south africa safari and beach packages

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Best South Africa Safari Tours

Find the perfect Safari adventure in South Africa. There are 284 South Africa safaris to choose from, that range in length from 1 days up to 22 days. The most popular month for these tours is October.

250+ South African safari packages with 1,334 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Kruger in Depth

Tour was great. Lots to see. Very busy and covered a lot of ground but worth it.

5-Day Kruger National Park Big 5 Safari & Panorama Route Tour

Excellent safari from kruger adventure lodge the staff all fantastic and very helpful and welcoming definately be coming back to this lodge once again

• €30 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Route 62 Adventure Safari 15 Days / 14 Nights

Die Reise war ein voller Erfolg, wir waren bestens betreut in allem. Es war eine unvergessliche Reise für uns alle, trotz dem schlechten Wetter zwischendurch war es wunderschön. Alain hat die Trips immer so gut angepasst, dass alles möglich war, und er hat uns Südafrika mit seinem reichhaltigen Wissen über dieses Land, sehr bereichert. Kann man nur wärmstens empfehlen. Vielen Dank nochmal für die tollen Eindrücke. Herzliche Grüße Christine

South Africa: Kruger Wildlife Tracking & Vineyards

Kruger Lodge Experience (3 days)

Amazing trip! We saw a lot of animals despite bad weather. The food was nice and the lodge was cosy. I would recommend staying longer than we did (we only had three days).

9 Day Incredible South African Safari and Drakensberg Adventure

We had a wonderful tour, made possible by a great guide. We wanted to get a taste of a variety of parks and found the destinations very thoughtfully put together. It is a lot of driving to see the various areas but there were strategic breaks. Loved staying inside the parks and having critters outside the veranda . We saw 13 rhinos in one day! Wade was great at seeing things we would have missed and always able to manoeuvre the car for best views and photos. They are quite happy to tailor your experience so don’t be afraid to ask.

Kruger Lodge Experience

Interpret war ein sehr guter Anbieter. Nur die Buchung über Tourradar war nicht besonders reibungslos.

6 Day Classic Kruger Park Safari

no complaints! guides were very knowledgeable and very friendly and helpful, and genuinely liked their jobs and loved seeing animals as much as the tourists do.

5 Day Cape to Addo Safari Tour (Return)

• Coach / Bus

Kruger Safari And The Panorama Route

I feel so lucky to have seen and experienced all that I saw on this trip. Our tour guide was amazing and so insightful about daily life in South Africa.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Luxury Garden Route Journey from Cape Town

Perfect tour of Cape Town, Garden Route, Addo and Wine farms, as well as Uncover South Africa Naturist Tour. Our family holiday in South Africa was spent with the Cape Town, Winelands, Garden Route & Addo National Park tour from stunning Cape Town. We booked the tour online a couple of months in advance, and it turned out to be the best! We also booked the Uncover South Africa Naturist Tour, as we are naturists/nudists, and how fantastic! If you are into this, you will not regret doing this tour, it was just such an amazing experience of SA, and we met so many local naturists, friends we made to last forever. Highly recommended. We received a VIP itinerary and treatment from Jakes of Amatungulu Tours and the professional and knowledgeable guide we had was excellent and reassuring. All the places and landmarks that truly matters are selected for this tour, and we saw amazing scenery, wildlife, history, fauna and flora. The traditional food was to die for and the overnight accommodation a rare treat. For what I thought would bore my children turned out to be such beauty and exhilarating experiences, that even them was caught enjoying themselves. These tours exceeded all our expectations and opened our eyes to the real history and beauty of South Africa and we highly recommended it to all our friends, and the readers.

Best of Kruger National Park

Es hat organisatorisch alles geklappt. Alle Mitarbeiter von Kurt Safari haben sich große Mühe gegeben. Unterkunft und Verpflegung alles sehr ausreichend. Hatte erwartet, mehr Tiere zu sehen. Das Gras war aber auch ziemlich und es gibt ausreichend viel wasser im Park. Bei eigener Safari vor langer Zeit in der Etoscha pfanne habe ich etwa 100 mal so viele Tiere gesehen. Trotzdem war es ganz gut. Sehr gut leider nicht.

2 Day Wildlife Safari Tour (Return)

Die Tour war toll, abwechslungsreich und hat mir viel Spaß gemacht.

Working Safari/Conferencing at luxury bush lodges, Kruger National Park & Panorama Route

PRO: 1. "All included" tour - professional guide, comfortable transportation, very good hotels, all meals and taste of great South Africa's wines. 2. Diversified itinerary - South African nature, culture, history - well presented by knowledgeable guides and thoughtfully designed by tour operator. 3. Hotels, B&B, Lodges, restaurants - exceptional. CON: None. My husband and I would like to thank Jakes for the great organization of this tour. Our guide was very professional, attentive, patient and of great personality. We recommend THIS TOUR to all who really wish get to know this beautiful country, travel in comfort and have a relaxed conference safari.

5 Day Classic Kruger Park Safari

The weather was not good but the tour was nice.

South Africa Safari Reviews

Our guide was superlative. Our itinerary was superb. Our accommodation and food really satisfying and well beyond expectations. It was a great trip and I'd do it again at my first opportunity. And I'll recommend to far and wide!

The tour was really awesome. Each day we got to see so much and we were so lucky to get to see the Big 5! The only thing that let the experience down was the accommodation which was pretty dated and felt damp. But it had been wet and we were reluctant to overuse the aircon. The food was generous and the staff were very friendly and accomodating. Next time we go safari, we will spend a little more now that we know what to experimenter. Thank you for a great tour.

Safari Tours

• Wildlife (131)
• Big Five (76)

National Park

• Kruger National Park (87)
• Victoria Falls (8)
• Pilanesberg National Park (6)
• Sabi Sand National Park (6)
• Addo Elephant Park (5)

Regions in South Africa

• Kruger National Park (97)
• Limpopo (45)
• Garden Route (44)
• Western Cape (33)
• Guateng (10)
• KwaZulu-Natal (5)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Safaris in December 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in August 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in January 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in November 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in October 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in September 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in July 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in June 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in May 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in April 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in March 2024/2025
• 10 Best Safaris in February 2024/2025
• 10 Best Luxury African Safari Tours 2024/2025
• South Africa Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best Time to Visit South Africa 2024/2025
• 10 Best Family Safari Holiday Packages 2024/2025
• Best 10 Day South Africa Itineraries (with Reviews)

South Africa

Sub regions inside

Broader region.

Relatively cheap when compared to other first world destinations.  Extraordinary scenery and wildlife.

South Africa has an enormous amount to offer.  For big 5 wildlife safaris, you'd want to be considering the Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands Game Reserve.

For nightlife, restaurants and exquisite scenery spend a few days in Cape Town.

Cape Town is best between November and March when it's warm and not too windy.

The Kruger Park is best towards the end of winter, before it getstoo hot and you can easily see wildlife with the foliage having lost its leaves.

Apr 27, 2024

Anja is awesome!

Anja is awesome!! She went above and beyond for me as I had several changes until I locked in my bucket list itinerary and then my friend cancelled. She wasn't mad and just went about cancelling her portion which saved me money in the long run. Anja is a true professional regardless and I have been dealing with her since Sept 2023. Cannot wait until my trip in Sept 2024.

Apr 26, 2024

Shann was beyond amazing

Shann was beyond amazing. Listened to our needs, communicated super-efficiently and gave really honest excellent advice. She was so patient, kind and professional. The time difference across the globe made no difference. I am so excited for the itinerary she has put together. I usually cobble my own itinerary together for our holidays and it’s so time consuming and hard work. This was a piece of cake! Thank you Shann.

Great planning and service

Great planning and service, and everything worked like clockwork. We booked an Inyari Lodge safari with air with Safari.com. it wasn't clear if there will be 2 or three of us, so with Candis' help we booked a family chalet for 2 and added the third later when it was confirmed he can come. Candis put us on flights that maximized our game drive time (unlike some of the other guests) so we got all 6 drives in 3 nights. The lodge was great. Especially the game drives. We saw more than we hoped for. Additionally, Safari.com's insurance was very competitive. Highly recommended.

Apr 24, 2024

Kim helped us for the details of trip…

Kim helped us for the details of trip planning.

Apr 23, 2024

Shann was amazing

Shann was amazing , great prompt service and went above and beyond to meet our travel requirements.

Apr 22, 2024

My experience with safari.com is always…

My experience with safari.com is always incredibly, pascal made happen my dream again. He is the best always answering questions and making everything perfect.thank you again pascal, can’t wait to tell all about my second trip to Africa in October.

Thank you Heleen Coetzee for your excellent service!

Thank you Heleen Coetzee for your excellent service. We have booked through her at Kruger park numerous times. She is very helpful and quick to assist.

Apr 21, 2024

Fantastic travel agent for African safari family trip!

Wow! Shann was and is fantastic! She figured out a way to make our entire trip work. We are going on a 2 week trip to South Africa and Botswana. She really helped tie it all together as a wonderful, cohesive trip. She is super nice and super smart and very knowledgeable. She is also flexible and thoughtful, etc., etc. When the chips were down (and we literally were considering pulling the plug on the whole trip), she found a way to make the entire itinerary work and got us excited about our wonderful adventure! Highly recommend!

Apr 20, 2024

safari booking

We were looking for a Safari. Anja from Safari.com supported us to book accommodation and flights, she was very polite, super fast and very supportive. We can recommend her and Safari.com, it was great to book there.

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• Kilimanjaro
• Lake Manyara
• Mahale Mountains
• Nyerere National Park
• Pemba Island
• Dar Es Salaam
• Mainland Coast
• Private Islands
• Okavango Delta
• Central Kalahari
• Chobe & Kasane
• Makgadikadi & Nxai
• Savuti & Linyanti
• South Africa
• Johannesburg
• Madikwe & Waterberg
• Garden Route
• Maasai Mara
• Northern Parks
• Amboseli And South
• Coast and Islands
• Lake Victoria
• Bazaruto Archipelago
• Mozambique Coast
• Quirimbas Archipelago
• Volcanoes National Park
• Central Highlands
• Skeleton Coast
• Twyfelfontein
• South Luangwa
• Victoria Falls
• Lower Zambezi

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ESCAPE TO AFRICA

“Africa. The world’s greatest wilderness. The only place on Earth to see the full majesty of nature”

DAVID ATTENBOROUGH – BBC AFRICA

CONSCIOUSLY BESPOKE

A safari and beach holiday is a completely bespoke experience that combines adventure and escapism with sustainability. immerse yourself in ethically conscious journeys that harmonise luxury, conservation, and authentic experiences across africa., explore the various countries you could visit, ranging from crystal clear waters to tropical safaris. safari and beach are the perfect combo.

Iconic Safari and Beach destination: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater & Zanzibar. Home to great migration and Kilimanjaro. Excellent travel infrastructure –…

Classic Safari&Beach : Maasai Mara with Kenya Coast or Zanzibar and uncrowded conservancies. There is excellent travel infrastructure  for all…

The spice island – Robinson Crusoe escapism and tropical hideaway. Turquoise seas lapping whitest of sands & oozing Swahili charm.

Exclusive safari – away from the crowds – famed for Okavango Delta & Kalahari Desert. Connects well with South Africa…

Stunning tiny coral islands with pristine white beaches, surrounded by warm, shallow, crystal waters teeming with marine life.

The safe beach option to combine with safari or on its own. Plenty of beach resorts offering an island playground…

Ultimate beach destination combining well with South / East Africa Stunning coast & islands offering turquoise seas & pristine white…

Desert landscapes, abstract wilderness and fierce coastline. Attracts adventure seekers & seasoned travellers.

Famous for its mountain gorillas and volcanic landscape. Humbling and incredibly rewarding for everybody who visits.

Our Favourite Itineraries

Take a look at our sample itineraries for a glimpse of what your experience could involve..

Quintessential Safari & Beach

A superb holiday tailored for those who want to see the best of northern Tanzania, but with more time to relax and soak in the bush and beach experience. Take…

Kenya : Ultimate Family Trip

3 nights Masai Mara & 5 nights Zanzibar A luxurious family holiday that combines a short safari at a tented lodge with a swimming pool in the Masai Mara, with…

Botswana : Desert & Delta

Chobe, Okavango Delta & Makgadikgadi A super in-depth adventure into Botswana’s most iconic landscapes over 8 nights.  Explore the best of Botswana with 2 nights in Chobe, 2 nights in…

Luxury Bush & Beach Honeymoon

A stunning luxury safari and beach in Tanzania & Zanzibar for the ultimate romantic escape.  This trip takes in some of our favourite sights staying in some of our top camps…

Tanzania: Simply Safari & Beach

Explore the pristine wilderness in Tanzania’s southern Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve). Witness this region’s wildlife including big cats, elephant and rare wild dog by vehicle, boat and…

Private Family Safari & Beach

This trip combines the wonders of Ngorongoro Crater and the open plains of the Serengeti with one of our favourite beach lodges at Pongwe in Zanzibar. You’ll have your own…

Tanzania: Serengeti & Zanzibar

This ‘short and sweet’ private safari shows you some of Tanzania’s most iconic parks and is remarkable value. Staying in some of our favourite independent lodges and camps you will…

Tanzania: Wild Luxury

Ruaha National Park is one of our favourite wildlife locations anywhere – it is wild and pristine, with quality small camps and far from anywhere. Game drives here are exquisite…

Tanzania’s Big Five

Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, Tarangire, Zanzibar. See the best of Tanzania and its famous parks including The Ngorongoro Crater and far reaching plains of the Serengeti. Add Lake Manyara and…

We like to create your perfect holiday: family fun, a romantic honeymoon or random adventure we’ve got it covered.

For the perfect safari and beach honeymoon to Africa combination, we would be thrilled to show you some of the finest places to visit. Please involve us as soon as you…

An African family safari and beach holiday might be one of the most rewarding holidays you ever spend together. Watching the Africa day as it unfolds in front of you…

Kilimanjaro is the highest freestanding mountain in the world and the highest in Africa. Climbing Kilimanjaro is an extremely rewarding, challenging and potentially life-changing experience.

Diving & Snorkelling

The Indian Ocean, off Africa’s east coast, offers wonderful snorkelling and diving due to it’s rich and diverse marine life. Divers and snokellers have the opportunity to see whales sharks,…

Seeing the Gorillas is one of those lifetime experiences that should be in everybody’s tick box. The Virunga mountains in Rwanda and Bwindi Forest in Uganda are the easiest points…

The “Great Migration” is the continuous movement of huge numbers of wildebeest and zebra throughout the Serengeti in Tanzania and the bottom of the Maasai Mara in Kenya. These enormous…

Balloon safari is gaining in popularity. Floating gently over far reaching plains of the Masai Mara or Serengeti or the vast deserts of Namibia offer a magical experience. Up high…

Zanzibar has become a kitesurfing mecca. However, along the east and southern African coastline, kitesurf centres have popped up offering a variety of kitesurf options.

Fitness & Yoga

Fitness & yoga is available extensively in Africa, particularly amongst the beach resorts and retreats. Please contact us and we can let you know what types of Yoga are available…

Our experienced and dedicated team have been creating the most unforgettable African safari and beach holidays for many years and we love doing it. We exist because of our love for Africa and we aim to pass this on to you. Please take a look at our customer testimonials below and do not hesitate to get in touch with any holiday planning questions or queries.

Read our testimonials.

We had an amazing family holiday (2 kids aged 10) and the service and recommendations from S&B were fantastic. Local Masai Wanderings guide (Clement) was brilliant, knowledgeable and friendly and a real joy to travel with. Everything went very smoothly which was a testament to the organisation by S&B. Many thanks to Nick and the team, we will be back!

Feast Family

When you book a holiday like this you know it’s going to be early starts and early nights, and on the go Inbetween. It is the most rewarding experience, and the mix of luxury and tented accommodation makes you appreciate both, the consistent is the level of service from all staff, and their inherent friendliness was an added bonus.

Morag Bennett

I am just back from Tanzania and wanted to thank you very much for a fantastic itinerary. I loved all the accommodation choices made, all the connecting flights worked well and the guide was superb. I had a great time and let me know if you want to get some more feedback on any of the properties suggested by you and also Pongwe Beach which excellent.

We had the BEST time! I have been struggling to put into words how amazing our honeymoon actually was. By the time we got to Selous Riverside Safari Camp it was after lunch so we’d missed the afternoon trip but we went on the river safari late afternoon which was brilliant, could only be discribed as breathtaking for our first few sightings.

Nyerere National Park & Pongwe

Many thanks for a truly great holiday! Nyerere National Park was a great success as we saw the wild dogs on 2 occasions and some great lion kills. In fact we saw a pride of 10 lion including cubs within 10 mins of landing in the Nyerere National Park! Zanzibar was wonderful! The sunshine hotel was beautiful and the staff were lovely.

Andrew Morton

We saw everything possible due to our wonderful drivers and game spotters Steve and Oliver who became one of the family. We had two game rides each day with a rest after lunch at camp. Our group ranged from 15-70 yrs and we all came back with wonderful memories of a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Your ultimate African holiday

Explore our short video featuring incredible african experiences – your bespoke getaway awaits get in touch today., get in touch, why choose us, plan an unforgettable trip with our support, knowledge and holiday protection throughout the journey., knowledge&expertise, luxury&value, care&protection, view our brochure, explore our brochure of bespoke safari and beach holidays – from wild adventures to relaxing escapes..

Safari & Beach does “exactly what it says on the tin”. We organise safari and beach holidays to Africa. We believe our expertise, knowledge and enthusiasm for organising travel to Africa is unrivalled. We are no frills so you get what you pay for. No fancy marketing gimmicks just our pure honesty. We are so confident in our prices, we have a price guarantee.

We want you to find planning your holiday an enjoyable experience and leave you excited about your forthcoming trip. Give us a ring. 01548 854125 . Let’s start planning.

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South Africa Packages

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Since 2008 we have put together custom holidays packages for families, honeymooners, groups, and individuals – and we do this in a way that meets your budget.  Here is a small selection of South Africa tour packages that we have put together for previous clients.

To get the most from our service, we suggest that you use these packages to inspire you – so that when you contact us, you have a better idea of where you want to go, how long you want to say, and what you want to experience .  We can take it from there, and create holiday suggestions just for you.

South African Conservation Safari Experience

Botswana Safari Packages

Best of Southern Africa

South Africa Holiday

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Sun City, Cape Town & Safari

South Africa Experience

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Safari in South Africa and Mozambique Beach

10 Nights Pilansberg, Sun City & Cape Town

10 Nights Madikwe, Sun City & Cape Town

9 Nights Luxury Safari, Cape Town & Winelands

Cape Winelands Tours

9 Nights Safari, Cape Town & Winelands Honeymoon

8 Nights Kapama, Cape Town & Winelands

7 Nights of Classic South Africa

Kruger Safari Packages

4 Nights of Romantic Luxury in Kruger

14 nights of Victoria Falls & South Africa

7 Nights of Luxury Cape Town & Wildlife Safari

The Best of South Africa – 14 nights

Cape Town, Winelands & Safari Honeymoon

15 Nights Crossing South Africa & Wildlife Safari

7 Nights in Beautiful South Africa

Luxury Train Travel

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Your Safari

Tour length, rates in usd $ – change currency, starting from.

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African Safari and Beach Holidays - Compare 812 Packages

11-Day Serengeti and Zanzibar Safari

$3,905 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro, Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Zanzibar (End)

Safari Soles

5.0 /5  –  246 Reviews

12-Day Amazing Mid-Range Safari and Beach Holiday

$3,354 pp (USD)

You Visit: Moshi (Start) , Arusha (City) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Stone Town (Zanzibar) , Nungwi (Zanzibar) , Zanzibar (End)

Serengeti Smile

5.0 /5  –  209 Reviews

8-Day Safari (Including Serengeti) & Zanzibar Extension

$2,740 to $3,540 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar (End)

Unlimited Expeditions: The Soul of Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  439 Reviews

12-Day Premium Luxury Safari&Beach Holidays All Inclusive

$4,983 to $6,188 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar (Beach) , Nungwi (Zanzibar) , Zanzibar Airport (End)

Lion King Adventures

5.0 /5  –  1019 Reviews

8-Day Northern Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Island

$2,589 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Zanzibar (Beach) , Zanzibar Airport (End)

Brilliant Adventures and Safaris

5.0 /5  –  54 Reviews

11-Day Northern Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar

$7,742 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Zanzibar (End)

Wayfairer Travel

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

14-Day Combine Serengeti Safari -Zanzibar Beach Holidays

$7,698 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Lake Manyara NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Ngorongoro Highlands, Central Serengeti, Tarangire NP, Stone Town (Zanzibar) , Zanzibar (Beach) , Zanzibar Airport (End)

Gosheni Safaris Africa

4.9 /5  –  418 Reviews

13-Day Tanzania Explorer Safari

$4,604 to $4,824 pp (USD)

You Visit: Moshi (Start) , Arusha (City) , Tarangire NP, Olduvai Gorge (Highlight) , Northern Serengeti NP, Central Serengeti, Southern Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Eyasi, Lake Manyara NP, Zanzibar (Beach) , Stone Town (Zanzibar) , Zanzibar Airport (End)

RO Scavenger Safaris

5.0 /5  –  21 Reviews

10-Day Best Honeymoon Luxury Safari + Zanzibar Beach

$4,059 to $5,077 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Zanzibar (Beach) , Zanzibar Airport (End)

African Big Cats Safaris

5.0 /5  –  359 Reviews

10-Day Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Zanzibar & Others

$4,230 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Northern Serengeti NP, Serengeti NP, Zanzibar (End)

Savannah Explorers

5.0 /5  –  485 Reviews

11-Day Budget Best of Tanzania & Zanzibar Safari

$2,695 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Tented Camp & Resort

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Highlands, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Zanzibar (End)

Shemeji Safari Tanzania

4.8 /5  –  282 Reviews

11-Day Bush to Beach Holiday Safari

$3,505 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Resort

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Materuni (Highlight) , Stone Town (Zanzibar) , Nungwi (Zanzibar) , Zanzibar (End)

Sound Of Tanzania Explores

4.9 /5  –  15 Reviews

8-Day Beach & Safari Trip Zanzibar & Serengeti

$3,092 pp (USD)

You Visit: Zanzibar (Start) , Zanzibar (Beach) , Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Northern Serengeti NP, Serengeti NP, Zanzibar (End)

Paradise & Wilderness

4.9 /5  –  132 Reviews

10-Day Exclusive Tanzania Safari with Zanzibar

$3,126 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Tarangire NP, Stone Town (Zanzibar) , Zanzibar (Beach) , Zanzibar Airport (End)

Tanzania Wildheart Adventures

5.0 /5  –  14 Reviews

7-Day Safari (Including Maasai Mara) & Mombasa Extension

$1,880 to $2,570 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Mombasa Beaches, Nairobi (End)

Spirit of Kenya

4.9 /5  –  485 Reviews

8-Day Mid Range Safari & Zanzibar Beach Extension

$2,858 to $2,970 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar (End)

Tanzania Roadside Expeditions

5.0 /5  –  250 Reviews

9-Day Luxury Bush and Beach Safari

$2,770 to $3,542 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Amboseli NP, Diani Beach, Nairobi (End)

Apodiformes Adventures

4.8 /5  –  174 Reviews

3-Day Zanzibar to Tarangire, Ngorongoro & Lake Manyara

$1,573 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Zanzibar (Start) , Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Zanzibar (End)

Serengeti Wakanda Tours and Safaris

5.0 /5  –  474 Reviews

10-Day Big Five Safari Combination with Zanzibar Beach

$2,530 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar (Beach) , Stone Town (Zanzibar) , Zanzibar Airport (End)

Professional Safaris

5.0 /5  –  55 Reviews

10-Day Camping Safari; Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Zanzibar

$2,649 to $2,809 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Budget Camping & Lodge

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Stone Town (Zanzibar) , Zanzibar (Beach) , Zanzibar Airport (End)

FIF (T) Tours and Travel

4.8 /5  –  18 Reviews

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• Classic Bush and Beach

10 Day Classic Bush and Beach Adventure

Accommodation: Rustic bush suite, luxury en-suite room, ocean view room

Destinations: Johannesburg, Kruger Park South, Durban, Johannesburg

Activities: Walking safaris, birding, game drives, snorkeling, kayaking

Your South Africa Safari Experience

When in South Africa, do as the South Africans do - go on safari! Learn about the Kruger's fauna and flora on walking safaris and experience exhilarating wildlife encounters in safari vehicles, and laze on the sun-kissed beaches of KwaZulu-Natal.

This classic tour of the bush and beach has something for every type of traveller. Celebrate romance at the luxury lodges, in private dining options and optional spa treatments, or participate in adrenaline-pumping adventure activities such as snorkeling and kayaking.

Day 1: Johannesburg - Kruger National Park South

Depart from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and head towards Skukuza Airport in the southern part of the Kruger National Park for your stay at Rhino Post Safari Lodge. Adventure awaits at this canvas safari camp nestled on the banks of the Mutlumuvi River as free-roaming wildlife move between the Mala Mala Game Reserve and the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Relax in the comfort of the camp's facilities, which include a swimming pool, a shaded patio with views of the active waterhole and a wine cellar. Evenings can be spent lounging by the fireplace, reminiscing on the day's events.

Day 2: Kruger National Park

Days will start with an early wakeup call and a fresh cup of coffee or tea, and will be spent admiring the unfiltered beauty of the wild in game drives and walking safaris. All safari activities are escorted by trained and experienced guides and trackers who will broaden your insight of the bush. Lunch is served in the dining room that is shaded by Tamboti trees. Late afternoons enjoy a high tea before embarking on the evening game viewing activity. Evening game drives are a special benefit you receive at this lodge, as you navigate through the empty paths of the Kruger for sightings of the nocturnal wildlife. Back at the lodge, you will enjoy a warm and delicious meal and post-dinner drinks before retiring for the night. For a spectacular night under the stars, enquire about the optional sleepout, in which you will enjoy an overnight stay in the wild on a raised platform that overlooks the waterhole.

Day 3 - 4: Kruger National Park

Situated in a private concession within the Kruger National Park, Plains Camp overlooks the vast plains and an active waterhole. Settle in, then set out on a discovery of the camp's boundaries and beyond in a guided walking safari. The 3 - 4 hour walk is the opportune time to encounter the smaller facets of the bush - from flora, to insects, to small mammals and a variety of birds. Alternatively, a game drive in a specialized safari vehicle will lead you to exhilarating sightings of the larger mammal species, such as zebra, elephant, giraffe and many others. Back at the lodge, indulge in sundowners before enjoying a unique indoor or outdoor seating for a delicious dinner. Afterwards, spend some time around a campfire as you reminisce on your safari adventures. An early night's rest would be a good idea as tomorrow will be a day of adventure.

Day 5: Kruger National Park - Durban

A wakeup call and a hot drink will signal the start of your day. An early morning walking safari will last for about 3 hours and end in a scrumptious brunch. Depart from the lodge in a road transfer to Nelspruit, where you will board a flight from the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport to Durban Airport. Upon landing, you will be met by a representative and transported to Fairmont Zimbali Lodge on KwaZulu-Natal's north coast. This part of the Indian Ocean coast is known for its large populations of bottlenose dolphins, hence its name - the Dolphin Coast. The lodge is nestled in a coastal forest reserve, promising breathtaking views and a tranquil ambience. Whether you prefer to unwind in the lodge's many facilities, or explore the areas surrounding the lodge, your day in the forest is sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated. Swim, play tennis or a round of golf, relax by the beach or lake, enjoy walks and bird and butterfly watching, and be pampered by optional spa treatments. Activities offered nearby include mountain biking, guided forest walks, cultural tours, scuba diving and deep-sea fishing tours, as well as dolphin cruises. After a day of adventure, return to the lodge for supper which is offered in an option of restaurants. Try traditional South African cuisine or opt for a classic international dish before enjoying post-dinner drinks by the fireplace or outside by the pool.

Day 6 - 9: Mabibi, Kwazulu-Natal Coast

A 3 hour self-drive will take you to Thonga Beach Lodge on Mabibi Beach in KwaZulu-Natal for a 4 night stay in a thatched suite. Mabibi is the ideal location for scuba diving, a highly recommended activity. A comprehensive range of scuba diving courses are offered at the lodge, for both beginners and advanced divers. Explore the coral reefs and the abundant display of fish in the Indian Ocean. Other ocean-based activities include snorkeling and boat rides that offer an opportunity to swim with dolphins, whales, manta rays and the great whale sharks. Guided walks along the coastal dune forests will appeal to keen photographers and birdwatchers. Cultural visits to the Tsonga homesteads will take you into the daily lives of the locals, while turtle tracking allows for exciting wildlife encounters. Evening beach walks between November and February will allow you an up-close view of the endangered Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles. A visit to Lake Sibaya, Southern Africa's largest freshwater lake, will grant you encounters with the diversity of fauna and flora via guided walks or kayaking excursions. Catch and release fishing is allowed on the Maputaland coastline, and optional deep sea fishing trips can be arranged by the lodge. For a tranquil pampering session, choose from a selection of optional spa treatments. Evenings can be spent at your own leisure, after enjoying a freshly prepared dinner.

Day 10: Mabibi - Johannesburg

• One-way flight from Johannesburg to Skukuza
• Road transfers between airports and accommodations
• 2 nights' stay at Rhino Post Camp in an en-suite bathroom with his-and-her basins, outdoor shower, and private viewing deck
• 2 nights' accommodation at Plains Camp in a tented suite which boasts an en-suite bathroom and ceiling fan
• Twice daily camp activities including professional guided morning and afternoon walks and game drives
• One-way flight from Nelspruit to Durban
• 1 night's stay at Fairmont Zimbali Lodge in an en-suite room which boasts a freestanding Victorian bath and a private balcony
• A hearty breakfast will be served before your departure from Fairmont Zimbali Lodge
• Car rental for your self-drive to Maputuland (Elephant) Coast, KwaZulu-Natal
• 4 nights' accommodation at Thonga Beach Lodge in an ocean view room with an en-suite bathroom and a private balcony
• Light breakfast, brunch and dinner as per itinerary
• All teas, coffees and afternoon tea
• Local beverages including water, soft drinks, wines and spirits
• Use of snorkeling equipment, guided walks, kayaking and sundowners at Lake Sibaya, cultural tours to local community
• Departing flight from Durban to Johannesburg

Not Included

• All extras, beverages and laundry to be settled directly on departure
• Optional activities and all spa treatments

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• South Africa Safari

The ultimate guide to your next safari in South Africa

Get to know south africa.

By Andre Van Kets

Co-founder, Discover Africa

Johannesburg and the Highveld are cool but sunny by day, very cold at night, and dry.

Cape Town and the Western Cape are warm by day, cool at night, and receive regular rainfall.

The Kruger Park and its surroundings are hot by day, cool at night, and dry.

June is an ideal time for beach holidays on the Indian Ocean coastline of the KwaZulu-Natal coast, which tends to be temperate to hot over the nominal winter months, and very dry. Conditions on the coast of the Eastern and Western Cape are less predictable and cooler.

• Game viewing in the Kruger Park and other reserves tends to be good in the dry season, as animals congregate close to perennial water sources and the undergrowth clears to improve visibility making it a perfect time for a Kruger safari.

Hikers should be alert to the substantial risk of snow and treacherous weather on the mountain peaks in the Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg over June/July.

Accommodation in tourist areas is usually relatively quiet in June, but try to avoid the winter school holiday that usually falls over late June and early July.

South Africa Video

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Enjoy an authentic African experience, with peace of mind

Why South Africa?

• Endless choices of breathtaking scenic hiking trails
• Spectacular birdwatching and a diverse flora kingdom
• Delicious selections of cuisine and wine tastings
• Some of the best white sandy beaches
• An incredible abundance of wildlife, adventure, and history

Where to go in South Africa

• Durban and the South Coast
• Gauteng, Kruger and the North
• iSimangaliso Wetland Park
• Kruger National Park
• KwaZulu-Natal
• Madikwe and Pilanesberg
• Stellenbosch and the Winelands
• The Garden Route
• The Panorama Route
• The Western and Eastern Cape
• uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park

Routinely lauded as one of the world’s most beautiful cities, a Cape Town holiday offers visitors a breathtaking array of natural and cultural attractions.

The City Bowl is enclosed by the lofty heights of Table Mountain to the south, the dramatic outcrops known as Lion’s Head and Signal Hill to the west, and the choppy waters of the Atlantic to the north.

Cape Town is endowed with some fine colonial architecture, more than a dozen museums reflecting every facet of its complex multicultural history, and the culinary and retail delights of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.

Cape Town also provides an excellent base for day trips to sites as diverse as Table Mountain, the Alcatraz-like confines of Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 18 years), the peaceful Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, the historic wine estates of the Constantia Valley, and the wave-battered cliffs of Cape Point.

Highlights of Cape Town

Table Mountain

Rising to an altitude of 1,086m (3,563ft), iconic Table Mountain, sometimes basked in golden sunlight, other times enveloped in a misty shroud known as the tablecloth, dominates the city’s southern skyline.

The ‘tabletop,’’ accessible through either the cable car or hiking up Table mountain , offers travelers stunning views and reveals the Cape Peninsula’s geological drama.

Cape of Good Hope

South Africa’s oldest working building, the pentagonal Castle of Good Hope, situated in Cape Town, was constructed over 1666-79 and served as the seat of the Dutch colonial government for more than a century.

The Cape of Good Hope now houses a military museum and art gallery and makes for a perfect cultural experience for people on holiday in Cape Town.

Of the countless beaches in and around Cape Town, the first choice among fashion-inspired travelers in Cape Town is a Camps Bay holiday, set below the spectacular Twelve Apostles formation.

At the same time, families tend to head to suburban Muizenberg for their family holiday.

Bloubergstrand

You can’t do better for a scenic beach walk and spectacular views of Table Mountain than the aptly-named Bloubergstrand (Blue Mountain Beach) north of the city center.

Bloubergstrand is a hotspot for a beach holiday in Cape Town because of the picture-perfect Table Mountain.

District Six

The award-winning District Six Museum is arguably the city’s most engaging and poignant installation. Taped recollections, possessions, and photographs donated by former residents evoke everyday life as it was in the cosmopolitan multiracial suburb of District Six prior to it being bulldozed by the apartheid government in 1966 and rezoned as a whites-only area.

District Six is the perfect place to add to your Cape Town holiday itinerary if you’re looking to have a cultural experience in Cape Town and learn about the history of South Africa .

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Set on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, the 528-hectare Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is serviced by a network of well-marked trails passing through thematic beds of indigenous flora – most notably a lush cycad garden.

Other attractions include a fascinating collection of ‘useful plants’, and a conservatory containing succulent species typical of the arid Kalahari and Namaqualand.

Kirstenbosch is also famous for its Kirstenbosch summer concerts . Enjoy an electric atmosphere in the most relaxed setting you can imagine.

The Bo-Kaap (Upper Cape) is the spiritual home of the Cape Malay community, whose colorfully painted houses include the Bo-Kaap Museum. This beautifully restored 1760s homestead explores the history of this fascinating suburb.

The photogenic Bo-Kaap is popular among travelers for its iconic colorful houses and traditional Cape Malay meals.

V&A Waterfront

The most-visited tourist attraction on a South African holiday, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront , is a vast harbor-front development comprising 50-plus restaurants, hundreds of shops, and boats offering sunset cruises around Table Bay.

Robben Island

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Robben Island gained infamy as the site of the maximum-security block where Nelson Mandela and other prominent anti-apartheid leaders were detained at the height of the struggle.

It can be visited on a South African holiday by a boat-and-bus excursion that leaves from Victoria & Alfred Waterfront several times daily and includes a visit to the tiny cell Mandela called home for 18 years.

Constantia Valley

The birthplace of Cape wine, the Constantia Valley houses some of the country’s most historic and beautiful estates, among them Groot Constantia, centered on an original 1680s homestead now preserved as a museum.

Now part of Table Mountain National Park , the 77km2 (30 square mile) Cape of Good Hope protects the most southerly section of the Cape Peninsula. The main focus is Cape Point Lighthouse, which stands atop a steep windswept cliff that rises 250m (820ft) from the rocky beach below.

Cape Point is also good for fynbos endemics such as the Cape sugarbird and Orange-bellied sunbird, while mammals in the area include Cape fur seals and half-a-dozen antelope species, notably eland and bontebok.

Boulders Beach

Just five minutes drive south of Simon’s Town, Boulders Beach supports a permanent breeding colony of several thousand penguins, which you can watch strutting, surfing, squabbling, and sunbathing from a network of boardwalks and viewing platforms.

Travel Tips for Cape Town

• A Cape Town holiday includes all the amenities you’d expect of the country’s leading urban tourist destination. A world-class dining scene and selection of cosmopolitan shops are complemented by an array of overnight Cape Town Accommodations , ranging from five-star city and boutique hotels to backpacker hostels and B&Bs.
• Cape Town is served by an ever-increasing number of international flights and several dozen daily flights from Johannesburg and domestic flights to all other major centers in South Africa. All flights land at Cape Town International Airport, which lies 20km (12mi) east of the city center.
• The city lends itself to casual exploration using public transport such as the MyCiti bus service. The popular Cape Town Explorer is also an option as a hop-on-hop-off bus service that connects the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront to all the major museums and the Table Mountain Cableway, Camps Bay, Sea Point, and Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden. Also worth considering is the Metrorail train service, which connects the central railway station on Adderley Street to Simon’s Town via the Southern Suburbs and Muizenberg. Picking up a rental car at the airport is also a viable option.

The most populous city and busiest port on the east coast of Africa, Durban is a vibrant and interesting city set in the municipality of eThekwini (a Zulu name meaning ‘Place of the Sea’).

A substantial Indian population and subtropical coastal climate combine to give Durban a slightly Asiatic feel, but Durban’s main attraction is its fine beaches and sunny coastlines.

The urban setting of Durban will appeal to travelers seeking a more down-to-earth, lived-in experience than you tend to associate with other beach resorts on holiday.

Durban lies midway along the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, a 200km (124mi) stretch of subtropical Indian Ocean frontage stretching from the Tugela River mouth south to the border with the Eastern Cape.

This is South Africa’s most conventional beach holiday destination, a beach nirvana with palm-fringed expanses of broad white sand.

Unlike Cape Town, the beaches around Durban cater mainly to domestic holidaymakers from landlocked Gauteng and thus tend to get congested over school holidays and long weekends (especially around Christmas and Easter) but are quiet at other times.

Highlights of Durban And The South Coast

Durban’s Golden Mile

South Africa’s most resort-like urban beach, Durban’s Golden Mile, is divided from the CBD by the pedestrianized OR Tambo Parade. Protected by shark nets and patrolled by lifeguards, the beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing on a Durban holiday, though it can get very crowded during peak season.

uShaka Marine World

The uShaka Marine World houses the largest aquarium in the southern hemisphere and is one of the best family-friendly holiday destinations in South Africa . Marine life is on show, where dolphins, seals, sharks, rays, and penguins are the main attraction. Attached to this child-friendly holiday installation is the Shaka Wet ‘n Wild Waterworld, a family fun park that incorporates the country’s largest waterslide.

Juma Mosque

Landmarks associated with Durban’s Indian population include the golden-domed Juma Mosque, the most prominent building of its type in southern Africa, and the less central Alayam Hindu Temple.

The Central Durban Botanical Garden

The Central Durban Botanical Garden includes fabulous collections of prehistoric cycads and rare orchids.

Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve

Durban’s most ecologically important conservation area, Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve, offers a rare opportunity to see mangrove dwellers such as the brilliant mangrove kingfisher and quirky mudskipper fish from a wooden boardwalk. 

It’s considered one of Durban’s best-kept secrets and a perfect holiday destination to add to your South African vacation itinerary if you want to see some protected fish and do some birdwatching.

Umhlanga Rocks

The popular South African holiday town of Umhlanga Rocks, 20 minutes’ drive north of Durban, is home to the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board.

Lifelike replicas of various sharks and rays can be viewed along with an audiovisual display emphasizing the importance of these oft-maligned creatures in marine ecology.

Ballito , 40km (25mi) north of Durban, is a thriving and well-equipped upmarket resort town with a 2.5km (1.6mi) long beachfront promenade and plenty of family-friendly holiday activities. Willard Beach in Ballito is ideal for swimming, while Boulder Beach is popular with surfers.

Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve

Carved by the Mzimkulwana River, the euphorbia-studded Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve is run through by several walking trails from which bushbuck, Blue monkeys, and a vast array of colorful forest birds can be seen.

Whitewater rafting and abseiling can be done outside the reserve on a Durban vacation.

A succession of excellent South African beach holiday destinations run along the 120km (75mi) stretch of coast south from Durban, among them Amanzimtoti, Umkomaas, Scottburgh, Port Shepstone, Margate, and Ramsgate.

Excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities are available at reefs and wrecks offshore of Amanzimtoti, Umkomaas, and Shelley Beach, making Durban a superb beach holiday destination .

Umtamvuna Nature Reserve

Protecting a forested river gorge on the Eastern Cape border, Umtamvuna Nature Reserve offers some lovely coastal and forest hiking. It harbors various small antelope and is a breeding colony of the endangered Cape vulture.

Practical Information for Durban And The South Coast

• Durban is connected to Johannesburg, Cape Town, and many other large centers by several daily flights. All flights land at King Shaka International Airport, 35km (22mi) north of the city center. The usual car rental agencies are available here, and airport shuttles and taxis are available to get you to the city center or elsewhere on the coast.
• There’s no shortage of hotels in Durban, and the city is also serviced by many B&Bs and backpacker hostels. You can also find hotels and resorts along the coast flanking Durban, with Ballito and Umhlanga Rocks particularly well-endowed when it comes to stylish upmarket lodges.
• Indian cuisine is well represented in Durban, and good seafood can be had throughout the region.

South Africa’s major safari destinations are mostly clustered in the country’s northern interior. Foremost among these is the iconic Kruger National Park and bordering private reserves, which collectively protect a vast tract of low-lying bushveld that offers some of the finest Big Five viewing anywhere on the continent.

Also very popular, particularly for those who want to avoid the slim risk of malaria associated with the Kruger, are the more westerly Madikwe and Pilanesberg Game Reserves , both of which harbor all the Big Five along with other safari favorites such as giraffe and warthog in the malaria-free North-West Province .

(P.S. If you’re looking for Gauteng Accommodation Specials , we’ve got some great travel deals for you.)

The main air gateway to these fine reserves is built-up Gauteng, a province that accounts for less than 1.5% of South Africa’s surface area but supports a full 20% of the national population and generates an astonishing 10% of the entire African GDP. Bustling, chaotic, and unapologetically commerce-driven, Gauteng – a Sesotho name meaning ‘Place of Gold’ – exists purely because of the immense mineral wealth beneath its soil.

It’s home to four of South Africa’s ten most populous cities, including the national capital, Pretoria, and the megapolis of Johannesburg.

Although its attractions may not be as immediate as those of Cape Town or Durban, the province does offer plenty of worthwhile sightseeing on your South African holiday, from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Cradle of Humankind (one of the world’s most significant paleoanthropological sites) to the first history-making former ‘township’ of Soweto.

Highlights of Gauteng, Kruger And The North

Quite simply one of the world’s largest and most rewarding safari destinations, the iconic Kruger National Park supports 147 mammal and 517 bird species, including substantial populations of all the Big Five.

Included on the most organized tours through South Africa , it is also an unusually straightforward goal for DIY safari enthusiasts.

Sabi Sands Game Reserve

The best known of the private reserves sharing an open border with Kruger, Sabi Sands Game Reserve is home to several bar-setting game lodges and camps offering all-inclusive Big Five safaris to an exclusive clientele.

Expertly guided game drives in open-top 4×4 vehicles provide some of the world’s most intimate leopard viewing .

Panorama Route

The sheer escarpment that divides the sweltering Lowveld of Kruger from the breezy highlands around Graskop can be explored on a Panorama Route holiday . This loosely-defined road circuit offers access to several beautiful waterfalls and viewpoints.

Highlights include the restored goldrush village of Pilgrim’s Rest and the spectacular 1.4km (4593ft) deep Blyde River Canyon.

Madikwe Game Reserve

South Africa’s premier malaria-free safari destination , Madikwe Game Reserve , offers excellent Big Five viewing , with lion, elephant, and rhino particularly conspicuous.

It functions much like the private reserves bordering Kruger, with an emphasis on guided game drives in open-top 4x4s, and is serviced by a couple of dozen small and exclusive all-inclusive bush lodges.

Pilanesberg Game Reserve and Sun City

Only two hours’ drive north of Gauteng, the Pilanesberg Game Reserve and adjacent Sun City pits another fine malaria-free safari venue against the altogether more hedonistic pleasures of a Sun City holiday , a massive casino complex that sports two superb golf courses and plenty of child-friendly activities .

Johannesburg

Founded above the world’s richest gold deposits in 1886, Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest city and main economic hub. The dynamic social fulcrum of the country’s most culturally integrated and forward-looking province, it’s also renowned throughout Africa as a shoppers’ paradise.

Travelers from further afield won’t regret making an effort to explore the Apartheid Museum and the wide selection of photographs, old newsreels, and other imaginative displays documenting the rise and fall of the system of institutionalized racism for which it is named.

The ‘township’ of Soweto – rather prosaically, an acronym of South West Townships – was the setting of many pivotal events during the anti-apartheid struggle.

Guided tours lead past such landmarks as the poignant Hector Pieterson Memorial, whose 13-year-old namesake was felled by the wave of police fire that initiated the Soweto Rising on 16 July 1976, as well as the Calabash-shaped FNB Stadium, which hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and the Netherlands.

Tours on your Soweto holiday usually include a lunch break at one of its so-called shebeens – now legitimized hole-in-the-wall bars that thrived illegally under apartheid.

Cradle of Humankind

Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, the paleontological treasure trove dubbed the Cradle of Humankind protects an ancient Karstic landscape whose wealth of fossils forms a unique record of the last 3-4 million years of human evolution.

Its centerpiece is the Maropeng Visitors Center, an award-winning and unusually child-friendly holiday installation. Self-guided tours start with an exciting boat ride through a subterranean waterway that takes you backward in time, reproducing the volatile seismic conditions that shaped our planet’s geology.

The nearby Sterkfontein Caves are where, in 1936, Dr. Robert Broom discovered the first fossil confirming Darwin’s theory that humans evolved in Africa.

Established in 1855, Pretoria – now part of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality – has long served as the administrative capital of South Africa. The avenues of the stately city center are lined by Jacaranda trees that bloom purple in October and century-old buildings.

Foremost among the latter, the sandstone Union Buildings, designed by Sir Herbert Baker in 1913, is where Nelson Mandela’s presidential inauguration was held in 1994.

Standing sentinel on the city’s southern outskirts, the hilltop Voortrekker Monument is an immense granite monolith built in the 1940s to commemorate the Afrikaner pioneers who trekked from the Cape to what is now Gauteng a century earlier.

Mapungubwe National Park

Set on stark baobab-studded granitic hills running down to the south bank of the Limpopo, Mapungubwe National Park is the site of a medieval trading city that supported some 5,000 people in its 13th-century peak as a supplier of gold, copper and ivory to the Swahili Coast of East Africa.

Guided safaris of the archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, run every morning and an award-winning museum displays artifacts unearthed there. Elephants, kudu, and klipspringer are regularly seen, and lions and leopards are also present.

Practical Information for Gauteng, Kruger, And The North

• The terminus of most international flights to South Africa, OR Tambo International Airport, lies on the eastern outskirts of Johannesburg, about one hour’s drive from Pretoria and two hours from Pilanesberg and Sun City. OR Tambo is also the most important hub for domestic flights, with several connections to Cape Town, George, Port Elizabeth, East London, Durban, and Kruger-Mpumalanga International Airport (for Kruger and the private reserves), as well as thrice-weekly flights to Pilanesberg.
• Self-drive is straightforward throughout, and most major rental companies are represented at OR Tambo (and, for that matter, at Kruger-Mpumalanga International Airport), and there are also plenty of shuttles and taxis for those not being met by an operator or hotel shuttle.
• Literally hundreds of city hotels serve Johannesburg and Pretoria. There are also rustic out-of-town lodges, B&Bs, and backpacker hostels. You can find a fair range of similar accommodations in most other towns in the region. In game reserves, the choice tends to split between all-inclusive upmarket lodges ( Madikwe and Sabi Sands ) and simple but well-priced rest camps ( Kruger , Mapungubwe , and Pilanesberg ).

South Africa’s third-largest protected area and oldest UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 3,320km2 (1,282 square miles) iSimangaliso follows the Indian Ocean coastline for a full 220km (137 miles) north of Lake St Lucia (Africa’s largest estuarine system) to Kosi Bay on the border with Mozambique.

It’s easily the country’s most biodiverse reserve, incorporating five separate Ramsar Wetlands, a lush tropical mosaic of mountains, bushveld, palm groves, wooded dunes, grassland, and coastal forests, as well as a 5km (3mi) wide marine section that harbors Africa’s most southerly coral reefs.

The faunal diversity of iSimangaliso (a Zulu word meaning ‘something wondrous’) was encapsulated by Nelson Mandela, who described it as “the only place on the globe where the oldest land mammal (rhinoceros) and the world’s biggest terrestrial mammal (elephant) share an ecosystem with the world’s oldest fish (coelacanth) and the world’s biggest marine mammal (whale)”.

Indeed, iSimangaliso can boast a higher count of vertebrate species than any other African conservation area, with 129 terrestrial and aquatic mammals, 525 birds, 128 reptiles, 50 amphibians, and 991 marine as well as 48 freshwater fish.

Despite this, while wildlife is abundant in parts, the stunning coastal scenery is at least as big an attraction as the game viewing.

Highlights of ISimangaliso Wetland Park

St Lucia Village

Jungle-swathed St Lucia Village, fringing the freshwater estuary for which it is named, stands at the far south of iSimangaliso and is the park’s main travel hub. A contender for South Africa’s most wildlife-friendly settlement, it’s home to plentiful hippos and crocs, porcupines, bushbuck, and warthogs.

The tropical birding safari destination includes the African fish eagle, Trumpeter hornbill, Purple-crested turaco, and Mangrove kingfisher. Popular activities include visits to an out-of-town crocodile farm and launch trips on the St Lucia Estuary.

Set below forested dunes on a reef-shielded beach north of St Lucia, Cape Vidal is a superb beach that offers good low-tide snorkeling and seasonal land-based whale and dolphin viewing. It also forms a vital seasonal nesting site for loggerhead and leatherback turtles.

Mission Rocks

Halfway between St Lucia and Cape Vidal, the forested dunes around Mission Rocks are some of the world’s tallest and provide sanctuary to the secretive Red duiker and localized Blue monkey.

Buffalo, rhinos, elephants, and possibly cheetahs might be seen on the safari loop to Lake Bhangazi.

uMkhuze Game Reserve

The 400km2 (154 square mile) uMkhuze Game Reserve offers the finest game viewing within iSimangaliso. Home to elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and elusive populations of leopards and cheetahs, it’s ideal for a photographic safari thanks to some well-sited photographic hides that attract a steady stream of nyala, kudu, zebras, warthogs, White rhinos and Black rhinos.

More than 420 bird species, including the localized Yellow-spotted nicator, Livingstone’s turaco, Neergaard’s sunbird, and African broadbill, make it an excellent birding safari destination .

Sodwana Bay

Africa’s southernmost coral reefs stand offshore of Sodwana Bay, whose Seven Mile Reef is ranked among the world’s most beautiful dive sites , with overhangs, drop-offs and mushroom rocks reaching around 20m (65ft) below the surface. Expect a dazzling array of colorful reef fish.

Lake Sibaya

South Africa’s most significant natural freshwater body, Lake Sibaya, is backed by tall forested dunes and supports around 150 hippos along with a wide diversity of aquatic birds, making it an ideal destination for a birding safari .

Comprising eight lakes and a series of connecting channels that drain into the Indian Ocean through a sandy estuary, scenic Kosi Bay offers unusually calm snorkeling conditions and the opportunity to seek out 150 marine fish species on the rocky reef in the estuary mouth.

The complex fishing traps set in the estuary by the local Thonga people represent a highly sustainable form of traditional resource management since the estuarine fish are readily replenished from the open sea.

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve

St Lucia village is a convenient base for day safaris to the nearby Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, providing the perfect opportunity for a Big Five safari . The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve houses the world’s densest populations of both White and Black rhinos.

Other wildlife includes African wild dogs, giraffes, zebra, impala, nyala, greater kudu, warthogs, Vervet monkeys, and almost 400 bird species, making the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve perfect for a birding safari as well.

Phinda Resource Reserve

Sharing its eastern boundary with iSimangaliso, the private Phinda Resource Reserve is KwaZulu-Natal’s most prestigious safari destination.

All-inclusive safari tours with guided game drives in an open-top 4×4 are also sure to yield all the Big Five throughout a two- to three-night holiday. A dense population of habituated cheetahs allows for excellent close-up behavioral viewing.

Tembe Elephant Park

Not strictly speaking a private reserve, but effectively functioning as one, the 300km2 (116 square mile) Tembe Elephant Park is best known for its giant tuskers.

At Tembe Elephant Park, you can do a Big Five safari as all of the Big Five are present. You can also do a birding safari because of the various bird species present.

Practical Advice for ISimangaliso Wetland Park

• Several scheduled daily flights connect Johannesburg to Richards Bay, a large industrial port town about one hour’s drive southwest of St Lucia Village by road. There are also regular flights from most major South African cities to Durban, about three hour’s drive from St Lucia along the N2. Some visitors to Phinda and other private reserves use direct charter flights.
• Most Durban-based tour operators offer overnight trips to southern iSimangaliso and/or Hluhluwe-Imfolozi. The region is also well suited to self-drive visits, though a 4×4 vehicle is required for most places north of Mkhuze Game Reserve and east of the N2.
• You can find a varied selection of budget to mid-range accommodation in St Lucia Village. Most reserves within or associated with iSimangaliso have inexpensive but comfortable rest camps. Upmarket bush camps can be found in Phinda, on the outskirts of Hluhluwe-Imfolozi, and at certain sites along the iSimangaliso coastline north of Sodwana.

Extending over a mind-boggling 19,485 km2 (7,523 square miles), the Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest and most iconic safari destinations. It’s comparable in area to Wales or the state of New Jersey.

It shares open borders with several smaller private reserves as well as two transfrontier national parks in the form of Gonarezhou (Zimbabwe) and Limpopo (Mozambique).

Kruger National Park vies with Cape Town as South Africa’s top destination, attracting more than one million visitors annually. The park is better suited to affordable self-drive safaris than any other major African park.

By contrast, the exclusive private reserves that border Kruger and ‘concession lodges’ that occupy exclusive enclaves within it set the bar for all-inclusive luxury safaris in open-top 4×4 vehicles driven by expert guides.

Set in the hot eastern Lowveld, Kruger is traversed by several rivers and is punctuated by a few hilly areas. Still, it mostly comprises flat savannah dominated by acacia trees in the south and mopane woodland in the north.

Kruger National Park Parfuri ElephantThe Nile crocodile is the most conspicuous of 114 reptile and 34 amphibian species, but the ethereal communal calls of the Bubbling kassina and other tree frogs often provide a haunting aural backdrop to dusk waterhole vigils.

Kruger is a magnet for birding safaris , with 517 bird species recorded. Expect everything ranging from the spectacularly colorful Lilac-breasted roller and White-fronted bee-eater to several heftier species now rare outside of protected areas, such as the eyelid-fluttering Southern ground hornbill, the bizarre Secretary-bird, the massive Kori bustard (the world’s heaviest flying bird), the macabre Marabou stork, and, of course, the ostrich.

Highlights of Kruger National Park

Southern Kruger

Thanks to its relative proximity to Gauteng, Southern Kruger carries the highest volume of safari-goers.

The far south offers the park’s most reliable game viewing: the surfaced H4-1 that follows the Sabie River from Skukuza to Lower Sabie, a great area to spot elephant, buffalo, lion, and even leopards.

It’s also a favorite for birding safaris , while the H4-2 and associated dirt roads running south to Crocodile Bridge explore the park’s best rhino country.

Central Kruger

The focal point of the lightly-wooded savannah of Central Kruger, Satara, stands at the crossroads of some superb safari roads.

Seasonal concentrations of wildebeest and zebra are reminiscent of the Serengeti, and it’s the best place to look for cheetahs and see lion kills – the latter also often attracting jackals and hyenas.

The aptly-named Olifants River is a favored haunt of elephants, and it also often attracts immense herds of thirsty buffalo.

Northern Kruger

Wildlife viewing in the remote Northern Kruger is challenging because while buffalo and elephants are conspicuous, lions, leopards, and rhino encounters are rare.

Balanced against that, the untrammeled north possesses a mesmerizing wilderness feel and hosts many localized bird species absent further south, making the Northern Kruger a perfect destination for a birding safari .

Thulamela Heritage Site, on the south bank of the Luvuvhu River, protects the substantial ruins of a 16th-century Zimbabwe-style stone-wall royal village.

Makuleke Contractual Park

The 240km2 (93 square mile) Makuleke Contractual Park, which runs south from the Limpopo River along the border with Zimbabwe, was annexed to Kruger following the forcible relocation of its inhabitants in 1969.

Restored to the Makuleke community in the 1990s, it’s still managed as part of Kruger and hosts two private lodges that offer much to keen birdwatchers or anybody seeking a genuine wilderness escape.

An excellent place to seek out the likes of Pel’s fishing owl, Racket-tailed roller, and Triple-banded courser, it also offers exclusive access to the spectacular Lanner Gorge and lush Fever tree forest at Crooks Corner.

Home to some of South Africa’s most lauded game lodges, the Sabi Sand Reserve was amalgamated from several now jointly-managed private properties in 1948.

It shares an open boundary with southern Kruger, and expertly guided game drives in open-top 4×4 vehicles often throw up all the Big Five on safari , as well as cheetah and African wild dogs. The reserve also arguably offers the world’s best and most intimate leopard viewing.

Manyeleti Game Reserve

Immediately north of Sabi Sand, Manyeleti Game Reserve , whose Shangaan name means ‘Place of Stars,’ was set aside in 1964 and now shares an unfenced 30km (19mi) eastern border with Kruger and supports a similar selection of wildlife.

However, poaching and low tourist volumes mean that game viewing on safari isn’t quite up there with several of its neighbors.

Timbavati Nature Reserve

Named after the seasonal river that flows close to its southern boundary before crossing into Kruger, the private Timbavati Nature Reserve , created in 1962, and now unfenced along its border with Kruger, operates similarly to Sabi Sand.

Game drives don’t quite match up when it comes to leopard and rhino safari sightings, but since camps are more spread out, they tend to operate at a more relaxed pace.

Private Concession Lodges

The Kruger’s dozen-or-so privately-run concession lodges stand on individual enclaves of national parkland where exclusive traversing rights have been awarded to the concessionaire.

Much like the private reserves bordering Kruger, each concession hosts between one and three exclusive small camps offering guests a deluxe package, including expertly guided safari game drives in open-top 4x4s.

However, the concessions are typically much larger than the private reserves, wildlife is less habituated to vehicles, and there is no cross-traversing with other lodges – the net result being that game viewing tends to be more erratic. Still, the overall experience is arguably more holistically satisfying.

Practical Information of Kruger National Park

• Kruger is well-suited to affordable self-drive safaris. An ordinary saloon car can easily explore a good network of sealed roads. The 20-odd rest camps offer inexpensive but comfortable accommodation , and most have grocery shops, filling stations, and restaurants.
• In addition, an excellent selection of maps, guidebooks, and other interpretive material is available on-site.
• Kruger-Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) lies within an hour’s drive of Numbi and Phabeni Gates. It’s connected to Gauteng’s OR Tambo International Airport by several scheduled flights daily, and several car rental companies are represented there. For couples or families, it may be more affordable to rent a car out of Gauteng and drive, following the N4 east from Pretoria to Mbombela or the N12 from Johannesburg/OR Tambo to connect with the N4 at eMalahleni (formerly Witbank). Allow five hours for the drive.
• The private and concession lodges associated with Kruger offer a very different and somewhat more costly experience. Most exude an aura of safari chic, pamper clients with gourmet meals and service levels in line with a luxury spa, and include a guided evening and morning game drive. These lodges are typically visited as a two- or three-night all-inclusive fly-in or drive-down package from Gauteng.
• You could also tag one night at a private reserve to the end of a self-drive Kruger safari – though be sure to time things so that you arrive at camp in time and leave late enough to do all game drives.
• Kruger is hot and seasonally humid, with summer daytime temperatures routinely topping the 30°C/86°F mark (frequently 40°C/104°F in the north). The air dries out in winter when nights can be freezing, and you’ll want plenty of warm clothing for evening and early morning game drives.

South Africa’s most ecologically diverse province, KwaZulu-Natal is flanked by two vast and very different but equally important and alluring UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the lush subtropical Indian Ocean coastline protected within iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the lofty 3,000m (9,843ft) peaks of the hiker-friendly uKhahlamba-Drakensberg.

(P.S. If you’re looking for affordable KwaZulu-Natal Accommodation Specials , we’ve got some great travel deals for you.)

Other attractions include the beach holiday city of Durban, the countless smaller beach resorts that flank it on either side, the top-notch Big Five game-viewing offered at the likes of Hluhluwe-Imfolozi and Phinda Game Reserves, and a wealth of historical and cultural sites associated with the Zulu nation for which the province is named.

Highlights of KwaZulu-Natal

South Africa’s third largest city, the vibrant port of Durban, stands at the hub of a 200km (124mi) stretch of Indian Ocean coastline endowed with an endless succession of perfect beaches for beach holidays .

A magnet for hikers and ramblers, the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site remarkable not only for its scenic beauty but also for its botanical diversity, wealth of endemic birds, birding safari opportunities , and prehistoric rock art dating back up to 3,000 years.

KwaZulu-Natal’s most important Big Five destination , the 960km2 (371 square mile) Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve was first accorded official protection in 1895 and formerly served as the royal hunting ground of King Shaka Zulu.

The reserve has played a crucial role in the conservation of both African rhino species, and it now protects the world’s densest population of these endangered creatures.

Other prominent residents include elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebra, impala, nyala, greater kudu, warthogs, and to a lesser extent, lions and leopards. From mid-March to mid-December, four-night wilderness trails lead through a 300km2 (116 square mile) area closed to vehicular traffic.

Ramsar Wetlands

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the coastal iSimangaliso Wetland Park incorporates five separate Ramsar Wetlands and a checklist of more than 2,000 vertebrate species, more than any other African conservation area.

The Dhlinza Forest Reserve

The Dhlinza Forest Reserve, bordering the small town of Eshowe, protects the country’s most accessible patch of mist-belt forest. Home to the diminutive Blue duiker and an exciting selection of forest birds for birding safaris , it’s traversed by a 125m (410ft) aerial boardwalk that terminates at a tall tower offering grandstand views to the Indian Ocean.

Karkloof Nature Reserve

Sleepy Howick overlooks the spectacular 95m (312ft) high Howick Falls. It provides access to the Karkloof Nature Reserve, which protects the country’s largest remaining stand of mist-belt forest.

It’s also the focal point of the Midlands Meander, which comprises a few dozen loosely-affiliated cottage industries ranging from art and pottery studios to craft workshops and cheese producers. An imaginative sculpture comprising 50 steel columns marks the out-of-town Nelson Mandela Capture Site, where its namesake was arrested for anti-apartheid activities in 1962.

The showy but exuberant cultural program at Shakaland provides an informative and enjoyable introduction to the culture of the province’s numerically dominant Zulu people. It’s an ideal add-on to your itinerary for your South African holiday if you’re looking for a cultural holiday experience.

eMakhosini Heritage Park

The 250km2 (97 square mile) eMakhosini Heritage Park protects the Zulu ‘Valley of Kings’ and includes such cultural landmarks as King Shaka’s Grave, the reconstructed residence of King Dingane, and the Hill of Execution where the Voortrekker party led by Piet Retief was slaughtered. It’s also home to rhinos and other typical Zululand wildlife.

Battlefields Route

The so-called Battlefields Route through the province’s northern interior comprises several important sites associated with the 19th-century Zulu-Boer and Anglo-Zulu Wars and the Anglo-Boer War of 1899-1902. These include Blood River, Isandlwana, Rorke’s Drift, and Spionkop Hill.

Pietermaritzburg

The inland city of Pietermaritzburg, founded in 1838 as part of a short-lived Boer Republic called Natalia, has been the provincial capital since 1843. Its pedestrian-friendly CBD contains several well-preserved Victorian buildings, including the redbrick City Hall, the Railway Station, the former Supreme Court (now the Tatham Art Gallery), and the Voortrekker Msunduzi Museum.

Practical Information of KwaZulu-Natal

• The main air gateway to KwaZulu-Natal is King Shaka International Airport, which lies 35km (22mi) north of central Durban. It’s connected to Johannesburg, Cape Town, and many other large centers by several daily flights.
• An alternative port of entry for the northern part of the province is Richards Bay, which is connected by daily scheduled flights to Johannesburg and lies about one hour’s drive southwest of iSimangaliso’s St Lucia Village or Hluhluwe-Imfolozi.
• The usual car rental agencies are available at both airports, and airport shuttles and taxis are available to get you to Durban or elsewhere on the coast.
• Traveling between Gauteng and Durban by road, the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park lies about halfway between the two and makes for an excellent place to break up the journey for a few nights. Hotels, B&Bs, and backpacker hostels are plentiful in most parts of the province. The provincial conservation authority also operates an extensive network of affordable and comfortable rest camps in its various reserves.

Situated in the blandly-named low-profile North West Province, these two relatively recently-created reserves have grown in popularity in recent years thanks to their family-friendly holiday location in a malaria free-zone and excellent Big Five viewing .

Pilanesberg and Madikwe are pretty similar in ecological terms, both being situated in the transitional zone to the moist eastern bushveld and the semi-arid Kalahari biome that extends into neighboring Botswana.

The usual safari favorites are supplemented by many dry-country species at the eastern limit of their range. However, the two reserves cater to very different clientele.

Pilanesberg, only two hours from Gauteng, stands adjacent to the glitzy Sun City casino and resort complex and is geared primarily towards self-drive day and overnight visitors.

By contrast, the more remote Madikwe is closed to day visitors and caters exclusively to the top end of the safari market, hosting a few dozen exclusive bush camps that offer plush accommodation and all-inclusive packages comparable to the private reserves bordering Kruger.

Now entrenched as South Africa’s premier malaria-free safari destination , the 750km2 (290 square mile) Madikwe Game Reserve abuts the Botswana border some four hours’ drive northwest of Gauteng.

Flanked by the perennial Great Marico River, the reserve was established in 1991 following a government study that concluded it could be utilized more profitably and offer greater benefits to local communities as a conservation area than as an unproductive farm.

Following an extensive reintroduction program, it now offers an excellent chance of sighting three of the Big Five – lion, elephant, and rhino on a Big Five safari – while buffalo and leopard are also present but more scarce. Common grazers include giraffe, zebra, greater kudu, springbok, Red hartebeest and tsessebe.

It’s also possibly the most reliable reserve in South Africa for encounters with the endangered African wild dog. Night drive safaris frequently offer good sightings of the shy brown hyena and bizarre aardwolf.

A checklist of 350 bird species includes several northwestern specials, most conspicuously the Southern pied babbler (dubbed the ‘flying snowball’) and the exquisite Crimson-breasted shrike, Shaft-tailed whydah and Violet-eared waxbill, making Madikwe an ideal location for a birding safari .

Pilanesberg Game Reserve

Nestled scenically within a collapsed volcanic crater, the 550km2 (212 square mile) Pilanesberg Game Reserve supports game densities similar to the likes of Kruger and ranks as one of the best places anywhere in South Africa for close-up encounters with White rhinos and elephant on a safari.

Situated only two hours drive north of Gauteng, it forms a realistic goal for time-pressed travelers looking for a malaria-free overnight safari destination out of Johannesburg or Pretoria.

Large predator sightings are comparatively hit-and-miss, but the odds of encountering a lion or leopard (along with the strictly nocturnal brown hyena and aardwolf) improve greatly if you join a guided night drive safari into the reserve.

As with Madikwe, a checklist of 350 bird species includes several species that reflect its transitional location, making it a perfect destination for a birding safari .

Sun City Resort

Established in 1976, Sun City is sometimes dubbed Las Vegas-in-the-bush. While the massive casino at the complex’s heart just about justifies this tag, it also doubles as a fun, family-friendly destination boasting an imitation inland beach called the Valley of Waves, two superb golf courses designed by Gary Player, and day safaris into the adjacent Pilanesberg.

Travel Tips to Madikwe And Pilanesberg

• Three scheduled flights weekly connect Johannesburg to Pilanesberg Airport, which also serves Sun City. It is arguably easier (and quicker) to drive. This takes about two hours from O.R Tambo Airport, Johannesburg, or Sandton, or 90 minutes from Pretoria via the scenic Hartebeespoort Dam. It’s also easy to arrange a road transfer to Sun City or Pilanesberg.
• It’s more like four hours’ drive from Johannesburg to Madikwe, and since all lodges here offer all-inclusive packages and self-drive exploration is forbidden, the best option is to fly.
• Accommodation at Madikwe is limited to upmarket lodges. Pilanesberg and Sun City offer everything from five-star resort hotels and upmarket game lodges to budget-friendly rest camps within the reserve.

The scenic Boland (literally ‘Upland’) immediately inland of Cape Town enjoys twin claims to fame. Not only is it home to some of South Africa’s oldest and most vivid towns (most notably Stellenbosch and Franschhoek), but it also forms the hub of the Cape’s burgeoning wine industry.

Characterized by lush vine-planted valleys set below spectacular mountain ranges such as the Simonsberg, Groot Drakenstein and Helderberg, these beautiful areas are collectively referred to as the Cape Winelands, and few visitors pass up the opportunity to enjoy a ‘wine tour’ through some of its more famous estates, most of which offer free or inexpensive tasting facilities.

Stellenbosch and some of the older wine estates also house some handsome examples of Cape Dutch architecture, a uniquely South African style typified by whitewashed thatched buildings with a rounded and ornately bordered gable set above the main door, and two flanking perpendicular wings.

Established in 1679, South Africa’s second-oldest town, Stellenbosch, is named after its founder Simon van der Stel.

Nicknamed Eikestad (Town of Oaks), it retains a pleasingly time-warped Cape Dutch character whilst also hosting a lively selection of contemporary restaurants, cafés and shops.

The Stellenbosch Village Museum comprises four restored houses – the oldest being the Schreuderhuis, one of the few buildings to survive the great fire of 1710 – representing different phases in the town’s development.

Lanzerac Estate

Founded on the outskirts of Stellenbosch in 1692, the scenic Lanzerac Estate is known for its stately Cape Dutch architecture and for producing the world’s first commercial Pinotage (a red cultivar unique to South Africa) in 1959, and it includes a five-star restaurant and hotel.

Franschhoek

Named for the many Huguenot refugees who settled there in the late 1680s, pretty little Franschhoek (‘French Corner’) hosts a few historic buildings, notably a pastoral Cape Dutch church built in in 1848.

Its French roots are reflected in the handsome arched Huguenot Monument built on its outskirts in the 1840s, and the adjacent Huguenot Memorial Museum. The village is a culinary Mecca, hosting several of the country’s finest restaurants.

Boschendal Estate

Set in a verdant valley flanked by the Groot Drakenstein and Simonsberg Mountains, the perennially popular Boschendal Estate was first planted with vines in 1685 and is notable both for its superb Cape Dutch architecture and Mediterranean-style picnics served on the oak-shaded lawn.

Regularly known for its spring wildflowers and sleepy museum, the quaint town of Darling not only has its own wine route but is home to the cabaret venue and supper club Evita se Perron (named after Evita Bezuidenhout, a politicized South African equivalent to Dame Edna Everage created by the cross-dressing satirist Pieter-Dirk Uys).

Spier Estate

The family-friendly Spier Estate might lack the ambiance of its older counterparts, but its excellent range of activities and amenities includes a swimming pool, spa, playground, cheetah outreach program, raptor center, horseback excursions, and two onsite restaurants.

Vergelegen Estate

Founded in 1685 on the slopes of the Helderberg, Vergelegen (roughly translated as ‘far away’) is arguably the loveliest estate in the Winelands thanks to its gracious manor house, octagonal garden, and row of gnarled camphor trees planted circa 1700. The restaurant and award-winning wines are also exceptional.

The Winelands’ largest town, Paarl, is redeemed from mundanity by the pearl-smooth granite dome of the adjacent Paarl (‘Pearl’) Mountain, reached on a footpath through the protea-rich slopes of the nature reserve bordering the town center.

The Taal Monument, built in 1975 to commemorate the centenary of Afrikaans’ recognition as an official language, lies on its lower slopes.

A recommended diversion for devotees of Cape Dutch architecture is modest Tulbagh, whose Church Street has been restored in traditional style following a devastating earthquake in 1970.

Fairview Estate

Ideal for those traveling with children, the unpretentious Fairview Estate combines a laidback farmyard atmosphere with a superb deli serving a fabulous range of handcrafted cheeses and homegrown wines.

Travel Tips for Stellenbosch And The Winelands

• Stellenbosch lies a mere 50km (31mi) inland of Cape Town and 35km (22mi) from Cape Town International Airport, which is served by several international flights and several dozen daily flights from Johannesburg, and domestic flights to all other major centers in South Africa.
• The winelands can easily be visited as a day trip out of Cape Town. For those who prefer an overnight stay, the region is well-endowed with hotels, B&Bs, and backpacker hostels, most of which offer a more rustic feel than their coastal and city counterparts around Cape Town.
• Although self-drive is a straightforward option, the best way to sample a few of the region’s wine estates is on an organized day excursion out of Cape Town, Stellenbosch, or Franschhoek. These usually take in around five different estates and are recommended because the self-drive wine-tasting option is in contravention of both commonsense and the law.
• Opening hours vary, but you can safely assume that any name estate will be open for tasting over 09:00-16:00 Mon-Fri, and most are also open on Saturdays and Sundays.

The 200km (124mi) stretch of coast connecting Mossel Bay to the Storms River Mouth is commonly referred to as the Garden Route in reference to its beguiling diversity of wide sandy beaches, lovely lakes and lagoons, shady evergreen forests, and protea-studded slopes.

Lined with family-friendly beaches and ideally suited to hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts, the region is home to the patchwork Garden Route National Park and a host of protected indigenous forests.

Large terrestrial wildlife is scarce, but the region offers fabulous aquatic and forest bird watching , including striking avian endemics such as Knysna turaco, Yellow-throated warbler, and Olive woodpecker. At the same time, seals, dolphins, and whales are commonly seen from seaside cliffs.

Tsitsikamma

The Tsitsikamma sector of the Garden Route National Park protects a vast tract of indigenous forest along with a series of breathtaking cliffs that rise 180m (591ft) above the breakers below.

Highlights include the thrilling suspension bridge across the Storms River Mouth and the 6km (4mi) Waterfall Trail, which follows the same stretch of rocky wave-battered shore as the legendary five-day Otter Trail.

Bloukrans Bridge

A short distance inland of Tsitsikamma, the 215m (705ft) Bloukrans Bridge bungee jump is reputedly the world’s highest.

Family-friendly Monkeyland is a private sanctuary offering refuge to more than a dozen species of monkeys and lemurs, all rescued from domestic captivity.

The adjacent Birds of Eden is a massive free-flight aviary run through by a 1km (0.6mi) walkway and suspension bridge. A third associated sanctuary, Jukani, is home to rescued lions and various other big cats and smaller carnivores.

Plettenberg Bay

Set on the aptly named Baia Formosa (Beautiful Bay), the perennially popular resort town of Plettenberg Bay boasts one of South Africa’s loveliest and calmest urban beach holiday destinations , along with a great selection of seafood and other restaurants.

Robberg Nature Reserve

Adjacent to Plettenberg Bay, the towering cliffs of the Robberg Nature Reserve, home to large numbers of Cape fur seals, are circumnavigated by a stunning day trail from which dolphins, humpback whales, and the endemic African black oystercatcher are often observed.

The charming town of Knysna, whose Holy Trinity Church might have been transplanted from a sleepy English village, stands on a pretty lagoon hemmed in by a pair of sheer rock faces known as the Knysna Heads.

Several quayside eateries specialize in fresh oysters cultivated in the lagoon and craft beers like those pioneered by the legendary Mitchell’s Brewery.

Despite its sophisticated veneer, Knysna supports a thriving alternative scene whose annual highlight is the Pink Loerie Mardi Gras and Arts Festival, a five-day gay pride event held every April or May.

Sandwiched between a beach and lagoon, the resort village of Wilderness flanks a sector of the Garden Route National Park, whose vast network of freshwater lakes and forested waterways form a true birdwatcher’s paradise .

It can be explored along a network of six easy walking trails, each named for one of the park’s half-dozen kingfisher species, or by canoeing through a stunning forested gorge formed by the Touws River.

Set in the arid Little Karoo, an hour’s drive inland, Oudtshoorn was the thriving center of a lucrative trade in ostrich feathers in the late 19th century.

The CP Nel Museum has good displays on the ostrich trade, while several out-of-town ostrich farms offer travelers the opportunity to learn about, pet, and even ride these bizarre outsized birds.

Cango Caves

In the scenic Swartberg (Black Mountains) north of Oudtshoorn, guided 60-minute trips lead deep underground through the sequence of well-lit labyrinths of the Cango Caves. All manner of unusual limestone formations decorates their chambers.

An extended 90-minute ‘adventure’ tour into Cango Caves entails squeezing and clambering through crevices unsuited to the claustrophobic or seriously overweight.

Mossel Bay is where, on 3 February 1488, Bartolomeu Dias became the first European to set foot on South African soil.

Three years later, it is where a stranded Portuguese navigator left an account of his misfortunes in an old shoe suspended from a milkwood tree that went on to serve as South Africa’s first ‘post office’ for decades.

The post office tree still stands on the grounds of the Bartolomeu Dias Museum, but Mossel Bay is now better known as a base for caged shark dives and boat trips to the aptly named Seal Island.

Practical Advice of the Garden Route

• The main gateway to the Garden Route is George, a well-equipped city whose out-of-town airport is connected to Cape Town and Johannesburg by regularly scheduled flights and has all the usual car rental agencies. It is also possible to drive along the well-maintained 430km (267mi) N2 between Cape Town and George in 4-5 hours.
• The Garden Route is studded with literally hundreds of hotels, beach resorts, and B&Bs, so it’s usually easy to find competitively priced rooms. However, rates rocket sky-high, and booking is typically necessary over the South African Christmas and New Year holidays.

A popular add-on to Kruger safaris but also well worth exploring in its own right, the Panorama Route is a loose circuit of mostly natural attractions associated with the towering cliffs that divide the Highveld around Sabie and Graskop from the Lowveld of the Kruger Park and Mpumalanga’s provincial capital Mbombela (formerly Nelspruit).

The Panorama Route Gods WindowAlthough much of the region is given over to exotic plantations, significant tracts of indigenous forest remain, especially on steep cliffs, as do several areas of grassland studded with proteas and red-hot pokers. The region is notable historically as the site of South Africa’s earliest gold rush, which proved to be short-lived, as far richer seams of gold were discovered soon after in Johannesburg.

Highlights of The Panorama Route

169-hectare Lowveld National Botanical Garden

Well worth a stop if you pass through Mbombela, the 169-hectare Lowveld National Botanical Garden, set on the confluence of the Nels and Crocodile Rivers, is of equal interest to botanists and ornithologists.

The rainforest section protects a vast collection of prehistoric cycads. At the same time, a bird checklist of 250 species includes Purple-crested turaco, Half-collared kingfisher, and African finfoot, making it a perfect destination for bird lovers .

Mac-Mac Falls

The 65m (213ft) Mac-Mac Falls is named after a pair of Scottish prospectors who camped above it in the gold rush era. You can swim in the pool at the base of the falls or continue by car for 2km (1,24mi) to the start of a 4km (2,5mi) day trail to the little-visited Forest Falls.

Bourke’s Luck

Situated at the confluence of the Blyde (Joy) and Treur (Sorrow) rivers, the bizarre riverine formation known as Bourke’s Luck comprises a series of deep cylindrical potholes created entirely by water erosion and can be explored along a short network of paths and footbridges.

Blyde River Canyon

The 25km (16mi) long and 1.4km (4,593ft) deep red sandstone Blyde River Canyon, protected within a 270km2 (104 square mile) nature reserve, is one of the largest and most spectacular features of its type on Earth.

It offers much to keen walkers and wildlife lovers. The most rewarding of several day hikes is the Kadishi Trail, which leads through a lush indigenous evergreen forest (inhabited by Vervet and Blue monkeys) to an impressive stalactite-like Tufa waterfall.

The Panorama Route_Blyde River CanyonOne of the most scenic spots in South Africa, the Three Rondavels viewpoint gazes across the vast Blyde River Canyon – the river itself a blue ribbon hundreds of meters below – to a striking trio of outcrops that recall traditional thatched rondavels (round houses).

Sudwala Caves

The dank, cool chambers of the Sudwala Caves support some incredible limestone drip formations. They can be explored on regular guided tours that lead about 500m (1,640ft) deep into the underground labyrinth.

Pilgrim’s Rest

Pilgrim’s Rest mushroomed into life in 1873 following the discovery of a large deposit of alluvial gold. The boomtown’s heyday was short-lived, but it was later restored as a living museum evoking the gold rush era.

Points of interest include the Anglican Church (built in 1884), the Methodist Church (1911), Catholic Church (1928), Old Police Station (1902), and the hilltop cemetery whose graves all point in the same direction, the one exception being an anonymous Robber’s Grave.

God’s Window

The finest of several viewpoints offering views along the R532, God’s Window provides a splendid view over the edge of the escarpment to the expansive Lowveld more than 1,000m (3,281ft) below. However, its impact depends on very clear weather.

Lisbon Falls

The tallest single-drop waterfall in the region, the twin-stream Lisbon Falls plunges over a 90m (295ft) stone amphitheater whose base is accessible via a steep footpath.

Travel Tips for The Panorama Route

• The primary air gateway to Mpumalanga is Kruger-Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA), which stands about 25km (16mi) northeast of Mbombela off the R40 to White River. It is connected to Gauteng’s OR Tambo International Airport by several scheduled flights daily. There are also direct flights from Durban and Cape Town, and several car rental companies are represented there.
• It may be more affordable for couples or families to rent a car out of Gauteng and drive, following the N4 east from Pretoria to Mbombela or the N12 from Johannesburg/OR Tambo to connect with the N4 at eMalahleni (formerly Witbank). The drive takes 3-5 hours, depending on your ultimate destination.
• Self-drivers could visit most sites along the Panorama Route in one day, but two would be better. A good variety of hotels and lodges are available in Mbombela and smaller towns such as Hazyview, Sabie, and Graskop.

Collectively protecting around two-thirds of South Africa’s phenomenal coastline, the country’s two most southerly provinces also incorporate several of its oldest and most characterful settlements.

The main regional travel hub (and administrative capital of the Western Cape) is the city of Cape Town , which boasts an incomparable setting on the Atlantic coastline below the slopes of majestic Table Mountain.

For nature lovers, the adjacent Cape Peninsula stands at the core of the world’s smallest and most botanically diverse floral kingdom.

The region supports a wealth of endemic plants and animals, ranging from the beautiful King Protea to the endangered Cape mountain zebra and striking Cape sugarbird.

A Cape Town Holiday is an all-in-one experience if you like nature, culture, and history. In Cape Town and the Eastern Cape, you can enjoy a beach holiday and a foodie holiday. (P.S. If you’re looking for affordable Western Cape or Eastern Cape Accommodation Specials , we’ve got some great travel deals for you.)

Further afield, some of the world’s finest and most scenic wine estates are concentrated around the historic towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.

The clifftop resort town of Hermanus offers the world’s best land-based whale-watching , while the Garden Route is named for its lush vistas of scenic lagoons and beaches framed by tall mountains and evergreen forests.

Storms River MouthThe garden route runs into the Eastern Cape , a province less popular with international tourists than its western counterpart but almost as rich in attractions.

These range from the idyllic Wild Coast and surfing scene at Jeffrey’s Bay to the malaria-free Big Five game-viewing on offer in the Addo Elephant National Park and the National Arts Festival held in Grahamstown every July.

Highlights of the Western And Eastern Cape

One of the world’s most scenic and culturally rewarding cities, Cape Town is the gateway to any number of fine swimming beaches for a beach holiday , as well as a magnificent mountainous peninsula that terminates at the sheer wave-battered cliffs of Cape Point .

Cape Winelands

A perennially popular day or overnight excursion out of Cape Town runs inland to the Cape Winelands, where dozens of historic wine estates offer tasting sessions in characterful Cape Dutch buildings shadowed by spectacular mountain ranges such as the Simonsberg and Groot Drakenstein.

Visiting the Cape winelands can be included in your South African holiday itinerary if you love historic buildings and wine.

Garden Route

Stretching for 200km (124mi) between Mossel Bay and the dramatic Storms River mouth, the Garden Route is lined with family-friendly Indian Ocean beaches, making it the perfect destination for a beach holiday .

The Garden Route’s plethora of lakes, forests, and mountains – many protected in the patchwork Garden Route National Park – offer rich pickings to hikers, birdwatchers , and other outdoor enthusiasts.

Set on the cliffs above Walker Bay 120km (75mi) southeast of Cape Town, Hermanus is an attractive town of cobbled alleys and relaxed seafood restaurants best known for offering some of the world’s finest land-based whale-watching .

The season runs from June to November and peaks over September-October, when around 100 Southern Right whales and a smaller number of Humpback whales converge to calve.

Hermanus makes for a perfect beach holiday as it has several small swimming beaches to pick from, and its cliff path is ideal for an afternoon walk.

Agulhas National Park

Protected within the recently created Agulhas National Park , the rocky headland known to the Portuguese as Cabo das Agulhas (Cape of Needles) is not only the southernmost tip of Africa but also forms the semi-official divide between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

More than 250 ships fell victim to the jagged offshore rocks for which Agulhas was named before the construction of what is now the country’s second-oldest lighthouse.

If you can endure the cold water, the beaches at Agulhas are also perfect for a beach vacation with your family .

West Coast National Park

The West Coast National Park north of Cape Town is centered on the vast Langebaan Lagoon, a globally significant site for marine birds, ten species of which breed there colonially.

It is also renowned for its multi-hued spring wildflower displays, which usually take place in August-September. It’s a perfect holiday destination if you love birdwatching and flowers.

Eastern Cape’s Wild Coast is studded with scenic gems, ranging from arty Port St Johns on the Mzimvubu River mouth to the sea-eroded rock formation known as Hole in the Wall or EsiKhaleni (isiXhosa for ‘Place of Noise’).

It is also the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, whose three-hut maternal home is preserved as a museum annex in the village of Qunu.

Grahamstown

Founded by the British immigrants known as the 1820 settlers, the well-groomed university town of Grahamstown is studded with Georgian and Victorian buildings, including an astonishing 40 churches.

The 11-day National Arts Festival held here in early July is the premier event of its type in South Africa, hosting everything from Shakespearean plays to live African music and a multitude of street artists. It’s the perfect vacation if you love the arts and history.

Addo Elephant National Park

Created in 1931 to protect the region’s last 11 surviving elephants, Addo Elephant National Park is now one of the country’s top malaria-free Big Five safari destinations .

Roughly 500 elephants roam the park alongside naturally occurring populations of leopards, buffalo, and greater kudu, and reintroduced Black rhinos, lions, and spotted hyenas.

While Addo is ideal for self-drivers, several neighboring private establishments offer guided luxury safaris in game lodges comparable to those in Sabi Sands .

Blue Flag Beach

The attractive Blue Flag beach at Jeffreys Bay is dominated by what many surfers regard to be the world’s longest and most perfect right-hand break: supertubes.

Scintillating surfing aside, dolphins are frequently observed from the unspoiled coastline protected within the nearby Cape St Francis Nature Reserve. Blue Flag Beach is the perfect beach holiday destination for an adventurous traveler.

Travel Tips for the Western And Eastern Cape

• The main air gateway to the region is Cape Town International Airport (CTIA), which lies about 20km (12mi) east of the city center and 35km (22mi) from Stellenbosch in the Cape Winelands. An increasing number of international flights land at CTIA, and it’s also serviced by dozens of flights daily from Johannesburg and domestic flights to all other major centers in South Africa.
• Other important airports can be found at George (the largest town on the Garden Route), Port Elizabeth (capital of the Eastern Cape), and East London (gateway to the Wild Coast). Depending on how long you have to spare and where you want to visit, an excellent way to explore the region independently would be to fly into Cape Town, self-drive east as far as George, Port Elizabeth, or East London, then fly back out.
• It’s also possible to continue driving northeast of East London via the Wild Coast and southern KwaZulu-Natal to Durban.
• As South Africa’s most traveled province, the Western Cape offers an immense selection of overnight options, ranging from five-star city and boutique hotels to backpacker hostels and B&Bs. Overnight options in the Eastern Cape are also profuse and varied. Although it’s usually straightforward enough to find a competitively priced room, rates boom, and booking is usually necessary over the South African Christmas and New Year school holidays.

Africa’s largest protected montane wilderness – the 2,500km2 (965 square mile) uKhahlamba-Drakensberg National Park extends for a full 200km (124mi) along the border of KwaZulu-Natal and Lesotho and incorporates several dozen peaks with the highest rising to 3,000m (9,843ft).

Its name combines the isiZulu uKhahlamba (“Barrier of Spears”) with the Afrikaans Drakensberg (“Dragon’s Mountain”). South Africa’s ultimate destination for high-altitude day walks and overnight hikes, the park is a hub of botanical diversity. Some 15% of its 2,500 identified plant species occur nowhere else globally.

Highlights of UKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park

Large wildlife includes baboon, eland, bushbuck, mountain reedbuck, Grey rhebok, and Grey duiker, as well as a 300-strong bird checklist that is strong on cliff-associated raptors such as Verreaux’s eagle, Jackal buzzard, Cape vulture and lammergeyer. It also includes 20 species whose range is restricted to South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland, making for a perfect birding holiday.

An important repository of prehistoric rock art, uKhahlamba-Drakensberg contains at least 500 painted caves and shelters.

This is where monochrome human figures and finely shaded polychrome elands share wall space with bizarre half-human-half-animal creatures known as therianthropes.

Executed between 3,000 and 200 years ago, the art depicts the ritual trances experienced by shamans and their complex relationships with revered animals.

uKhahlamba-Drakensberg’s combination of rich biodiversity and prolific rock art has gained it recognition as one of only 35 ‘mixed’ natural and cultural sites on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Royal Natal National Park

No single feature encapsulates the mountains’ majesty quite like the Amphitheatre, a 5km (3mi) long, kilometer-high wall of burnished sandstone that dominates the Royal Natal National Park skyline.

A must for keen walkers is the half-day Gorge Trail, which follows a pretty riverine gorge past natural swimming pools to the 949m (3,114ft) tall five-stage Tugela Falls.

A feasible day hike from Royal Natal is the Witsieshoek’s Chain Ladder Trail. It’s the easiest hike to the top of the escarpment and offers sensational views from the lip of the Tugela Falls as it crashes over the Amphitheatre.

The ideal goal for those wanting to enjoy splendid submontane scenery without breaking a sweat, Champagne Valley is overlooked by a trio of distinctive high peaks – domed Champagne Castle, fang-like Monk’s Cowl, and freestanding Cathkin Peak. It also houses a great selection of golf courses, stables, shopping malls, craft factories, and the like.

Giant’s Castle Game Reserve

Named after a 3,314m (10,873ft) basaltic protrusion that stands at the convergence of the mountains’ northern and southern escarpments, Giant’s Castle Game Reserve is renowned for its rock art, in particular the hundreds of superb images that adorn Main Cave. It’s also an excellent place to see the stately eland antelope and other large mammals and raptors.

Didima Rock Art Center

Didima Rock Art Center contains life-size reproductions of several inaccessible rock art panels set higher in the mountains. Only 45 minutes’ walk away, the Lower Mushroom Cave is decorated with a wonderful scene of stick men evading a marauding leopard.

Cathedral Peak

The striking 3,005m (9,859ft) Cathedral Peak towers above the main escarpment like a squatted version of the cow horn alluded to in its traditional name Mponjwane. It’s an attainable goal for a tough full-day guided hike from Didima.

The undulating slopes of Kamberg support fair numbers of eland and mountain reedbuck.

A three-hour round hike leads to the Game Pass Shelter, a superbly preserved rock art panel dubbed the Rosetta Stone in double reference to its significance in helping scholars ‘crack the code’ of shamanistic symbolism that underlies the prehistoric paintings.

Barriers of Spears

The only motorable track to breach the Barriers of Spears, rocky 4×4-only Sani Pass follows a series of switchbacks uphill to a remote Lesotho border post (passport required) set at a windswept altitude of 2,865m (9,400ft).

Here, the tussocky grass, mossy boulders, and clumped heather of the Alpine zone acquire an ethereal beauty in the soft light of dusk or dawn. It’s also the most accessible place to see high-altitude endemic birds, such as the Drakensberg rockjumper and Mountain pipit.

Practical Advice for UKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park

• The rugged topography of uKhahlamba-Drakensberg divides the park into a dozen-odd different sectors, each effectively a self-contained destination with its own attractions and access roads. Most visitors will only have time to explore one or two. As a guideline, Royal Natal ranks highest for scenic impact, Champagne Valley for upmarket tourist development, Giant’s Castle and Kamberg for accessible rock art, and Sani Pass for birdwatching and 4×4 enthusiasts.
• uKhahlamba-Drakensberg is geared best toward active self-drive travelers willing to explore its slopes on foot. Bank on at least up to four hours to cover the 350km (217mi) from Gauteng to Royal Natal Park (in the north) or two hours from Durban to Himeville (near the base of Sani Pass).
• For ecological reasons, no hotels exist within the park. Still, the park authorities operate rest camps at several entrance gates. There are private hotels in Champagne Valley and in the vicinity of Royal Natal, Cathedral Peak, and Sani Pass.
• uKhahlamba-Drakensberg’s non-nannyish management policy stands in contrast to the strict regulations and hefty costs associated with other iconic African mountains. Simply pitch up at any entrance gate, hand over the nominal entrance fee, sign into the mountain register, and off you go.
• Hikers on the upper slopes frequently get trapped in stormy or misty conditions, so dress suitably and be prepared to turn back or stay put as weather conditions dictate.

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When is the best month to travel to south africa.

• South Africa in January

Johannesburg and the Highveld are hot by day, warm at night, and receive regular rainfall, often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms. Cape Town and the Western Cape are hot and dry, cooling down at night, making it perfect for a beach holiday . The Kruger Park and its surroundings are very hot by day, warm at night, and receive occasional rainfall.

• January is an ideal time for beach holidays anywhere along the South African coast, though Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal coast to its north can be swelteringly hot.
• Game viewing in Kruger Park and other reserves can be relatively challenging as animals are dispersed away from water sources, and thick vegetation tends to reduce visibility. This is arguably compensated for by the lush green condition of the bush, clearer skies (better for a photographic safari ), and far greater variety and profusion of birds as resident species come into breeding plumage and are supplemented by a variety of intra-African and Palaearctic migrants, making it a good time for a birding safari .
• January falls into the nesting season for loggerhead and leatherback turtles along the beaches of iSimangaliso, and turtle-tracking tours can be undertaken in the evening.
• Accommodation tends to be full during the school holidays, which run to mid-January, but much quieter towards the end of the month.
• South Africa in February

Johannesburg and the highveld is hot by day, warm at night and receives regular rainfall often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms.

Cape Town and the Western Cape is hot and dry, cooling down at night.

The Kruger Park and surrounds is very hot by day, warm at night and receives occasional rainfall.

February is an ideal time for beach holidays anywhere along the South African coast if a quieter holiday is more enticing. Though Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal coast to its north can be uncomfortably hot.

Game viewing in the Kruger Park and other reserves can be relatively challenging as animals are dispersed away from water sources and thick vegetation tends to reduce visibility. This is arguably compensated by the lush green condition of the bush, clearer skies (better for photography) and far greater variety and profusion of birds as resident species come into breeding plumage and are supplement by a variety of intra-African and Palaearctic migrants.

February falls into the nesting season for loggerhead and leatherback turtles along the beaches of iSimangaliso, and turtle-tracking tours can be undertaken in the evening.

• South Africa in March

Johannesburg and the highveld is warm and mild by day, cool at night and receives occasional rainfall often in the late afternoon.

Cape Town and the Western Cape starts cooling down with regular windy spells, cooler evenings and crisp early mornings.

The Kruger Park and surrounds is still hot during the day, cooling down at night and receives occasional rainfall.

March is a good time for beach holidays anywhere along the South African coast, with different regions offering varied climates to attract tourists looking for a variety of experiences. Durban and the east coast is still warm and humid, although the peak tourist season has quietened down and costs are relatively low, making it a good option.

Game viewing in the Kruger Park and other reserves starts picking up as the rainfall abates and the lush summer vegetation clears to make spotting wildlife easier. This is an excellent period for birdwatching as a profusion of birds come into breeding plumage and are supplement by a variety of intra-African and Palaearctic migrants.

March lies towards the end of the nesting season for loggerhead and leatherback turtles along the beaches of iSimangaliso, and turtle-tracking tours can be undertaken in the evening.

Accommodation in the main tourist areas is usually relatively quiet in March.

• South Africa in April

Johannesburg and the Highveld are warm by day, cool at night, and might receive occasional rainfall.

Cape Town and the Western Cape are mild by day, cool at night, and might receive occasional rainfall to mark the start of the wet winter.

The Kruger Park and its surroundings see the seasonal shift towards autumn with noticeable drops in temperatures, occasional late summer rains, and cool evenings.

• April is an ideal time for beach holidays along the east coast because of its warm and tropical climate throughout the year. However, it may not be suitable for a beach holiday in the Western or Eastern Cape because the weather is cooler, and rains start falling around this time.
• Game viewing in the Kruger Park and other reserves can be relatively challenging as animals are dispersed away from water sources, and thick vegetation tends to reduce visibility. This is arguably compensated for by the lush green condition of the bush and clearer skies (better for a photographic safari ). Most intra-African and Palaearctic migrant birds will have flown north by April.
• Accommodation tends to be full during the school holidays, focused on the Easter break.
• The Easter weekend coincides with South Africa’s longest-running music festival, the four-day Splashy Fen, which has been held on a farm in the Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg foothills near the town of Underberg since 1990.
• South Africa in May

Johannesburg and the Highveld are warm by day, cold at night, and dry.

Cape Town and the Western Cape are warm by day, cool at night, and might be wet and windy with winter rainfall.

• May is an ideal time for beach holidays on the Indian Ocean coastline of KwaZulu-Natal coast, which tends to be temperate to hot over the nominal winter months, and very dry. Conditions on the coast of the Eastern and Western Cape are less predictable.
• Game viewing in the Kruger Park and other reserves tends to improve following the end of the rains, as animals congregate close to perennial water sources and the undergrowth clears to improve visibility.
• Accommodation in tourist areas is usually quiet in May.
• Taking everything into account, May is one of the best months to visit South Africa, particularly if your main interest is safaris rather than beaches.
• South Africa in June

Johannesburg and the highveld is cool but sunny by day, very cold at night, and dry.

Cape Town and the Western Cape is warm by day, cool at night, and receives regular rainfall.

The Kruger Park and surrounds is hot by day, cool at night, and dry.

Game viewing in the Kruger Park and other reserves tends to be good in the dry season, as animals congregate close to perennial water sources and the undergrowth clears to improve visibility.

• South Africa in July

Johannesburg and the Highveld are mild to cool by day, cold at night, and dry.

• The Kruger Park and its surroundings are hot by day, cool at night, and dry. August is an ideal time for beach holidays on the Indian Ocean coastline of KwaZulu-Natal coast, which tends to be temperate to hot over the nominal winter months, and very dry. Conditions on the coast of the Eastern and Western Cape are less predictable.
• Game viewing in the Kruger Park and other reserves tends to be exceptional towards the end of the dry season, as animals congregate close to perennial water sources and the undergrowth clears to improve visibility making it the perfect time for a Kruger safari.
• August usually heralds the start of the whale-viewing season in Hermanus and the Western Cape. Accommodation in tourist areas is usually very quiet in August.
• Taking everything into account, August is one of the best months to visit South Africa, particularly if your main interest is safaris rather than beaches.
• South Africa in August

• August is an ideal time for beach holidays on the Indian Ocean coastline of KwaZulu-Natal coast, which tends to be temperate to hot over the nominal winter months, and very dry. Conditions on the coast of the Eastern and Western Cape are less predictable.
• August usually heralds the start of the whale-viewing season in Hermanus and the Western Cape.
• Accommodation in tourist areas is usually very quiet in August.
• South Africa in September

Cape Town and the Western Cape are mild by day, cool at night, and receive regular rainfall.

The Kruger Park and its surroundings are hot by day, mild at night, and dry.

• September is an ideal time for beach holidays on the Indian Ocean coastline of KwaZulu-Natal, which tends to be temperate to hot over the nominal winter months, and very dry. Conditions on the coast of the Eastern and Western Cape are less predictable.
• September is widely regarded as offering the best game viewing safaris of any month in the Kruger National Park and other reserves, as animals congregate close to perennial water sources and the undergrowth clears to improve visibility.
• September to November is peak whale-viewing season in Hermanus and the Western Cape. Accommodation in tourist areas is usually very quiet in September, though it may fill up over the short spring school holiday that usually takes place in late September/early October.
• Taking everything into account, September is one of the best months to visit South Africa, assuming you are free to travel then.
• South Africa in October

Johannesburg and the Highveld are warm by day, cooler at night, and will receive occasional rainfall.

Cape Town and the Western Cape are hot by day, cooler at night, and generally dry, while the Kruger Park and its surroundings are hot by day, warm at night, and dry.

• October is an ideal time for beach holidays anywhere along the South African coast.
• This month usually offers excellent game viewing safaris in the Kruger Park and other reserves, as animals congregate close to perennial water sources and the undergrowth clears to improve visibility. However, they will start to disperse in the wake of the first rains.
• September-November is peak whale-viewing season in Hermanus and the Western Cape.
• Accommodation in tourist areas is usually very quiet in October, though it may fill up over the short spring school holiday that usually takes place in late September/early October.
• Taking everything into account, October is one of the best months to visit South Africa.
• South Africa in November

Johannesburg and the Highveld are hot by day, cool at night, and receive regular rainfall, often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms.

Cape Town and the Western Cape are hot by day, cooler at night, and dry.

The Kruger Park and its surroundings are hot by day, warm at night, and dry.

• November is an ideal time for beach holidays anywhere along the South African coast, though Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal coast to its north can be rather hot.
• Game viewing in the Kruger Park and other reserves can be relatively challenging as animals are dispersed away from water sources, and thick vegetation tends to reduce visibility. This is arguably compensated for by the lush green condition of the bush and clearer skies ( better for photography ).
• Many resident species come into breeding plumage during November, and this transitional month also usually heralds the arrival of large numbers of intra-African and Palaearctic migrants.
• September-November is peak whale-viewing season in Hermanus and the Western Cape. November is the start of the nesting season for loggerhead and leatherback turtles along the beaches of iSimangaliso, and turtle-tracking tours can be undertaken in the evening.
• Accommodation in tourist areas is usually quiet in November, though it starts to fill up towards the end of the month.
• South Africa in December

Johannesburg and the highveld is hot by day, cool at night and receives regular rainfall often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms.

• December is an ideal time for beach holidays anywhere along the South African coast, though Durban and the KwaZulu-Natal coast to its north can be swelteringly hot.
• Game viewing in the Kruger Park and other reserves can be relatively challenging as animals are dispersed away from water sources, and thick vegetation tends to reduce visibility. This is arguably compensated for by the lush green condition of the bush and clearer skies (better for photographic safaris ). Many resident species come into breeding plumage during December, and this transitional month also heralds the arrival of large numbers of intra-African and Palaearctic migrants.
• December is the peak nesting season for loggerhead and leatherback turtles along the beaches of iSimangaliso, and turtle-tracking tours can be undertaken in the evening.
• Accommodation along the coast and other popular tourist areas tends to be full during the school holidays starting in early December.

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Free safari planning advice from destination experts

Faqs about south africa, tipping amount guideline, why is tipping a customary practice, tipping in relation to safari costs, augrabies falls national park, when you want to go, where you choose to stay matters: solo, private, or family and friends group, try discover africa safari cost calculator here., what type of transport suits your needs, group vs. private safaris.

• Light, neutral-colored clothes are recommended
• Bring layers and pack smartly
• A rain jacket that is both light and waterproof
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and lip balm are all good options for UV protection
• Walking shoes that are both comfortable and stylish
• Binoculars, camera, lenses, extra batteries, and memory card
• A medical kit for personal use

If you are planning on visiting South Africa , you may hear that South Africa is a beautiful country and that it is the most developed country in Africa. South Africa is big and if you stick to the main cities of South Africa it is safe to travel.

• A Safari in South Africa is a popular choice for wildlife enthusiasts. All major safari animals can easily be seen at any of South Africa's National Parks.
• The scenic KwaZulu-Natal parks are best for seeing rhino
• Kruger National Park offers excellent general wildlife viewing
• The main attraction in Sabi Sand is seeing the Big Five and it is well-known for its habituated leopards
• Safari/bucket showers are common in mobile or tented camps where there is no permanent plumbing. They are an effective yet environmentally friendly way to shower where water is at a premium and provide plenty of hot water to wash comfortably.
• Generally, there is an en-suite private shower stall within your tent with a “rainfall” style shower head at which you can control the water flow. Outside the tent, there is a large waterproof bag or bucket which is filled with about 10 to 15 litres (5 US gallons) of hot water before being raised with a pully/rope system to either connect to the shower pipe or fill a cistern.
• The water is delivered at the ideal temperature so it is best to use it as soon as it arrives. Staff typically fill the showers at a pre-arranged time of day, or you simply need to give them a few minutes notice so they can get it ready.
• All game reserves in Madikwe, the Pilanesberg and the Eastern Cape are malaria-free.
• Most lodges and hotels will have safes for your valuables either in your room or at the reception.
• The local currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). There are numerous currency exchange outlets and the main credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex and Diners) are normally accepted everywhere.
• Most petrol stations and toll roads take credit cards, but always have a small amount of cash on you for tips etc. Numerous ATMs can be found in all the big towns.
• No vaccination is mandatory for entering South Africa except for yellow fever for passengers arriving from areas affected by the disease.
• Electricity in Botswana, Kenya, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe and in most of the continent is 220/240 volts.
• Most safari lodges and camps are not connected to an electrical supply. Solar lighting (backed up by batteries) is common, with many lodges having a generator, which runs part of the day (morning and late evening when guests are out on their activities).
• Lanterns also provide light at night. In many camps running on solar power, you will not be able to use a hairdryer.
• Tipping is common practice in South Africa. Some guidelines concerning tipping are - in the bars and restaurants, the tipping is 10% minimum but preferably more.
• The car parks are monitored by guards or watchmen, they will often ask if you want them to keep an eye on your car while you are away. If you accept - offer them a tip of R5 or more, according to the parking time.
• In South Africa, the petrol station attendants will fill your car with petrol - they will also check your tyre pressure, oil-water levels and clean your windscreen. This typical South African service is around R5 or more at your discretion. Tipping is always welcome in South Africa.
• Although wildlife viewing is good throughout the year, the dry winter months of May to September are the best. During this season - animals gather at the waterholes and rivers, making them easier to spot. However, the daytime temperature is comfortable.
• There may not be many predator mammals, but the park seems to attract more than its fair share of raptors. Look out for martial eagles, and a range of vultures - including lappet-faced, white-backed and cape vultures.

Our Recommended Activities in South Africa

• Horseback Riding
• Hot Air Balloon Rides
• Mountain Biking
• Night Drives
• Visiting Local Villages

Going for a bush walk on your South Africa safari is an amazing experience that allows you to get up close and personal with nature.

Some of the best destinations for a bush walk include Gondwana Game Reserve , Kambaku @ Sea on the Garden Route, Buffelsdrift Game Lodge at Oudtshoorn, and self-catering AfriCamps at Ingwe near Plettenberg Bay.

On a bush walk, you’ll see a variety of South African safari wildlife, such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more.

A bush walk is different from a game drive because it allows you to experience nature in a more intimate way. You’ll be able to see things that you wouldn’t be able to see from a vehicle.

Some of the highlights of going on a bush walk on your South Africa safari tour include examining the real details of the bush, from the Big Five safaris right down to the insects that form such an important part of the ecosystem.

South African safari grasslands have 30 species per square kilometre, greater than the biodiversity of rainforests.

It’s entirely safe to go on a bush walk on your South Africa safari as long as you follow the instructions of your guide and take the necessary precautions.

It’s important to remember that you are in the wild and there are risks involved, but with proper guidance and preparation, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Horseback riding safaris are a thrilling way to experience the astounding beauty of South Africa safari wildlife and landscapes.

South African Safari tours range from short stints through the bush for inexperienced riders to multi-day excursions for the more experienced, where you’ll camp at fly tents overnight before continuing your adventure the next day.

The advantage of going horseback riding on African safari is that wildlife doesn’t see humans on horseback as a threat, so you can often get closer to the animals than you would on foot or in a safari vehicle.

Two of the best locations for horseback safaris on your South Africa safari include the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve in Limpopo Province, and the Kruger National Park .

Taking a hot air balloon flight on a South African Safari Tours is an unforgettable experience that offers breathtaking views of the country’s stunning landscapes and wildlife.

You can choose from a variety of hot air balloon rides that offer different experiences.

For example, you can combine a hot air balloon ride with a Big Five Safari for an even more immersive experience on your South Africa safari.

This option allows you to see South Africa’s diverse wildlife from a unique perspective.

If you’re looking for a more classic experience, you can try a sunrise hot air balloon flight over the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site or the Magaliesberg mountain range1.

This option offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is perfect for those who want to enjoy a peaceful and serene flight.

The cost of hot air balloon rides on a South Africa safari varies depending on the type of ride you choose and the location.

South Africa Safari Tours is a great place for mountain biking adventures.

Some of the most popular mountain bike holiday destinations in South Africa are Cape Town and Stellenbosch biking tour areas , Knysna and the Garden Route, Sabie in Mpumalanga and the Drakensberg in Kwa-Zulu Natal.

Many of these destinations have tour operators and offer guided and self-guided mountain bike tours.

Get in the saddle and explore some of the gorgeous landscapes that South Africa Safari Tours has to offer as you navigate spotless trails and winding jeep tracks.

There’s something for everyone, from challenging singletrack to more moderate dirt roads.

Remember to take enough water and snacks so that you can hydrate often and keep yourself fuelled on your mountain biking adventure.

This is your chance to see Africa’s wonderful nocturnal life. Unlike daytime activities, during night drive safaris, the chances of spotting nightjars, porcupines, scorpions, chameleons, and bush babies are high.

Of course, it’s also an excellent opportunity to see leopards, lions, civets, and genet or perhaps even a pangolin or aardvark. The trick is to search for their glinting eyes in the vehicle’s headlights or the spotlights shining across the bush.

For safety and practical reasons, many African parks and reserves still don’t allow visitors to drive around the park after the sun has set.

Most of the time, the main parks like the Kruger National Park , Serengeti and Masai Mara are reluctant to conduct night drives. But the private concessions and conservancies surrounding these famous reserves do allow and support game drives at night.

Night drives are incredibly rewarding, and although it’s a bit more tricky to take good pictures, it’s more about the unique animals you’ll get to see and the nighttime sounds you hear.

These aren’t things you’ll ever experience during a daytime game drive. It really completes an African safari.

What can be better than peering up on your South African Safari Tour at the Milky Way to marvel at the unbridled beauty of the cosmos?

Thanks to the low-to-no light pollution levels in South Africa’s Safari Tour lodges at game parks and national reserves, you can witness shooting stars and celestial bodies in all their glory.

Some of the top destinations for stargazing on your South African Safari Tour include Tankwa Karoo National Park , |Ai|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park, and Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.

All offer stunning and uninterrupted views of the night sky.

South Africa has a lot of cultural heritage and visiting local villages can be an enriching experience on your South African Safari Tour .

These villages offer a unique opportunity to learn about South African tribal culture , history, and traditions while enjoying traditional food and entertainment.

There is no single tribal culture in South Africa. Even the Zulu people, the largest ethnic group in the country, are diverse in their beliefs and customs.

With such an abundance of cultures to explore, there’s no end of opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture and discover new ways of life.

In addition to organized tours, there are many villages throughout the South African Safri Tours that welcome visitors.

Some popular villages include Lesedi Cultural Village in Gauteng province, Shangana Cultural Village near Kruger National Park, Khaya La Bantu Cultural Village in Cape Town, Basotho Cultural Village in Free State province , and Botshabelo Mission Station in Mpumalanga province.

See South Africa in Your Comfort

• Affordable Safari in South Africa
• Budget Safari Holiday in South Africa
• Luxury Safari Holiday in South Africa

An excellent option for those who want to travel in reasonable comfort while keeping costs down is to self-drive some or all of the time.

Rental cars can be arranged in all major centers (as well as at all airports), and roads are generally up to international standards, though potholes are increasingly prevalent in smaller towns.

The Kruger National Park ranks as Africa’s ultimate DIY self-drive safari destination, thanks to its good network of (mostly surfaced) roads and well-equipped and affordable rest camps.

Still, similar facilities are available at most major public reserves, including iSimangaliso, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi, Pilanesberg, uKhahlamba-Drakensberg, and any number of less publicized places.

South Africa is a destination that caters to all budgets, offering something special that is sure to meet your expectations. The level of three or even four-star graded establishments is generally higher than that of European standards, for example.

Therefore you’re able to travel on a more restricted budget.

South Africa is well-suited to budget travelers . There are backpacker hostels, affordable B&Bs, and self-catering options in all major centers. There are also very affordable and well-equipped campsites, usually with hot water in the ablution blocks and electricity.

For transport, the perennially popular hop-on, hop-off Baz Bus connects Johannesburg to Cape Town via the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg, Durban, East London, Port Elizabeth, and the Garden Route.

Excellent and affordable coach services run along with these and most other trunk routes.

Most backpacker hostels offer or can arrange various excursions – from half-day, wine-tasting trips out of Cape Town to multi-night Kruger safaris out of Johannesburg – at prices that cater to their intended clientele.

Although restaurants in South Africa are very affordable by international standards, the cost of eating out three times a day will add up, and you can save a lot of money by self-catering and buying ingredients and drinks directly from supermarkets and liquor stores.

Low Season Rates

You’ll be able to take advantage of some very generous low-season pricing offered by several safari lodges depending on the time of year you travel for your budget safari holiday in South Africa.

Low season rates in South Africa are available from the beginning of May to the end of September when the country is experiencing winter.

Surprisingly, this is not the rainy season for Kruger National Park and many other private reserves in South Africa.

Instead, the rainy weather in Cape Town is to blame for the low season prices all around South Africa!

This is excellent news for wildlife enthusiasts, as these are the best months to go on a budget safari holiday in South Africa. May through September is the dry season for Kruger and Madikwe .

The bush isn’t as lush and green at this time of year, allowing for greater game viewing, and the animals are more dependent on waterholes and rivers because it’s the dry season.

This also makes it easier to locate the game in the winter. This is the perfect place to go if you want to see a variety of African animals collected around a waterhole early in the morning before the heat of the day sets in on your budget safari holiday in South Africa .

Budget Safari Lodges

South Africa, in particular, has a wide choice of less expensive or budget private lodges . While they aren’t exactly budget, they provide the same game-viewing experiences as their more expensive neighbors at a fraction of the cost.

You can’t go wrong with one of these budget lodges if you’re going to South Africa primarily for the animals. While the accommodations aren’t quite as polished and elegant, and the food isn’t quite as sumptuous, they offer fantastic value for money and world-class safaris.

A must-for for anybody with a taste for bush luxury is a stay at one of the small and exclusive camps or lodges set in private reserves or concessions such as the Kruger concessions , Sabi Sand , Madikwe , Phinda , and the vicinity of Addo Elephant National Park .

Typically these lodges combine chic Africa-themed accommodation with world-class cuisine, fine wines, attentive staff, and, most importantly, thrilling game drives led by expert guides in open-sided 4x4s.

A three-night stay at any given lodge or camp is probably ideal for a luxury South Africa Safari .

Elsewhere, Cape Town , the nearby Cape Winelands , and Garden Route are studded with small but superb boutique hotels that combine five-star service and amenities with individualistic decor.

The most comfortable way to travel on a luxury holiday would be to fly between major centers and then arrange airport pick-ups and drop-offs and any required outings with the lodge or hotel you book into.

South Africa is a real treat when it comes to wining and dining on a generous budget. Any good tour operator can put together a package of this sort for those who don’t want the bother of arranging it themselves.

For more luxury safaris in Africa , have a look at the options we offer.

Holiday Styles and Options in South Africa

• 4×4 Rental South Africa
• A Photography Safari in South Africa
• A Relaxed Safari Holiday in South Africa
• An Active Holiday in South Africa
• An Adventure Holiday in South Africa
• Beach and Bush Safari Holidays in South Africa
• Big Five Safari Holidays in South Africa
• Birding Safari Holidays in South Africa
• City and Bush Safari Holidays in South Africa
• Foodie Holidays in South Africa
• Malaria Free Safari Holidays in South Africa
• Walking Safari Holidays in South Africa

Rent a 4×4 for Your Journey in South Africa

Explore Africa in a 4×4. Visit untamed wilderness area, rich in wildlife and packed with adventure.

Intrepid explorers can literally follow their heart across all manner of terrain, to discovering the true beauty of Africa from the comfort of an offroad venture.

Take to the road less travelled with a rental 4×4 vehicle from our sister company, Drive South Africa. It’s easy to compare and save on all 4×4 rental cars. The booking process is simple and efficient. There’s no better way to book your 4×4 rental online.

Drive South Africa caters to local and foreign African adventure travel enthusiasts. We specialize in off road vehicle hire, 4×4 off road equipment and self-drive wildlife safaris.

4×4 Rental Options

Choose from a huge range of offroad 4×4 rental vehicles ready to take you wherever you want to go. Select your ride from reliable 4x4s like the Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Suzuki Jimny, and Toyota Fortuner.

Benefits of Renting in a 4×4 in South Africa

• Explore South Africa at your own pace.
• Experience the freedom and flexibility that comes with renting a 4×4
• Go on an epic road trip with all the convenience you need

We also offer 4×4 rentals in Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Mozambique.

South Africa is a highly photogenic country , especially in the summer months (November-April) when the air is least hazy, and landscapes are at their greenest.

The coastline and mountains all make great subjects. Still, the country’s most popular venues for photography are its game reserves, with their magnificent array of wildlife, which tends to be better for photographing during a winter safari.

For dedicated photographers, it’s worth weighing off the pros and cons of a guided safari in a private reserve such as Sabi Sand or a self-drive trip in a public reserve such as Kruger .

Private reserves are generally much more costly to visit, and guides tend to focus strongly on the Big Five rather than less glamorous but equally photogenic subjects such as birds and antelope.

In addition, people with long lenses may find the seating arrangements in the open 4x4s rather cramped unless they arrange private game drive safaris in advance.

On the other hand, most private reserves offer far superior sightings of lions, leopards, and other photogenic predators that you can hope for in public reserves.

Also, the ability to drive off-road means you can stick with the subject for longer and usually get far closer to it and line up better.

First-time safari goers should also be aware that wildlife photography requires faster and higher-magnification lenses than most other subjects.

The ideal lens combination would be a zoom that goes up to 300 together with a fixed 400, with a fastest f-stop of 4 or better, 2.8. A beanbag to rest your lens and minimize camera shake risk is a vital accessory.

To save weight, you can travel with an empty bean bag and fill it up with rice or something similar upon arrival at your destination.

South Africa’s lovely coastline offers ideal holiday conditions for chilling out, catching a tan, taking the occasional dip, and relaxing over a paperback or magazine.

Most coastal resorts also boast a fine array of restaurants where seafood and other cuisines can be enjoyed, along with fine homegrown white and red wines.

If you want to punctuate lazy seaside days with the occasional gentle stroll, you’re probably best heading for one of the rural or suburban beaches that line the Garden Route and Eastern Cape coast .

For those who prefer a more overtly resort-like setting, the standout region is Durban and the south KwaZulu-Natal coast .

At the same time, Cape Town and the adjacent peninsula are ideal for those wanting the modern amenities and varied cultural life associated with a world-class city.

People seeking a relaxed holiday might prefer to limit their itinerary to a couple of venues, spending up to a week at each to minimize day-to-day travel and really settle in.

With its fine year-round climate and varied landscapes, South Africa is custom-made for a holiday for active travelers. Indeed, there are a few parts of the country where a good selection of fun activities can be integrated into a regular holiday.

A lovely area for active travelers is the Garden Route , where low-key physical activities range from canoeing along the Touws River and several excellent mountain biking routes to any number of coastal and montane day walks ranging from 5km (3mi) to 20km (12mi) in duration.

None finer, perhaps, is the cliff-top trail through Robberg Nature Reserve.

The Garden Route is also an excellent area for swimming, surfing, sea-kayaking, and other marine activities, perfect for an active holiday.

Cape Town and its environs offer a similar array of activities to the Garden Route . These range from cliff walks in the whale-watching capital of Hermanus or on the stunning Cape of Good Hope to a steep but scenic day hike from the City Bowl to the summit of Table Mountain .

Another popular walking destination is the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg . Casual ramblers can easily explore the foothills of this stunning range, but the upper slopes are unpredictable in terms of weather. They are recommended only to experienced and adequately equipped hikers.

Generally speaking, game viewing is a relatively inactive pursuit since most reserves understandably forbid unguided walking.

Overnight guided wilderness trails are available in the Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe-Imfolozi, but these must usually be booked well in advance.

Most private reserves will also offer guided walks as an alternative to game drives, but these tend to focus on birds, insects, and other small wildlife rather than seeking out the Big Five .

Unguided nature trails are typically free and up to 10km (6,2mi) in duration. They can be found in many minor reserves that lack dangerous wildlife.

South Africa has a strong culture of recreational running and cycling. Mountain bikes can easily be hired at most destinations with good cycling possibilities, and you can ask local running clubs about park runs, time trials, and other good local routes.

Bring suitable footwear and a few pairs of thick socks if you plan on walking a lot. A walking stick can be useful in hilly areas or on trails with loose rocks underfoot. Binoculars will greatly enhance bird and other wildlife sightings on the trail on your walking safari.

South Africa is a brilliant destination for adventurous travellers. Hard to beat, in fact.

Depending on your tastes, interests, age and level of fitness, activities on offer range from week-long rafting excursions along the Orange River as it follows the border between the Northern Cape and neighbouring Namibia, to multi-day coastal hikes such as the world-famous Otter or Oystercatcher Trails.

Mountain biking in the remote montane heights of the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg is a highlight, as is an overnight guided wilderness trail looking for wildlife and camping wild in Big Five reserves such as the Kruger National Park or Hluhluwe-Imfolozi.

Whilst the Garden Route is renowned for its paragliding courses.

Other popular one-off adventure activities range from caged shark-diving in Mossel Bay and diving the coral reefs off Sodwana Bay to the world’s highest bungee jump (215m) off the Bloukrans Bridge and abseiling off Cape Town’s Table Mountain.

Longer adventure activities such as hiking trails, rafting trips and wilderness trails should definitely be booked well in advance in order to build your itinerary around the dates.

Discovering South Africa’s landscape

Adventure travellers should pack sensible outdoor clothing as well as waterproof clothing (trousers and jackets) and appropriate walking shoes or hiking boots, It would also be advisable to check if any specialist clothing and gear is required to bring from home.

Day activities such as bungee jumps or caged dives can usually be arranged on the spot, or with a day or two’s warning. Probably the best part of South Africa for tackling a wide array of adventure activities on to your itinerary is in Cape Town and the Garden Route .

South Africa is an ideal location for a beach trip and bush safari. Time permitting, it’s best to split the ‘bush’ and ‘beach’ components. For a bush safari, try the Kruger National Park and associated private reserves for a great chance of ticking off the Big Five or almost-as-good but malaria-free Madikwe and Pilanesberg Game reserves northwest of Johannesburg.

For beach holidays , it would be hard to beat the Garden Route (best in the southern summer) or KwaZulu-Nata l south coast (good in winter too). For a shorter best-of-both-worlds holiday, there’s no better candidate than the iSimangaliso Wetland Park , with a night or two’s diversion to nearby Hluhluwe-Imfolozi or Phinda .

For many first-time visitors to Africa, a top priority is ticking off the so-called Big Five : lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino. South Africa offers many excellent opportunities to do this. It’s the easiest place in Africa to see rhinos since it supports more than 90% of the continental population of these endangered creatures. It’s also the African country best suited to self-drive safaris.

South Africa’s top Big Five destination is the Kruger National Park , extending over 20,000km2 (7,722 square miles) to form one of Africa’s largest and most iconic safari destinations.

Kruger is home to around 40,000 buffalo, 13,000 elephants, 1,600 lions, 2,000 leopards, 7,000 white rhinos, and 400 Black rhinos. For those who can afford it, great alternatives to Kruger are the exclusive private reserves that border it and ‘concession lodges’ that occupy enclaves within it.

South Africa boasts many other world-class safari destinations, including the malaria-free Pilanesberg and Madikwe Game Reserves northwest of Johannesburg.

The narina trogon in iSimangaliso Wetland Park

South Africa is a superb birding safari destination . The national checklist comprises around 840 species, and includes the world’s largest bird (ostrich) and what is reputedly its bulkiest flying species (kori bustard) along with a dazzling variety of birds of prey, ranging from the largely terrestrial Secretary bird to the charismatic African fish eagle and macabre Lappet-faced vulture.

It also supports a dazzling array of colourful bee-eaters, turacos, parrots, rollers, and waxbills.

There are several sites in South Africa where a moderately skilled birder could tick 100 species in a day. Foremost among these – and an excellent overall introduction to African birds – is the Kruger National Park , though some would argue that iSimangaliso Wetland Park outranks it. But rewarding birdwatching can be enjoyed anywhere in South Africa, even in the suburbs of Cape Town and Johannesburg .

Of particular interest to visiting birders are the 35 species more-or-less endemic to South Africa (some have a range extending into the small bordering kingdoms of Swaziland and Lesotho) and several other near-endemics with a range that extends a small way into Namibia and/or Botswana. Good sites for these localized species include the Western Cape , the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg , and Pilanesberg/Madikwe .

Avian variety is most significant in the southern summer (November-March) when several resident species assume a colorful breeding plumage and dozens of migrant species arrive from Europe or elsewhere in Africa. Several good regional field guides can be bought at any decent bookshop in South Africa.

No other country matches South Africa when it comes to offering a world-class city and bush holiday. Cape Town is the most beautiful city in Africa and arguably the best equipped for urban attractions such as museums, live music, restaurants, and wine-tasting venues. A Cape Town holiday also offers fabulous beaches and the incomparable Table Mountain.

It can be twinned with the Kruger National Park (and/or associated private reserves) for a Big Five safari to match anything else Africa has to offer (though those seeking a malaria-free safari experience might prefer Madikwe and Pilanesberg Game Reserves northwest of Johannesburg).

South Africa’s larger cities have thriving culinary scenes, and visitors will find the quality very high and prices very affordable by international standards.

A celebrated facet of South Africa’s cuisine is the superb variety of good, affordable wine produced mainly in the Western Cape. Cape Town and the nearby Cape Winelands are rightly renowned as the culinary capitals of South Africa.

They would form the obvious starting point of any foodie holiday in the country.

Seafood is particularly recommended anywhere along the coast, while excellent venison can be enjoyed in the vicinity of the Kruger National Park .

Oudtshoorn in the Karoo region is famed for its lean, free-range ostrich meat (and eggs). At the same time, Durban excels in Indian restaurants, the latter usually offering an excellent vegetarian selection.

Don’t forget to try some of the several dishes that are more-or-less unique to South Africa on your South African vacation. ‘Cape Malay’ specialties include sosatie kebabs (a variation on the Indonesian satay) and a fruit-sweetened baked mincemeat dish called bobotie.

Spicy boerewors ‘farmer’s sausage’ is an integral component of any casual braai (barbecue) countrywide, while biltong is an air-dried strip of salted and spiced beef or game meat reminiscent of American jerky.

Although malaria is a major travel concern in much of Africa, it has a minimal presence in South Africa. Indeed, more than 95% of South Africa, and most of its major attractions, are entirely free of malaria .

There are only two exceptions. The eastern Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, which includes the Kruger National Park and associated private reserves, is classified as moderate risk.

Then there is coastal KwaZulu-Natal , north of Richards Bay, which is regarded as low risk and includes iSimangaliso Wetland Park and Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve.

Transmission in these areas is more or less confined to the rainy summer months. Most other safari destinations in South Africa are malaria-free, notably Madikwe and Pilanesberg Game Reserves and Addo Elephant National Park .

There is also no malaria in other popular areas such as Cape Town, the Cape Winelands , the Garden Route , Durban, the KwaZulu-Natal south coast, the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg, and Johannesburg.

South Africa is an excellent destination for keen walkers. Hundreds if not thousands of day trails have been marked out countrywide, many within easy reach of cities such as Cape Town or Durban.

South Africa also supports a superb network of overnight hiking trails ranging from easy one-night excursions to more arduous five- or seven-night mountain treks.

The Garden Route is particularly well suited to walkers. It supports any number of coastal and montane day walks ranging from 5km (3,1mi) to 20km (12mi) in duration – none finer perhaps than the clifftop trail through Robberg Nature Reserve.

South Africa’s ultimate walking destination is the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg , which offers opportunities for both casual ramblers and experienced and adequately equipped hikers.

Guided multi-day wilderness trails operate in the Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe-Imfolozi, but must be booked well in advance. Shorter unguided nature trails, typically up to 10km (6,2mi) in duration, can be found in many minor reserves that lack dangerous wildlife.

If you plan on walking a lot, bring suitable footwear and a few pairs of thick socks. A walking stick can be helpful in more hilly areas or trails with loose rocks underfoot.

Who is Travelling to South Africa with you?

• A South African Holiday as a Couple
• Family Safari in South Africa
• LGBTQIA+ Safari Holidays in South Africa
• Solo Traveling Through South Africa
• South Africa Honeymoon

Most parts of South Africa are suited for a couples holiday. However, it’s easier for couples traveling without children to self-drive (which also helps keep costs down) and ensures plenty of privacy and quality time together.

Many couples opt to visit areas like the Garden Route , Kruger Park , and iSimangaliso , which are ideal for self-drive exploration and romantic interludes.

(P.S. If you’re looking for Romantic Holiday Packages , we’ve got some great travel deals for you.)

South Africa is one of the world’s best family-friendly safari destinations . It’s mostly malaria-free and offers excellent infrastructure and relatively good road networks. There are also several parks that provide self-drive safaris, making it ideal for families wanting to holiday in the African bush.

Pilanesberg National Park

Amongst the best family-friendly parks is Pilanesberg National Park in the North-West province. Not only does it neighbor the famous Sun City entertainment resort, but it’s malaria-free , an easy two-hours drive from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, and hosts the Big Five .

Addo Elephant Park

Addo Elephant National Park is not only overflowing with elephants but the rest of the Big Five can also be sighted in the park on safari.

The beauty of the park is that its proximity to the coast allows families to see whales at the right time of the year. Once inside the park, there are several excellent, affordable camps and self-catering options with good roads.

The Kruger National Park is the crown jewel in South Africa’s wildlife crown and is the most accessible – an easy four-hour drive from Johannesburg makes it an excellent option for families. Within the park itself, there is an abundance of affordable accommodation options, which are surrounded by the Big Five .

Madikwe Game Reserve in the North-West is also 100% malaria-free and is regarded as South Africa’s best private game reserve. They cater to families of all sizes and ages, with their “Jungle Drives” for children under the age of four and the “Children’s Safari” for slightly older kids. (P.S. If you’re looking for Family Holiday Specials , we’ve got some great travel deals for you.)

South Africa ranks among the world’s more progressive countries regarding LGBTQIA+ rights. Indeed, the new South African Constitution, drawn up in 1996, was the first in the world to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation, and in 2005 South Africa became the fifth country in the world, and first in Africa, to recognize same-sex marriage.

Cape Town is the most amenable city in Africa for LGBTQIA+ visitors, thanks to a lively and friendly gay scene focused on De Waterkant and parts of Green Point.

Larger cities such as Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban also have thriving LGBT Communities. Of the smaller towns, Knysna is renowned for its annual Pink Loerie Pride Carnival. Elsewhere in South Africa, attitudes tend to be more conservative, but LGBT rights are guaranteed, and you are highly unlikely to encounter open discrimination.

Solo travel through South Africa is a pleasure. Locals are friendly, and you’ll be able to meet many people. Most parts of South Africa are suited to solo travel.

Locals are welcoming and often go out of their way to make single travelers feel at home.

Cape Town , in particular, is suited to those who relish urban attractions, whether it be museums, galleries, theaters, bars, nightclubs, and live music venues.

Private reserves are probably better suited to single travelers than national parks and other public sanctuaries since they tend to offer a more hands-on personalized service.

Solo travelers tend to gravitate towards more urban attractions than couples. Cape Town is a must for solo travelers and a good base for exploring the gorgeous Cape Peninsula and the Cape Winelands.

Many solo travelers prefer not to self-drive, which makes it challenging to explore areas like Kruger Park and Garden Route unless you join an organized tour. Private game reserves such as Sabi Sand and Phinda are particularly well-suited to solo travelers.

An excellent way for single travelers to explore South Africa is by combining the Baz Bus and the many backpacker hostels scattered around its cities and other main sites of interest. 

The Baz Bus is an affordable hop-on, hop-off bus service that connects Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and several other popular places of interest.

Its clientele is dominated by single travelers who are receptive to making new friends and meeting like-minded travel companions on the road. 

Likewise, most backpacker hostels have lively communal areas where it’s easy to meet other travelers.

They usually also offer affordable group tours to local sites of interest, as well as overnight tours further afield, for instance from Gauteng to the Kruger National Park or Cape Town to the Winelands .

At a more luxurious level, most private reserves operate group game drives. Many also encourage guests to dine together, making it easy for solo travelers to mingle on holiday.

In the middle range, solo travelers seeking personalized attention should consider booking into small B&Bs and other owner-managed lodges rather than larger, more institutional hotels.

There are no risks specific to solo travel in South Africa. Still, single women, in particular, should apply the usual common sense precautions such as not walking alone in cities at night and avoiding deserted beaches.

Additionally, you should notify family and friends of your whereabouts during your travels.

An authentic South Africa honeymoon is lovely for romantic holidays, especially for those who want to mix up the romance with outdoor pursuits such as game viewing and walking.

If it’s bush luxury you’re after for your South Africa honeymoon, look no further than a lodge in a private reserve (for instance, Sabi Sands, Madikwe or Phinda), many of which have honeymoon suites and can arrange romantic gas lit dinners on a private terrace or deep in the bush.

Another popular venue for a honeymoon safari in South Africa is the Super-Luxurious Sun City complex , which lies just two hours’ drive from Johannesburg and borders the excellent malaria-free Pilanesberg Game Reserve .

Ideally, pair up your South Africa honeymoon with a few days at a coastal resort such as Umhlanga Rocks and Ballito in KwaZulu-Natal , Plettenberg Bay, and Knysna on the Garden Route , or even Cape Town itself.

Finally, no self-respecting foodie should miss out on the Cape Winelands on their honeymoon, which hosts some of South Africa’s finest, most gracious, and most romantic restaurants and wine-tasting venues.

Where to go on Safari in South Africa for your honeymoon

Thornybush lodge.

Each lodge has a unique nature that lends itself to the romanticism of celebrating love; whether it’s a private candlelit dinner or simply the magic of being immersed in the bush, Thornybush Lodge ensures you get only the best in special treatment.

Let us take care of the small things while you spend quality time together and enjoy your intimate moments in one of the most romantic safari destinations in Africa.

Another famous African safari lodge for honeymooning in Southern Africa is Lion Sands – an award-winning lodge that was just rebuilt in 2016 with stunning views of the Sabie River in Kruger National Park.

The rooms are enormous and uber-private, with fireplaces, viewing decks, and private pools.

Tintswalo Private Safari Lodge

Sharing an unfenced boundary with the renowned Kruger National Park, Tintswalo Safari Lodge sits on the pristine Manyeleti Private Game Reserve, home to some of the best game viewing and game drive experiences South Africa has to offer.

Royal Malewane

For a six-star safari lodge experience that is delectably deluxe, look no further than Royal Malewane , where you can watch elephants from your very own pool.

Royal Malewane is easily accessible by air and road and is located in the Thornybush Private Game Reserve on the Western Border of The Greater Kruger National Park.

The closest airport is Hoedspruit, and there is a private landing strip at Royal Malewane. This is an ultra-luxurious private safari lodge and an ideal South Africa honeymoon.

What You Need To Know

• Why Go to South Africa?
• South Africa Visa Requirements and Fees
• Packing List for a South Africa Holiday
• Highlights of South Africa
• Medical Insurance for South Africa
• South Africa vs Botswana
• Wildlife in South Africa
• South Africa vs Namibia
• Getting Around in South Africa
• South African Cultures and Their Nuances
• Medical Requirements for South Africa
• Travelling to South Africa
• South African Food and Tipping
• Is South Africa Safe?
• Vaccinations for South Africa
• Languages in South Africa
• Changing Money in South Africa
• Health Care in South Africa
• Shopping in South Africa
• Medical Emergencies in South Africa
• Lodges in South Africa: The Do’s and Don’ts

No other country in Africa, and few anywhere else in the world, offers a diversity of attractions to rival South Africa. South Africa is one of the continent’s finest Big Five destinations.

The Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve have all the amenities and attractions one would expect from world-class wildlife destinations.

While adjoining private reserves such as Sabi Sand and Phinda rank among the world’s most luxurious venues for all-inclusive guided safaris. Importantly, when it comes to families with young children, South Africa is unique in that several of its most alluring Big Five reserves – for instance, Madikwe, Pilanesberg, and Addo Elephant National Park – lie within regions that are 100% free of malaria.

South Africa is remarkable when it comes to the ‘smaller stuff’. Indeed, some ecologists regard it to be the world’s third most important country in terms of overall biodiversity, thanks to its unusually high level of endemism.

The tiny Cape Floral Kingdom, centered in Cape Town, contains approximately 5% of the world’s plant species, two-thirds of which occur nowhere else on the planet.

Wildlife aside, South Africa’s 2,500km (1,553mi) coastline is one of the most varied in the world and holds the opportunity for the best beach holidays.

Split between the warm Indian Ocean and cooler Atlantic, it’s studded with idyllic sun-kissed swimming beaches but also embraces everything from the subtropical forested dunes and coral reefs of iSimangaliso Wetland Park to the craggy, windswept cliffs of the Cape and Robberg Peninsulas.

South Africa today displays a unique cultural blend of African, European, and Asian influences.

There’s the bold economic powerhouse of Johannesburg and its more stately coastal counterpart Cape Town, the curry houses of Indian-influenced Durban, and the French vinicultural tradition and Dutch-derived architecture that characterizes the Winelands around Stellenbosch.

Elsewhere, traditional Zulu and Ndebele cultural villages pay homage to the country’s indigenous cultural diversity, as does the incomparable wealth of prehistoric rock art found in the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg.

A significant part of modern South Africa’s fascination is the immense progress it has made as a unified nation since the first democratic election in 1994, a progression placed in sobering historical perspective by a visit to Johannesburg’s Apartheid Museum or Cape Town’s District Six Museum.

At the opposite end of the immediacy scale, the three-million-year-long hominid fossil record preserved in the ancient limestone caverns of Gauteng’s Cradle of Humankind has no equal elsewhere in the world.

All in all, South Africa is a country like no other.

• All visitors must present a passport upon arrival at their port of entry. This must be valid until at least 30 days after the end of their intended stay and must have at least one blank page to accommodate entry and exit stamps.
• Technically, visitors should also have a return or onward ticket and be able to demonstrate access to sufficient funds to cover day-to-day expenses for the duration of their stay, but these requirements are seldom enforced.
• Visas for stays of up to 90 days are not required by holders of the following passports: Australia, Andorra, Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Spain, St Vincent & the Grenadines, Sweden, Switzerland, Tanzania (90 days per year), United Kingdom (including Guernsey and Jersey, Isle of Man and the Virgin Islands, and British Overseas territories), United States of America, Uruguay, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe.
• Visas for stays of up to 30 days are not required by holders of the following passports: Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Benin, Bolivia, Cape Verde, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Gabon, Guyana, Hong Kong, Hungary, Jordan, Lesotho, Macau, Malaysia, Malawi, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Peru, Poland, Seychelles, Slovak Republic, South Korea, Swaziland, Thailand, Turkey, and Zambia.
• Holders of other passports must organize a visa in advance and require at least two unused pages for endorsements. A multiple-entry visa is required for those planning an air or road excursion from South Africa to another neighboring country.
• A strictly enforced new ruling to curtail child trafficking requires that all children under 18 show an unabridged birth certificate upon arrival in or exit from South Africa (or if a visa is necessary when they apply for that). If the child is traveling with one or neither parent, a parental consent affidavit or equivalent document from the absent parent(s) is also required.

Aside from checking relevant vaccinations and seeking advice about anti-malaria drugs, no special preparations are required for a trip to South Africa.

All over-the-counter medications are widely available at pharmacies, but you might want to buy essentials such as sunblock and insect repellent before you travel.

Travelers who wear contact lenses might find that their eyes are more irritable in the dry heat typical of parts of South Africa. Pack glasses as a backup on your South African holiday.

Travelling with Children

If you are traveling with children, please ensure that you have all the required documentation and original birth certificates for each child.

This is part of the child visa regulations implemented by the South Africa Home Affairs department, and more information can be obtained using this [checklist].

If you are traveling to South Africa and a safari is part of your planned itinerary, then there are a couple of things to consider packing. Some of the items below will be helpful;

• High-SPF sunscreen and a sunhat
• Comfortable, lightweight clothes of neutral colors
• Comfortable closed shoes
• A light fleece or sweater for the evenings
• Insect repellent
• Camera equipment
• Anti-malarial medication if you’re in a malaria area (rare)
• US dollars in cash – You don’t need much, but a couple of hundred will allow you to at least change if need be and helps for tipping purposes as well.

South Africa attracts more than its fair share of repeat visitors. Some return every year or two to enjoy the familiar pleasures of a favorite beach on a beach holiday or re-explore the vast expanses of the Kruger National Park , where no two days on safari are ever quite the same.

For others, it would be the fact that South Africa offers so many fresh potential experiences to more adventurous travelers.

You’ve done Cape Town and the Kruger ? Then try KwaZulu-Natal’s contrasting UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the lush subtropical beaches and rich wildlife of iSimangaliso Wetlands Park and superb hiking and rock art associated with the lofty uKhahlamba-Drakensberg.

You could also always opt for a few days in the lovely Cape Wineland s, followed by a coastal foray along the Garden Route to the Eastern Cape.

Or head northwest to the vast and thinly populated Northern Cape, whose main attractions include the wildlife-rich red dunes of Kgalagadi, spectacular spring wildflower displays of Namaqualand, and magnificent Augrabies Falls.

Coupled with the excellent amenities and highly favorable exchange rate, this diversity makes South Africa an ideal holiday destination for repeat visitors.

Full medical travel insurance, including air evacuation from remote areas, is highly recommended. Be aware that some insurance policies may not cover activities deemed to be hazardous, for instance, paragliding or scuba diving.

When traveling to South Africa, we always recommend you speak to a local travel consultant to ensure you have all the proper documentation and cover.

These policies and procedures may change, and therefore, your local operator cannot be held responsible in cases of a medical emergency. There are a couple of fantastic resources for both, such as Just Landed , that can guide you through the process.

Botswana is a more pure wildlife destination than South Africa. Its main safari reserves, for instance, the Okavango and Chobe , are less accessible than their South African counterparts, far wilder in feel, and tend to cater more to high-cost, low-impact fly-in tourism.

Botswana thus offers more of an overt wilderness experience than anything in South Africa. Still, it’s not well suited to budget-conscious travelers or DIY self-drivers like Kruger or Pilanesberg.

South Africa is a more family-friendly and affordable safari destination than Botswana. It has a far greater variety of attractions.

Botswana has nothing to compare to historical South African cities such as Cape Town or Stellenbosch or to the lofty heights of the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg.

It is a landlocked country with no coastline compared to 2,500km (1,553mi) in South Africa. South Africa is also the only country in Africa to boast several malaria-free safari destinations .

Several Big Five reserves protect the more charismatic large mammals associated with the African savannah. Foremost among these is the Kruger National Park and its abutting private reserves.

Still, other key safari destinations include iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi, Madikwe, Pilanesberg, Addo Elephant National Park, and a variety of smaller and more exclusive private reserves.

These premier reserves all support healthy lion, elephant, and buffalo populations. South Africa stands as the world’s most important stronghold for rhinos (around 90% of the global population of White rhinos and Black rhinos is concentrated there).

At the same time, the private reserves bordering Kruger have few, if any, rivals when it comes to intimate leopard encounters.

Other wildlife associated with these reserves includes African wild dogs, cheetahs, spotted hyenas, giraffes, zebra, warthogs, baboons, and Vervet monkeys.

The country supports around two dozen species of antelope, ranging from the outsized eland and stately spiral-horned greater kudu to the gregarious Blue wildebeest and impala and arid-country specialists such as gemsbok, springbok, and the diminutive forest-dwelling Red and Blue duikers.

Several large mammal species are endemic to South Africa. The Black wildebeest and Blesbok are associated mainly with grassy habitats in the Highveld.

At the same time, the Cape mountain zebra and bontebok are fynbos-dwellers more-or-less confined to the Western Cape.

Marine wildlife is a strong feature of South Africa. The clifftop town of Hermanus offers the world’s finest land-based whale-watching, while other aquatic wildlife attractions range from caged shark dives at Mossel Bay and turtle-nesting excursions in iSimangaliso to the penguin colony at Cape Town’s Boulders Beach and dolphins that frequently visit many of the country’s bays.

South Africa is a key bird-watching destination . The national checklist comprises around 840 species and includes the world’s largest bird (ostrich) and what is reputedly its bulkiest flying species (kori bustard), along with a dazzling variety of bee-eaters, turacos, parrots, rollers, and waxbills.

The national checklist comprises around 840 species and includes the world’s largest bird (ostrich) and what is reputedly its bulkiest flying species (kori bustard), along with a dazzling variety of bee-eaters, turacos, parrots, rollers, and waxbills. d several more are near-endemics with a range that extends a small way into Namibia and/or Botswana.

Avian variety is most significant in the southern summer (November-March) when several resident species assume a colorful breeding plumage and dozens of migrant species arrive from Europe or elsewhere in Africa.

There are several sites in South Africa, most notably perhaps Kruger, where a moderately skilled birder could tick 100 species in a day.

South Africa and Namibia stand out as two of the few countries in Africa truly suited to self-drive travel.

Both also have excellent safari opportunities, self-drive or otherwise, in the form of Etosha National Park in Namibia, and Kruger National Park (among others) in South Africa.

In most other respects the two countries are very different. Namibia is of greatest interest for its dramatic desert landscapes, most famously the stunning red dunes of Sossuvlei , and for the overwhelming sense of space one might expect of the most thinly populated country in sub-Saharan Africa.

South Africa is a more family-friendly and varied destination than Namibia, and generally more affordable too. There is nothing in Namibia to compare to historic South African cities such as Cape Town or Stellenbosch (though the remote German-influenced port of Luderitz tries its best).

And while Namibia does boasts a long and scenic Atlantic coastline, it is for the most part too barren and windswept to qualify as a conventional beach holiday destination comparable to South Africa’s Garden Route or KwaZulu-Natal .

A good network of domestic flights connects Johannesburg and Cape Town to other major cities such as Mbombela (for the Kruger Park ), Durban, East London, Port Elizabeth, and George (for the Garden Route ).

Trunk roads are all surfaced and well maintained, so self-drive is a straightforward option, provided you have a valid license. The usual international car rental companies are represented in all major cities and airports.

Driving is on the left side of the road, as in the UK, which may require some adjustment for drivers from mainland Europe, the USA, and elsewhere who are accustomed to driving on the right.

A popular option with backpackers, the Baz Bus is a hop-on hop-off service that runs through the interior between Johannesburg and Durban via Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg, then along the coastal N2 between Durban and Cape Town via East London, Port Elizabeth, and the Garden Route.

Inexpensive Greyhound-style coaches also cover most trunk routes.

• South Africa has four main ethnic groups that comprise the entire population.
• 11 official languages are spoken, with English being the most widely used.
• South Africa is affectionately known as the Rainbow Nation because of its diversity in its people, climates, geography, and wide array of experiences.
• It covers 1,21 million square kilometers, making it roughly twice the size of France.
• South Africans are very warm and accommodating.
• The culture isn’t homogenous; instead, it’s a collection of different cultures, with different ones being predominant in different regions.
• The population comprises a wide range of backgrounds, including people of mixed African, Asian, and European descent.

• Eating with a knife and fork is the norm, except at some traditional
• South African society is pretty liberal, as everyone’s rights are protected under the constitution.
• South Africans express affection very openly, so shaking hands and slaps on the back are commonplace.

Malaria is absent from most parts of South Africa, and it’s nowhere as prevalent as in much of equatorial Africa.

Exceptions are the eastern Lowveld of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, which is classified as a moderate-risk malarial area, and coastal KwaZulu-Natal north of Richard’s Bay, which is regarded to be low-risk.

Transmission is more or less confined to the rainy summer months. For this reason, travelers who intend to visit the Kruger National Park and/or adjacent private reserves from September to May are advised to take antimalarial drugs, and visitors to iSimangaliso Wetland Park and Hluhluwe-Imfolozi might also consider it.

Several such drugs are available, and it’s best to seek advice from a doctor or travel clinic a few weeks before your trip.

It’s also advisable to take all reasonable precautions against being bitten by the nocturnal Anopheles mosquitoes that transmit the disease.

Wear a long-sleeved shirt, trousers, and socks in the evening, apply a DEET-based insect repellent to any exposed flesh, and sleep under a net, in an air-conditioned room, under a fan, or with a mosquito coil burning.

Travelers with young children or who prefer not to take medication could consider visiting one of several malaria-free safari destinations, for instance, Madikwe, Pilanesberg, or Addo, in preference to the Kruger National Park.

• Almost all visitors from abroad fly to South Africa. The main hub for international flights is OR Tambo International Airport on the outskirts of Johannesburg, but some carriers also operate international flights to Cape Town and/or Durban.
• The national carrier, SAA, operates an extensive flight network between Johannesburg and many major cities in North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and elsewhere in Africa.

• It’s also possible to enter South Africa overland from the neighboring countries of Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Namibia. Still, you’d only be likely to do so as part of an extended overland trip through Africa.
• There are overland borders with the Kingdoms of Lesotho and Swaziland, the former surrounded entirely and the latter on three sides by South Africa. It’s doubtful anybody would enter South Africa directly via either of these small countries. Still, some itineraries pass through them (Swaziland in particular), in which case any visitor who requires a visa should apply for multiple entry.

Restaurants operate on a similar basis to those in Europe or North America. A 10-15% tip to the waiter is standard, depending on the quality of service.

At hotels, it’s usually easier to sign drinks and meals to the room than to pay cash, but you could still leave a tip for an individual waiter or bartender or add one to the bill before you sign it.

Hotel porters usually expect a tip of around R10 per item of luggage.

On organized tours, most tips are handled by the guide, but it’s customary to tip the guide and/or driver at the end, usually as a group rather than individually.

Upmarket lodges and camps that operate on a full-board basis generally have a tip box at reception. Tips will usually be distributed between all the staff, a system that seems fairest to backroom workers in a country where hotel staff is very poorly paid.

Any guides, drivers, and trackers should be tipped in game lodges that offer guided game drives. Many such lodges have guidelines in the rooms; failing that, ask management for a directive.

South Africa has strict foreign exchange regulations, so it’s best tip in Rands rather than hard currency.

Crime rates are high but, as a rule, not directed specifically at tourists. The main crime hotspot areas are probably the CBDs of the three largest cities (Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban), but an element of risk exists everywhere.

That said, the overwhelming majority of visitors have hassle-free holidays, and so should you if you follow the commonsense do’s and don’ts below:

• Before you leave home, make sure you have a scan or other electronic version of all important travel documents in case they are lost or stolen. Carry copies of these scans on all suitable devices and email them to yourself.
• Make sure your luggage can easily be padlocked; this won’t prevent a determined thief from slashing it open, but it is a solid deterrent to casual light fingers.
• Never leave cash, mobile phones, electronic devices, and other valuables lying around in your hotel room, and where possible, store your passport and other essential documents, as well as spare cash and cards, in a hotel safe.
• Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, cameras, laptops, or large amounts of cash in urban areas.
• Avoid walking around towns after dark. If you do, there is safety in numbers, and it’s always advisable to stick to busy and well-lit streets.
• Be very alert around ATMs, especially in quiet areas and after dark.
• Self-drivers should keep their car doors locked, and windows closed in urban areas. When leaving the car parked in transit, lock all valuables in the boot.

The one vaccination certificate you may be required to show at immigration is yellow fever, and then only if you arrive from or via the yellow fever belt of Africa or South America.

Other recommended vaccinations are tetanus and polio. You could also consider immunization against hepatitis A and B, diphtheria, rabies, typhoid, cholera, and tuberculosis.

That said, please ensure that you always check with your local travel clinic or doctor before traveling, as there are different guidelines depending on the country you are traveling from.

The most numerically significant language is isiZulu, the mother tongue of roughly 22.5% of South Africans, followed by IsiXhosa (16%) and Dutch-based Afrikaans (13.5%).

English, the first language of 9.5% of South Africans, is the lingua franca of the tourist industry and will be spoken to a high to middling standard by practically all waiters, bartenders, shop assistants, and staff of hotels and other tourist-oriented institutions.

The other official languages are SeSotho, Sepedi (also known as North SeSotho), IsiNdebele, Tshivenda, Setswana, Xitsonga, and siSwati.

The South African Rand (ZAR) trades at very favorable rates to most international currencies. There’s no need to bring large amounts of hard currency cash or to buy Rands in advance.

Major international credit/debit cards (for instance, Visa, MasterCard, and, to a lesser extent, American Express) can be used to draw local currency at 24-hour ATMs throughout the country (the one exception being in most national parks and game reserves) and to pay directly for almost all services and goods.

That said, it’s a good idea to carry a bit of hard currency cash as a fallback, say the equivalent of around US$200-400; this can be exchanged into Rands at any bank or Bureau de Change.

Although South Africa has a public healthcare system, it is underfunded and understaffed, and facilities tend to be overcrowded, with some 20% of the country’s doctors employed to serve around 80% of the population.

By contrast, private medical facilities compare favorably with anywhere in the world and also tend to be affordable.

Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and other large cities are liberally dotted with shopping malls that typically contain several supermarkets and a plethora of other retail outlets selling the sort of goods you’d expect in similar establishments in North America and Europe.

Home-grown foodstuffs, wine, beer, and other local produce tend to be very inexpensive by international standards, but imported goods can be pricey.

Smaller towns tend to have at least one mall offering a similar range of goods but less choice than their big city counterparts. Shopping opportunities are somewhat more limited in game reserves.

If no other assistance is at hand, call a medical emergency service. The government-run emergency number for ambulances in South Africa is 10177. Private 24-hour national emergency and ambulance services include ER24 (084 124), which is linked to a private network of 50-plus MediClinic hospitals, and Netcare 911 (082 911). The police flying squad can be reached at 10111.

• Cover up when on safari; closed shoes are a must (or at least open shoes that fasten tightly). Consider neutral-colored clothing when in the bush. Keep it down to preserve noise pollution and respect fellow safari-goers.
• Notice the small things. While sighting the Big Five in South Africa is a must, noticing the smaller details will make your experience that much more enriching.

• Don’t get too close to the wildlife – the power of nature is unpredictable and formidable and should be respected at all times.
• Take a pair of binoculars if you want a good close-up of wildlife while still maintaining your distance.

• Protect yourself in terms of insects and viruses. Always check what vaccinations you need.
• Understand how game drives work. Private lodges offer game drives for guests (anywhere from 4-10 people). There is generally a chance for a coffee break in the morning and sundowners in the evening.

• Rangers are usually in radio contact with other vehicles and allow the other the courtesy of enjoying a sighting before making it known to the rest of the vehicles.
• Pack the right kit for a safari.
• Keep children entertained with an animal checklist when on game drives.

• Sit in the middle of the vehicle. This gives you the best of both vantage points.
• If you’re a keen birdwatcher or photographer, you may want to consider a private vehicle – just be sure to comply with the game lodge rules, i.e. never get out of your vehicle.
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TRAVEL BLOGS

• Travel News Digest, 26 April: Namibia Adds Visa-on-Arrival in Walvis Bay, Uganda Deforestation Concerns
• The Best of Kenyan Cuisine: 10 Dishes to Savour on your next Safari
• Norse Atlantic Adds New Direct Flight to Cape Town
• Travel News Digest, 19 April: SA Airports Celebrated, Rhino Poaching Concerns, Cape Town ‘Big Six’ Appeal
• FastJet Adds Surcharge to Vic Falls Route

OUR LOCATION

2nd floor, Tygervalley Chambers One, 27 Willie van Schoor Avenue, Bellville, Cape Town , 7530

Where are you flying from?

• London Heathrow
• Manchester International
• Cardiff Airport
• London Stansted Apt

Our new direct Virgin Atlantic service commences 22nd October 2023.

Please remember when searching for your holiday to add an additional night, as we operate an overnight service on our outbound flight.

i.e. For a 7 night holiday please search for 8 nights.

Our new direct Virgin Atlantic service commences 30th October 2023.

We will operate from London Heathrow four times a week on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Our seasonal Virgin Atlantic service with up to 4 direct flights, will operate until the 19th May 2024.

Our seasonal direct service will recommence on the 28th October 2024.

Our Virgin Atlantic service operates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays.

Flights include a short touchdown in Barbados.

Our Virgin Atlantic service operates on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays until 29th March 2024. From the 2nd April, this service will reduce to Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Our seasonal service will recommence on the 29th October 2024, with flights operating on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays

Our seasonal Virgin Atlantic service with up to 3 direct flights, will operate until the 11th May 2024. Flights will commence from 23 May 2024 - 24th October 2024 on Thursdays and include a short touchdown.

Our seasonal direct service will recommence on the 29th October 2024.

Daily direct flights from London Gatwick to New York with our partner airline, Delta, operates between 10th April and 26th October 2024.

Our Virgin Atlantic service with direct flights, will operate on Wednesdays and Sundays until the 30th March 2024.

Our direct service will operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays from the 2nd April 2024.

1 room / 2 adults

Please enter all child ages

There must be 1 adult per child under two years of age travelling, please adjust your passenger number

To book online please select a maximum of 9 passengers, to book 10 adults or more please call 0344 557 3978

Please note: Drivers must be over the age of 21 to hire a car unless otherwise specified. Drivers between 21 and 24 years of age may be subject to additional costs.

Holidays in South Africa

South africa completely embodies the term ‘rainbow nation', we fly direct to johannesburg and cape town daily..

You can also fly from regional UK airports on one of our partner airlines.

South Africa from £968pp

Jet off on a trip to South Africa for an exciting escape. From wildlife spotting on safari to exploring lush vineyards and immersing yourself in city life, there's a new discovery to be made around every corner on holiday in South Africa. This colourful destination is steeped in history and home to some of the world's most breathtaking, undisturbed natural beauty spots, from Cape Town to Kruger National Park. Find both relaxation and adventure with our South Africa holiday packages.

Now on sale for 2024!

 Guarantee the hotel you want and get early access to a choice of Virgin Atlantic flights. You can also spread the cost of your holiday with Direct Debit payments.

Sun, sea and safari: South Africa highlights

Welcome to the wild! Is an African safari the ultimate tick on your bucket list? It should be! South Africa is special, there is no doubt about it, it is dusty and adventurous and warm and crazy and so much fun - we guarantee you will be back for more. The great thing about South Africa is the diversity you can find in one destination - 'Big Five' game reserves, waterfalls, spectacular self-drives, history, culture, great gastronomy, luxury, romance… we could go on and on!

You can discover lush scenery, breathtaking mountain views and exotic wildlife with holidays to South Africa. Plan your trip and discover our South Africa holiday packages and  hotels  today.

South Africa is a vast country with each province, city and game reserve offering a different experience, so where do you start? Most visitors combine a few different places within the country or across the region, travelling by plane, train or self-drive, and this is certainly what we would recommend.

Here are a few of our favourite combinations across South Africa and beyond:

City life mixed with adventure

Settle into an oceanside room in Cape Town then stay in the thick of it inside a game reserve. You can fly direct from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth for the Eastern Cape private game reserves or straight into Hoedspruit or Skukuza airports for the Kruger National Park.

Adding in some relaxation

For a relaxing break that includes a bit of the bustle of city life, start in Cape Town then take a meandering drive along the famous Garden Route ending in one of our wonderful game reserves in the Eastern Cape.  

Not a city person?

Then just skip the high-rises and get straight out into the bush. Sun City and Madikwe, Madikwe and Marataba, or just an extended stay in the Kruger, there are loads of options for the wild at heart.

Culture vulture?

South Africa has a fascinating history and is a melting pot of cultures. Johannesburg and Cape Town are a great place to start with a choice of museums and exhibitions.

Want to stay in one place?

Enjoy the Cape Town summer at The Bay Hotel in fun and funky Camps Bay, home to some of the city’s trendiest bars and restaurants. Stay here for the best of both worlds – where city life meets a sandy beach and the very best spot in the city for sunset cocktails.

Head into the Winelands

Opt for Richard Branson’s Franschhoek lodge, Mont Rochelle, the ultimate in luxury. If you have a bit more time then add on a few nights in Hermanus too to spot whales and the infamous Great White Shark!

Holidays to South Africa wouldn’t be complete without a spectacular Big Five safari. You can choose to stay in a lodge or tent within one of the parks, or reside just outside and plan your own self-guided road trip safari instead  – either way, this is your chance to spot some incredible wildlife.

When to go?

From April to October, we recommend heading for nothern areas such as Kruger National Park to enjoy warm safari evenings, and hot summer storms. However, if you do choose to enjoy the Eastern Cape in these winter months, the dry weather allows for low grass, less water-holes and easier wildlife spotting. From November to March, expect glorious weather wherever you go. 

Kruger National Park

One of the largest game reserves in South Africa with over 500 bird species and around 150 species of mammals. You’ve got a great choice of accommodation from tip-top luxury lodges to smaller, traditional hotels and homesteads outside of the park, great for the more budget-conscious.

Heading South

Offering fantastic value for money, the Garden Route and Eastern Cape are home to some great private Big Five reserves including Pumba Private Game Reserve, with luxurious lodges and loads of activities on offer, especially for the kids. You're best off travelling in South Africa's summer months here (November - March) - if you're a first time safari-goer these would be perfect!

Hotel comforts

If you like the idea of a safari but without staying in a lodge, try Sun City. This entertainment resort offers a good range of accommodation, a huge waterpark and choice of activities in a prime location just outside of the Pilanesberg National Park.

Immerse yourself in history and everyday life in vibrant  Cape Town . The lively metropolitan city is home to a myriad of boutiques, museums, restaurants and nightlife hotspots.

The summer in Cape Town brings glorious weather and a drive through vineyards and along the Garden Route is one of the country’s highlights but also don’t be put off by travelling in the winter months! Sipping white wine under oak trees in the Cape vineyards in the summer months turns into drinking rich reds around the fire. Winter is also the best time to see the famous Southern Right Whales as they migrate to the Whale Coast from  April to November .

Iconic Landmarks

Take a cable car up Table Mountain National Park for breathtaking views. Go early to miss the intense heat or abseil down if you’re feeling particularly adventurous. If you don't fancy such dizzy heights book yourself a ticket for the open bus tour - for less than £20 you can get a complete day tour taking in views of Table Bay along with Kirstenbosch National Gardens and the Constantia Vineyards.

Food and Drink

The V&A Waterfront is the most visited tourist attraction in South Africa and a great place to find your feet. If you love sampling local food and drink, this is the place for you - head to the food market where you'll find over 40 vendors selling gourmet street food, accompanied by regular live music and local wines and beers. Pop by The Watershed with it's huge range of local crafts, great for picking up a souvier.

When you've had enough of the hustle and bustle, escape to one of the beaches on the Cape coast for a picnic, Clifton or Camps Bay are a great option. In the evenings, get the party started on Long Street. On hotter summer nights, seek out a rooftop bar for epic views (and Instagram-worthy photo ops).

History and Culture

Learn about the country’s rich history in one (or all) of the city’s many museums. District Six museum is a must-see to learn about the history of the apartheid. Set aside at least two hours to take in all the exhibits.

Alongside the wildlife, there’s all manner of forests, mountains and lagoons waiting to be explored. Here are a few you might not want to miss.

Cango Caves

Located in the Garden Route, these massive chambers are easy to explore and the perfect escape from the midday heat. If you're adventurous (and don't mind tight spaces), opt for the extended tour.

Swartberg Pass

After exploring the beautiful Karoo, take a majestic drive along the Swartberg Pass, dropping down from Oudtshoorn to the Garden Route coastline. Here you can immerse yourself in dramatic mountain scenery and beautiful flowers.

Grab a car and spend a few nights here, as the prime location of this town allows for spectacular self-drive safaris in the Kruger National Park but also close-by is one of the largest canyons on earth, the Blyde River Canyon. The region is known as the Panoramic Route which includes God’s Window, the Three Rondavels and Bourke’s Luck Potholes.

Where to stay in South Africa

Holidays in Cape Town

Holidays in Winelands

Holidays in Garden Route

Holidays in Eastern Cape

Holidays in Johannesburg

Holidays in Sun City

Holidays in Madikwe

Kruger and surrounds holidays

Hotels in south africa, essential information for south africa.

Do I need a visa?

Your UK passport should be valid for a minimum period of 30 days from the date of exit from South Africa and it should have at least 2 blank pages when you present it at immigration to enter or leave South Africa.

Find out  more about Travel Visas here   »

When should I go?

South Africa has the opposite seasons to the UK — their summer is roughly  November to March  and winter is from  April to October . The north of the country (Kruger, Madikwe, Sun City) is generally warm all year but the cooler winter temperatures have a stronger effect on the Western and  Eastern Cape  Provinces which includes Cape Town and the  Garden Route .

South Africa Flydrive Holidays

Drive dramatic coastlines or experience the splendour of the famous Garden Route on your own terms when you hire a car for your South Africa holiday.

We've partnered with Hertz South Africa, and offer a comprehensive package with no excesses, unlimited mileage and an additional driver - so, why not hit the open road and make the most of your trip to the Rainbow Nation?

Customers who like South Africa also like...

South Africa Safari And Beach Holidays

Enjoy the best of a multi-centre to Africa with a once in a lifetime safari in South Africa and a beachside luxury retreat on the shores of Mozambique. Providing both action and indulgence, reap the best of both worlds on this dream trip.

Start your adventure at the freshly renovated Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge. This can found in the esteemed Sabi Sands Private Conservancy, deep in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park. This is where you’ll seek out the Big Five during morning and evening game drives. Africa’s famous Big Five consists of lions, elephants, leopards, cape buffalo and rhinoceros. Spend an afternoon on a walking safari, where you can roam the terrain on foot, admiring the wildlife and flora of the landscapes up close.

Next, you’ll move from bush to beach, travelling to Mozambique to rest and relax following your high energy safari experience. You’ll head to and Beyond Benguerra Island for a luxurious and peaceful island retreat. Sat in an idyllic bay surrounded by pale sands, you’ll have the chance to relax by the tranquil waters of the Indian Ocean.

Why not indulge in a delectable seafood dinner and a refreshing fruity cocktail? It will feel like heaven after an action packed few days trawling the plains of the Greater Kruger National Park.

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What To Expect

Dream carefree.

Go ahead and dream big. Hayes & Jarvis experts are here to help you plan the ultimate escape. Tell us your vision for the trip of a lifetime and we’ll make it a reality.

Plan Carefree

One of our destination experts will reach out to craft a completely customized itinerary. Book your personalized journey and know that our flexible policies have you covered.

Travel Carefree

Relax and prepare for takeoff, knowing that your trip is perfectly planned and you have a personal concierge on call 24/7. Our experts are here to keep you safe and handle the details.

Trip Highlights

• Seek out the Big Five in the prestigious Sabi Sands Private Conservancy
• Discover the fauna and flora of the bush on a walking safari
• Relax in pure island paradise on the shores of Mozambique
• Indulge in delicious seafood delicacies surrounded by scenic landscapes

Start your Journey

Your multi-centre holiday in South Africa will begin with a three night stay at Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, which can be found in the heart of the prestigious Sabi Sands Private Conservancy. 

Your days will be filled with adventurous safari game drives morning and evening, where you’ll seek out a diverse range of local wildlife including roaming elephants, lions, leopards, cape buffalo and rhinoceros. You can also explore the terrain by foot on a walking safari, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty of the fauna and flora up close.

Around 500 species of birds live in Kruger National Park, so bird enthusiasts will enjoy birdwatching and keeping an eye out for the exotic creatures fluttering above the plains.

Tired after a day searching for wildlife? The Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge is home to a relaxing spa. You can relax and indulge in a range of treatments to soothe you after a busy day out on the African grasslands.

The rest of your trip involves relaxation and beachside bliss on the idyllic coastline of Mozambique. You’ll spend five nights in the luxurious and Beyond Benguerra Island Lodge. Here you’ll find glorious white sandy beaches, as well as plenty of activities to keep you occupied. 

Mozambique’s blue waters are home to some of the most pristine and vibrant reefs in the world, and offer fantastic diving and snorkelling conditions. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the illusive and endangered dugong, a huge grey creature known as the ‘sea cow’ of the ocean.

If you enjoy horse riding, there’s no better place to trot around than among Mozambique’s stunning sand beaches, looming dunes and tranquil freshwater lakes. For the best views, book your horse riding trip at sunset, when you can enjoy some breath taking scenes. 

There are also plenty of cruises and island expeditions to enjoy. These include romantic castaway picnics and exciting local show cruises.

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Take a look at these other inspiring itineraries. Our Destination Specialists would love to create something perfect for you.

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S O U T H   A F R I C A

A  W o r l d  i n  O n e  C o u n t r y

S O U T H A F R I C A

Top Destinations in South Africa

The wildebeest migration, big 5, cultural experiences & more.

Kenya offers a vacation for every traveller. From unforgettable family safaris with child-friendly activities and services to exclusive hideaways for couples and honeymooners, Kenya has it all and then some. Whatever type of traveller you are, there’s not much that beats a Kenya safari. The standards of service are high and Kenya’s top destinations offer luxury accommodation ranging from lavish, colonial-style lodges to contemporary boutique hotels and amenity-packed resorts.

USD per person per night

South Africa’s biggest and best-known national park is home  to the country's greatest diversity of animals and exquisite safari lodges on private game reserves. As one of the oldest conservation areas in Africa, it boasts healthy populations  of wildlife and highly sought-after sightings of cheetah and wild dog. But the Kruger’s pièce de résistance is the almost guaranteed encounter with the super-celebrities of the safari circuit: Africa’s iconic Big 5.

• Luxurious lodges with spas, gyms, private pools and star-beds
• Virtual guarantee of seeing all the Big 5
• 5-star service and exquisite cuisine – some of the best safari food in Africa
• Off-road driving, spot-lit night drives and guided nature walks in private reserves

Cape Town is truly one of those ‘have-it-all’ cities. Residents are surrounded by beautiful mountains and beaches, historical landmarks, and the bottle-green valleys of the Cape Winelands; all bathed in over 3 000 hours of sunshine a year – compared to London’s 1 500 or New York City’s 2 500. Most visitors spend at least three to four days (five or six are even better) exploring South Africa’s oldest city, enjoying its smorgasbord of activities and being immersed in its incredible natural beauty.

• Basking on sun-kissed beaches (December to March)
• Hiking or taking the cable car up Table Mountain
• Wine tasting in the picturesque Cape Winelands
• The world’s best land-based whale watching (July to September)

Garden Route

The Garden Route is a must-see on the list of most visitors gracing the shores of South Africa. The beauty of this region stretches for miles from Mossel Bay to Storms River and is a self-drive destination that will beguile you with its natural beauty. It has a wonderful mix of awe-inspiring beaches, dappled forests, peaceful lagoons and quaint seaside towns. It’s easy-to-navigate roads and short driving distances makes it an ideal destination for independent, self-drive vacations. It’s also perfectly paired with safari adventures in the Eastern Cape.  

• Whale-watching in season in Hermanus, considered the best land-based whale watching in the world
• Marvel at the Cango Caves, one of Africa’s greatest natural wonders
• Play a round of golf at some of South Africa’s finest golf courses
• Adventure activities from bungee jumping and boat cruises to treetop canopy tours, ziplining and kloofing  

Eastern Cape  

The Eastern Cape’s biggest draw is its reserves. It is a Big Five, malaria-free destination that is geared for travelling families in search of safari escapades. The Eastern Cape’s best-known reserve is the Addo Elephant National Park, most famous for its gentle giants. For big cat sightings and luxurious accommodation, there are a number of private reserves that have award-winning lodges, big cat sanctuaries and some being home to the rare white lion.

• Stress-free family safaris in luxury accommodation
• Combines the best of both worlds with a bush and safari break
• Big five game drives, river cruises and walking safaris
• Cultural immersions in traditional African villages

January–March & June–October 

Dry Season: 

The weather is usually mild and dry from January to March, and most of the safari crowds are absent. June to October is safari’s high season; the Serengeti is busy, but weather conditions are perfect and the Wildebeest Migration’s dramatic river crossings take place. Although the sheer size of the Serengeti will give you a soul-stirring sense of space, the areas around the Migration’s river crossing points can get busy. If you want to be close to the action yet enjoy some serenity, we suggest staying in an adjacent private reserve.

Green Season:

November–December

The ‘short rains’ season relieves the dry mid-year winter. Clouds build up in the mornings and break in spectacular, but generally short-lived, showers in the late afternoons. Migrant birds return from the northern hemisphere and resident plains game give birth, which means the predator action is thrilling.

Migration Season:

December–September

The herds usually cross the Grumeti River in the western Serengeti between about May and July, then move towards the Mara River in the north to cross into the Masai Mara between about July to October. November's short rains trigger the herds  to move back to the Serengeti to give birth before calving season, which takes place from January to March and is renowned for bitter-sweet predator action.

• Crowd-free game viewing, nature walks and off-road game drives in private game reserves
• Custom-made safaris for every traveller type – from families and honeymooners
• Incredible year-round game viewing, especially predators
• The Great Wildebeest Migration (December to October)

Consider Adding …

Johannesburg

In the past, visitors whizzed through Johannesburg, stopping just long enough to catch their connecting flight. Nowadays, however, ‘Jozi’ is a destination in its own right. Boasting a fantastic selection of hotels and guest houses,  a thriving café culture and budding restaurant scene, Jozi offers its visitors a unique perspective of urban South Africa.

The Whale Coast

July to November sees the Cape Whale Coast hum with activity as migratory whales arrive from the icy Antarctic to mate and give birth in warmer waters. The town of Hermanus (just under two hours from Cape Town) lies at the centre of the whale-watching experience and is known as the world’s best land-based whale-watching destination.

KwaZulu-Natal

Home to teeming game reserves and echoing ancient battlefields, flanked by mountain peaks and the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, the province of KwaZulu-Natal has everything that South African holidays are famous for. Expect long golden beaches, abundant wildlife, a diverse and welcoming people, and a sunny sub-tropical climate.

High Season:

The drier winter months are the best time for game viewing on a South Africa safari in the Kruger, Madikwe, Pilanesberg and KwaZulu-Natal. Big game are usually concentrated around water sources and are easier to spot in the thinned-out vegetation. If you want to see whales along South Africa’s Whale Coast, then a visit between June and October is a must, with the numbers at their highest in September.  

May–Oct  

For a South African safari, the green season is when the landscape is a beautiful, lush emerald colour and with the best light of the year for photography. It’s calving season and there are great opportunities to witness baby animals and some dramatic predator action. For a Cape Town beach holiday, you simply can’t beat the hot summer months between November and March, but you have to book your spot well in advance for this trendy destination.

Nov–Apr  

A Romantic Getaway    The Best of Cape Town & Kruger

Also Consider  Kenya

Samburu National Reserve 

Samburu is an arrestingly beautiful, rocky landscape that heralds Kenya’s vast northern deserts.  It’s the traditional homeland of the Samburu people and a haven for the unique Special 5: Beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, long-neck gerenuk and Somali ostrich.

Amboseli National Park

With its perennial wetlands flourishing beneath towering Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park is the best place in East Africa to see massive herds of elephant.  If you’re looking for that iconic postcard image of wildlife against a Kili backdrop, this is the place to get the shot.

The high plains of Laikipia are increasingly recognised as one of Kenya’s  best safari regions. It’s home to some of the country’s most encouraging conservation success stories like Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, a sanctuary  for black and white rhinos as well as Grevy’s zebra.

Kenya Beaches

Relaxing along Kenya’s dazzling tropical coastline is one of the best ways to crown your safari. From family-friendly resorts to exclusive beach villas, the country’s coastline offers excellent accommodation and superb diving and snorkelling spots.

South Africa Trip Ideas

Here are some of our best South Africa safari packages, all completely customisable to your requirements and travel wishes:

DESTINATIONS:

• Gardens, Cape Town
• Franschhoek, Cape Winelands
• Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Kruger

THE EXPERIENCE:

Begin your vacation at an exceptional boutique hotel situated in a fashionable neighbourhood of cape town – a perfect location from which to explore table mountain, the v&a waterfront and the gorgeous beaches. franschhoek is your next stop: a foodie haven amid spectacular vineyards. known as south africa’s gourmet capital, this village is the ideal place for sampling the country’s gastronomic delights. then be whisked off to a private game reserve neighbouring the legendary kruger national park where you’ll crown your vacation with some of africa’s finest big 5 sightings, especially leopard., family vacation :   southern africa’s most popular route.

Kick off this 11-day trip in cosmopolitan Cape Town, home of fine dining, the famous Table Mountain and award-winning beaches. Then head north to encounter the legendary leopards of the sensational Sabi Sands Game Reserve, a private slice of the untamed Kruger wilderness. Teeming with wildlife, Sabi Sands delivers some of the best Big 5 game viewing in Africa. Fly up to Zimbabwe for your grand finale at the world’s biggest waterfall. Stand in awe as you witness the sheer power and magnitude of Victoria Falls, a.k.a. ‘The Smoke That Thunders’.

• Melrose, Johannesburg
• Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Africa Safari Expert

South Africa is perfect for a first-time trip to Africa or returning visitors looking for exceptional year-round game viewing. I recommend starting by exploring beautiful Cape Town – the perfect way to recover from jetlag before an action-packed safari schedule. Then take your pick from malaria-free destinations to suit the whole family like Madikwe or Kwandwe at the end of the Garden Route, to the legendary Kruger National Park and its adjoining private game reserves like Sabi Sands, renowned for its prolific Big 5 sightings.

Why Travel With Go2Africa

We are african.

Based in Cape Town, our team of experts are all born and raised in Africa. We spend our own holidays on safari, and understand what goes into making every trip a once in a life-time experience.

We have first-hand knowledge of every single destination, lodge and activity we recommend. We spend more than 365 days a year on safari to ensure you get the best, unbiased advice.

We are safari experts

Our size and trusted relationships with Africa’s top operators gives us access to the best possible rates. If you find a better quote for your itinerary, let us know and we’ll match it.

Our best price promise

Your money stays in africa.

 As an African company, we ensure 100% of the money from your safari stays in Africa, supporting local communities and conservation projects, making a difference long after you return home.

24/7 On-safari support

Book with us and we’ll be alongside you from our first chat, offering 24/7 assistance and local know-how from the right time zone, whenever you need it.

Why Travel with Go2Africa

Complete financial protection.

Your money is safe with us. All our clients are protected by our supplier default insurance and our accreditation bond with the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association.

Ashley Gerrand

South Africa is perfect for a first-time trip  to Africa or returning visitors looking for exceptional year-round game viewing.   I recommend starting by exploring beautiful Cape Town – the perfect way to recover from jetlag before an action-packed safari schedule. Then take your pick from malaria-free destinations to suit the whole family like Madikwe or Kwandwe at the end of the Garden Route, to the legendary Kruger National Park and its adjoining private game reserves like Sabi Sands, renowned for its prolific Big 5 sightings.

What Our Clients Say

Go2Africa was the perfect choice... We worked with Nicole from beginning to the end and she were so helpful in creating the perfect itinerary for us. From flights, to accommodations, to transfers, and tour guides, everything was perfect...Nicole was able to work within our budget and on all of our wants/needs.

Honeymoon of a lifetime!

This is our 3rd safari booked with Go2Africa and I'm always amazed at the personal attention to detail that goes into planning. We gave Jessica a general area we wanted to visit and a wildlife wish list of animals we wanted to see…It was unbelievable. Once again, Jessica did such an amazing job with selecting the camps that were perfect for us…

Knocked it out of the park again!

The family had an experience that exceeded our expectations. At each critical change point of the journey (flights, transport, accommodation) the arrangements played out perfectly. The experiences at each location were perfect and we took home so many memories and things to share. Thank you! Job well done.

Perfectly executed

Chat with one of our  experienced  African Safari  Experts   with  no obligation.

Contact us to start planning your first, with no obligation., how many  once  in  a lifetimes  will you have, how many  once  in a lifetimes will you have, how much is  a  south africa  safari.

Rates generally depend on timing (i.e. key travel seasons like holidays) and level of luxury (the type of amenities and exclusivity). As a guideline, South Africa safaris can range anywhere from approximately 450 USD per person per night in low season to over 1 550 USD at the finest lodges in high season.

What Costs  Are Included?

Most accommodations are all-inclusive; all your meals, snacks, beverages, alcohol (with some exceptions) are part of your room rate. In addition, your game drives and other excursions like walking safaris and cultural village visits will all be included. To operate in such remote areas at such a high level of hospitality, it takes some serious logistics and often means guest-to-staff ratios of more than 5-to-1. Not to mention many accommodations offer services like laundry, so you can pack light and travel easy.

The only things you’ll have to pay for are special activities (like hot-air balloon rides and spa treatments) and, in some cases, imported spirits. Beyond that, just gratuities for the incredible staff who will make your stay at each lodge so memorable.

How Much is an African Safari?

Rates generally depend on timing (i.e. key travel seasons like holidays or events like the Great Migration) and level of luxury (the type of amenities and exclusivity). As a guideline, Southern Africa can range anywhere from approximately $500 USD per person per night in low season to over $2 000 USD at the finest lodges in high season. For East Africa, low season rates start around $450 USD per night per person and reach upwards of  $1 500 USD at peak season.

What Costs  are Included?

Most accommodations are all-inclusive; all  of your meals, snacks, beverages, alcohol (with some exceptions) are part of your room rate. In addition, your game drives, walking safaris and other excursions will all be included. To operate in such remote areas at such a high level of hospitality, it takes some serious logistics and often means guest-to-staff ratios of more than 5-to-1. Not to mention many accommodations offer services like laundry, so  you can pack light and travel easy.

Why Go on a South African Vacation?

World-class service & amenities.

Experience culinary excellence from award-winning chefs in Cape Town, the Winelands and Kruger’s private reserves. Plus enjoy top-notch service and amenities like spas, gyms and art galleries in each location.

Prolific Big 5 Game Viewing

Encountering Africa’s iconic Big 5 (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo) is a major item on any safari goer’s bucket list. South Africa is one of the very few places on Earth where you’re able to tick off all five in one day.

Cape Town’s gorgeous coastline offers its visitors sun-kissed beaches, while the famous Cape Winelands will delight any gourmet. Superb infrastructure and daily domestic flights make combining  a Kruger safari with a beach holiday  a piece of cake.

Easily Combine Bush, Beach & Vine

Excellent value.

Thanks to a very favourable exchange rate, it’s easy to find superb accommodation that offers that extra  bit of holiday pampering. And dining out in South Africa is very affordable,  so you can enjoy a great meal and local vintage without feeling guilty.

Multi-generational broods will love South Africa’s variety of family-friendly accommodation. Couples will find the perfect trip to celebrate a special occasion. Adventure seekers will relish in Cape Town’s plethora of outdoor activities …

A Trip For Every Traveller

Daily commercial flights link all South Africa’s major cities, chartered airplanes can get you to safari lodges with their own private airstrips, and a self-drive holiday along the beautiful Garden Route is made safe and easy thanks to well-maintained road networks.

Fantastic Logistics

Prolific big 5  game viewing.

Cape Town’s gorgeous coastline offers its visitors sun-kissed beaches, while the famous Cape Winelands will delight any gourmet. Superb infrastructure and daily domestic flights make combining a Kruger safari with a beach holiday a piece of cake.

Experience culinary excellence from award-winning chefs in Cape Town, the Winelands, and Kruger’s private reserves and concessions. Plus enjoy top-notch service and amenities like spas, gyms and art galleries in each location.

Daily commercial flights link all the major cities, chartered airplanes can get you to safari lodges with their own private airstrips, and a self-drive holiday along the beautiful Garden Route is made safe and easy thanks to well-maintained road networks.

Incredible  game-viewing

See the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) and more wildlife found only in Africa, with expert guides who'll get you so  close you can hear them breathe.

Walking safaris, hot air balloon safaris, cultural interactions with local people- all safari activities support conservation and communities. The ultimate win-win.

Rewarding experiences

The luxury of time.

Enjoy being off-the-grid and truly away from it all with  private plunge pools and spa facilities at intimate lodges in some of the most remote parts of the world.

Indulge your senses

Sip sundowners as giraffes stroll across the hot pink horizon, and s ample gourmet African dishes and wines over fireside dinners while the sounds of the bush serenades you.

Two trips in one

The best trips combine Africa's top destinations. Easily go from the African bush to buzzy Cape Town or an idyllic Indian Ocean island- with all the details and transfers taken care of.

Why you need to experience an African safari vacation:

"...i thought this was a once  in a lifetime trip,  but i'm already  planning my next safari" .

Thanks to a very favourable exchange rate, it’s easy to find superb accommodation that offers that extra bit of holiday pampering. And dining out in South Africa is very affordable, so you can enjoy a great meal and local vintage without feeling guilty.

From the Big 5 to Whale, Winelands and More

There's not much that South Africa doesn't have to offer its visitors. The Kruger's private reserves deliver Africa's most reliable Big 5 game viewing, while Cape Town and its surrounding wine valleys provide an elegant, Mediterranean twist to a South Africa safari. July to November sees South Africa’s Whale Coast hum with activity as migratory whales arrive. And then there are the beaches …

How Much is a  South Africa   Safari?

What costs are included, talk to one of our experts to explore availability during your travel dates., our favourite accommodations are the most intimate ones.  it's always best to book as far ahead as possible to ensure  you have experiences like this ..., our favourite accommodations are the most intimate ones. it's always best to book as far ahead as possible to ensure you have experiences like this ..., the best of cape town & kruger, begin your vacation at an exceptional boutique hotel situated in a fashionable neighbourhood of cape  town – a perfect location from which to explore table mountain, the v&a waterfront and the city's gorgeous beaches. franschhoek is your next stop: a foodie haven amid spectacular vineyards. known  as south africa’s gourmet capital, this village is the ideal place for sampling the country’s gastronomic delights. then be whisked off to a private game reserve neighbouring the legendary kruger national park where you’ll crown your vacation with some of africa’s finest big 5 sightings, especially leopard., a romantic getaway , family vacation, southern africa’s most popular route, $5,320  .

Consider Adding… 

Here are some of our best packages, all completely customisable to your requirements and travel wishes:

7 DAY KENYA'S  LAIKIPIA & MASAI MARA

• Track black rhino & the Big 5

• Fly fishing & flying safaris

• Witness the Great Migration in season

• Experience Maasai & Swahili culture

• Off-road game drives

FROM   $4 000 pp

13 DAY TANZANIA FLY-IN CRATER, MIGRATION & ISLAND

• All inclusive fly-in safari experience

• Arguably some of Africa’s best game viewing

• Visit Lake Manyara’s tree-climbing lions

• Explore the natural wonder of Ngorongoro Crater

• Witness the wildebeest migration across the Serengeti

• Dive the coral reefs of a tropical island

FROM   $10 000 pp

13 DAY PRIVATE GUIDED BOTSWANA & KENYA FLY-IN

• Fly between camps in a Pilatus PC-12 light aircraft 

• Private, award-winning guide throughout

• Stay at Relais & Chateaux properties

• Excellent predator sightings

• Best of Botswana & Kenya

• Only 6 places available – ideal for exclusive-use

FROM   $40 000 pp

High Seasons:   May – Oct

Green Season:   Nov– Apr

South Africa’s biggest and best-known national park is home to the country's greatest diversity of animals and exquisite safari lodges on private game reserves. As one of the oldest conservation areas in Africa, it boasts healthy populations of wildlife and highly sought-after sightings of cheetah and wild dog. But the Kruger’s pièce de résistance is the almost guaranteed encounter with the super-celebrities of the safari circuit: Africa’s iconic Big 5.

The dry winter season is considered the best time to go to Kruger for game viewing. Vegetation is low and sparse, making animals easier to spot and follow, and wildlife will not move far from remaining water sources at this time of year. It’s a very comfortable time for a safari with few mosquitoes around, little if any rain, and pleasant temperatures.

• High concentrations of wildlife
• Virtual guarantee to see all the Big 5

Nov–Apr 

The summer’s afternoon thundershowers transform the Kruger into a beautiful, thriving green landscape that makes for superb photography. Game viewing is still good – with many young summer-born animals around it's a predator's paradise – and it's the best time to visit the Kruger for bird watching plus safari-and-beach holiday combinations.

In the past, visitors whizzed through Johannesburg, stopping just long enough to catch their connecting flight. Nowadays, however, ‘Jozi’ is a destination in its own right. Boasting a fantastic selection of hotels and guest houses, a thriving café culture and a budding restaurant scene, Jozi offers its visitors a unique perspective of urban South Africa.

The Garden Route

Eastern Cape

Land  &  Water Safari Experiences

From lunar-like desert landscapes and open grasslands to riverine forests and papyrus-lined canals, Botswana delivers the very best in land and water safari experiences. Combine luxury and adventure in some of the world’s most remote locations, while the magical sights and sounds of Africa leave you with memories you’ll cherish forever.

The Best of Both:

From the big 5 to whales, winelands and more.

Browse our South Africa resources

Browse our Kenya resources

Our Partners

Everything is about relationships. Fortunately, we've built great ones working with the top names in Africa for more than 20 years.

African Safari & Beach Vacation Packages

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Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  5  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1540  reviews on Trustpilot

We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

Majestic and mysterious define the beauty of a safari and beach vacation experience, where you can discover the wonders of the wild and experience the luxury of a remote coastline.

Relax on the whitewashed sands of a South African beach, and then search for elephants in the savanna. Find the Big Five across the grasslands of the Serengeti, and then lounge near the sparkling waters of Zanzibar. The pleasures of the wilderness can blend with the grandeur of the ocean for an African adventure like no other.

Find the right inspiration for your personalized trip with our sample itineraries before speaking with a travel specialist.

Life-Enriching Travel Designed Just for You

Trips curated by the world’s top destination experts

Concierge-level service leading up to and during your trip

Unique, exclusive experiences and insider access

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14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $8,185

Tanzania is a captivating country boasting remarkable wildlife reserves and sensational sun-kissed shorelines where some of Africa’s iconic animal sightings and magnificent marine encounters can be enjoyed during this tailored 14-day tour from Arusha to Zanzibar. Discover the untouched wilderness spreading across Lake Manyara and the Serengeti as well as spectacular seaside scenes encompassing Zanzibar on this ultimate Tanzania safari and beach experience.

10  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $10,395

From the brilliant bushveld of South Africa’s renowned Sabi Sands Game Reserve to the breathtaking beaches of Mozambique’s beloved Benguerra Island, this tailored 10-day luxe bush and beach vacation shows off the spellbinding sensations sweeping Africa’s captivating coastal castaways and island escapes. Discover fascinating indigenous game, soak up the luxuries of seaside living, and embrace the beauty of untamed Africa during this tour.

11  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $6,430

South Africa’s dreamy coastal destinations and dazzling multi-cultural cityscapes, from the rugged Blue Flag beach-hugged coastline of the Cape Peninsula to the vibrant suburb of Sandton in Johannesburg, are yours to adore on this 11-day exploration from the Western Cape to KwaZulu-Natal. Whether it’s snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean or witnessing the wilderness of Sabi Sands, South Africa is calling for adventure.

15  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $9,940

Escapist and evocative, this two-week safari will explore the very best of Zambia and Malawi. Nighttime drives to admire leopards on the prowl, lazy days on Lake Malawi and the Zambezi River, elephants spotted while on a walking safari, canoeing past hippos, exquisite luxury camps, and a daily program that is expertly tailored to your interests. Including over a week of inspiring Big Five safari, this itinerary brings a relaxing getaway into the world where lions are king, and you can watch hippos while sunbathing.

Dynamic pricing from  $19,495

Luxury experiences abound on this hand-picked 15-day Kenyan safari and Seychelles island retreat. Discover the decadence of these countries’ premier resorts set amongst some of Africa’s greatest bushveld and seaside scenes, with an endless array of magnificent activities allowing you to explore diverse environments teeming with wildlife and wallow in the crystal clear waters of a tropical island. Embrace Africa’s scenic splendors in style!

Dynamic pricing from  $12,735

Africa's landscapes redefine notions of escapism. They are not merely places where you simply go to escape the world; they are exotic realms that immerse you in a rhythmic beauty untouched for millennia. Combining five days of big-game Kruger action with four nights in Mozambique's Quirimbas Archipelago, this sublime safari offers a getaway into ancient worlds. Blending private reserves with an exclusive island, you escape to the bush, and then settle onto the white sandy beach.

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Benefits of Using Zicasso

Dynamic pricing from  $28,595

Discover the wonders of Okavango’s untouched wilderness and throw yourself into the relaxation shared across Seychelles’ breathtaking shores as you indulge in the finest experiences across the African continent. From memorable game drives showcasing the fascinating wildlife to cultural immersion in the township of Soweto and revitalizing spa therapies in the forests of Mahe Island, treat yourself to 11 days of glamor in Africa.

12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $17,935

Tanzania is a land of magic and compelling authenticity. It's a place of walking through big cat country and wandering along hypnotic Zanzibar streets. It’s a place of exploring the Serengeti and Ngorongoro before lounging on idyllic beaches. So indulge yourself in one mystical island, four national parks, endless safari adventure, and twelve days that showcase the most mesmerizing sides of Tanzania.

Kenya's landscapes seem to continually redefine boundaries of vibrancy and exclusivity. White sand stretches without footprints, huge grasslands filled with big cats and wildebeest herds, miles of wilderness with rarely another tourist in sight. This 2-week itinerary combines six days of exclusive Masai Mara safari with six days on the exotic Kenyan coast at Mombassa and Malindi. Explore the bush and the beach, where it feels like you have it all to yourself.

Dynamic pricing from  $11,097

Handcrafted with couples in mind, the white sands of Zanzibar, the gorillas of Rwanda and a safari in the Serengeti are three destinations that will celebrate your romance as part of an East African escape. Evocative and enchanting, you will travel through the landscapes of a dream and mix the region’s three most notable highlights. With a private guide and light aircraft connections, you can move at a relaxed pace with exclusive wildlife highlights and a private piece of Africa made for two.

We Only Work With the Best African Safari Travel Agents

With pristine shores and inviting waters, the best beaches in Africa will complement the dramatic interior landscape and wildlife wonders on a safari and beach vacation.

The beaches can range from indelibly tropical, fringed by coconut palms and postcard panoramas, to epic in scale, with forests and mountain backdrops that feel guarded by the natural habitat. From fine sands to warm waters, boulders to curling waves, the beaches across the continent are diverse and mesmerizing.

Spending time on Africa’s best beaches can immerse you in the beauty of the Indian Ocean coastline for the perfect way to accentuate your adventure as you explore or unwind under the African sun.

The thrill of an African safari is perfectly complemented by a relaxing beach break, and these seven African safari and beach holidays present the ideal combination of “beach and bush.”

The excitement of game viewing and lodge hopping gives a sense of being on the move, taking in unique sights, sounds, and experiences. Unwinding on a white-sand beach or at a remote seaside location after a safari or before offers the opportunity to reflect on the previous experience or prepare for the adventure ahead.

Showcasing two aspects of a destination, these African safari and beach holidays share inspiration for your adventure.

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Plan the ultimate African safari with these 12 bush-to-beach destinations

One of life's greatest travel indulgences, an African safari can take years to organize. Since it requires a hefty budget, a couple of grueling days in transit and meticulous planning, chances are it will be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure you enjoy — and one you therefore shouldn't compromise on.

The safari component is generally less than five days for most travelers, leaving plenty of time to combine superb wildlife watching and a classic lodge experience with further exploration or relaxation. For some, this could also involve climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania or visiting Victoria Falls on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border. For others, it may entail wine tasting in South Africa or lazing on a pristine, palm-fringed beach with a cocktail in hand.

When it comes to blissed-out safari extensions, the Indian Ocean offers a few key commodities: undeveloped beaches, spectacular scenery, azure waters rich with marine life — and an abundance of luxurious resorts, including ones you can book with points.

Africa isn't the easiest place to get around, but that doesn't mean it isn't possible to see multiple destinations in one visit. All it will take is a little careful planning. Odds are you'll be required to fly way out of your way to major regional hubs such as Johannesburg 's O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) or Nairobi, Kenya's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO).

While most safari-goers head to the beach to unwind at the end of their trip, there's also something to be said for decompressing from city life and a long-haul flight by adding the beach as a safari preamble. Regardless of which you choose to do first, know that you'll have an incredible vacation full of memorable moments.

Here are TPG's favorite destinations for that ultimate combination of going on safari and visiting the beach.

Bush: The Northern Circuit

Famed for its untouched landscapes and exhilarating wildlife encounters, Tanzania's Northern Circuit is the Africa of dreams. A showcase for the continent's highlights, this well-trodden itinerary features the world-famous Serengeti, snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, elephant-filled Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest intact volcanic caldera.

Arusha is the gateway to the northern Serengeti, as it's a two-hour flight from the capital, Dar es Salaam. Depending on time and budget constraints, you can either fly between the parks, drive the entire circuit or do a combination of both.

Most itineraries begin with the Serengeti, Tanzania's crown jewel. Emblematic grasslands dotted with flat-topped acacia trees are home to more than 2 million animals, including the Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and African buffaloes. Indulge the wonder of it all at a luxury lodge within eyeshot of a watering hole, or head to a semi-permanent tented camp that follows the great migration. In the remote Lamai Triangle, Singita Lamai River Tented Camp offers an intimate, off-the-grid safari experience and features just six luxurious tents, each with plunge pools.

A game drive along the valley floor of Ngorongoro Crater — around a three-hour paved drive south of the Serengeti — is one of the richest wildlife experiences on Earth. More than 25,000 mammals thrive here, including the world's largest concentration of predators, plus zebras, gazelles, warthogs, wildebeests, elephants, baboons and vervet monkeys. Within the conservancy, you can trace 2 million years of human evolution at the UNESCO-inscribed Olduvai Gorge, which preserves the earliest evidence of human ancestors.

Around a four-hour drive south of the crater is another must-visit spot: beautiful Tarangire National Park. It attracts fewer visitors and is beloved for its thriving elephant herds, which feature 2,500-plus animals, making them the densest on Earth.

Related: Dreaming of an African safari: How I'll book my bucket-list trip to Tanzania on miles and points

Beach: Zanzibar

A breathtaking archipelago just 25 miles off Tanzania's Indian Ocean coastline, Zanzibar is everything its name suggests. Traditional dhows (one- or two-mast ships) set sail from bone-white beaches, vibrant coral reefs support diverse marine life and timeless Swahili villages are fringed by lush forests, coconut groves and spice plantations.

Zanzibar is one of the most accessible beach destinations on this list, with frequent direct services from Arusha via Air Tanzania. If you are traveling independently, the one-hour flight from the mainland costs around $180 round trip.

Relaxing on its beaches is certainly Zanzibar's main draw, but it's worth allowing at least a day to explore UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stone Town, one of East Africa's cultural highlights. A flourishing trading post for centuries, the old city's maze of streets is dotted with crumbling limestone and coral buildings, as well as historical churches, mosques and temples.

Just a 15-minute speedboat ride off Zanzibar's northeast coast, Mnemba Island is an unpretentious paradise. The tiny island, blessed with powder-soft sand and luminescent waters, is the setting for andBeyond's conservation-focused hideaway . Getting off the grid doesn't get much better than this. Days are spent snorkeling around the island (about a mile in circumference), swimming with dolphins, practicing yoga, paddleboarding, watching dik-diks scurry around the deck of your Balinese-style banda and enjoying some of the finest and most inventive food you'll find anywhere in Tanzania.

Bush: Masai Mara

The definitive safari destination, Kenya offers a blend of savannah, mountain, wildlife, beach and culture that never fails to inspire awe in those who visit.

The spectacular Masai Mara ecosystem forms the northern extension of Tanzania's Serengeti. A cinematic wilderness of tawny, acacia-dotted plains, the food chain plays out frequently and furiously right before your eyes. Home to a vast inventory of 450-plus animal species (including the Big Five) and glorious scenery, Kenya's popularity has been bolstered by post-pandemic travelers keen to limit border crossings.

For a less crowded safari experience, choose a lodge located on a private conservancy that offers opportunities to venture off roads (sometimes at night) in the company of expert naturalists without worrying about waiting behind multiple vehicles to view a pride of lions. Cottar's Camp has been in operation for over a century and combines a classic aura with luxe amenities and some of Kenya's finest (largely Masai) guides. Wherever you roam, you can expect to see prolific troupes of wildebeests, zebras, impalas, topis and gazelles — and their formidable predators.

While all safari lodges are not created equal, it's the daily rituals of life on the Masai Mara that are unforgettable. You can enjoy an early morning game drive, watch elephants congregate around a watering hole from your deck, treat yourself to a sundowner as sunsets blaze over the seemingly infinite horizon and gather around a campfire under star-studded skies.

Try to time your trip for the great migration, when more than 2 million wildebeests migrate across the Serengeti and the Masai Mara in what is undoubtedly the world's most spectacular wildlife event. Keep an eye on rainfall patterns to determine when is the best time to visit.

Related: Everything you need to know about going on safari in Africa with renowned expert Marlon du Toit

Beach: Lamu Island

Often likened to Zanzibar 20 years ago, UNESCO-protected Lamu Island is a picture-perfect paradise of rolling sand dunes, mangrove-fringed beaches and dazzling coral reefs. As East Africa's oldest trading center, it's a world apart from the rest of Kenya and offers a more peaceful retreat than the more developed beaches of Mombasa's north coast.

In the south, Lamu Town has preserved its medina-style architecture and retains a laid-back vibe. Donkeys and dhows are still the main forms of transportation, and the town's car-free streets, which are dotted with churches, mosques and temples, showcase the island's rich cultural heritage composed of African, Omani, Yemeni, Indian and Portuguese influences.

Over the last decade, Lamu has become something of a magnet for Europe 's celebrity set. Intricately carved coral merchant homes now house contemporary boutique hotels and galleries, hip rooftop bars mix stylish sundowners and a busy event schedule speaks to the island's growing wellness movement — notably yoga and meditation retreats.

Just outside Lamu Town, The Red Pepper House has five eclectic rooms decorated with Swahili furnishings, a lush forested setting, warm service and activities tailored to each guest.

Active travelers will also find plenty here to tempt them from the beach. Check out Kiwayu Island for windsurfing, kayaking, fishing and world-class diving and snorkeling.

If you are traveling independently, Lamu can be reached by air from Nairobi via Hahn Air Lines. Flights, which cost $190 round trip, land just across the channel from Lamu on Manda Island.

South Africa and Mozambique

Bush: kruger national park.

Impressive in scale and diversity, Kruger's 16 macro ecozones harbor an astonishing predator count — more than 1,500 lions, 1,000 leopards and 12,000 elephants — as well as wild dogs, zebras, white and black rhinos, giraffes, wildebeests, antelopes and an estimated 470 bird species.

The great appeal of Kruger — especially for first-timers — is its reliable wildlife spotting (even during the green season), unbridled comfort and never-ending "wow" factor that exhilarates even the most world-weary traveler.

When money is no object, the Sabi Sands Game Reserve is the pinnacle of the luxury safari experience. Home to the highest mammal concentration of any private reserve in southern Africa, you won't need to venture far to spot Africa's most charismatic denizens. In fact, it's not unheard of to spot all of the Big Five at Kruger in the space of a day. With only three vehicles permitted at a wildlife sighting at any given time, you'll avoid the feeling that you are riding a safari conveyor belt.

Acclaimed lodges such as Singita Lebombo, Chitwa Chitwa and Londolozi channel eclectic styles — from plush colonial suites to rustic Afro-chic abodes — and are constantly raising the bar with impeccable service, resort-style amenities and unrivaled access to some of Earth's best wildlife viewing. Lavish meals, sundowners, afternoon teas, poolside relaxation and bush walks punctuate the hours between early morning and late afternoon game drives. Many of Kruger's lodges also offer excellent children's programming.

Related: Safaris, cities and lots of elephants: How I returned to South Africa this year using points, miles and cash

Beach: Bazaruto Archipelago

Blessed with unspoiled natural beauty and impressive biodiversity, Mozambique's Bazaruto Archipelago offers the private island kind of experience that appeals to travelers with deep pockets who are looking to truly disconnect. For most visitors, the logistics are taken care of as part of a tailor-made, fly-in excursion arranged by a safari company.

Bazaruto and its even more far-flung sister archipelago, the Quirimbas Islands, are renowned for their serpentine, palm-fringed beaches where the diving and snorkeling, right offshore, are out of this world. An array of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, leatherback turtles, humpback whales and the very rare dugong (sea cow), has been documented here.

With activities and excursions tailored to couples and families, andBeyond's Benguerra Island Lodge is a destination unto itself. It offers luxurious beachfront casinhas (cottages) and cabanas surrounded by palm trees. Guests can take advantage of a swimming pool and an on-site dive center that organizes excursions to world-class dive sites like Two Mile Reef, plus other unforgettable activities, such as dhow cruises, horseback riding in the water and sportfishing excursions.

Frequent daily direct flights with South Africa-based Airlink are available from Johannesburg's airport to Mozambique's Vilankulo Airport (VNX), which sits about a 45-minute scenic boat ride away from the Bazaruto islands. The relatively painless, half-day journey will set you back around $580 round trip.

Bush: Majete Wildlife Reserve

Going by the moniker "The Warm Heart of Africa," tiny Malawi punches way above its weight when it comes to biodiversity.

Roughly the same size as Ohio, it's home to some of the continent's most spectacular landscapes, which span serrated peaks, mystical forests and bucolic grasslands. The Great Rift Valley bisects the country lengthwise, with the colossal Lake Malawi draped across the country's eastern border.

Malawi's lack of celebrity status helps facilitate a more authentic safari experience. It's also one of the most affordable and safest destinations in Africa — a great fit for independent travelers looking to go beyond the "Out of Africa" cliches.

Before a major legislative shake up in 2017, Malawi had earned the notorious distinction of being southern Africa's biggest wildlife trafficking center, mostly due to lax enforcement. Today, its conservation credentials are among the strongest in Africa.

Majete Wildlife Reserve, the nation's oldest park, is a symbol of Malawi's great restoration. Through a steady re-introduction program and community engagement, more than 5,000 animals now thrive within the reserve, including black rhinos, impalas, jackals, elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, sable antelopes and buffaloes. Enjoying Big Five reserve status, tourism at Majete is growing, but it remains a magical off-the-beaten-path wilderness ... for now.

The upscale Thawale Camp is ideally located near a watering hole inside the reserve and combines a wilderness safari experience with an authentic ambience, fine food and warm service.

Related: TPG readers' best tips for visiting Africa on points and miles

Beach: Lake Malawi

Described as the world's most vibrant freshwater body, UNESCO-designated Lake Malawi is a perfect safari postscript for more budget-minded travelers and those making a return trip to the continent. It offers all the attributes of an idyllic island escape with beautiful bays and coves, sandy beaches and rocky islands, plus marshes inhabited by baboons, monkeys, hippos and prolific birdlife, including kingfishers, egrets, fish eagles and cormorants.

Free from the logistical challenges of many bush-to-beach itineraries, it's just a one-hour transfer from Malawi's Kamuzu International Airport (LLW) to the lake's most scenic beaches, including chilled-out Likoma Island, where you'll find barefoot-chic Kaya Mawa , a boutique ecolodge perched on sandy shores with views of Mozambique in the distance.

The water here is as blue as any tropical destination, and even shallow water teems with cichlid fish, which shimmer in hues of silver, gold, orange and blue. The lake's three distinct water layers don't generally mix (it's a type of meromictic lake), providing an intensely fertile environment where plants, land animals and marine life thrive.

An estimated 950 species of fish populate the lake — more than any other place on Earth — according to the beloved British naturalist David Attenborough. This rich aquatic atmosphere makes it a truly unique underwater safari destination. The real crowd-pleaser is the mbuna fish, which will famously take food directly from your hands.

Zambia and Mauritius

Bush: south luangwa national park.

Victoria Falls, which is lovingly referred to as "the smoke that thunders" by those from the area, is Zambia and Zimbabwe's famous calling card and one of the world's most breathtaking natural wonders. But that's just the start. Far removed from the more commercial safari experiences of its neighbors, the two countries lend themselves to travelers keen to explore beyond their safari vehicles. The region excels at immersive cultural journeys, walking safaris and adrenaline-infused pursuits on the churning rapids of the Zambezi River.

Know, though, that Zambia and Zimbabwe are not for everyone. Their poor infrastructure and limited accommodations can be a challenge or an adventure, depending on your perspective.

Zambia's South Luangwa National Park is the place where the walking safari originated. Diverse habitats encompass plains, woodlands, rivers and marshes and support a predator and prey inventory that rivals that of any African safari destination. The pinnacle of wildlife viewing in Zambia, Luangwa is known for its leopard population, as well as rare creatures such as hartebeests, sables and roans. Buffaloes, impalas, pukus, waterbucks and giraffes are omnipresent, and herds of elephants (up to 70 is not unheard of) and wading hippos can be seen congregating along the Luangwa River.

One of the more luxurious camps in the reserve, Chinzombo, offers comfortable accommodations, expert guides and a prime river location.

Beach: Mauritius

One of the most alluring Indian Ocean destinations, Mauritius is much more than just a dreamy island paradise. Gorgeous beaches, crystal-clear lagoons and forested preserves provide the backdrop for thrilling adventures, ecotourism and wellness pursuits. For a culture fix, the museums and mansions of Port Louis are filled with fascinating artifact maps and curios that trace the island's storied history.

Belle Mare beach, on the east coast, has retained its unspoiled charm. Its warm, azure waters beckon snorkelers and divers, as Mauritius is ringed by the world's longest unbroken coral reef. With its string of luxe resorts, hip bars and gourmet restaurants, the developed resort of Grand Baie, on the northwest coast, channels a more cosmopolitan vibe.

Active types will find plenty of ways to interact with the rugged, mountainous landscape. Hikers can take on the 4.5-mile steep, uneven trail to the top of the UNESCO-inscribed Le Morne Brabant mountain. Meanwhile, the coastal forests of Île aux Aigrettes provide sanctuary to an array of endemic and endangered wildlife species.

You will likely spend a day in transit to reach Mauritius from Zambia, and you may even require an overnight layover. There are regular nonstop flights from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka, Zambia's capital, to Johannesburg, from where its a four-hour flight — operated daily by South African Airways — to Mahé, Mauritius' main island.

Mauritius caters well to travelers looking to splurge and you''ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to exclusive resorts and private island experiences: The Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita, Shangri-La Le Touessrok and One&Only Le Saint Géran, to name a few.

Related: Why Mauritius should be at the top of your travel to-do list right now

Namibia and the Seychelles

Bush: etosha national park.

An accessible and less visited safari destination, Namibia captures the imagination of families and adventure seekers with its enigmatic desert landscapes, wild and rugged coastline, colossal sand dunes and rare desert-adapted mammals, insects and reptiles.

Known as the "Place of Mirages," Etosha National Park combines Namibia's best wildlife watching with an austerely beautiful landscape of golden plains, dazzling salt pans and dense thickets. What really sets Etosha apart, though, is just how easy it is to spot its wildlife species.

Across stark, vast plains, watering holes draw elephants, gazelles, giraffes, jackals and black and white rhinos, as well as marauding lions, cheetahs and more elusive leopards. The floodlit Okaukuejo watering hole ranks among Africa's bucket list experiences thanks, in part, to its nightly game-watching vigils.

Antelope species here are loaded with superlatives: You'll find the continent's smallest (African antelope), rarest (blackface impala), biggest (eland) and bounciest (springbok) all inhabiting this eye-catching landscape.

Located on Etosha's southern fringes, in the privately owned Ongava Game Reserve, Ongava Lodge comprises 14 rustic chalets and a large pool and dining area overlooking a nearby watering hole. Little Ongava — also within the private reserve — offers a more exclusive experience with just three luxurious suites with outdoor showers and private plunge pools.

Beyond Etosha, thrill-seekers can track wildlife on foot, sandboard down massive dunes in Swakopmund and soar over the Namib Desert in a hot air balloon.

Namibia is celebrated for its bold conservation initiatives and well-developed tourist infrastructure. While it's one of the most straightforward destinations in Africa for renting a car and exploring independently, guided tours here are considered the gold standard. Most travelers from Europe and the U.S travel to Namibia through Johannesburg or Cape Town . Air Namibia flies direct from Frankfurt to Windhoek, and Qatar Airways ' direct flights to Doha, Qatar, offer frequent stopover routes to the U.S. and Europe.

Related: How to have a royal-inspired honeymoon in Namibia with points and miles

Beach: Seychelles

Famed as a luxury hideaway popular with royalty and celebrities, the Seychelles archipelago has an otherworldly beauty. Ribbons of sugar-white sand gently slope to waters in every shade of blue, and tropical habitats filled with rare indigenous palms give way to vanilla and spice plantations and orchid fields.

The most visited islands, Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, draw gilded honeymooners to their ultra glamorous resorts — including a luxurious Four Seasons outpost and the boutique Mango House Seychelles — but there's also a fine selection of family-oriented properties (including points hotels ) within striking distance of breathtaking beaches.

Anse Lazio frequently ranks as one of the world's best beaches; its turquoise, reef-sheltered waters teem with marine life. Lushly forested granite cliffs frame the sheltered bay of Anse Louis, one of Mahé's more remote beaches, and it was on heavenly Anse Source d'Argent that Hollywood movies "Cast Away" and "Crusoe" were filmed.

Uninhabited until the late 18th century, the Seychelles archipelago is hailed as the "Galápagos of the Indian Ocean." UNESCO-inscribed Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin is a lost world of rare endemic species, including the famous coco de mer, a massive palm tree thought to have grown in the ocean. On the remote Aldabra atoll, thousands of giant tortoises weighing up to 500 pounds thrive, having evolved in isolation.

From Namibia's capital, Windhoek, you'll need to connect through Johannesburg. Air Seychelles is the only airline that flies the five-hour, nonstop route to Mahé several times a week.

Related: From the Serengeti to the Seychelles: Honeymooning at 2 stunning Four Seasons resorts

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Originally from South Africa, Chris has been in the travel industry since 1990 and has travelled to most parts of Southern, East Africa and Indian Ocean Islands.

After completing school in Johannesburg, Chris spent a period with the South African armed forces before venturing out to travel the World, then realizing his passion for travel. He returned to his beloved South Africa to study Travel & Tourism before returning to the UK to start his career in the travel sector and in promoting travel to Africa and Indian Ocean Islands.

Loves his sport including rugby, the odd drink, braai (BBQ), his wife and family (not in that order obviously). Chris is a founder of Africa Collection and enjoys being part of a dedicated team and the dynamic nature of the travel industry as a director of the company.

"Some of my favourite places are the remote parts of Namibia, Botswana and Zambia, not to mention North Island in the Seychelles where I hope to return to someday."

James has worked in the travel industry in the UK in many sectors & capacities since 1987, and has been involved with tourism to Africa since 1993. James considers himself a 'travel junkie' and unless he has a holiday booked or being planned he feels as though he is going 'cold turkey'. He now travels with his family, encouraging his children to be citizens of the world. James is a founder member of the Africa Collection team (from July 2000) & is a director of the company.

MY AFRICA & INDIAN OCEAN

"I consider myself very lucky to have travelled as much as I have in Africa & the Indian Ocean, and there are a few places that stand out for me. Likoma Island on Lake Malawi is right up there and is truly a unique travel experience, with Kaya Mawa Lodge the only place to stay - and what a place!

Reunion Island in the Indian Ocean is a paradoxical combination of Creole and French culture, being an Overseas Department of France some 6000 miles away from Europe, and mountain scenery to die for. And of course Cape Town and Plettenberg Bay in South Africa both take my breath away each time I visit."

Lee-Anne has been in the travel industry since 1988, initially in retail travel in South Africa and subsequently with Tour Operators in the UK. At Africa Collection, Lee-Anne looks after the finance and administration of the company and with the support of many of the team dabbles in marketing and social media.

"When given the opportunity to travel anywhere in the world (I consider myself extremely fortunate to do this), I find it difficult to preclude Africa or the Indian Ocean, I fail to understand why anyone would !

There is so much about South Africa that ticks the boxes for me from fabulous accommodation, glorious food and delectable wines to year-round incredible weather. Recently I fulfilled a life-long dream and did a riding safari in the Waterberg area only a few hours from my home town, something I hope to do again soon.

I have also recently visited two firm favourites of mine being Mauritius and Zanzibar and was delighted to discover, having not been for some time, that they remain on top of my list for very good reason. Seychelles is however somewhere I have not been for too many years, so perhaps that’s what should be next !"

Rebecca has worked in the travel industry since 1987 for both tour operators and travel agents alike as well as recently teaching A level Travel & Tourism in her local 6th form college to inspire the next generation of travel experts.

Rebecca has travelled to many countries over the years as well as living in Australia with her young family for 6 months and is always looking for the next place around the globe to tick off her bucket list.

When not working Rebecca loves getting out in all weathers with her dog and relaxing with her busy family.

"To say that Africa has always been on my ‘dream destination’ list is a bit cliché but so very true.

I cannot think a country more diverse in its offerings of scenery, wildlife and culture. A true all rounder of a place with something for everyone.

Cape Town captivates me with all of its hidden treasures and places to discover as well as enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding landscape from the iconic Table Mountain. I am a bit of a foodie so love nothing more than sitting on the waterfront with a plate of seafood and to sit back and soak up the atmosphere whilst people watching!

It is true that South Africa has so much more to it than Cape Town but I cant think of a better place to start your African adventure."

Alex joined Africa Collection in September 2018 after a gap year travelling, during which she spent four months in South Africa, including a month long safari. Having been on family holidays to South Africa every year, she has been able to travel all over and has fallen in love with the country and it’s incredible scenery and culture. She would love to visit more of Africa and there is a never ending list of places she would like to see.

"My favourite African trips have been family holidays to South Africa, the diversity of the country never fails to amaze me and I have been fortunate enough to see so much of it. Being on safari is always my favourite holiday and I will never tire of it. However I love seeing more of Africa, and so far Zanzibar has been one of my favourite destinations. It is incomparable to anywhere else, with such a unique style and amazing scenery, and I am dying to visit more stunning Indian Ocean destinations."

Paul joined Africa Collection in April 2016. Initially fulfilling a website maintenance and search engine optimisation role, it was soon realised that there were additional needs, and the role extended into full website redevelopment, multiple aspects of digital marketing, as well as in-house management applications.

"Having lived in South Africa most of my life, I have had the opportunity to travel and explore many amazing parts of this beautiful country, as well as many of the surrounding countries. Besides the general day to day climate which is always appreciated, there are many places that are spattered around like hidden gems where you truly get a sense of peace and serenity."

Kirsty’s travel story began in 2007 when she started at Portfolio. Originally from Joburg, she says she’s a reborn Capetonian who just got lost for a while. Her favourite South African destination is the North Coast of KZN and she loves playing a part in creating once in a lifetime memories for our travellers.

"My most memorable travel experience has to be my self-drive trip through Namibia. The vastness of the desert plains, the desolate yet calming landscapes that constantly change as you make your way north – there’s a peace here that I haven’t found anywhere else. The country – and the people! – have an earthy wildness about them. If I could go anywhere in Africa, I’d pick the ultimate beach tour of Mozambique, Madagascar and the Seychelles."

Kirsty has had a passion for travel since commencing a diploma in travel and tourism at college before heading to work for various UK Tour Operators and gaining experience and knowledge for this adored industry. At Africa Collection, Kirsty works in our administration team supporting our clients and suppliers to make sure all your post booking needs are in place ready for your holiday. In her time away from work Kirsty enjoys city trips, hiking, yoga and spending time with her family and friends.

"Even though I feel there are just so many fond memories of this continent I could choose from, my absolute favourite has got to be a holiday with my mum, when she was celebrating a very special birthday and we went on a magnificent trip around South Africa. It was my first ever time visiting this country and it 100% did not disappoint! From the vibrancy of Cape Town, to the delicate food and wine in Franschhoek, the whale watching in Hermanus, the wonder of the Cango Caves in Oudtshoorn and the white lions in Pumba Game Reserve... I just cannot tell you how absolutely amazing this destination is. It literally has so much to offer. On my bucket list is to go on a wildlife adventure in Botswana followed by some relaxation time on the beach in Mauritius."

Kirsty has been in the travel industry for her entire career, the majority of which has been in Tour Operation and as an Africa/safari specialist since 2014. Her passion for Africa ignited being raised on David Attenborough documentaries and Wilbur Smith novels.

“I adore the big African Skies, drifting off to sleep, under canvas to the magical soundscape of the African bush and the thrills of wildlife spotting on safari. Wildlife and nature conservation is of particular interest and I volunteer at a local rewilding estate, helping with the White Stork population amongst other wildlife. Kenya and Tanzania are amongst my favourites, to be floating in a hot air balloon over the Masai Mara is so memorable and a feast for the senses. I climbed (and summitted) Mount Kilimanjaro a few years ago and was overwhelmed by the spectacular vistas from Africa's tallest mountain. My Indian Ocean choice will always be the Seychelles, so scenically beautiful, fabulous cuisine and luxurious boutique hotels on amazing beaches - what's not to like?”

Bex has worked in the travel industry since she left college in 2004. After studying travel and tourism she started her career at Africa Collection where Bex spent 8 years gaining knowledge and experience of the travel industry & the African continent before heading to another African Specialist. In September 2023 Bex made her way back home to Africa Collection. At Africa Collection Bex works in the administration support team assisting our reservations consultants and clients. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her two young boys, family and friends.

“After having the privilege of visiting many countries with both work and family I fell in love with the African Continent. One of my fondest memories is gorilla trekking in Rwanda. I feel very lucky to have been given the opportunity to get up close to such wonderful creatures. A moment I will never forget. Another fond memory has to be taking our little boy on his first safari to Pumba Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape. He still talks about it a few years later and keeps asking if we can go back to see Thomas the game ranger again! That particular trip started off watching my husband run 65km up Table Mountain and around Cape Town before we travelled along the spectacular Garden Route. The next destination I would like to tick off my bucket list is to visit one of the Indian Ocean Islands such as Mauritius or The Seychelles.”

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