Your Path into the Wild
Explore our most frequently asked questions and learn how Sun Destinations makes every journey seamless, meaningful, and memorable.
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What is the best time of the year to go on Safari?
Safaris in Southern Africa are rewarding all year round but the experience does differ by season. The dry winter months (May to September) are generally considered the best time for game viewing, as wildlife congregates around water sources, and visibility is excellent in the sparse bush. The summer months (October to April) bring lush landscapes, migratory birds and newborn animals; perfect for photographers and travellers who enjoy a greener, more vibrant setting.
What wildlife can I expect to see whilst on Safari?
The Greater Kruger and Botswana reserves are home to the iconic Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), as well as cheetah, wild dog, giraffe, hippo, crocodile and an astonishing variety of antelope, reptiles and bird life.
Are game drives or activities included in my stay at Sun Destinations Lodges?
Yes. Twice-daily activities are automatically included in your stay for our Greater Kruger Safari’s. These are group activities and usually head out at sunrise and late afternoon when wildlife is most active. Depending on the property, you may also enjoy a walking safari. For our Botswana portfolio; these activities are varied, property dependent but you can usually enjoy a variety of activities such as game drives, traditional mokoro rides, cultural tours or boat excursions. Enquire with our team to see what is included in your Botswana stay!
What is the difference between a private Game Reserve and a National Park?
National Parks are open to the public and are often government owned or sanctioned. They can often be busier as they are open to the general public and self driving is allowed, this means that there are often more vehicles at each sighting. Private game reserves, like those in the Sun Destinations Collection, offer a more exclusive safari experience with limited vehicles allowed per sighting, off-roading for close wildlife encounters guided by expert guides and trackers.
Are all the lodges in the Sun Destinations collection privately owned?
Yes. Each property within our Collection is independently owned and operated, which means each lodge and camp have their own unique personality and story. Sun Destinations brings them together under one collection to ensure consistency, seamless booking booking processes and a shared philosophy of authentic, intimate safari experiences.
Does Sun Destinations operate as a tour operator or a booking platform?
We’re neither a traditional tour operator nor a simple booking platform. Sun Destinations is a marketing and representation company who acts on behalf of each individual property as a centralised reservations office. We work closely with travel agents, DMC’s and our direct guests to make booking easy and transparent.
How do I book a Safari with Sun Destinations?
Booking is simple. You can enquire directly through our website, via email at reservations@sundestinations.co.za, or through your preferred travel agent. Our Reservations team will guide you through availability, booking suggestions, creating itineraries, and any special requests to ensure that your safari experience is tailored to you.
Can Sun Destinations help me combine multiple lodges into one itinerary?
Absolutely. Many travellers choose to combine different properties within our Collection to experience contrasting landscapes, unique properties and different safari styles. Our Team can recommend ideal lodge pairings, assist with transfers and build seamless journeys across the Greater Kruger, Botswana and beyond.
What types of safari lodges and camps are in the Sun Destinations Collection?
Our collection includes intimate tented camps, authentic thatched safari lodges, boutique safari retreats and even mobile walking safaris. While each property is unique, they all share a focus on authenticity, personalised service, and a deep connection to the wilderness.
Do your lodges cater to families, honeymooners, or solo travellers?
Yes. We have family-friendly lodges with interleading rooms and child-friendly activities, romantic hideaways perfect for honeymooners, and welcoming camps for solo travellers looking for a personalised safari. Let us know your needs and we’ll recommend the best fit
Are walking safaris available at any Sun Destinations properties?
Yes. Walking safaris are a highlight at select camps, particularly in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve and on our Wilderness Trails. Guided by passionate and experienced guides, these immersive experiences allow you to track wildlife on foot and gain a deeper appreciation for the bush.
What is the difference between a Safari Lodge, Tented Camp and a mobile safari?
Safari Lodge: Permanent structures, often with thatched roofs, ensuite bathrooms and added amenities.
Tented Camp: Canvas-based accommodations with ensuite facilities, blending comfortable luxury with an immersive “close-to-nature” atmosphere.
Mobile safari: A non-permanent or moving camp that changes locations, offering guests the adventure of exploring and being immersed in nature, with minimal environmental footprint.
How does the Sun Destinations Collection support conservation?
At Sun Destinations, conservation is at the heart of what we do. As a company, we directly support respected organisations such as the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) and Nourish, both of which focus on creating a lasting impact in Africa’s wild spaces.
Through the EWT, our contributions help fund crucial programmes, including efforts to protect endangered species like the African wild dog. These “painted dogs” are iconic to the Greater Kruger and Botswana regions, and initiatives like this ensure their survival for future generations.
In addition, our partnership with Nourish strengthens conservation from a community perspective. By supporting education, skills development, and food security initiatives in rural areas, we help create opportunities that reduce pressure on protected ecosystems.
By booking through Sun Destinations, travellers are indirectly contributing to these conservation efforts, knowing their journey supports both wildlife protection and community upliftment
Do your lodges have eco-friendly or community initiatives?
Yes. Many of our lodges run solar power systems, use minimal plastic and source food locally and seasonally. Several properties also support neighbouring communities through employment, skills training and community upliftment, ensuring that tourism benefits both people and the environment.
Are safaris with Sun Destinations ethical and sustainable?
Absolutely. We work with lodges that follow responsible tourism practices, respect the wildlife and operate with a low environmental footprint. Our safaris are designed to create authentic, respectful encounters with wildlife, ensuring future generations can experience the beauty of Africa’s wilderness too.
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