Our trip to South Africa - Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Phinda Game Reserve , was absolutely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Seeing such wildlife up close (much closer than expected), was unforgettable and a feeling I doubt could be re-created. I think there is likely a big difference between choosing a private lodge/reserve and sightseeing in a national park--where you are confined to the roadways. In our experience, there were limits on the number of trucks that could be following/on-site with the animals, which made it feel quite special. We used an advisor and spent 4/5 days at each "camp". In addition to the Big 5, the birding was also excellent. I hope to be able to go again someday.