Last Updated on June 3, 2025 by SA Surf Tours
You may have come across the term “surfari” in recent travel circles. While The Surfaris were a popular American rock band formed in 1962, the modern meaning of “surfari” has evolved – moving away from music and diving deep into the world of waves and wild landscapes.
Surfari Meaning: More Than Just a Surf Trip
The Oxford Dictionary defines a surfari as:
“A journey made by surfers in search of good conditions for surfing or to visit several beaches suitable for surfing.”
In other words, a surfari is a surf-focused expedition. But in South Africa, it becomes much more than that.
Here, a surfari combines world-class surfing with the thrill of a traditional African safari. It’s the rare opportunity to surf top-quality breaks and spot wildlife like lions, elephants, and rhinos—all in the same unforgettable trip.
A Famous Surfari Spot: Victoria Bay
One of the top search results for “surfari” is Surfari Backpackers in Victoria Bay, South Africa. Owned by the Buitendag family, this well-known surf lodge is also the home base of Bianca Buitendag, a professional surfer who ranked among the top 24 women in the World Surf League.
Victoria Bay is a great example of what a surfari in South Africa can offer—pristine surf, coastal beauty, and easy access to adventure.
Why Surfaris Are Growing in Popularity
Interest in surfari travel has risen sharply in recent years, and here’s why:
1. Experiential Travel is on the Rise
Surfers are seeking more than just waves—they want a meaningful connection with nature, culture, and their destination. A surfari delivers just that.
2. Social Media Inspiration
Photos of surfers alongside giraffes, rhinos, and zebras are gaining traction online. These visuals inspire others to swap crowded surf spots for wilder, more remote experiences.
3. Combining Two Bucket-List Experiences
Instead of choosing between a surf trip and a safari, why not do both? A surfari offers the best of both worlds—surf adventure and wildlife immersion.
Why South Africa Is the Best Place for a Surfari
At South Africa Surf Tours, we believe South Africa offers the ultimate surfari destination. Here’s why:
Affordable Surf Travel
South Africa provides excellent value for international travellers. With most foreign currencies stronger than the South African Rand, you can enjoy quality accommodation, food, and activities at a fraction of the cost.
Wildlife Encounters Near the Coast
You don’t have to travel far to go on safari. Many of South Africa’s top wildlife reserves are close to the coastline, making it easy to combine your surf sessions with game drives.
Top Inland Wildlife Reserves:
- Addo Elephant Park – Just an hour from Port Elizabeth, perfect for elephant sightings.
- Kruger National Park – South Africa’s most iconic game park, home to the Big Five.
- Madikwe Game Reserve – Near the Botswana border, ideal for high-end safari experiences.
- Pilanesberg National Park – A malaria-free park just a few hours from Johannesburg.
- Sabi Sands Game Reserve – Offers luxury lodges and exceptional animal encounters.
Source: The Culture Trip
Coastal and Nearby Wildlife Parks:
- Aquila Private Game Reserve – Close to Cape Town with full- and half-day safari options.
- Buffelsfontein Wildlife Reserve – Home to lions, rhinos, giraffes and just an hour from Cape Town.
- Etosha National Park (Namibia) – Often included in surfari trips to Skeleton Bay.
The Surf: Consistent, Uncrowded, and World-Renowned
No surfari is complete without great waves—and South Africa has some of the best on the planet.
Must-Visit Surf Spots:
- Jeffrey’s Bay (J-Bay) – Often listed among the top 10 waves in the world.
- Elands Bay – A remote left-hand point break with long, mellow rides.
- Skeleton Bay (Namibia) – Known for its ultra-long barreling waves.
From beginner-friendly points to challenging slabs, there’s a surf spot for every level and preference. The South African coastline offers a rich mix of reef, point, and beach breaks, all with consistent swell and fewer crowds than most major surf destinations.
What to Expect on a South Africa Surfari
South Africa Surf Tours offers curated surfari packages tailored to your interests and ability. Each package includes:
- Daily guided surf sessions
- Private transport and transfers
- Safari excursions to top-rated reserves
- Comfortable accommodation
- Expert local surf guides
We take care of everything—so you can focus on surfing great waves and enjoying extraordinary wildlife encounters.
Key Takeaways
- A surfari is a hybrid adventure, combining surf exploration with African safari experiences.
- South Africa is the ideal destination for a surfari due to its surf quality, wildlife diversity, and affordability.
- The surfari trend is growing thanks to experiential travel demand and social media influence.
- From J-Bay to Kruger, a surfari offers unmatched opportunities for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Plan Your Surfari Today
Looking for something more than the usual surf holiday? A surfari in South Africa could be your perfect escape. Contact South Africa Surf Tours to start planning your custom adventure and experience the ultimate surf trip with a wild twist.
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The Rise of Eco-Conscious Surfari Travel
As global travel rebounds, sustainability is becoming a top priority for surf tourists. According to Booking.com’s 2024 Sustainable Travel Report, 74% of global travellers want more sustainable travel options, and 43% say they would pay more for eco-friendly experiences. This shift is influencing how surfari operators design their trips.
At South Africa Surf Tours, this trend is reflected in our commitment to low-impact travel. We prioritise locally owned accommodations, carbon-conscious transport routes, and partnerships with community-run wildlife reserves. This approach not only reduces our environmental footprint but also ensures that the economic benefits of tourism reach local communities.
For surfers seeking to travel responsibly, a surfari in South Africa offers a unique opportunity to combine wave-hunting with wildlife exploration – without compromising sustainability. Source: Booking.com 2024 Sustainable Travel Report
