The Great Karoo is a must-visit winter safari destination for many South Africans and international tourists. As the sun rises slower and the temperatures cool over the veld, to go on a winter safari is to witness the stunning transformation of South Africa’s vast and untamed wilderness. From flowing rivers that stretch further with every rain storm, to lush green shrubs and blooming wildflowers that mark the beginning of the breeding season, the wild plains of the Karoo come alive every May through October.
Take advantage of the winter season and book Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve’s exclusive winter safari deals and overnight accommodation specials, inviting guests on a Big 5 winter safari adventure in the Karoo’s vast and untamed wilderness. Valid 01 May 2024 to 31 October 2024.
The Wild Romance of a Winter Safari
Winter in the Ceres Karoo promises a wild and romantic big 5 safari experience, only 2.5 hours from Cape Town. Every year, from May to October, crisp winter mornings with temperatures averaging 20 degrees Celsius during the day and 9 degrees Celsius at night.
Clear skies and dramatic landscapes, painted with the golden hues of the sun, create a breathtaking backdrop for your winter safari. With two big 5 game drives included in your overnight stay, guests can sight lions warming themselves in the first rays of light, see cheetahs running across the the Karoo veld plains, or watch antelope and zebra flock to overflowing watering holes, scattering wading birds and keeping a watchful eye on the hippos submerged only a few feet away.
As the Western Cape receives most of its rainfall in the winter and spring months, there’s many benefits of going on a Karoo winter safari. From exceptional game viewing opportunities and a resurgence of life across the semi-desert landscape, guests are invited to experience the unique and spectacular magic of South Africa’s wildlife and take advantage of Inverdoorn’s overnight discounts and accommodation specials.
Winter Safari Deals You Don’t Want to Miss
Did we mention that going on safari in winter has many benefits? One of the best things about visiting Cape Town and the Western Cape in the winter months, is the amazing winter specials and exclusive discounts offered for many of the Cape’s top attractions. As the summer crowds disappear and the city quietens, Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve is your go-to winter safari destination, offering up to 20% off overnight accommodation.
Nestled amidst 10,000 hectares of pristine wilderness, Inverdoorn’s incredible winter safari package is a special you don’t want to miss out on. Find out more or book our winter deals now.
See More of South Africa’s Wildlife
It’s no secret that the Karoo’s succulent fynbos landscapes and semi-dessert plains can reach soaring temperatures in the summer. While there are many perks to a Cape Town summer safari, the crisp winter air and cooler temperatures makes animals more active, increasing your chances of witnessing nocturnal predators like lions and leopards, or herbivores like springboks and zebras grazing in the open.
Winter is also a prime time to see regional South African birds seeking refuge in the Karoo’s diverse ecosystems. Look out for the national bird, Blue Cranes, stretching their wings near the river, see the soaring Verreaux’s Black Eagles circling the koppies (small hills), and be sure to look out for a variety of colourful weavers and bee-eaters flitting through the lodge’s succulent cactus garden and pool area.
Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve is perfect for those seeking adventure or relaxation in the wild. Winner of South Africa’s Best Luxury Lodge in the 2023 World Luxury Hotel Awards, guests are offered a fully-immersive five-star experience beyond the thrill of a traditional Big 5 safari. And winter is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the reserve’s additional safari packages and romantic Karoo activities. From horse trails through the reserve and guided e-bike tours, to private picnics next to the watering hole and luxurious in-room spa treatments, guests have the opportunity to customise their winter itinerary and indulge in the splendour of Inverdoorn’s boutique Big 5 safari lodge.
What we love about Cape Town in the Winter
While Inverdoorn offers a year-round Big 5 safari escape close to the city, Cape Town remains a favourite winter holiday destination for many reasons. If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds and want to enjoy the city’s vibrant culture, world-class restaurants, and stunning scenery without the summer heat, consider visiting Cape Town between May and October.
Hike the iconic Table Mountain with breathtaking views of the cityscape below, or explore the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, where the proteas, South Africa’s national flower, come into bloom during the winter. Travel along the west coast for incredible sightings of the Southern Right Whales who migrate to the tip of Africa every year. In the evenings, indulge in a glass of South African Pinotage by a crackling fireplace in one of Stellenbosch or Franschhoek’s world-famous wine estates.
Read more about things to do in Cape Town that are simply better in the winter.
