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South Africa Safaris & Tours

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South Africa Safaris & Tours

Embark on an extraordinary South African safari and immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of thrilling adventures and captivating wonders.

South Africa is arguably the most all-encompassing country in southern Africa, a land of contrasts where rugged, wildlife-rich wilderness meets dynamic cities layered with deep and complicated history. It is best known for safaris and the Big Five, but there is far more waiting beyond the game reserves. From the views atop Table Mountain to the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, and the beasts of Kruger National Park to the vineyards of Stellenbosch and along the coast of the Garden Route, there is no shortage of remarkable things to do. For a safari paired with world-class food and wine, a South Africa tour is hard to beat.

Contact us  to start planning your dream trip to South Africa.

 


Cape Town  is a fantastic springboard for a South Africa tour. The oldest city in the country is lively and multicultural, sitting between Table Mountain and the shimmering Atlantic. Don’t miss Robben Island, the prison that once held Nelson Mandela, to open the historical chapter of your journey.

One of the must-visit destinations is Kruger National Park, among the oldest and most renowned wildlife reserves in Africa. Covering 19,485 square kilometres (7,523 square miles), it is one of the largest game reserves on the continent. Kruger is home to the famous Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino), along with more than 500 bird species and 147 mammal species. It is rich in cultural heritage too, with over 250 archaeological sites, including ancient rock paintings

Just an hour’s drive east of Cape Town lie the magnificent Winelands, a paradise for food and wine lovers. The valleys are dotted with vineyards and historic Cape Dutch architecture, and the estates produce some of the world’s finest whites and reds, including Chenin Blanc and Shiraz. The scenery alone will tempt you to linger over a tasting or two. Add a visit on a Taste of South Africa Tour.

The Garden Route is a glorious coastal stretch running over 200km (120 mi) between Mossel Bay and Storms River. It is known for lush forests, rugged cliffs, serene lagoons and pristine beaches, which makes it perfect for discovering South Africa’s natural diversity. Along the way you’ll find charming towns such as Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, with plenty of options for outdoor adventures and scenic coastal drives.

If you want to explore beyond the usual spots, consider including Madikwe to your itinerary. The North West Province’s hidden gem is a wonderful alternative for seeing the Big Five without the crowds of more prominent reserves. Short on time? Pilanesberg National Park is another lesser-known reserve with fantastic safari options. Both are ideal for families on a South Africa package tour.

After more coastal adventure? Look to KwaZulu-Natal , the province with beautiful beaches and mountains, plus savannah full of wildlife. You can also step into Zulu culture by visiting traditional villages near the town of Eshowe.

A fantastic way to combine a safari with a scenic road trip is to look to the Eastern Cape. Explore the highlights of the Garden Route and avvess excellent privte game reserves just  ashort drive from Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth).

Once you’re ready to plan the ultimate South Africa trip, see our wide range of tours and packages and reach out to our South Africa Specialists, who will help you turn your safari dreams into reality. Contact us today!

FAQs

Why visit 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.

How do I plan a trip to South Africa?

Start by deciding on the experiences you most want, then work out how long you can travel for and set a comfortable budget. From there, decide whether you’d prefer to travel independently or join a well-planned small group tour. Browse our South Africa tours for inspiration, then get in touch with our South Africa Specialists, who can help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

Is it safe to visit South Africa?

South Africa is generally a safe country to visit, though as with any destination a few sensible precautions help. In national parks and reserves, always follow the guidance of your guides and park officials, and keep a respectful distance from wildlife rather than approaching on foot. You can read more about visiting South Africa safely as a solo female traveller on our blog.

Can I go on safari in South Africa?

Absolutely. South Africa is a fantastic safari destination, with a wide choice of national parks and private game reserves. The most famous is Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s largest reserves and home to the Big Five along with a wealth of other species, but there are many more reserves to choose from. Our  tours cover everything from open-vehicle drives in private reserves and nationalk parks to culinary focused itineraries and dedicated stays in 5* lodges.

When is the best time to visit South Africa?

The climate is as diverse as the landscapes, so the best time depends on what you’re after. Here’s a quick guide by season.

Summer (December to February): warm to hot, and ideal for beaches and outdoor adventures. A popular time for the coast and for game viewing in Kruger and other reserves, though coastal areas can get busy over the peak holiday period.

Autumn (March to May): mild temperatures and fewer crowds. A lovely time for Cape Town, the Winelands and the Garden Route, with the landscapes turning to their autumn colours, and game viewing in Kruger stays good.

Winter (June to August): cooler, especially in the evenings, and excellent for safaris, as the dry conditions make wildlife easier to spot. A good time for Cape Town and Johannesburg too, with fewer tourists about.

Spring (September to November): mild weather, blooming flowers and fresh green landscapes. Wonderful for the Cape Winelands, Namaqualand and the Kirstenbosch gardens, and a lovely time in the reserves as newborn animals appear and migratory birds arrive.

What currency is used in South Africa?

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.

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Some of the main attractions

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Cape Town

Known for its stunning setting and superb food scene, Cape Town blends city sophistication with easy access to the outdoors, from Table Mountain to the coast and the wine country beyond.

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Kruger National Park

A true African gem across vast landscapes, Kruger has unmatched biodiversity. Home to the Big Five and a wealth of other species, it offers superb safari adventures in beautiful, untamed country.

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Garden Route

Superb scenery, fantastic beaches, great food and quaint villages make this Western Cape coastal stretch an easy addition to most South Africa itineraries.

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Winelands

Savour the best of South Africa on a side trip to Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl. With gourmet restaurants and vineyards at every turn, they’ll win over your heart and your tastebuds.

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Madikwe

Madikwe’s eclectic landscape, from open plains to rocky outcrops, makes ideal habitat for wildlife and superb game viewing on a South Africa safari.

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Kwa-Zulu Natal

Enjoy immersive game drives, then explore the Zulu Battlefields, the Drakensberg Escarpment or the beaches at Umhlanga Rocks. Wildlife, history, and coast in one destination.

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