The Rainbow Nation is a popular safari destination, with a lot to tell about the underrated South African national parks. These parks are the hidden safari gems, with the best-kept secrets of the wild. Their beauty speaks in silence, often leaving a mark of grace, and appreciation for nature.
Destinations such as Augrabies with its magical thunderous falls, and Camdeboo’s rock towers reveal a rare beauty of South African parks. One major takeaway of visiting these overlooked national parks in South Africa is that only a curious soul gets to experience their magical nature.
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Which are the Underrated South African National Parks?
Although the Kruger National Park dominate the popular safari destinations in South Africa, these lesser-known safari attractions provide amazing wildlife experiences, and serene environments, and rare ecologies. They suit travellers avoiding crowded parks.
Below are seven underrated South African national parks.
1. Mountain Zebra National Park
Mountain Zebra National Park in South Africa. Photo/
Located in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, this park was created to save the endangered Cape Mountain zebra. Today, it’s home to a wide range of animals including, cheetahs, lions, and antelope.
Why It’s Special:
- Peaceful hiking trails and flexible self-drive options
- A conservation success story that proves small parks matter
- Ideal for travellers seeking quiet and scenic escapes
2. Addo Elephant National Park
Gorah Elephant Camp in Addo Elephant Park. Photo/andBeyond
Just outside Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), Addo is more than an elephant haven. It’s one of the few places where you can see the Big Five: Lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, elephants, plus great white sharks and southern right whales. Addo represents the real beauty of underrated South African national parks.
What Makes Addo Unique:
- Malaria-free, great for families
- Diverse landscapes from bush to beach
- Offers both land safaris and marine adventures
- Less crowded than Kruger, but just as thrilling
3. iSimangaliso Wetland Park
The beautiful ecosystem of iSimangaliso Wetland Park in South Africa. [Photo by isimangaliso.com]
Top Experiences:
- Spot hippos and crocs in Lake St. Lucia
- Try snorkelling, kayaking, or birdwatching
- Peaceful and immersive compared to larger parks
4. Madikwe Game Reserve
Safari Adventures – Witnessing Africa’s Magnificent Wildlife
Madikwe Game reserve near the Botswana border offers a high-end safari experience with limited access and top-tier lodges.
Why It’s Worth It:
- See rare wild dogs and the Big Five
- Personalised safaris with private guides
- Malaria-free and perfect for romantic or family trips
5. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park
As one of Africa’s oldest game reserves in the region – and among underrated South African national parks – Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park located in KwaZulu-Natal, is a gem. Hluhulwe plays a key role in protecting white rhinos from extinction.
What to expect:
- Excellent Big Five sightings
- Stunning hills and river valleys
- Fewer crowds, more intimate wildlife moments
6. Tembe Elephant Park
Tembe National Park in South Africa. Photo/GOBrding – Birdlife South Africa
Tembe Elephant Park is a community-run park in northern KwaZulu-Natal popular for hosting some of Africa’s largest elephants. The park has a charming wildlife safari, populated by lots of wild animals.
Why Tembe Stands Out:
- See massive elephants up close
- Spot lions, leopards, and colourful birdlife
- Support local conservation and enjoy a peaceful safari
7. Karoo National Park
Set in South Africa’s semi-desert region, Karoo National Park blends natural history with wildlife. This natural blend of nature and wildlife makes a must-visit destination among the underrated South African national parks.
What you should expect:
- Lions, black rhinos, and diverse bird species
- Fossil trails that reveal ancient secrets
- A slow-paced, quiet escape for nature and history lovers
8. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
A section of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park [Photo/Wikimedia Commons]
Why Go:
- See iconic black-maned lions and gemsbok herds
- Incredible sunrises and sunsets for photographers
- Remote and quiet—perfect for off-grid explorers
Which National Park is the Best in South Africa?
Kruger National Park is the best wildlife park in South Africa. Kruger rightfully earns its place as a crown jewel of wildlife conservation, and a safari destination in the South. Spanning a massive 19,623 km²—roughly the size of Israel – Kruger National park leads even the underrated South African national parks.
It’s home to the Big Five and boasts more large mammal species than any other African park. The “wow” factor lies in its sheer biodiversity: over 500 bird species, 147 mammals, and dramatic landscapes from riverine forests to savannahs. With well-maintained roads, rest camps, and guided safaris, it offers unmatched accessibility and adventure. You get an immersive, and raw experience of the African wild whenever you are at Kruger.
