South Africa | Birding and Wildlife Safari

Duration:
13 Days
Price:
From $4,995
Interests:

About this trip

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of South Africa, home to amazing scenery, iconic African wildlife, and more than 800 bird species. World-renowned habitats and biological diversity are the focus as you journey from the Highveld grasslands of Mpumalanga province to the cliffs and gorges of the Blyde River Canyon, and through transitional habitats before leveling out in the bush plains of Kruger National Park. Cap off the experience birding in the wetlands, grasslands and forests around Wakkerstroom. This translates to a superb range of avian species to be seen, including many regional and country-specific endemics.

Highlights

  • Explore South Africa’s famed Kruger National Park, one of the continent’s largest game reserves, for the chance to spot nearly 500 bird species, as well as the “Big 5” —  lions, elephants, Cape buffalo, leopards, and rhinoceros.
  • Seek out Highveld grassland species such as Wing-snapping Cisticola, Eastern Long-billed Lark, and Denham’s Bustard at Verloren Vallei Nature Reserve.
  • Hike the escarpment forest of Mount Sheba and look for area specialties like the Knysna Turaco, Southern Double-collared Sunbird, and Narina Trogon.
  • Marvel at the stunning landscapes of Blyde River Canyon, the third largest canyon in the world, and spot species like antelopes, hippos, crocodiles, and more.
  • Explore the grassland around Wakkerstroom and track down scarce inhabitants like Blue Bustard, Secretarybird, and Gray Crowned-Crane, plus the globally threatened Rudd’s Lark and Botha’s Lark.

Activity Level 3: Moderate

Participants should be able to ascend or descend 60 stairs consecutively, plus walk for at least 3 hours over some steep slopes, uneven, and potentially slippery surfaces without difficulty. Physical activities typically last for 3 or more hours at a time.

9 Travelers

Land Cost

$4,995 - Mar 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026

$5,595 - Jan 1 - Dec 30, 2027

Book 8 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

What makes us different

Worry-free Planning & Travel

Enjoy peace of mind with a dedicated educational travel consultant taking care of the logistics and our 24/7/365 support team ready to assist should any problems arise while your group is traveling.

Sustainable travel

We believe travel should have a positive impact on the world. We are committed to maintaining responsible travel practices and partner with ClimateSafe to provide carbon offsetting.

Custom-tailored trips

We can customize your itinerary so that it’s the ideal match for your interests, travel dates, and budget

Marketing support and resources

We have all the tools necessary to help you plan, promote and sell your trip

Expert guides

We take pride in hiring local guides who are carefully selected for their knowledge, sensitivity and skill in the field

Flight arrangements

We’re a full service travel provider and are happy to assist with arranging the flights for your group if desired

Daily Itinerary

Print Itinerary
En route
Day 1
Depart the United States for South Africa.
Johannesburg
Day 2
Arrive in Johannesburg today. Most participants' flights arrive in the evening. The temperature in South Africa ranges from high 80s to mid-50s in the summer months (December to March), with chances of afternoon thunderstorms. In the winter (June to September), temperatures range from low 60s to mid-30s, with minimal chance of rain. Elevation is 5,600 feet above sea level, with open Highveld Grassland habitats.
AfricaSky Boutique Hotel
Mount Sheba
Day 3
After an early breakfast, load up the vehicle for the drive to Mount Sheba Rainforest Hotel and Resort, which is situated in a beautiful area of escarpment forest. Spend much of the day traveling to the hotel, stopping en route for some birding if time allows and perhaps visiting a small pan (seasonal, rain-filled body of water), where there are opportunities to search for species such as White-backed Duck, Yellow-billed Duck, Little Grebe, Great-crested Grebe, Purple Heron, and Eurasian Moorhen. Then, drive through the unique Highveld town of Dullstroom. Due to its high-elevation location making it the highest village in South Africa, Dullstroom's temperate climate nurtures the only place in the country where beech and elm trees grow. Continue birding your way to Mount Sheba via the beautiful Verloren Vallei Nature Reserve, a highly biodiverse protected wetland where some of the Highveld grassland species to seek out include Wing-snapping Cisticola, Eastern Long-billed Lark, Yellow Bishop, Denham's Bustard, and possibly Yellow-breasted Pipit, Southern Bald Ibis, and Blue Crane. From here, finish the drive with the aim of reaching Mount Sheba late in the afternoon and spend some time relaxing before dinner. Elevation is 5,300 feet, with Afromontane forest and grassland habitats.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Mount Sheba Rainforest Hotel & Resort
Blyde River Canyon
Day 4
Wake up early to explore the surrounding escarpment forest on foot. Although the number of species that occur in this habitat type is not as high as in other habitats, several of the species here are unlikely to be seen again anywhere else on this journey. Some of the specialties to look for include Knysna Turaco, Grey Cuckooshrike, Southern Double-collared Sunbird, Yellow-streaked Greenbul, Narina Trogon, Cape Batis, African Crested-Flycatcher, and White-starred Robin. Afterward, have a relaxed breakfast before packing up the gear and driving through to the next destination, situated on the edge of Blyde River Canyon. Encompassing more than 1,100 square miles of protected land, the Blyde River Canyon is one of the largest in the world, along with the likes of the Grand Canyon in the United States and the Fish River Canyon in Namibia. Its beauty and magnificence make it one of the most sought-after sites in South Africa. The canyon is home to an impressive variety of species of birds, antelopes, primates, and fish, as well as hippos, crocodiles, and more. Along the way, do some birding in search of species such as Rufous-necked Wryneck, Amethyst Sunbird, Piping Cisticola, and Streaky-headed Seedeater. The aim is to reach Forever Blyde Canyon Resort in the early afternoon to allow for some time to relax during the hottest part of the day before going on a stroll up to a viewpoint overlooking the canyon later in the afternoon. Along the winding paths of the canyon, search for more species like Rock-loving Cisticola, Brimstone Canary, Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird, Cinnamon-breasted Bunting, and Green-backed Camaroptera. Enjoy watching the sun set over the stunning Blyde River Canyon before returning to the resort for dinner. Elevation is around 3,840 feet, with cliffs and gorges, and forest and thickets habitats.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Forever Resorts
Satara, Kruger
Day 5
Start the day off with a birding walk in search of a few more species, including White-throated Robin-Chat, Yellow-fronted Canary, Mocking Cliff-Chat, Familiar Chat, and Striped Pipit. Return to the resort for a relaxed breakfast and some time to pack before departing toward the next spot. Begin the journey to the majestic Kruger National Park and search for species along the way that include Cape Griffon, Cape Rock-Thrush, Mountain Wagtail and, with luck, Taita Falcon. Arrive at the entrance gate of Kruger National Park around mid-day and have some lunch. Spend most of the afternoon driving through to Satara Rest Camp, situated about 30 miles away from the entrance. There are a multitude of new species to encounter in the area that keep travelers distracted during the drive, such as Magpie Shrike, Tawny Eagle, White-backed Vulture, Brown-headed Parrot, and Green-winged Pytillia. Kruger is world-renowned for its unparalleled biodiversity and for being home to the Big Five and many other species like impalas, blue wildebeest, kudus, southern giraffes, and much more. Satara is especially regarded for having an ideal location within Kruger due to its prolific bird life. Elevation ranges from 800 feet at Satara to 1,920 feet at Pretoriuskop, with various habitats that include mainly savanna, with various sub-types such as basalt sweetveld, Sabie River thickets, and Pretoriuskop sourveld.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Satara Rest Camp
Satara, Kruger
Day 6
Spend a full day exploring the area around Satara. Focus initially on birding around the northern part of the camp, where it may be possible to spot Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark, Double-banded Sandgrouse, Namaqua Dove, Kori Bustard, Red-crested Bustard, and perhaps also Gabar Goshawk, Sabota Lark, Burnt-necked Eremomela, and African Pipit. Then, return for a late breakfast in the camp, followed by a short birding stroll before taking some time to relax during the hotter parts of the day. Later in the afternoon, head out once again to add a few more species to the list, and hopefully bump into some more of the large mammals in the area, as Satara offers excellent habitat for lions.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Satara Rest Camp
Skukuza, Kruger
Day 7
Today, the morning starts with a short drive in the region to search for more species such as African Green-Pigeon, African Harrier-Hawk, Grey Tit-Flycatcher, Southern Red-billed Hornbill, and Southern Ground-Hornbill. As usual, be on the look-out for the big predators -- lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Then, head back to the camp for breakfast and to pack up all the gear for the drive to the next camp, right in the heart of Big Five territory. Spend the next two nights in the capital of Kruger National Park, Skukuza Rest Camp, known for its particular abundance of wildlife due to its location on the banks of Sabie River. The drive to Skukuza from Satara takes up the rest of the day, so there are great opportunities for birding along the way during the 57-mile journey. Be ready to spot plenty of other species, as this drive affords travelers magnificent views of Kruger. Around mid-day, stop at Tshokwane Picnic Site for lunch and a chance to stretch before continuing on to Skukuza. Arrive in the late afternoon and enjoy some time to relax in the camp before dinner.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Skukuza Rest Camp
Skukuza, Kruger
Day 8
Explore the area around Skukuza in a similar structure as at Satara; go out during the morning and afternoon, and enjoy some relaxing time back at the camp around mid-day, when activity slows down during the warmer hours of the day. Start by exploring the Sabie River, where there are chances to encounter Red-backed Scrub-Robin, Bearded Scrub-Robin, Sulphur-breasted Bushshrike, Ashy Flycatcher, Golden-breasted Bunting, and White-fronted Bee-eater. On the river itself, it may be possible to find White-headed Lapwing, Three-banded Plover, Goliath Heron, and with a fair share of luck, African Finfoot. Return around mid-morning for breakfast. Afterward, spend some time birding in the camp, where Scarlet-chested Sunbird, Collared Sunbird, Crowned Hornbill, White-browed Robin-Chat, and Cape Crombec may all be seen. Take an afternoon drive around the area in the hopes of finding some of the usual thickets species such as Southern Cordonbleu, Red-billed Firefinch, Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill, Natal Spurfowl, and Brubru. Return to the camp just before gates close and in time for a lovely dinner, possibly even spotting a greater galago along the way.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Skukuza Rest Camp
Berg-en-Dal, Kruger
Day 9
Wake up early today for a drive to a nearby bird hide, where the hopes are to spot some species like African Darter, Malachite Kingfisher, African Pied Kingfisher, Water Thick-knee and African Jacana. Make the most of the excellent photography opportunities at this location, as hippos often come fairly close to the front of the hide. Spend some time here before returning to the camp for breakfast, perhaps making a quick stop around the Skukuza Indigenous Nursery for some birding. Embark on the journey to your final accommodation in Kruger, Berg-en-Dal Rest Camp, a newer camp located on the banks of Matjulu Spruit that boasts views of the surrounding rocky hillsides. Arrive in the early afternoon, and then head out on a drive with a focus on some target species such as Yellow-bellied Eremomela, African Penduline-Tit, Brown-headed Parrot, Little Bee-eater, Yellow-throated Bush Sparrow, and Bush Pipit, before returning to the camp for some more leisure time to get ready for dinner.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Berg-en-Dal Rest Camp
Wakkerstroom
Day 10
After a short morning exploration around the camp, return for breakfast. Then, begin the journey to Wakkerstroom to spend the last two nights of this trip. Wakkerstroom is world-renowned for its birding, which has helped the town develop significantly over the years due to the interest of visitors from all around the world. It is located in a valley that offers stunning panoramic views and features a myriad of species, from grassland endemics to water and forest birds. En route, there may only be one stop at a grassland area to try and track down the White-bellied Bustard, which is formerly known as Barrow's Korhaan and sometimes treated as a distinct species. Arrive in Wakkerstroom late in the afternoon and have some time to relax and get settled in before dinner. Elevation is 5,700 feet, with mainly high-altitude grassland habitat.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Wetlands Country Lodge
Wakkerstroom
Day 11
Today, venture on a morning outing with a packed breakfast to explore the area around Wakkerstroom. Focus on tracking down some of the more elusive species of the northern grassland areas like Blue Bustard, Secretarybird, Grey-winged Francolin, Red-capped Lark, Eastern Clapper Lark, Pink-billed Lark, Blue Crane, Grey Crowned-Crane, and Southern Bald Ibis. Two of the most important species to be on the lookout for are Rudd's Lark and Botha's Lark, which are globally threatened and with populations of fewer than 5,000 each, possibly even as low as 1,500 each. Although the Yellow-breasted Pipit can be tough to track down during the winter months, it may also be possible to encounter it in this area. Return to town around lunch time and enjoy the chance to relax. Then, spend the afternoon birding the wetlands along Wakkerstroom to track down Cape Shoveler, Red-billed Duck, Blue-billed Teal, Spur-winged Goose, African Snipe, African Marsh-Harrier, Little Rush Warbler, and Black-crowned Night-Heron.
Breakfast-Dinner included
Wetlands Country Lodge
Departure
Day 12
Spend the final morning of this journey on an early birding drive in the region. Search for any outstanding species and, perhaps, find one of the local meerkat mobs before heading back to the lodge for breakfast and departure for Johannesburg. All morning activities on this day depend on departure flight times, as it is a 4-hour drive from Wakkerstroom to the airport.
Breakfast- included
Arrival Home
Day 13
Spend overnight in flight and arrive home today.
9 Travelers

Land Cost

$4,995 - Mar 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026

$5,595 - Jan 1 - Dec 30, 2027

Book 8 travelers and 1 group
leader travels for free

What's Included
  • Accommodations with private bathrooms
  • Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
  • Arrival and departure transfers based on individual flight schedules
  • Bottled water or water refill station during transfers
  • Carbon Offset
  • Full time guide for the duration of your program
  • Non alcoholic beverage with meals
  • Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
What's Not Included
  • International airfare
  • Items of personal nature
  • Tips
  • Travel Insurance
Pricing Details
Rates are based on double occupancy for participants.

Prices are valid for travel from Mar 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2026. Holiday surcharges may apply.

Travel Info

Print Travel Info

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter South Africa. Passports must be valid for at least 30 days after the date of departure from South Africa. As this requirement is subject to change at any time without notice, we recommend at least 6 months' validity.

A tourist visa is not required for visits up to 90 days.

South African law requires travelers to have two consecutive, fully blank visa pages in their passport upon arrival into South Africa. Travelers without the required blank visa pages will be refused entry into South Africa, fined, and deported at their own expense.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the South African Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into South Africa, unless you are traveling from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk (including spending 12 or more hours in an airport located in a country with yellow fever transmission).

Though not required, the CDC recommends vaccination against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to South Africa.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

The CDC warns that travelers to certain areas of South Africa—particularly in the low-altitude areas of Mpumalanga Province (including Kruger National Park), Limpopo Province, and north-eastern KwaZulu-Natal Province—may be at risk for exposure to malaria. Risk is highest from October through May.

Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. Prevention is twofold: the use of anti-malarial drugs and the prevention of insect bites. If your itinerary includes areas where malaria is present and you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your physician for a prescription.

To protect against mosquitos, the CDC recommends that you cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an EPA-registered active ingredient like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE). Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent, ideally 20 minutes later.

Be careful when applying products containing DEET, as it can damage or dissolve certain synthetic fabrics as well as plastic, rubber, vinyl, or elastic materials, such as those used in camera equipment, binoculars, phone cases, sunglasses, or watches. Additionally, some research suggests that when DEET and picaridin enter local waterways, they can be harmful to amphibians and other wildlife. When selecting a repellent, it is ultimately up to each traveler to weigh the risks and benefits of different options, keeping in mind both environmental factors and the importance of protecting against illness.

OTHER INSECT-BORNE ILLNESSES

In addition to malaria, the CDC advises that travelers may be at risk for other illnesses transmitted by insects, such as chikungunya, African tick-bite fever, and others. Travelers are advised to protect themselves against insect bites using the measures noted above.

After spending time outdoors in grassy or wooded areas, the CDC recommends showering and conducting a full-body check for ticks. If you find a tick attached to your skin, safely remove it as soon as possible.

Wildlife

Follow all instructions from your guides regarding wildlife. Animals may become aggressive to protect themselves, their young or their mates, or to guard a food supply. Do not make sudden movements either toward or away from them, as this may be interpreted as threatening or territorial.

Avoid stray dogs, as they may carry rabies. In the unlikely event of being bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal, clean the wound and control bleeding. Seek medical attention immediately.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

Print Resources

Packing Recommendations

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary.

You may find many of the items below in our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable for most activities in South Africa. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer outfit or two (eg sundress, polo shirt) if your itinerary includes dinners out or more formal activities.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. If you prefer to pack light, note that many hotels offer laundry services (at additional cost).

Pack clothing that can be worn in layers to adapt to weather changes throughout the day. Remember that seasons in the Southern Hemisphere are reversed from those in the north. Hence, July and August are the middle of South African winter and mid-summer hits in December and January. South Africa’s rainy season is October to April, but it can rain at any time.

Temperatures vary by region as well as season. Cape Town and the Garden Route have a Mediterranean climate, moderated by ocean winds, while Johannesburg and Pretoria are atop a plateau and have a comfortable, spring-like climate despite their proximity to the equator.

Bring clothes in neutral or muted colors such as green, khaki, brown, or gray. We recommend that you avoid wearing bright colors or white as they can easily be spotted by animals. In addition, blue is particularly attractive to certain insects and should be avoided.

Army-style camouflage clothing is illegal in South Africa.

Locals tend to dress conservatively. Revealing tank tops and shorts/skirts cut above the knee are typically not recommended in towns.

  • A combination of short-sleeved and lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun and insect protection
  • Shorts and/or skirts
  • Lightweight, quick-drying long pants for sun and insect protection; warmer long pants if your itinerary visits colder areas
  • Undergarments
  • Sleepwear
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater/sweatshirt (or heavier weight if visiting high-elevation areas)
  • 1-2 bathing suit(s) for the beach, if applicable, plus many hotels have pools
  • Socks – Bring extra pairs.
  • Shoes – Consider your specific itinerary when choosing footwear. For most programs, you’ll likely want at least one pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes suitable for forest hikes and walking over cobblestones or other uneven terrain. Sturdier hiking boots may be appropriate for more active itineraries. In addition, many participants opt for a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals. If you’re visiting the beach, you may also want a pair of aqua socks, reef walkers, or water shoes.
  • Lightweight rain jacket, hooded poncho, and/or windbreaker
  • Visor or wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

  • Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – If possible, avoid strong fragrances if you are sensitive to insect bites (and to be considerate of you fellow travelers).
  • Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – Washcloths are not standard in all hotels. If you normally use a washcloth, you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap. Some hotel rooms provide a hair dryer, but you may wish to bring one from home.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Razor
  • Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin (see note below about treating clothing with permethrin)
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – If you’ll be in the ocean, we recommend reef-safe sunscreen.
  • Aloe vera gel
  • A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever, motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

Days before you leave home, you may wish to consider spraying any clothing, socks, and shoes that will be worn in lowland, tropical sites with permethrin, an anti-parasite medication, to repel irritating pests and prevent the spread of disease. A recommended brand is Sawyer. Carefully read all instructions before use. Please note permethrin is highly toxic to cats and fish, and some aerosol products may be harmful to birds. Side effects may include minor itching, burning, or redness. You may want to use a laundry marker to label and keep track of which socks are permethrinized. Only one application per item is necessary; permethrin on treated clothes remains effective through several washings. Permethrin should NOT be applied directly to skin.

Miscellaneous

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

  • Passport and photocopies of all travel documentation
  • Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
  • Money – ATM/credit card, traveler's checks, and/or cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
  • Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
  • Yellow fever certificate (if required; only if arriving from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk)
  • Sunglasses with strap
  • Small day pack for hikes and excursions
  • Flashlight and/or head lamp
  • Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
  • A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
  • Binoculars with lens cleaner
  • Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool – Pack in your checked luggage.
  • Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
  • Notepad or travel journal and pen
  • Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
  • Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
  • A small quantity of laundry detergent if you’ll be washing clothing by hand
  • Money belt
  • Voltage converter, plug adapter, and chargers for electronics
Want to subscribe to the Holbrook Explorer?
Sign up for our newsletter and get the latest updates on upcoming trips, deals, and more.
CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.
10 Bird Families of South Africa
Birds may not be the first wildlife that most people think of when they hear 'South Africa,' but with more than 850 avian species there alone, the vibrant country is home to more than just Simba and h