South Africa

South Africa stands out as a premier safari destination due to its exceptional biodiversity, well-established tourist infrastructure, and diverse range of safari experiences.

Aside from the sheer convenience of exploring the most popular ‘entry point’ to Africa, South Africa offers unrivalled game viewing, world-class dining and wining, outdoor adventures, a rich history, and jaw-dropping landscapes. Moreover, the top-notch development makes South Africa a more 'sanitised' safari destination, appealing to many first-time visitors.

The most effective way to plan your South Africa tour itinerary is to prioritise the top experiences you would love to have in the country. Then, determine how much time you have to dedicate to your trip and work out a feasible budget to ensure you have an enjoyable time without any stress. Finally, decide whether you want to travel independently or join a perfectly planned small group tour. You can browse our South Africa tour offerings for inspiration and contact our South Africa Travel Specialists, who can assist you in planning the absolute trip of a lifetime.

South Africa is generally a safe country to visit, but like any destination, it's important to take certain precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

If you plan to visit national parks or wildlife reserves, always follow the instructions of experienced guides and park officials. Maintain a safe distance from wild animals and never approach them on foot unless accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.

Read more about visiting South Africa safely as a solo female traveller on our blog.

Absolutely! South Africa is a fantastic destination for safari experiences, offering a diverse range of national parks and private game reserves that showcase the country's rich wildlife. The most widely known safari destination in South Africa is Kruger National Park, which is one of Africa's largest game reserves and is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino) as well as numerous other species.

Check out our South Africa tours to find out more.

The best time to visit South Africa depends on your preferences and the specific experiences you seek. South Africa has a diverse climate and a range of activities and attractions to offer throughout the year. Here's a breakdown of the seasons to help you plan your visit:

Summer (December to February):
South Africa's summer months bring warm to hot temperatures and are ideal for beach activities, wildlife sightings, and outdoor adventures. It's a popular time to visit coastal areas, such as Cape Town and Durban, as well as the Kruger National Park and other game reserves. However, it's worth noting that some regions, particularly the coastal areas, can get crowded during the peak holiday season.

Autumn (March to May):
Autumn in South Africa is characterized by mild temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the summer months. It's a great time to visit Cape Town, the Winelands, and the Garden Route, as the weather is still pleasant, and the landscapes are beautifully colored with autumn hues. The game viewing in the Kruger National Park and other reserves remains good during this time.

Winter (June to August):
Winter in South Africa brings cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings and early mornings. It's an excellent time to visit game reserves, as the dry conditions make wildlife easier to spot. The Kruger National Park and other reserves in the northeastern parts of the country offer fantastic game viewing opportunities. The winter months are also a good time to explore cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg, as they experience fewer tourists.

Spring (September to November):
Spring in South Africa brings mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and vibrant landscapes. It's a great time to visit the Cape Winelands, the Namaqualand region, and the famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in Cape Town. In game reserves, the spring months offer pleasant weather and the chance to witness newborn animals and migratory bird arrivals.

The currency of South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). Major credit cards are generally accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments, although when traveling in South Africa it's advisable to carry some cash in rand for smaller expenses, such as local markets and smaller establishments that may not accept credit cards.