South Africa Safari requires an investment in both time and money. You need to be informed and know exactly what your options are.
There is no better way to get that information than for me to
bring my Introduction to Safari presentation to your home or other meeting location within Colorado. The presentation is highly informative and extremely entertaining.
Note: I bring the large predators and prey of the African Plains to life within your living room. For that reason, I ask that all small pets are kept away from the presentation area for their own safety.
Presentation Details
The presentation provides an overview of what you need to know about African safaris including:
- Countries - Overview of the amazing safari countries and the advantages and disadvantages of each
- Accommodations - from luxury lodging to sleeping under the stars
- Activities - safaris offer much more than amazing wildlife - I discuss the wide variety of activities available on safari, many of which you probably never even thought of
- South Africa Wildlife - of course the major draw for safaris - I discuss what animals are where, and what destinations best match what you want to see
- Planning Your South Africa Safari - Examine the factors to consider when planning your African Safari
- South Africa Safari Life - Get a feel for the rhythm of daily life on safari and the wonderful local people
You'll find the presentation educational and entertaining - all slides are photos that I have taken during my many trips to Africa - both as a tourist and a guide.
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