Personalized trips to South Africa
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Introducing South Africa

South Africa has a diversity in landscape and beauty that is as varied as the rainbow of cultures that inhabit the land. From the precipitous mountains of the Cape with its picturesque vineyards to the iconic savannahs of the Kruger National Park where lions & elephants roam, South Africa has something for everyone.
 
An extensive road and air network allow travelers to get around during their holiday easily. You can combine world-class wildlife safaris, many different African cultural experiences, beautiful and vibrant cities such as Cape Town, Johannesburg, or Durban, the vast open spaces of the Great Karoo, the warm & blue waters of the Indian Ocean with its golden beaches, and the green mountains known as the Drakensberg, famous for its vast collection of Bushman paintings.
 
South Africa serves as an important hub for the Southern African region, which means you can combine your trip with the highlights of neighboring countries, such as the Okavango Delta, Victoria Falls, or the Namibian desert.

Getting Around South Africa
Getting around South Africa's major cities/regions (such as Johannesburg, Cape Town and Kruger Park) is typically done by flight, although self-drives around certain regions is also a popular option. Read more

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days · 21 days

South Africa Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Spot elephants on your South African safari
Map of 10 Days in South Africa: Cape Town, Garden Route & Safari
10 Days in South Africa: Cape Town, Garden Route & Safari

This tour takes you from the sights of Cape Town to the lush Overberg, followed by an exceptional safari experience. Enjoy some of South Africa's most sought-after destinations across the diverse Western and Eastern Cape Provinces.

Bloukran's Bridge
Map of Cape Town & Garden Route Adventure - 10 Days
Cape Town & Garden Route Adventure - 10 Days

Spend 10 days taking in the Western Cape with this trip plan. You'll explore Cape Town and see Table Mountain from both a distant beach and right under your feet, sample the wines of Stellenbosch, and dive into a great white cage encounter before you hit the road on the Garden Route for canoeing, hiking, animal encounters, and more.

Cape Winelands
Map of Cape Town & Kruger Park Safari - 8 Days
Cape Town & Kruger Park Safari - 8 Days

Enjoy a majestic eight-day tour of Cape Town and Kruger Park Safari, two of South Africa’s top highlights. You will take in the beauty of the Cape Peninsula, Winelands, and the city of Cape Town, followed by a great safari experience in the Kruger National Park, where the iconic African wildlife roam free.

Royal Natal National Park in the Drakensberg Mountains
Map of Country of Contrasts Road Trip: Cape Town, Garden Route, Wild Coast, Kruger National Park & More - 21 Days
Country of Contrasts Road Trip: Cape Town, Garden Route, Wild Coast, Kruger National Park & More - 21 Days

South Africa contains multitudes—of people, landscapes, wildlife, cultures, and more. With three weeks to explore, you'll travel through the highlights of contemporary Cape Town, visit the beach towns of the Wild Coast, experience the animal attractions of Addo Elephant National Park and Kruger National Park, and traverse highs and lows from the Drakensberg Mountains to the Cango Caves. Along the way, you'll gain insight into the country's complex history and ecosystems with the help of local experts and experienced guides.

Blyde River Canyon near Graskop, South Africa
Map of South Africa, Zimbabwe, & Botswana - 14 Days
South Africa, Zimbabwe, & Botswana - 14 Days

This exciting Southern Africa itinerary offers a perfect mix of self-drive and guided tours. Start in Cape Town, where you can explore the Cape Peninsula, head to the top of Table Mountain, or sample native wines in the area's sprawling vineyards. Fly to Johannesburg for the second leg of your trip—you'll enjoy multiple safari excursions and visit magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the seven wonders of the modern world.

Close-up of male ostrich in Little Karoo
Map of Cape Town & Garden Route Adventure - 14 Days
Cape Town & Garden Route Adventure - 14 Days

Take a two-week adventure from one of the world's highest bungee jumps down into a cage next to a great white shark with this trip plan. Start on Table Mountain in Cape Town, followed by a culinary tour, treetop walkway, and wine tastings. Once you get onto the Garden Route, you'll make your way around canoeing through lagoons, hiking in national parks, and spelunking through caves.

Make the Most of Your Time in South Africa

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
See impressive Drakensberg's Amphitheatre—crescent shaped cliffs of basalt rock
How Many Days to Spend in South Africa

While 10 days is the most popular duration for kimkim travelers, two weeks is recommended for a satisfying trip to South Africa. You can venture farther outside Cape Town,...

South Africa Travel Essentials

All you need to know to get started planning the perfect trip
Cape Wine Lands in Autumn
Best Time of Year to Visit South Africa

South Africa is a year-round destination thanks to its varied landscapes—it's always sunny somewhere. No matter what season you visit, you'll find something to do: Kruger...

Cape Town and Table Mountain from the air
Best Time of Year to Visit Cape Town

Planning your trip to Cape Town requires flipping your mental calendar, as the southern hemisphere’s seasons are a reverse of the northern hemisphere. South Africa’s hot, dry,...

South Africa Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

South Africa Hotel Advice

Unique places to stay, curated by kimkim specialists
Sindile Shamwari Lodge (photo courtesy of Shamwari Lodge)
The 5 Best Safari Lodges in South Africa

South Africa is home to world-famous national game reserves such as the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park, recognized for rhino conservation, and the Kruger National Park, the...

Our Latest South Africa Content

A family hike in South Africa
Map of Adventure, Safari & Family Fun in South Africa: Cape Town & the Garden Route  - 14 Days
Adventure, Safari & Family Fun in South Africa: Cape Town & the Garden Route - 14 Days

This exciting 14-day family tour of South Africa starts in Cape Town, where you'll hike the majestic Table Mountain and enjoy a traditional African dinner and dancing. Then, journey along the Garden Route, visiting the seaside town of Hermanus for whale watching and the Cape seals of Geyser Rock. Search out Africa's Big Five game animals at Gondwana Game Reserve, take a treetop walk in Tsitsikamma National Park, and visit monkeys, birds, and big cats at Knysna's wildlife sanctuaries.

Set off on a South African safari
Map of South African Family Safari: Cape Town, Langebaan & Kruger National Park - 14 Days
South African Family Safari: Cape Town, Langebaan & Kruger National Park - 14 Days

This family adventure starts in South Africa's Cape Town, where you'll visit majestic Table Mountain on foot or via cable car. Tour the harbor on an authentic pirate ship and see penguins at play, then head to Langebaan for beach time and waterparks. Take a private safari in Kruger National Park, and search out Africa's Big Five game animals on a sunset drive. End in Johannesburg for a tour of the historic Soweto district and a revisit of the Gold Rush days at Gold Reef City Theme Park.

Waterpark fun
Map of Family Trip to Cape Town, Pilanesberg National Park & Sun City - 14 Days
Family Trip to Cape Town, Pilanesberg National Park & Sun City - 14 Days

This perfectly curated two-week trip to South Africa blends a mix of sunshine-filled family downtime with ample opportunity to experience the country's highlights. Discover playful penguins, thrilling cable car rides, and a memorable African dinner as you get to know Cape Town. See lions and elephants on safari in Pilanesberg National Park, then head to Sun City for family fun and relaxation. A visit to vibrant Johannesburg and an unforgettable trip to Soweto complete this family adventure.

South Africa Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
South Africa map: Guide to South Africa's Top Regions: Where to Go for Safari, Culture, Hiking, & More
Guide to South Africa's Top Regions: Where to Go for Safari, Culture, Hiking, & More
View article
South Africa map: 14 Days in South Africa - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
14 Days in South Africa - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
South Africa map: 10 Days in South Africa - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in South Africa - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for South Africa
Travel specialist Deborah Smook
active 8 hours ago

Deborah Smook

I get super excited every time I get to share my country with anyone and I want to make sure that when someone does come, they are blown away by the people, the beauty, and the incredible value for...

read more...
Travel specialist Lize Enderstein
active 9 hours ago

Lize Enderstein

I work as a senior consultant for African Travel Gateway and have 18 years of experience in the travel industry. We plan, book and implement tailor-made holidays for our clients that fit within...

read more...
Travel specialist Lucy Berndt
active 11 hours ago

Lucy Berndt

Mother, wife, traveller and dreamer! Having travelled extensively throughout Southern Africa, I know the importance of logistics and selecting the right product offerings. Southern Africa...

read more...
Travel specialist Carla Ferreira
active 14 hours ago

Carla Ferreira

I have traveled to over 50 countries and know the importance of having someone with local knowledge and advice to give you tips on where to go for those unforgettable experiences. A born and bred...

read more...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit South Africa also visit these destinations

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.

100% satisfaction guarantee
Kimkim offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not fully satisfied with us, we’ll work with you to make it right.
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A portion of every kimkim trip goes toward the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Learn more
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Kimkim is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Seller of Travel Registration number: CST #2136279-40.
Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

Trip Reviews for South Africa

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

5 Star African Adventure!!
South Africa | Jan 6 - Jan 17, 2023

Ashley
Ashley S.
Rancho Cucamonga, CA | Reviewed on Mar 02, 2023

If you thinking about having Elgin Africa plan your trip, stop debating and just do it! I can't say enough about how great the entire experience was. Deb, whose company is Elgin Africa, lives in South Africa and has personal relationships with a lot of the tour companies that we used. She cared deeply about me and my family having an amazing trip, and made sure every detail was perfect. I can only say that there would be no way that we would have had such an amazing, flawless trip without a... read more

If you thinking about having Elgin Africa plan your trip, stop debating and just do it! I can't say enough about how great the entire experience was. Deb, whose company is Elgin Africa, lives in South Africa and has personal relationships with a lot of the tour companies that we used. She cared deeply about me and my family having an amazing trip, and made sure every detail was perfect. I can only say that there would be no way that we would have had such an amazing, flawless trip without a passionate destination specialist curating every detail for us.

Starting with the planning process, Deb chatted with me on the phone and walked me though a customized itinerary she made for me. I was concerned about my budget, and she modified the trip several times to keep me at my budget, which I very much appreciated. I was in contact the Deb and her assistant before, during, and after the trip. She would even text me late at night and as ask if I enjoyed dinner.

As for the Trip itself Deb planned a 2 week adventure for my family of six. We went on two safaris in Botswana, visited Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, and spent time exploring Johannesburg. Every part of the trip was amazing. It's almost impossible to pick a favorite section, but if I had to give advice I was say do not miss out on visiting Chobe National Park!

All the accommodations Deb booked for us were beautiful 5 star boutique hotels. I couldn't believe she was able to fit such fantastic hotels into my budget. Also, the whole trip felt private. We had a private guide for both of our safaris, private transfers, and a private dinner cruise in Victoria Falls. What was most amazing about the trip is that we had so many passionate people making sure we enjoyed ourself. We didn't end up in one tourist trap and we were able to genuinely experience the local culture of every place we went.

I can't recommend Deb enough! Our trip was worth every penny, and every part more than exceeded our expectations. Thank you for planning the trip of a lifetime!

Local specialist: Deborah Smook
Deborah
Deborah Smook
Local specialist in Cape Town | Reviewed on Mar 02, 2023

Hello Ashley

Thank you for the incredible review! It was so good to meet you and I'm so happy that you enjoyed this trip of a lifetime with your family.

Deb

Amazing 14 day vacation!
South Africa | Feb 10 - Feb 23, 2023

L
Leonard H.
Bismarck, ND | Reviewed on Feb 26, 2023

Lize correspondence and attention to detail was perfect. The itinerary worked out amazingly well.
Victoria Falls was beautiful and guide Ernie was patient and thorough. Zambezi sunset cruise was relaxing and hippos a plus. Boma dinner entertainment was fun and Mopani worm a little chewy.
Cape Town accommodations at Victoria & Alfred hotel were ideal on the Victoria wharf area. Many available restaurants a short distance away associated with shopping mall. Unable to visit Table Top... read more

Lize correspondence and attention to detail was perfect. The itinerary worked out amazingly well.
Victoria Falls was beautiful and guide Ernie was patient and thorough. Zambezi sunset cruise was relaxing and hippos a plus. Boma dinner entertainment was fun and Mopani worm a little chewy.
Cape Town accommodations at Victoria & Alfred hotel were ideal on the Victoria wharf area. Many available restaurants a short distance away associated with shopping mall. Unable to visit Table Top mountain due to high winds and cloud cover.
First visit to South Africa and safari trips were amazing. We went to two different game preserves & lodges. Hostess Kelly at Elephant Plains lodge was very accommodating and safaris guide Dennis/tracker Dumi found so many animals Lions, elephants, rhinos, zebra, hyenas, leopards and wild dogs to mention a few. Staff always available and friendly.
Our final lodge Thabamati Luxury Tented Camp was unbelievable and a special experience. The hostesses Mich & Lorna were there to greet us on arrival from every safari with wet cloths and drinks. Intimate camp with only 8 guests and service & food was amazing. Guide Charel and tracker Caswell were so knowledgeable and helpful. You could tell they really loved their job. Simply an awesome experience. Thank you!!

Local specialist: Lize Enderstein
Lize
Lize Enderstein
Local specialist in South Africa | Reviewed on Feb 27, 2023

Dear Leonard,
Thank you for your wonderful, detailed and great trip feedback.
I am delighted to hear that you enjoyed your trip and had a good time in Cape Town, wildlife sightings on safari sounded amazing and enjoyed Victoria Falls.
Hope to see you return soon.
Take care and keep well.
Best Regards, Lize

Stuck on Safari...flooding.
South Africa | Feb 5 - Feb 12, 2023

J
Jodi S.
New Rochelle, NY | Reviewed on Feb 13, 2023

I think that the best review for any travel company is related to how they support travellers during unexpected disruptions. We were stuck in the Kruger area, missing a flight because roads were flooded. We still hoped to make it for a few days up to Victoria Falls. The KimKim team worked with us through WhatsAp messages to reroute our travel so we could still enjoy the falls and the Zambezi. Thank you for making this such an easy and wonderful trip! read more

I think that the best review for any travel company is related to how they support travellers during unexpected disruptions. We were stuck in the Kruger area, missing a flight because roads were flooded. We still hoped to make it for a few days up to Victoria Falls. The KimKim team worked with us through WhatsAp messages to reroute our travel so we could still enjoy the falls and the Zambezi. Thank you for making this such an easy and wonderful trip!

Hotel Reviews
Shindzela Tented Camp
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

They were fun and professional. When all the roads got flooded, they helped us make the arrangements needed to get on with our trip. Very knowledgeable and amazing game drives! (lion pride on a fresh giraffe kill and giraffe- very memorable!)

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
Victoria Falls

Very kind and helpful staff. Clean and lovely facility. Do not miss going to the 1:00 Vulture Culture experience!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Stephanie Louw