Bush Breaks - Getaway into Nature

The ultimate safari holiday includes an opportunity to escape to the bush to spend time in nature and view wildlife in its natural habitat. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a bush break in Botswana, Kenya or in South Africa such as in Pilanesberg, Thompsons Holidays offers a choice of exciting safari style holidays. Enjoy a bucket list experience in Tanzania where you can view the annual wildebeest migration, see the Big Five in the famous Kruger National Park or view wildlife from the vantage point of the river in Zambia or Zimbabwe. Wherever you’d like to go, whatever type of bush escape you’re after, Thompsons Holidays can take you there on an unbeatable safari holiday adventure.

Getaway to the bush for a real break...

Enjoy a bush getaway at a lodge in the Pilanesberg National Park near Sun City.
Go game viewing in Namibia’s iconic Etosha National Park.
Enjoy a safari cruise on Lake Kariba to see wildlife from the water.
Embark on a game viewing balloon safari near Hoedspruit.
See hippo, crocodiles and other game on a boat cruise in St Lucia.
View the Big 5 in Shamwari Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape.
Go bird watching in Tsitsikamma National Park in the Garden Route.
Embark on a guided bush walk in Chobe Forest Reserve in Botswana.
Enjoy a sunset safari in the Kruger National Park.

Wildlife abounds in Africa and Southern Africa, so take advantage of the variety on offer and enjoy an affordable safari with Thompsons Holidays. We can arrange the ultimate safari holiday with packages ranging from luxury to cheap, so enquire now to book your 2026 bush escape! Keep an eye on out for bush breaks specials.

What to do on a bush break

Here are a few destinations where Thompsons can make your bush getaway extra special:

Pilanesberg National Park: Take part in a conservation talk with expert rangers to learn about wildlife protection efforts.
Etosha National Park, Namibia: Enjoy sundowners at a waterhole hide, where elephants and antelope often gather at dusk.
Shamwari Game Reserve, Eastern Cape: Take a guided walking safari to discover animal tracks, plants, and smaller wildlife up close.
Tsitsikamma National Park, Garden Route: Explore forest trails on a canopy adventure, walking across suspension bridges high above the trees.
Chobe Game Reserve, Botswana: Enjoy a river cruise along the Chobe River, spotting elephants, hippos, and birds up close from the water.
Kruger National Park: Enjoy a bush breakfast or dinner in the wild, set up in a remote location with the sounds of the bush all around.

Whether you’re after once-in-a-lifetime moments or quiet time in nature, Thompsons ensures your safari is filled with experiences you’ll carry with you forever.

Know before you go...

What types of bush breaks are there?

Bush getaways are as diverse as the travellers who enjoy them. Here are some popular styles:

Luxury Bush Breaks: Stay in exclusive lodges with private decks, plunge pools, and fine dining under the stars.
Affordable Bush Breaks: Enjoy game drives and wildlife encounters at budget-friendly camps and lodges.
Family Bush Breaks: Many lodges offer kids’ safari programs, child-friendly activities, and flexible dining options.
Self-Catering Bush Accommodation: Perfect for travellers who enjoy independence, with the freedom to prepare meals while still enjoying access to safari activities.
Safari Packages South Africa: Choose from guided safaris, private tours, or all-inclusive lodge stays.

No matter your budget or travel style, Thompsons ensures your holiday in the bush is easy, memorable, and tailored to you.

Bush getaway FAQs

What is the best time of year for a bush break?
The dry winter months (May to September) are ideal for game viewing, as animals gather around waterholes and vegetation is less dense.

What exactly is a bush break?
A bush break is a short or extended stay in a game reserve or national park where you can enjoy wildlife viewing, guided safaris, and time in nature.

What is the best month to visit Kruger National Park?
August and September are excellent, offering clear visibility and high chances of spotting the Big Five.

Which safari is best in Africa?
It depends on your interests. Kruger is iconic for Big Five safaris, Botswana’s Okavango Delta offers unique water-based safaris, and Tanzania’s Serengeti is unmatched for the wildebeest migration.

How far in advance should I book a bush break?
For peak season (school holidays and winter), book at least 6–12 months in advance. For quieter times, 3–6 months is usually fine.

What to wear on a safari trip?
Neutral colours like khaki, beige, and olive are best. Pack lightweight clothing for the day, warm layers for early mornings, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.

What part of South Africa is best for safari?
Kruger National Park is world-famous, but Pilanesberg, Shamwari in the Eastern Cape, and Madikwe Game Reserve are also outstanding options.

What I wish I knew before going on safari?
Early mornings are key for the best sightings, and game drives can get chilly – so always bring a jacket. Also, safaris are about patience; sometimes the thrill is in waiting and watching.

Safari & Bush Blogs

Need a little help planning your first bush break experience? Or are you looking for inspiration for your next safari adventure? There's just something about being off the beaten track and spotting our incredible wildlife that keeps us coming back for more. For helpful tips, planning, inspiration and more you've come to the right place. If you're ready to plan your bush getaway don't hesitate to contact us. Click the heading link to read the articles.

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